FINEDITION

Introduction to Korea

Korea's 5,000-year heritage melds seamlessly with modern innovation, creating a unique cultural tapestry. From the ancient beauty of Hangul to the global sensation of K-pop and K-dramas, Korea captivates visitors with its dynamic blend of tradition and trend.

Geography and Climate

Location

Eastern Asia, southern half of the Korean Peninsula

Capital Cities

Seoul

Major Cities

Seoul: Capital and largest city, blend of modern and traditionalBusan: Second-largest city, famous for beaches and seafoodIncheon: Major international gateway with a modern airportJeju Island: Popular resort island with unique culture and nature

Climate

Spring (Mar-May): Mild temperatures, cherry blossomsSummer (Jun-Aug): Hot, humid, with monsoon rains in JulyFall (Sep-Nov): Cool, dry, with colorful foliageWinter (Dec-Feb): Cold, dry, with occasional snow

Language and Other

Official Language

Korean

Common Phrases

Hello: 안녕하세요 (Annyeonghaseyo)Thank you: 감사합니다 (Gamsahamnida)Yes: 네 (Ne)No: 아니요 (Aniyo)

Tip

English is common in tourist areas, but learning basic Korean phrases enhances interactions. Public transport and major attractions typically have English signs.

Time Zone

Korea Standard Time (KST) UTC+9 (No summer time)

Dial

Country code is +82. Local calls require the area code. (e.g. Seoul 02, Busan 051)

Electricity

Voltage

220V, 60Hz

Plug Type

The two-round-pin plugs (Type C and F)

Image

Cultural Etiquette

Shoes Off

Remove shoes in homes, hanoks, and some restaurants.

Lining Up

Always wait your turn in public spaces.

Quiet in Public

Stay quiet on transport and respect personal space.

Respect Elders

Bow when greeting elders in formal settings

No Tipping

Tipping isn’t expected; service charges are included.

Emergency Numbers

General Emergency

119 (Fire, Ambulance, Rescue)

Police

112

Tourist Help Line

1330 (24-hour multilingual assistance)

Regional Features

From Seoul's neon-lit streets to Jeju's volcanic wonders, Korea is a land of captivating contrasts. Ancient palaces stand alongside futuristic skyscrapers, while tranquil temples hide in misty mountains. Korea offers a thrilling blend of tradition and innovation, promising unforgettable adventure.

Seoul Capital Area

• Includes: Seoul, Incheon, Gyeonggi

Seoul

The heart of modern and traditional Korea. From ancient palaces like Gyeongbokgung to futuristic landmarks like Lotte World Mall, the city offers a unique blend of history, shopping, and vibrant nightlife.

Incheon

Home to the country’s largest international airport.

Gyeonggi-do

Perfect for short day trips, featuring highlights like the DMZ (Demilitarized Zone), Suwon’s UNESCO-listed Hwaseong Fortress, and Everland, a popular theme park.

#Historical, #Cultural, #Cuisine, #City Explorer

Gangwon Region

• Popular Cities: Chuncheon, Pyeongchang, Seokcho, Yangyang, Gangneung• Time from Seoul: 2-3h by bus or train• Tip: It’s a great escape from Seoul for nature lovers and perfect for a 1-2 day trip.

Gangwon-do

Known for its stunning mountains, making it ideal for hiking in Seoraksan National Park or skiing in Pyeongchang. It’s a year-round destination for outdoor adventures.

Beach Area

In the summer, beachgoers can relax along the East Sea coast at beautiful beaches like Sokcho, Gangneung, and Yangyang.

#Historical, #Cultural, #Cuisine, #City Explorer

Chungcheong Region

• Includes: Chungnam, Chungbuk, Daejeon, Saejong• Time from Seoul: 1-2h by KTX or bus

Gongju&Buyeo

These cities are ancient capitals during the Baekje period, filled with UNESCO heritage sites.

Chungnam & Chungbuk

Visitors can enjoy a relaxed rural lifestyle and beautiful nature — Chungnam offers coastal views along the Yellow Sea, while Chungbuk has scenic mountains.

#Historical, #Greenary, #Relaxed

Gyeongsang Region

• Includes: Gyeongnam, Gyeongbuk, Busan, Daegu, Ulsan• Time from Seoul: 2.5h by train, 3.5-4h by bus

Busan

Busan, Korea’s second-largest city, is famous for Haeundae Beach and its beautiful seaside temples.

Gyeonju

Gyeongju was the capital of the Silla Kingdom and is full of cultural relics, such as the Bulguksa Temple and Seokguram Grotto.

Andong

Andong enchants visitors with its traditional village and heritage events, such as the Mask Dance Festivala.

#Cultural, #Coastal, #City Explorer

Jeolla Region

• Includes: Jeonnam, Jeonbuk, Gwangju• Time from Seoul: 2-3h by train or bus.

Jeolla

The Jeolla region is famous for its cuisine, especially Jeonju, known for its UNESCO-listed Hanok Village and delicious traditional dishes like Bibimbap.

Gunsan

Gunsan takes you back in time with its colonial-era architecture, while Damyang features peaceful bamboo forests perfect for scenic nature walks.

Yeosu

Yeosu offers stunning coastal views and lively festivals, and Suncheon is renowned for its lush wetlands and beautiful gardens.

#Cuisine, #Scenic, #Unique, #Historical

Jeju Island

• Time from Seoul: 1h flight

Jeju Island

Jeju Island is Korea’s most famous island destination, known for its volcanic landscapes, including UNESCO-listed Hallasan Mountain, beautiful waterfalls, and stunning beaches. The Jeju Olle Road features scenic coastal trails, ideal for exploring the island’s natural beauty on foot.

#Scenic, #Outdoor Enthusiast, #Coastal

Getting Around

Explore Korea effortlessly with convenient transportation options that connect you to major cities and stunning destinations. Whether booking online or offline, it’s advisable to reserve your tickets in advance, especially during weekends and holidays.

KTX (Korea Train Express)

• Korea’s high-speed rail connects major cities like Seoul, Busan, and Daegu, with key stations like Seoul, Yongsan and Wangsimni metro station.• Seoul to Busan: Just over 2h• Seoul to Daegu: 1h 45min• Booking: Korail Website, Trip.com (Korail Pass available on Klook)

Seat Options

Economy, First Class, Standing

Facilities

Free Wi-Fi, Power Outlet(available at most seats), Water dispenser, Luggage Storage, Wheelchair-accessible facilities

SRT

• Departs from Suseo Station in Seoul, offering similar routes to the KTX but slightly faster.

Seat Options

Economy, First Class, Standing

Facilities

Free Wi-Fi, Power Outlet(available at most seats), Water dispenser, Luggage Storage, Wheelchair-accessible facilities

Buses

• Seoul has three main bus terminals: Express Bus Terminal, Dongseoul Bus Terminal, and Central City Terminal, offering comfortable rides to various destinations. Standard, first-class, and premium buses differ in seat width, with premium options providing added privacy.

Types of Buses

Wide-area : Connect city to suburbs with fewer stops.Express : Travel long distances without stops.Intercity : Link cities to towns with multiple stops.Airport : Connect airport to city with spacious luggage space.

KTX - SRT - BUS

Korail ITX and Mugunghwa Trains

• ITX is a modern intercity train, faster than Mugunghwa (slower trains connecting smaller towns)• but slower than KTX, making it ideal for regional travel.• Booking: Korail Website

Car Rentals

• For quick travel to distant regions like Jeju Island, domestic flights are efficient. Ideal for exploring Jeju Island and rural areas where public transport is limited. Valid International Driving Permit (IDP) and home country driver’s license is required.

Companies

Includes Lotte Rent-A-Car, AJ Rent-A-Car, and Avis.

Ferries

• Ferries connect to Korea’s islands, including Jeju and smaller islands along the coast.• Busan to Jeju Island: 12 hours.• Incheon to various small islands: Great for day trips.• Booking: Purchase through each company’s site.

Course Suggestion

We designed to help you make the most of your trip, regardless of how much time you have. No matter your schedule, you’ll find the best sights, activities, and tips to enhance your Korean travel experience.

Stopover for Less than 6 Hours

1 - Incheon Airport to Incheon

Travel Time: 1-1.5 hours round-trip by metro.Option: 1) Visit and explore the Paradise City Hotel or Inspire Resort. 2) Visit Songdo International Business District and enjoy Incheon Songdo Central.

Options

1. Visit and explore the Paradise City Hotel or Inspire Resort.2. Visit Songdo International Business District and enjoy Songdo Central.

2 - Incheon Airport to Seoul

Travel Time: 2 hours round-trip by metro.Activities: Walk along Mapo-gu (Hongdae, Yeonnam, or Mangwon).

Tips

1. Use airport luggage services to travel light.2. Watch the time carefully to ensure you can make it back on time.

1 Day Stay

If you only have one day, avoid traveling too far with luggage.Staying in Hongdae offers quick access to the airport via metro.Stay: Around Hongdae

Activities

1. Visit Seoul’s old town areas (Jongno, Jung-gu) as only takes 15 minutes by metro.2. Visit Korea traditional palace and Bukchon Hanok village.3. Go to Gwangjang traditional market and explore Hipjiro(Euljiro) at night.

2-4 Day Stay

Though short, you can explore Seoul’s main districts if you plan well.Divide the city into four areas to visit each day.

Day Trip Ideas

1. Jongno + Myeongdong2. Mapo-gu (Hongdae, Yeonnam, Mangwon)3. Seongsu + Hangang OR Seongsu + Jamsil4. Gangnam-gu + Hangang OR Gangnam + Jamsil

Tip

Pick the districts that interest you most, or spend all your days exploring one area in-depth. And this is only a rough recommendation.

5-7 Day Stay

Now you have time to explore Seoul and venture outside the city.Spend about 4-5 days in Seoul, then take short trips to nearby destinations.

Day Trip Ideas

• Suwon (1-hour bus): A city with a fortress and cultural landmarks.• Bukhansan: Perfect for hiking enthusiasts.• Yongin: Visit the Korean Folk Village or Everland (Korea’s famous theme park + safari).

1-Night Trip

Head to Gangneung on Korea’s east coast (2h30 train).A day trip is possible if you start early!Other coast cities are Seokcho, Yangyang.