solo travel to korea

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South Korea Solo Travelling Guide: 20 Things To Know, Including Restaurants For Single Diners & Female-Only Hostels 

Guide to solo travelling in South Korea

Travelling alone to a foreign country requires a lot of courage and there are many things you’ll have to know before embarking on your trip. Here’s a guide to solo travelling in South Korea , so you can fully enjoy your stay in the country with less to worry about. 

Table of Contents

1. Book accommodations in bustling areas

2. stay at female-only hostels, 3. when to opt for goshiwon, 3. when to stay at hanok guest houses, 4. get a duffel bag for extra storage & convenience, 5. invest in a selfie stick with a tripod stand, 6. utilise lockers for your shopping bags.

• 7. Download Papago to communicate with the locals

8. Take buses & trains as cheaper alternatives

9. what to do when you lose your belongings, 10. travelling to other cities alone, 11. sim card versus wi-fi egg, 12. have fun alone at a korean coin karaoke, 13. 1-person meal options on delivery apps, 14. minimum 2 pax for bbq, – places to eat at, as a solo traveller –, 15. fast food restaurants, 16. korean eateries, 17. solo-diner restaurants, 18. street food, 19. traditional markets, 20. convenience stores, solo travelling guide for those who believe the world is your oyster.

Although South Korea is a relatively safe country with low crime rates, safety should never be taken for granted. It’s better to be safe than sorry w hen looking for accommodation.

We recommend checking out places in the bustling areas such as Myeongdong and Hongdae. Accommodation in these areas tend to be on the slightly pricier end, but there are plenty of shopping districts and restaurants in close vicinity.

Avoid staying at places that are hidden in alleys or are too far from the train stations and bus stops as they are not the safest for tourists. 

Females travelling solo may want to consider opting for female-only hostels. Living in a female-only hostel allows you to meet people from all walks of life, and who knows, you may even make a new female friend.

However, if you are uncomfortable sharing a room with other travellers, we strongly encourage you to opt for the next option instead.

A goshiwon may be a wise choice if you are tight on budget and would prefer more affordable accommodation options.

A goshiwon is an off-campus dormitory and the cheapest form of accommodation available in Korea. You don’t have to be a student to rent a goshiwon room.

Note that the rooms are usually small, and oftentimes, you’ll have to share a common bathroom with other occupants. 

If you’re in Korea and want to experience traditional Korean culture, definitely try staying at a hanok (traditional Korean house) guest house.

These hanok guest houses are revamped and outfitted with air-conditioning and modern toilets to let you have a comfortable stay.

Staying at a hanok guest house is also great for solo travellers who want to meet new people and learn more about different cultures too. 

Travelling alone means that no one will be there to carry your luggage. 

A duffel bag will come in handy if you are going on short trips to other cities as it serves as a great alternative to carriers.

Keep your hands free by getting a duffel bag that can be slotted into the handle of your luggage. This makes it more convenient for you to navigate around the bustling city without having to worry about accidentally leaving something behind because your hands are full.

Due to the language barrier, it can be intimidating to approach the locals to ask them to help you take photos. But fret not, when there’s a will, there’s a way. 

Investing in a selfie stick that comes with a tripod stand will be a game changer when it comes to taking photos beyond selfies. Most of these selfie sticks come with a Bluetooth shutter, which means you can snap away until you get the perfect shot without the help of strangers. 

It can be a hassle to carry all your shopping bags while you’re busy shopping till you drop.

Locker rental services are common in Korea and you can find them at train stations near popular shopping areas, such as Hongdae and the Express Bus Terminal Underground Shopping Mall.

The rental prices of these lockers are affordable, and it can go as low as KRW2,000 (~USD1.43) for a 4-hour rental.

There are 3 locker sizes to choose from. Typically, the small compartment is more than sufficient to hold your shopping bags. But if you need more space to store your luggage, you can opt for the medium or large compartments.

Note that the lockers found at different train stations may have different sizes, so we encourage you to check the size chart carefully before making your payment.

You can make payment using your credit card or T-money card (transportation card in Korea). It’s useful to note that not all places accept cash as a form of payment.

7 . Download Papago to communicate with the locals

Travelling alone in South Korea without knowing how to speak Korean can be daunting. But it will be less so when you download Naver Papago, an AI Translator app on Apple App Store or Google Play Store .

Besides language translation, the Korean words and phrases come accompanied with romanisation to help you pronounce them correctly.

Use the conversation function to effectively communicate with the locals. The app will automatically translate whatever you’ve said into Korean, and vice versa, it helps to translate what the locals said to a language of your preference. 

Another useful function of the app would be the image translation feature, where you can translate the words on an image. This will be extremely useful when you have to order a meal from a Korean menu.

It’s a no-brainer that taxis are the more expensive option when it comes to public transportation in Korea . Bus and train fares are not only cheaper, but you can also get discounted fees when you transfer between bus or train rides. 

Taxis are also difficult to flag down during peak hours. If you are in a rush, taking the bus or train save you more time because of their regular schedules . 

Losing your belongings in a foreign country is a nightmare, especially when you are travelling alone.

Stay calm and use this lost and found website to look for your lost belongings. If you happen to find someone else’s stuff, you can report them here as well.

Watch the video for clearer instructions and guidelines on what you should do when you lose or find something during your stay in Korea.

The Frequently Asked Questions section of the site is conveniently available in English.

Intercity buses often stop at rest stops for approximately 15 minutes during parts of the journey for you to take a quick toilet break.

Use this time to go to the bathroom, or if you’re feeling peckish, get yourself some popular snacks such as corndogs and walnut-flavoured cakes.

Pro-tip: Take a picture of the bus plate number of your bus so that you won’t board the wrong coach; you’ll find that there are many similar-looking buses at the rest stops, which can get confusing for travellers who are not as observant. 

Also make sure that you time yourself well, with ample buffer time as the bused will not wait for you if you don’t make it back on time. 

If you are deciding between getting a SIM card or a Wi-Fi egg, we recommend you get the former. It is more convenient as there’s no need to charge yet another device overnight. Plus, you don’t have to worry about losing it, then having to replace it. 

Getting a SIM card with a local number is not compulsory, but we recommend that you opt for one as it will be useful when you’re making reservations or ordering food delivery. 

Going to karaoke is not only for big groups of friends. In Korea, it’s an activity enjoyed alone as a way to destress or put your bathroom singing skills to test. 

Singing at a coin noraebang (coin karaoke) is the perfect activity for solo travellers when you have time to kill or simply want to have fun.

If you are craving for a late-night snack or dessert, you can get them delivered to you by ordering via delivery apps .

Most delivery apps impose a minimum order of approximately KRW15,000 (~USD10.76) per order, but it can be difficult to hit that amount if you’re ordering just a single serving. 

So you’ll want to download a delivery app such as Yogiyo, which lets you order a 1-person serving meal without having to hit the minimum order amount. Simply look out for the category that says “1인분 주문”, which literally translates to 1-person serving order.

Korean barbecue is a must-eat when you visit Korea. However, most of the restaurants do not accept solo diners as they tend to prioritise bigger groups of customers.

On the bright side, there are BBQ restaurants that specifically cater to solo diners; you may even get a personal table and grill when you eat at these restaurants. 

Eating alone in a foreign country can be a little overwhelming. Although most restaurants in Korea don’t mind solo diners, some places may prefer to serve bigger groups of people instead. 

The most convenient places to eat at, as a solo traveller, are none other than fast food restaurants. 

In Korea, there are many fast food restaurants to choose from. Ranging from local ones such as Mom’s Touch and No Brand Burger to famous ones such as McDonald’s and Shake Shack, the list is never-ending. 

Better still, self-ordering kiosks that have English menus are usually available at these fast food restaurants, so you won’t have to worry about the language barrier too. 

Korean eateries are also known as “분식 식당” ( bunsik sikdang ). They sell inexpensive food such as kimbap , donkatsu (pork cutlet), tteokbokki (spicy rice cake), and fried rice. 

You can get a roll of kimbap for as low as KRW2,000 (~USD1.43) , and a bowl of ramyeon at only KRW3,000 (~USD2.15) .

The most famous bunsik sikdang in Korea would be the Kimbap Heaven eatery, which has numerous franchise outlets all over the country.

Solo-diner restaurants that serve 1-person set meals or bento sets will be the go-to for solo travellers to South Korea.

The set meals usually include food items such as boiled pork and braised pig trotters that commonly come in larger serving sizes.

Since these restaurants target solo diners, you can often find solo-dining capsules or bar seats that cater to people eating alone.

The street food scene in Korea is amazing. From snacks such as hotteok (sweet Korean pancakes) to meals such as kalguksu (knife-cut noodles), you can probably find everything you need to fulfil your cravings when you hit up a food street. 

Note that not all street food tents or carts have tables and chairs for you to sit and dine at, but you are free to stand and eat while walking around the market. 

Going to traditional markets allows you to eat the most authentic Korean food and dine alone without feeling embarrassed.

Most of the food sold at the markets come in 1-person portions, so you can try a variety of dishes at the market too.

Find local cuisines such as bibimbap (Korean mixed rice with vegetables), and unconventional foods such as sannakji (live octopus sashimi) and yukhoe (seasoned raw beef).

Visit the Gwangjang Market for their famous kkwabaegi (twisted donuts) and   bindaetteok (mung bean pancakes). Not to be dramatic, but they are life-changing. 

Most convenience stores in Korea have tables and seats inside or outside the premises, so you can have a quick meal there whenever you have food cravings or are feeling a little peckish. 

Recreate the iconic Mark’s Meal while you’re there, or get cup noodles and light snacks such as the triangle kimbap and fish bars. You can also find interesting prepacked Korean food such as grilled intestines at the convenience stores too. 

If you are planning to travel alone to South Korea, bookmark this guide for easy access to the tips that will make your trip a memorable one.

For more travelling tips, also check out our South Korea public transportation guide ,  Han River Park guide ,  Mangwon guide ,  jimjilbang guide , and this list of  11 things to do in Jeju .

Cover image adapted from: Clara Quek, 순구 via Airbnb , 채구리 via Naver,   은비까비 via Naver 

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Solo Travel in Seoul, South Korea: The Ultimate Guide

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Ever wondered what it’s like to solo travel in Seoul? South Korea isn’t the typical destination that comes to mind for solo travelers. Before I went there, I read that it’s not the best place to venture out alone.

However, South Korea, with its vibrant capital, Seoul, offered a fascinating blend of tradition and modernity, deeply rooted in its rich cultural history.

This combination intrigued me. So, in September 2023 I set out to see if South Korea truly deserved its reputation as an unconventional choice for solo travel.

In this article, we’ll not only uncover the hidden beauty of solo travel in South Korea but also provide you with the insights you need to navigate Seoul on your own.

Ready to learn what to expect as a solo traveler in South Korea?

Let’s dive in.

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links below may contain affiliate links. At no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase.

Is Seoul safe for a solo female traveler?

Seoul is definitely safe for a solo female traveler. However, there are a few things to keep in mind.

It’s generally considered safe to walk alone in the evening as a woman in Seoul. I think this is great, yet I would still not try my own luck walking alone at night time. Make sure that you know the way if you are wandering alone at night.

And choose to walk on the main roads where more people are walking instead of small alleyways. Have offline maps downloaded from maps.me and have your phone charged.

There are another couple of things to keep in mind when traveling alone in Seoul. One of them is to not drink too much when you go clubbing here. Especially if you’re a girl.

It’s not uncommon to be grabbed by your wrists in certain clubs while going out here. Also be aware of your drink, because of drink spiking. This may not sound very nice, but it’s good to be realistic and know what to be aware of.

Like in every part of the world, be aware of your surroundings.

The best places to stay as a solo traveler in Seoul

So, where should you stay during solo travel in Seoul? If you want to have the chance to meet new people while traveling solo in South Korea, it’s best to stay in a hostel. As a woman, the safest option is to stay in a female-only hostel.

Garosugil Homestay – Female Only

If you’re a solo female traveler and prefer to stay in a women only accommodation, then this is a great choice. Garosugil Homestay is situated in the Gangnam district.

The interior is very beautiful and clean and the owner is kind. Click here to view its prices and availability.

Hostel Haru, Seoul

Another great option is to stay in Hostel Haru . This hostel is mixed, however you can book a private bedroom, so you still have your own privacy. If you prefer to stay in a hostel room (mixed or female only), then that’s also possible.

The location in the centre of Seoul is excellent and you have great evening views from the lounge. Definitely check out this hostel here .

Hotel RU136

If you want to stay in a luxurious hotel with a gigantic bath and a lot of privacy, then choose to stay at Hotel RU136 . Here you’ll find a more extensive review of this place.

It’s very affordable compared to how luxurious it feels. The hotel is situated in a more local area with two subway stations located nearby. View its rates and availability over here .

Tips for solo travel in South Korea

Here are some tips for your solo travels in this interesting country. They help you set the right expectations for your travels here.

Have the right apps on your phone

You should download a couple of essential apps when traveling here . These will come in really handy and will make your solo travels here a lot easier.

The walking routes on Google Maps don’t work that well here, so it’s necessary to download either KakaoMaps or NaverMaps. These apps make getting around in Seoul a lot easier.

Also make sure that your phone is always charged. You don’t want to be lost in a place where you don’t know the way nor the language.

South Korea isn’t a good destination for your first solo trip

If you don’t have any travel experience, I wouldn’t recommend going on your first solo trip to South Korea. I think this would be too challenging, also because of the language barrier and cultural differences.

A better destination would be Thailand or Bali, countries where English is far more widely spoken and where getting around is very easy.

Like always, don’t drink too much

You’re an easy target in a foreign country, especially when drunk. So remember to not drink too much. This is a general safety tip during solo travel .

Also be careful of your drink, drugging is not uncommon in Korea, especially during the night in party places such as vibrant Hongdae .

Don’t expect to meet loads of new people

To set your expectations straight: Don’t expect to meet lots of new people during your travels here. I’m not sure if I’ve ever witnessed a country with so few tourists as South Korea.

A Korean guy I met told me that it’s pretty unfamiliar to see European people traveling in South Korea, especially on their own.

Another Korean local sitting next to me in the plane was also shocked that I was visiting the country on my own. Apparently it’s very uncommon! Still, I think it’s a great destination, also for solo travelers.

However, do keep in mind that there might be instances where you’ll be alone. It’s not like traveling solo in Vietnam or Thailand, where you’ll see lots of tourists and meet lots of new people.

This doesn’t mean you shouldn’t visit Seoul alone, however it’s a good thing to keep in mind!

Seoul is fantastic, but it’s not the easiest place to meet new people. Personally, I’ve even tried Bumble Bff here, yet without success.

Normally I meet new people quite easily, wherever I go. In Seoul things were different and I’ve read many stories about people feeling the same way.

So my advice to you is this: If you’re going to travel solo in Seoul, be prepared to be alone. Stay in a hostel to try to meet new people during your travels here!

Be flexible

You can have it all planned out, but some things will still work out differently than expected. Especially in a big city like Seoul.

Before getting here, I found a coffee shop online near to my hotel. I imagined myself drinking coffee there every morning. It was a really romanticized picture I had in my head. 

My first morning in Seoul I walked to this coffeeshop, but to my surprise it wasn’t open at all. But Google had told me so? I looked for other hidden entrances, but without success. The cafe had been closed.

This sums it up for me. You can plan all you want, but in the end not everything will work out the way you think it will. And that’s not a bad thing at all. It opens up new doors and opportunities for you to explore. 

In conclusion

Solo traveling in Seoul isn’t the most common thing to do. However, it’s definitely worth doing!

There are so many things to do here. You can try street food at Gwangjang Food Market , shop at the busy Myeongdong Street , go up to the impressive Namsan Seoul Tower and much more.

Do keep in mind that it’s not the best place to meet new people. If you want to visit a country where it’s very easy to meet new travelers, opt for a destination such as Thailand instead.

However, if you don’t mind venturing out on your own and you’re interested in learning about a new culture, then definitely solo travel in Seoul, South Korea. There’s delicious food, incredible historic landmarks and many serene cafes .

Even in Seoul itself, you can easily entertain yourself for weeks and you still won’t have seen everything that this capital city has to offer.

Away with Danae

See more South Korea travel content here:

• The Best Ways To Get Around Seoul, South Korea
• Essential Apps To Download in South Korea
• Bukchon Hanok Village: Is It Really Worth Visiting?

Dongmyo Flea Market: The Best Thrifting Spot in Seoul

• Suseongdong Valley: A Hidden Gem in Seoul
• 7 Reasons Why Seoul Is Truly Worth Visiting

Danae is the founder of Away with Danae. She is 25 years old, has traveled to over 45 countries and has a background in migration law and consular affairs. Danae aims to help you discover the lesser known gems of the world. She specifically focuses on authentic travel experiences in Europe and Asia.

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Solo Travel in South Korea: Best Places & Tips!

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This post may contain affiliate links to things like tours, hotels, Amazon associates and products. These help me earn a small commission at no additional charge to you.

Whether you travel South Korea solo or with others, it’s one of those amazing countries you HAVE to visit in your life. The culture is so distinct; it’s like nowhere else! I wouldn’t say it’s the easiest place in the world for solo female travel but it’s certainly not the hardest. It’s absolutely doable so, if you’re fascinated by the idea of visiting this incredible country, don’t let being alone stop you!

South Korea is a place of contrast. If you love exciting cities, Seoul is going to blow your mind! But if you like quaint, quiet places where you can explore the history without flashing lights and booming music, there are still destinations that will delight you. So, plan your Korea itinerary carefully!

SOUTH KOREA ESSENTIALS Accommodation: Booking.com /   Hostelworld Activities:  GetYourGuide / Viator Getting there: air ( Skyscanner )   Getting around: Train ( Trip.com ) / bus Pre-book a Tmoney transport card Pre-book private airport to hotel transfer Stay connected: portable WI-Fi (pick up on arrival)/ Airalo e-SIM (download in advance) Travel insurance:   True Traveller  (European travellers) /   Hey Mundo  (other nationalities) /   Safety Wing  (digital nomads)

In this guide, I’m going to share my top tips, safety advice and WHERE to travel alone in Korea.. .

Is South Korea good for solo travel?

Yes, I had a blast travelling alone in South Korea because it’s safe and easy to navigate (thanks to the good public transport) plus there are great hostels and organised activities to meet others. I would say there are easier places for solo travel because the language and alphabet can be confusing, plus certain things can be expensive for one. However, these small things shouldn’t get in the way of what has all the makings of an amazing trip. So, I’d say, yes, South Korea is a good place to travel solo as long as you can get past certain minor issues.

Is South Korea safe for solo female travel travellers?

YES, South Korea is safe for solo travellers including women. It has incredibly low crime rates; Numbeo even rated South Korea the safest country in the world ! Solo female travellers in Korea will be happy to know that walking around at night is safe. Seoul in particular never sleeps and, even at 2am, you’ll see locals going for coffee, bubble tea and barbeques… You always feel safe in Seoul because places are busy and brightly lit throughout the night. In many countries, you have to take Uber at night to stay safe, but not in South Korea! Also, public transport is so efficient that you basically never have to use taxis which is great for the budget of a solo traveller.

Raed next: solo female travel safety tips

Is South Korea ok for first time solo travellers?

South Korea is fine for first-time solo travellers. I even met one in my dorm room. She was having a ball! However, I suspect that, statistically, few people come for the first solo travel experience in South Korea. I’d say there are easier places for solo travel in Asia , for example Thailand and Vietnam where it’s easier to get by with English, more affordable and more sociable with more of a backpacking culture and clear route. However, if there’s something specific about South Korean culture that entices you, there’s no reason not to take a first solo trip to Korea.

Good things about solo travel in South Korea

• Positive safety rating – knowing there’s almost no crime really sets your mind at ease and reduces any logistical worries about getting around, especially at night
• Lots of hostels – especially in Seoul there are great hostels where you can meet other travellers to explore with (if that’s important to you)
• Efficient public transport – from the metro and buses in Seoul to cross-country trains that are spotless and almost always on time, it’s easy to navigate intercity and intercountry travel.

Bad things about solo travel in South Korea

• Not the most openly friendly culture – locals tend to stick together and, generally, people here are a little more reserved than some places
• Some meals are hard to have for one – Korean barbeques and dak galbi meals are delicious but served for groups. In Seoul, I found a few places that would let me have a BBQ for one but there was always a solo surcharge
• Not the cheapest place to travel alone – if you want to get a private room rather than stay in hostels, you’ll need to stretch the purse strings. The cost of travel in South Korea is closer to other East Asian countries like Japan than cheaper Southeast Asian countries like Thailand and Vietnam.

Where to begin

My top tip? Start in Seoul! I’m a big city lover and I adore street food, live music and street art. Seoul was actually the LAST place I visited as I started in Busan (as I’d just finished travelling solo in Taiwan and the flights were cheaper into Busan). While I liked all the other places I visited, it was Seoul I went mad for… So I think my obsession with Korea would have developed quicker if I’d begun there! Also, Seoul has the best hostels and opportunities to meet other travellers. So this is a nice way to start your solo female travels in Korea, and perhaps you’ll make friends to meet up with in other cities if your itineraries match. With so much to see and do, plus great nightlife, it’s also the place that will probably drain your energy the most. So it’s best to go first while you’re still feeling fresh at the beginning of your trip.

Best places to travel alone in South Korea

Here’s where not to miss!

Seoul (the capital)

WHERE and HOW do I even begin to describe this varied, wonderland of a city?

I think the thing I most love about Seoul is how it blends history and modernity. Yes, you can visit historic palaces dating back centuries, but across the road will be a funky modern art gallery. And don’t get me started on all the quirky cafes! Also, Seoul is a fantastic destination for all budgets. There’s fine dining and fancy bars but there’s also world-class street food and amazing local markets. So, whether you’re fascinated by flashy skyscrapers or hundred-year-old teahouses, you’ll fill your Seoul itinerary , no problem! As a solo traveller, I always vibe with places with loads to see and do. Especially if you’re a beginner solo traveller, you may feel restless in smaller towns. In Seoul, you’ll never get bored or need someone else to distract you.

Some top things to do in Seoul include:

• Gyeongbokgung Palace – the most impressive of Seoul’s five palaces is known for the changing of the guard at 10am or 2pm (closed Tuesdays)
• Bukchon Hanok Village – this cluster of traditional hanok houses dating from the Joseon Dynasty is ripe for photoshoots and scenic walks. Local and foreign tourists alike dress in traditional hanbok outfits to take photos!
• Bukhansan National Park – a great place to go hiking! Solo female travellers in Korea may want to join a hiking group
• Ihwa Mural Village – this colourful mural village is well worth a wander
• Food markets – I was excited to see the Netflix Street Food lady at Gwangjang and try her knife-cut noodles. Don’t miss other Seoul street food markets like Namdaemun and Tongin
• Seoul City Walls – there are several walks you can do along these walls from the Joseon Dynasty period, all offering spectacular city views
• Day trip to the DMZ – the buffer zone separating South and North Korea is a fascinating place to learn about the tragic history of the Korean War that split the country in two. You need to go as part of a DMZ tour
• Museums – don’t miss the National Folk Museum of Korea, the Museum of Korean Contemporary History and the Modern and Contemporary Art Museum
• Cheonggyecheon Stream – escape the bustling city beside this peaceful river walk.

Seoul neighbourhoods:

• Gangnam – see the Instagrammable Starfield Library and historical Bongeunsa Temple and pose with the gold hand statue dedicated to the Gangnam Style dance
• Insa-dong – this historic hood is known for traditional teahouses; Old Shin shouldn’t be missed!
• Myeongdong – the beauty district is worth a wander especially since many stores give out freebies to entice you in. Stay for the nighttime street food market!
• Hongdae – Seoul’s vibey hipster hood filled with boutiques and quirky cafes. I liked staying here at Bunk Hostel .

Getting around Seoul: the subway is clean, efficient and affordable with 20 lines. There’s also an expansive bus network. Make sure to get a Tmoney card to save money and avoid queuing. If you get the Discover Seoul Pass , you can ride around on the Yellow Bus and the Seoul City Tour Bus connecting all the main tourist attractions. Getting to Seoul from the airport(s):

• Incheon International Airport – get the AREX Express train (from T1 and T2 direct to Seoul Station), the All Stop Train (from T2, making 13 subway stops to Seoul Station) or the Incheon Airport Bus. 
• Gimpo Airport – get the AREX All Stop Train (20 mins) for 1,450 won or the 6021 bus (45 mins) for 7,000 won.

Busan is the second biggest city in the country. With 3 million people to Seoul’s 10 million, it’s still a big city but there’s not half the amount to do or a fraction of the quirky and exciting vibe that I loved about Seoul… But that’s not a reason not to visit. It’s still a cool city that I enjoyed visiting as a solo traveller. If you find 5 days enough in Seoul, I suggest 3 days in Busan.

Read next: 3 day Busan itinerary

Things to do in Busan

• Gamcheon Culture Village  – the highlight of Busan for me was this colourful village, once a wartime ghetto and now an exciting cultural project with cafes and galleries
• Nampo district – climb Busan Tower and visit Gukje Market, Jagalchi Fish Market, Biff Square and  Gwanbokro Cultural & Fashion Street
• Igidae Coastal Walk  – easily reached by bus, this coastal walk is easy with great city views
• Haeundae and Gwangalli Beach – these city beaches give a seaside vibe to otherwise urban Busan
• Haedong Yonggung – this temple by the sea is a 1.5-hour public transport journey from the city but it’s worth a taking mini Busan day trip for the sunset views!
• Spa Land in Shinsegae Centum City – tick a jjimjilbang (nude spa) experience off your South Korea bucket list !

Where to stay as a solo traveller in Busan: I would highly recommend Seomyeon firstly because it’s a good transport hub, connecting Lines 1 and 2 (orange and green), allowing you to get anywhere in Busan quickly. Also, it’s brightly lit and vibey at night making it safe to walk around but also fun and atmospheric to visit. Just find a quiet place to stay not on the main walking street! I can vouch for Blue Backpackers . For a more social option, try Kimchee Guesthouse . Also, this neighbourhood has plenty of tasty street food should you want a cheap, casual dinner for one. Getting to Busan: although you can get a 2-hour train straight from Seoul (or a cheaper 4-hour bus), I recommend stopping at the places below in between the two big cities since they’re at other ends of the country. Get to and from Gyeongju or Daegu in 1 hour and Jeonju in 3 hours. Getting around Busan: the metro is smaller than Seoul’s (there are four lines to Seoul’s 20) and it’s easy to navigate. Use your Tmoney card from Seoul. There are also city buses.

This quaint little city is an aesthetic dream! There are no hostels so it’s not the absolute BEST place for solo travel in South Korea if you’re a budget backpacker. However, if you’ve been busy exploring Seoul and Busan, you may enjoy the downtime. Also, Jeonju is a fantastic place for a hanok stay experience so, since there are no hostels, it’s a great excuse to book your own hanok! These traditional houses are built facing the water with mountains behind. I stayed at Happiness Hanok House which was affordable at $20 a night for a private room. You sleep in a bed made up on the floor and each room has a TV with all the fun Korean channels… Including one all about dogs! Grab a bubble tea or ice cream and have a solo TV night (after all the repetitive hostel conversations, sometimes this is exactly what I need!). Things to do in Jeonju :

• Eat the best bibimbap of your life at  Family House – mine came with 12 sides!
• Tour Jeonju Hanok Village at the heart of town and visit the caligraphy or sake museums
• Browse and eat at Nambu Market – I had some delish fried chicken here
• Spot cute murals at Jaman Mural Village
• Take a peaceful walk along Jeonjuchan river banks
• Try makgeoli – traditional milky alcohol from this city.

You can see all these attractions in less than a day so 2 nights is more than enough in Jeonju! Getting to Jeonju: the train from Seoul takes 2 hours and the cheaper bus takes 3 hours.

Coming back to how diverse a country South Korea is, I loved visiting the historic capital of Gyeongju (although I did not learn how to pronounce or spell it!). Ruled by the Silla Dynasty from the 1st-7th centuries, the city is full of cultural relics. A must for history buffs! Things to do in Gyeongju:

• Daereungwon Tumuli Park – here, manmade hill tombs are filled with gold and jewels buried with the elite rulers and often their (then) live servants!
• Donggung Palace and   Wolji Pond – walk around this peaceful historic site created during the reign of King Munm (674 AD)
• Cheomseongdae Tower – the oldest astronomical observatory in Asia
• Bulguksa Temple (reached by bus) with a hike up to Seokguram Grotto
• Gyeongju National Museum to learn about the Silla Dynasty
• Try ssambap , a dining style with lots of small plates wrapped in leaves. This is another Korean meal made for sharing so try to buddy up with people you meet at your hostel, if possible! This is what I did and three of us devoured an absolute feast.

I suggest two days in Gyeongju because Bulguksa Temple, a bus ride away, and the National Museum (which can be visited on the way back to the city) take the best part of one day. You’ll want another day to leisurely sightsee at the other historic sights in the city. Where to stay in Gyeongju : as a smaller city, there isn’t a wide range of hostels available for solo travellers in Korea. Han Jin (with beds from $17 a night) is your best bet. Getting to Gyeongju: it’s just a 30-minute KTX train ride from Busan to Singyeongju Station which is a 30-minute bus ride into the town. The bus from Busan is cheaper and takes 1 hour, arriving into the bus terminal closer to Gyeongju town. Given the similar travel time and price, this is a better budget option.

Daegu likely won’t be the most exciting city of your South Korea trip so don’t worry if you don’t have time. However, if you do, it’s worth a visit for its great hikes. You can easily get a bus to Palgong Mountain where you can sightsee at Gatbawi Stone Buddha at Seonbonsa Temple then do some nature walks. Closer to the city with a gorgeous viewing deck, Apsan Park is another place to hike and sightsee. I’d suggest two days in this city for both activities. During the Apsan day (which is ideally visited at sunset for the best views), you can also explore the city and eat yummy Korean food. Where to stay in Daegu: there’s only one hostel, Empathy Guesthouse , but it has great reviews and prices start from $13 a night. They have a female dorm. Getting to Daegu: it’s 1 hour from Busan and 2 hours from Gyeongju, located in the south of the country.

Need help with your Korea solo travel itinerary? Use my 2 week South Korea itinerary – I can promise it’s suitable for those travelling alone because it’s based on my experiences doing exactly that!

More challenging places to travel alone in South Korea – but don’t rule them out!

Okay, I often include this section in my solo blogs, however most places on South Korea’s mainland are appropriate for solo travel because almost everywhere is well-connected. However, there’s one place where I struggled but managed to make it work. This was…

Jeju Island

Jeju Island is undeniably a fantastic destination but it’s not the best for solo travellers in Korea mainly because it’s best explored by car which is never a viable budget option for one person. There’s public transport but it isn’t great (especially if you want to do and see a lot). I wrote a guide to exploring Jeju Island without a car ; the jist is to stay in Jeju City which is the transport hub of the island, as well as the place with the best budget accommodation including hostels. The one I stayed at seems to have closed down but Slow Citi and Ttottot Backpackers have fantastic reviews. Even though it requires loosening the purse strings a little, I recommend organised tours for getting the best of Jeju Island. These are well organised with set tours of the East Coast and West Coast (click to see and book the tours) reducing your daily travel time. I did both on two consecutive days, departing and returning to Jeju City. Both GetYourGuide and Viator are competitively priced with lots of options for South Korea excursions.

Highlights of Jeju Island:

• Enjoy the beaches – my favourite was Hyupjae Beach (west coast). I was also amazed by Gwangchigi black sand beach (east coast).
• Meet the Haeyyeo women divers (east coast) and learn about their unique profession, now protected by UNESCO!
• Wander the endless tea fields at   O’Sulloc Tea Museum (west coast) and try all kinds of matcha goodies
• Visit Cheonjiyeon Waterfall (west coast)
• Wander through eerie Manjanggul Lava Tubes (east coast).

Getting to Jeju Island: although there’s a long ferry from Busan, the most popular way to visit is by flight. It’s one of the world’s most popular flight routes with 100 flights a day in peak periods! Use Skyscanner to compare prices. From the airport to Jeju City, you can get a taxi or bus; the drive is around 15 minutes.

Getting to South Korea

Most travellers fly into Seoul ; there are two international airports but Incheon has far more overseas flights. You can fly direct between Seoul and China, the Philippines, Vietnam , Japan, Malaysia and Thailand (click the pink text for solo travel guides to these places). If you’re coming from outside these Asian countries, a change is usually required. Busan also has an international airport. Coming from Taiwan, I got a cheap flight from Taipei to Busan so started my solo South Korea trip here.

Getting around South Korea

Solo travellers in South Korea will be pleased to know you never need to hire a car because there are great public transport connections, namely buses and trains. Trains in Korea are a great option: efficient, clean, fast and safe for solo travellers. There are two main types not including intercity trains: the KTX (express train) and regular trains . The latter are cheaper so it depends on the length of your trip and tolerance for long rides. But few journies are too long on this relatively small island. You can use Trip.com to book your Korea trains (click the flag icon to change the site from Korean to English).

Buses are difficult to book online with a foreign bank card but luckily they don’t often book up in advance. I took plenty and always managed to show up and buy a ticket at the station. Often, they’re slower but cheaper than trains; ideal for budget travellers. But you won’t feel the compromise: they’re clean, comfy and efficient!

Getting around cities

Both Seoul and Busan have great metro networks, the only difference is that Seoul’s is much bigger with 20 lines to Busan’s four. Both cities have an expansive bus network. Although you can pay for buses with cash and buy individual metro tickets each time you travel, I highly recommend getting a Tmoney card which you can top up and use to tap and pay for both bus and metro. Smaller cities like Daegu, Jeonuu and Gyeongju are very walkable. However, certain attractions (like Palgong Mountain and Apsan Park in Daegu and Bulguksa Temple in Gyeongju) require a bus ride, usually paid for in cash.

Getting from airports

• Incheon International Airport  – the AREX Express train and the All Stop Train both arrive into Seoul Station (the latter also making extra stops) or there’s the Incheon Airport Bus for a cheaper option
• Gimpo Airport  – get the AREX All Stop Train (20 mins) or the cheaper 6021 bus (45 mins)
• Busan Airport – ride the light rail transit to Sasang or Daejeo Stations connecting to Metro Lines 2 and 3 respectively.

Cost of solo Korea travel

Undeniably, South Korea is a lot more expensive than travelling solo in Thailand , Vietnam or Malaysia!

Read next: is South Korea travel expensive?

Here are some average prices to help you plan your trip… Bunk in a hostel: 30,000 KRW ($20/£17). Budget private room: prices start from 50,000 KRW ($40/£30). Street food meal: from 2,000 KRW, just a couple of dollars! Restaurant meal: prices start from 7,000 KRW ($5/£4). An intercountry train ride: from 8,000-35,000 KRW ($6-25) on regular trains and double on the speedy KRX.

Tips for budget travel:

• Eat street food – Seoul has SO many affordable street food markets! Smaller cities and towns don’t have as much.
• Stay in hostels – these are great in South Korea; very clean and friendly. Again, the best options are in Seoul.
• Use free Wi-Fi in metro stations rather than getting a SIM card (more about these to come).
• Get a Tmoney card to get cheaper metro tickets.

Best season to visit Korea alone

Spring (April to June ): this is a good time to visit before it gets too hot and the monsoon arrives. Average daily temperatures are around 18 degrees. Summer (June to August) is the hottest season (up to 35°C and humid) AND monsoon season so it’s one of the worst times to visit. Autumn (September to November) is another great time to visit with pleasant temperatures of around 20°C and beautiful fall colours. Winter (December to March): although the snow can be atmospheric and winter sports can be practised, the average traveller will want to avoid the freezing winter temperatures (lows of -20°C have been recorded)!

How to make friends and meet people

• Stay in hostels – some of my faves are Bunk in Seoul and Kimchee Guesthouse in Busan. Hostelworld have a new social feature where you can chat with other guests before arrival.
• Take group tours for example guided city walks, hiking trips and cooking classes (this Seoul cooking class looks fun with great reviews). The DMZ is well worth visiting and can only be done as part of a tour so this doubles up as a way to meet other travellers. I like Viator and GetYourGuide for Korea tours and activities.
• Try Facebook groups like Girls Love Travel to see if other women are travelling alone in Korea at the same time as you.
• Many more! Read my guide to making friends while travelling alone .

Must-do experiences

Things to tick off your South Korea bucket list include…

• Visiting the DMZ from Seoul – this is so important to learn about key events in contemporary Korean history
• Experience a jjimjilbang (nude spa) – once you get over the initial feelings of awkwardness, you’ll hopefully find these a mix of liberating and relaxing. Spa Land in Busan is a popular opinion.
• Shop for beauty products in Myeongdong – not just because many stores give you free samples to tempt you in! Korean beauty culture is iconic and this is the place to experience it.
• Find the Netflix Street Food lady in Gwangjang market – and try her famous knife-cut noodles with kimchi
• Meet the Haenyeo women on Jeju Island – up to 80 years in age, these women make their livelihood by deep-diving for shellfish without any diving apparatus. Since young people no longer want to take on the trade, it’s protected by UNESCO.
• Do some hiking – I was amazed by how well-connected the hikes are to cities by public transport. For a look into Korean nature, don’t overlook the hike opportunities. The Igidae Coastal Walk   trail near Busan is easy with great views.
• Have any kind of K-pop experience – from attending a show to a dance lesson, experience the genre that has taken the world by storm!
• Stay in a temple – for an unusual accommodation option, templestay experiences based on Buddhist principles often include guided meditation, veggie meals and more. Perfect for reflection while travelling alone in Korea. Geumsunsa and Golgulsa are popular options.
• Enjoy the teahouses and coffee culture – from elegant historic teahouses to cool coffee shops with themes such as 3D, poop and cat/racoon/sheep.

Do you need travel insurance for visiting South Korea?

Of course! It may be very safe but that doesn’t mean you couldn’t get sick or have an accident. I recommend  True Traveller which I use myself. I pay around £30 (€40) a month when getting a year’s plan. They cover pre-existing health conditions and will cover you if you’re already travelling and/or don’t yet have your flight home booked. The claim process is really easy; I’ve claimed twice and they’ve paid out within days. Click to get a quote . True Traveller is just for European residents (including the UK) so, for other nationalities, I recommend  Hey Mundo  and for long-term digital nomad travellers, I suggest   Safety Wing .

Best Korean foods to try

I became obsessed with Korean food during my trip! These are the best Korean dishes to try in my humble, hungry opinion…

• Kimchi – fermented foods are great for you; in fact, many Koreans attribute their great eyesight to this spicy cabbage condiment
• Bibimbap – this yummy mixed rice dish usually comes with meat, veggies, a fried egg and gochujang (hot pepper paste)
• Gimbap – veggie rice rolls are a popular snack and street food dish
• Haemul pajeon  – squid pancakes with green onion
• Bingsu – this shaved ice dish is a tasty dessert, although solo travellers in Korea may be defeated because portions are huge!
• Korean fried chicken – yum! Cool modern restaurants serve it with beer under the name chimaek
• Tteokbokki – rice cakes, fish cakes and boiled eggs are served in hot chilli sauce. This dish is an acquired taste due to the usual textures and fiery flavour but one I came to love!
• Korean BBQs – providing you can get a restaurant to serve you a meal for one without too heavy a surcharge. Alternatively, get a group together in a hostel. Similarly, dak galbi is a shared meal comprising chicken, cheese, veggies, rice cakes and gochujang on a hot plate in the middle of a table.

Getting a SIM card

I learned the hard way that most shops won’t sell you a SIM without a residency card. I asked the staff at my first hostel on check-in and was told the best place to get a SIM is at the airport… Not the news I wanted since I’d just come from there and didn’t have plans to go back ’til leaving the country!   So be organised and sort your solution before arriving by reserving a SIM card to collect at the airport  (any Seoul airport, Busan airport and now a new city collection point of Myeongdong). There are packages available depending on the amount of data and days you require. Alternatively, rent a pocket Wi-Fi device and share data with other devices such as your laptop. However, one thing to note is that there’s free Wi-Fi in all the metro stations. It’s easy to pop into one even if you’re not catching a train. So, you may not need your own internet connection at all, especially since solo female travel in Korea is very safe meaning you don’t need to stay connected for security reasons.

Update – there’s a great new option in the e-SIM world. Airalo is the world’s first eSIM network covering 200+ countries and regions. It allows you to purchase a package online and use mobile data as soon as you arrive. A real game-changer! Browse their Korea SIM packages .

Tips for solo Korea travel

• Get a Tmoney card – this saves you time compared to buying a single metro ticket every time you travel AND money on every ticket. It’s a no-brainer
• Google Maps doesn’t fully work – you’ll notice this as soon as you try to use it. Try Kakao maps instead. NaverMap is another one for figuring out bus travel
• Lockers are common in bus stations and busy shopping areas if you don’t want to lug around all your stuff, or whatever purchases you’ve splurged on
• Papago is a useful language translation app that’ll help you with menus and conversations with locals.

Read next: 30 South Korea travel tips and 101 solo female travel tips

Can you drink the tap water in South Korea? Yes, you can safely drink the tap water. What is the currency in South Korea? It’s the South Korean won (KRW) and, at the time of writing, $1 = 1,337 KRW. Do people speak English in South Korea? Those who work in tourism (such as hotel staff and tour guides) speak English and so do many young people. However, your average older person on the street won’t. So brush up on the basics and download a translation app. Do I need a visa to visit South Korea? For me with a UK passport, I could enter visa-free for 90 days. Be sure to check in advance based on your nationality.

Thanks for reading!

More solo travel guides…

Guides to solo travel in Europe :

• Where to go for solo female travel in Europe
• Solo travel to Lisbon
• Solo female travel in Albania
• Complete guide to solo travel in Croatia
• Solo female Italy travel
• Is it safe to travel to Romania solo?

Solo travel in the Americas:

• Solo female travel in New York
• Is Cuba safe for solo female travel?
• Mexico solo female travel guide
• How to take a fantastic solo trip to Mexico City
• Solo female travel in Belize
• Guatemala solo travel guide

Guides to solo female travel in Southeast Asia :

• Solo female travel in Bali
• Where to travel solo in Vietnam
• Solo Malaysia travel
• Thailand solo travel guide
• Taiwan solo female travel guide
• How to stay safe as a solo traveller in India

VISITING SOUTH KOREA? These are my trusted resources: Getting around by air – I use Skyscanner to find the best-value flights, using the ‘search by month’ tool to find the cheapest dates. You can also use the ‘to anywhere’ feature if you’re flexible on where you’re going. Buses – buses are comfy and efficient. It’s tricky for foreigners to book online so it’s best to turn up on the day. Trains – use Trip.com , partner of Korail (the official railway network of Korea) to book your tickets in advance. The website accepts international payment options, unlike Korean rail websites. Click the three stripes in the top right corner then the flag to change it to English. Driving in Korea – use Rentalcars.com to compare car rentals. Hiring a car will be especially useful on Jeju Island. For hotels in Korea, I use Booking.com – they also have self-catering apartments. You can filter by review score and price to find the best-rated budget places. For hostels, I use Hostelworld . To save money on accommodation , I use Trusted Housesitters , a website that connects homeowners going away and travellers who can sit their homes & pets. Browse South Korea tours and activities on GetYourGuide . I also check Viator and Klook in case they have a better price. For food tours with passionate local chefs and foodies, check out EatWith . To stay connected, buy an e-SIM with Airalo and use data as normal. Browse their Korea SIM packages . Need travel insurance ? I use True Traveller (for UK & Europe residents) since it’s affordable but covers everything you’d need including various activities, valuables and pre-existing conditions. Unlike some companies, they insure you if you’re already travelling / don’t yet have your flight home booked. Get a quote . For travel insurance for other nationalities, I recommend Hey Mundo and for long-term digital nomad travellers, I suggest Safety Wing . Check out my resources page for more travel discounts and tips!

Rose is a solo traveller from the UK who has been on the road since 2015. She wants to show other women that solo travel isn't scary and doesn't have to be expensive! Rose has lived in Mexico, Canada and all over Asia, seeking out food, bubble tea and street art wherever she goes!

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South Korea Solo Travel Tips

If you plan to visit South Korea but don’t have a travel companion, don’t hesitate to do so! As someone who has traveled solo to more than 20 countries, Korea is one of the safest countries I’ve been to. And my trip was so much fun!

So, if it’s your first solo trip to Korea, here is what you should know before visiting. 

Is South Korea safe for solo travelers?

Yes. I felt completely safe while traveling in Korea. As long as you have common senses and do not try to get into trouble, you’ll be fine. 

South Korea is safe and has excellent transportation, so there’s no reason not to travel alone there. 

How many days should you visit South Korea on your solo trip?

Wait, this question is a bit difficult, right?

You should determine the purpose of this trip and your budget.

If you plan to go sightseeing and shopping, a few days is enough. However, if you’d like to explore and have many cultural experiences in Korea, you must stay for days.

If you are going for the first time, you should spend around a week sightseeing and exploring Seoul. Then, on your next trip, expand your vacation further. For example, I recommend exploring Busan or Jeju Island .

Or you can rely on the situation to arrange a short trip but still allocate a reasonable time and destination, all okay.

Is it costly to travel solo to South Korea?

I don’t think so. You can travel to South Korea on a budget.

For example, if you rent Hanbok in Seoul , you can get free entrance to 5 palaces. Also, there are many attractions where you can enter for free.

About shopping, there are so many discounts! For example, I walked around Myeong dong in Seoul and got tons of free samples. 

Also, you can take advantage of booking tickets for transportation and attractions on Klook . You’ll get discounts and can use the code conveniently and fast.

How to exchange money in South Korea

South Korea uses coins and banknotes, including 1 won, 5 won, 10 won, 50 won, 100 won, and 500 won. Banknotes are distinguished by different colors, including 1,000 won, 5,000 won, 10,000 won, 50,000 won.

You can bring USD to Korea and exchange it for won at the airport bank.

Some notes when changing money are as follows:

• If you do not want to change money at the airport, you can go to Myeongdong to exchange. This area has many Korean currency exchange banks with the best rates.
• Many services here accept cash and international cards. However, you should also prepare some cash to spend on travel, shopping at small shops.
• When traveling, you should not bring more than 7,000 USD converted into other foreign currencies if more will be declared to the Customs.

Getting around South Korea

This is a popular means of transportation in Korea, and you can travel anywhere by bus.

There are two types of buses: inner-city buses and high-speed buses. Bus fares range from 1,250 won to 2,300 won for suburban routes.

It’s more convenient to get around by taxi, but it is quite expensive. Taxis in Korea have different colors, with gray or black cabs are usually cheaper.

Taxi is more expensive from midnight to 4 pm, so don’t forget to ask for a price before getting on a cab at night. 

Solo dining in South Korea

In my observation, Koreans love cooking with chili powder! Many dishes have powders, and one serving is a lot, equal to 2 servings in other countries. 

Eating out alone in South Korea can be difficult for solo travelers. Particularly, if you want to try Korean barbecue, ask someone to go with you since they don’t sell to 1 person. You can order a 2-people portion, but it would be a waste. 

So, make some friends and invite them to join! 

Price : Each dish ranges from 5,000 won ~ 10,000 won, depending on the item.

Tips to solo travel to South Korea

In brief, here is what you should remember before visiting South Korea

• Apply for a visa and book your flight tickets
• Buy a 4G sim card to stay connected
• Prepare cash
• Download travel apps
• Join tours to meet people and get around easier

Ha is an avid traveler and writer with a background in marketing & hospitality. She's lived in a few countries and traveled to more than 30. When she's not traveling or writing, Ha loves trying new recipes.

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Thanks for these tips! Cant wait to go to Korea

Your blog is very informative and helpful. Traveling alone is one of the best experiences. Challenging but you will discover something different about yourself.

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Gina Bear's Blog

Solo Female Travel | Latina Traveler

The Ultimate Guide To Solo Female Travel in South Korea

Many solo women travelers constantly ask me, “Is solo female travel in Korea safe?” I lived in South Korea for almost six years; therefore, I have a local and solo female traveler’s viewpoint. I’ve been through the good, the bad, and the ugly. In this post, we’re gonna dive deep into why solo travel in Korea is a good thing and everything in between.

This guide has been updated to include all of my travel tips from almost six years of living in the Land of the Morning Calm. After I started taking  Korean language learning courses , my knowledge and understanding of the country grew. Plus, I really pushed myself out of my comfort zone by staycationing in Seoul during the pandemic. 

Table of Contents

Blog Posts You Might Like

• The Ultimate Guide To Spring in Korea
• The Ultimate Guide to Summer in Korea
• The Ultimate Guide to Autumn in Korea
• The Ultimate Guide to Winter in Korea

Get Travel Insurance 

A common question I get is what do I need to travel to South Korea? One thing I always recommend is travel insurance. Life throws curveballs. Flights get canceled. You get sick. There’s a family emergency.  I highly recommend using World Nomads Travel Insurance which you can book here.   With the World Nomads Travel Insurance, you can expect:

• Trip Cancelation  – This benefit helps you recover non-refundable, pre-paid trip costs when you have to cancel your trip for a covered reason, including for an unexpected sickness that keeps you from traveling.
• Emergency Medical  – If you get sick with COVID-19 or another illness, you can get diagnostic tests to confirm your case and other emergency medical benefits.
• Medical Evacuation  – If you’re in an inadequate medical facility, our plans have benefits that can arrange a transfer to a hospital capable of treating your medical needs.
• Trip Interuption  – This section helps you get reimbursed for a one-way, economy-class ticket home and any pre-paid, unused portions of your trip for a covered reason.
• Trip Delay  – If your travels are delayed at least six hours by a covered event, you could get reimbursed for meals, hotels and other basic expenses.

If this plan isn’t for you then you can check out the different  travel insurance plans World Nomads  has here.

How To Get Around 

The best way to get around Korea is by public transportation. You can purchase a T-Money card at any convenience store and loading it with money. You can also purchase the  mobile version via Klook and get a 5,000 won top off coupon  to use with your purchase.

I also recommend getting the  Discover Seoul Pass  so you can visit the major tourist attractions around Seoul for free or at a discounted price. It comes in increments of 24/48/72 hours. 

How To Stay Connected 

Luckily in Korea, there is wifi everywhere. Most cafes offer wifi for free and you can connect to various free spots around the city. However, if you don’t want to be reliant on that,  you book an e-sim card and download it directly to your phone.

What To Pack For Korea

This is my essential packing list for Korea. For a complete guide on what to pack for Korea in every season, click here .

• Korea travel adapter  – Korea uses 220V plugs. You can also purchase them at Daiso for 5,000 won.
• Unlocked phone  –  You can book a sim card here.  Alternatively, if you don’t have an unlocked phone,  you can also use this portable wifi router.
• USB power  strip  – This is great for charging multiple electronics at once.  
• Air Filter  Mask  – The air pollution in Korea is bad, but on its worst days can be just as bad as China. 
• World Nomads Travel Insurance  – Accidents happen anywhere. Give yourself the peace of mind you need to travel safely and without worries.
• Toothpaste  – Korean toothpaste sucks PERIODT. Bring your own from home.
• Important documents  – Bring any important medical documents in case something happens. 
• International Driver’s License (IDP)  – If you rent a car in Korea, you will need an IDP.  You should get yours from AAA here.
• Passport  – This should be a given, but please don’t forget it. Make a copy of your passport and hide it in your suitcase and leave one on your fridge at home.
• Credit/Debit Cards  – There are ATMs all over Korea and most places accept credit cards.
• Medication  – Don’t forget your important medicine because I guarantee it will be a nightmare for you to navigate the hospital and then go to a pharmacy to try and get it.

I highly recommend packing as light as possible so that way when you buy all of your favorite Korean products, there will be room in your suitcase. My favorite  travel suitcase brand is Béis . I’m obsessed with their weekender bag, carryon, and checked luggage.  Use my code for $15 off your first order and 150 points toward your new account .

How To Dress in Korea

Eastern fashion is vastly different from what we see in the West and you can find some pretty fun pieces in Hongdae. Ladies, if you’re all about skirts, mini dresses and shorts, then Korea is the place for you! In Korea, there’s a different definition of dressing conservatively for women.  Shoulders and showing backs are a big no-no, but recently I have seen Korean women who give zero fucks walk around wearing what they damn well please.  #queen

That being said, it’s all about dressing up and wearing cute clothes. (And no public nudity please!) Seoul’s underground subway stations post a lot of cheap clothing options so you can get the latest fashion for a bargain price!

P.s. It’s totally acceptable to wear your dirty sneakers with a cute outfit. Below are some examples of cute Korean fashion that is acceptable.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. is korea good for solo travel / is seoul safe for tourists.

Yes! Seoul is really great for solo travel. Around the capital city, there are a lot of information kiosks set up around the city to help foreigners and travelers navigate around the country. The crime rate is also very low in South Korea.

2. Is South Korea safe for solo female travelers?

Is South Korea a safe country? For the most part, yes! In fact, I think solo female travel to Korea is so underrated. For the most part, I’ve always felt safe while traveling to Korea. 

2. Where are the best places for traveling alone in South Korea?

I think the best places for solo travelers in Korea are Busan and Jeju . Both places have a lot of tourism and are more foreigner friendly compared to more rural places in Korea.

3. What is the best time of year to visit Korea?

Spring is a great time to visit the Korean peninsula. During this time, you can catch   beautiful cherry blossoms in Seoul , Buddhist temples like Jogyesa decorated for Buddha’s Birthday, and many  amazing spring Korean festivals . 

4. What are the best things to do in Korea?

When in Korea, you definitely have to visit Gyeongbokgung, Changdeokgung, and the Secret Garden. While in Korea, try  renting a hanbok  as well and taking stunning photos at the palaces.

I recommend heading up to Bukchon Hanok Village to see a traditional Korean house.   N Seoul Tower is also the best option  for first-time visitors to Seoul. 

5. Should I learn Korean before going to Korea?

A lot of people in Seoul, Busan, and Jeju can speak English. The Korean government has also taken great steps to make sure all signs have an English translation. There are many guided tours done in English. You don’t really have to learn Korean, but if you wanna get the extra side dishes from ajhumma, it doesn’t hurt to know basic phrases and Hangul.

Check out this  free 90 minute cheat sheet  so you can learn hangul in an afternoon. I also recommend downloading  Google Translate  and using my favorite device, the Pocketalk .  

Where To Stay in Korea

Most travelers stay in Seoul when they first land in Korea. Depending on what your vibe is and what you find most comfortable is where to stay in Seoul. Below, I will give five of the most popular areas in Seoul. For a detailed guide on the best  Seoul neighborhoods and where to stay in them, click here . 

• Hongdae  – Located on the west side of Seoul. You’ll have access to cheap clubs, shopping, cafes, clubs, cheap hostels, and restaurants.
• Itaewon  – It’s known for its popping food scene featuring dishes from all over the world. 
• Jamsil  – Located in east Seoul. Here you’ll have access to top attractions like  Seoul Sky ,  Lotte World , and Seokchon Lake.
• Myeongdong  – This is for the shopaholics. If you love street food and cute trinkets, then you have to stay here.
• Gangnam  – Located on the east side of Seoul. This is a more high end area of Seoul so expect the accommodations to be a bit pricier.

The Good About Solo Travel in Korea

Solo travel to Korea isn’t as scary as you think. I can personally attest to the fact I can leave my phone, laptop, and even purse on the table and no one will touch it or try to steal it. Now, this isn’t to say petty crime doesn’t happen because it does. I have had my money, tripod, and phone stolen in Korea. (But granted it was because I was living in a shit hole called Hanam City. ) So despite it being rare, I do recommend you use some caution.

For the most part, I can also walk around late at night in Seoul and no one will bother me. If I got cat called, it was by foreign men. But again, as a woman, be aware of your surroundings. People are creepy and will follow you. However, I think it does speak volumes about how I’ve even seen young kids running around at night and no one bats an eye. To me, it seems like the community really looks out for the children.

Why Travel to Korea Solo?

The simple answer is because Korea is fucking awesome.

The long answer would be because Seoul is one of the most underrated cities in Asia. Being much cheaper than Japan, you can get the most for your dollar. There are a lot of temples to see, amazing excursions to take, and quirky things to do. Korea has a unique and proud culture, cultivated over thousands of years. You also get to experience how Korea raised itself up after the Korean war with the amazing contrasts of modern and traditional.

1. Public Transport is Cheap and Efficient

Seoul is a very busy city… but the best part about traveling Korea? The easy access from one end of the city and back for less than $5. After you get off the Seoul subway, you can catch any of the intercity buses right after for an additional cost of 100 won.

Many times, a bus stop will also be right outside the train stations. These are the apps I recommend downloading in South Korea. Please avoid Google Maps because it doesn’t work very well.

• Seoul Subway App

2. Korea Is Cheap in General

Solo travel to Seoul is the best because of he low cost of living compared to the United States. I can get a fancy drink in a cafe for 7,000 won ($6) and an entire Korean meal with sides for 9,000 won ($8).

Korea is pretty tech savvy so most places take credit card. Seoul should definitely be on your bucket list as a top destination for solo females. 

3. Free Wifi Everywhere

South Korea has some of the fastest internet in the world. In fact, when I moved back to the States and browsing through social media, I was honestly like, “Why the heck is my phone loading so SLOW?” There’s free wifi at cafes, at shopping malls, and even the subway. 

4. Constant CCTV Surveillance

If you ever needed an additional feeling of security, well here it is. Of course, feel free to still throw caution to dark streets and freaky people. There are video surveillance cameras almost everywhere in public places like buildings, cafes, shops, and crossroads. Rest assured, big brother is WATCHING.

5. Shopping Heaven

Koreans absolutely LOVE to shop. You’ll find all sorts of cute stationary, clothes and shoes for really cheap. My favorite stores for stationary and other cute trinkets include Art Box and Flying Tiger Copenhagen . I also love shopping at SPAO during the holidays for their Harry Potter collaborations.

6. There’s Lots of Help

A solo woman traveler can rejoice because Korea is really making itself tourist friendly. You’ll see people wearing red with circled I on their clothing meaning information. They usually speak a multitude of languages including English, Japanese, and Chinese. 

7. Low Crime Rate

One of the things I enjoyed about living in Korea is the low crime rate. However, don’t let this lure you into false pretenses. Just because the rate of crime is low, doesn’t mean it doesn’t happen. I would highly suggest reading up on some of Korea’s laws before you come just in case you find yourself in a sticky situation.

Some Tips For Helping You With Korean Law:

• It’s legal to sound record anyone without their knowledge as long as your voice is heard.
• If something is about to go down, don’t hesitate to whip your phone out and start recording.
• If someone physically assaults you, don’t fight back. Run away as fast as you can. Korea doesn’t have self defense laws.

What To Do on A Solo Trip to Seoul?

There’s never a dull moment in Seoul, and rest assured there’s something for everyone whether you’re into cooking classes, beauty or taking yourself on a romantic date. I can guarantee you’ll really enjoy your time as female solo traveler in Korea. South Korea has such a rich culture and amazing food!

 My Favorite Seoul Solo Travel Activities

Below is a curated list of all my favorite things to do in Seoul. I have personally done the majority of them solo (because I march to the beat of my own drum) and loved them all. It’s one of the best things to do alone in Seoul since you don’t need a friend to go.

Treat Yourself To A Korean Facial

• Whoo Spa  – Ever wondered how Koreans have beautiful glowing skin? Unlock those secrets with a facial at the Whoo Spa where celebrities go!
• Sulwhasoo Spa  – Experience a premium Korean herbal medicinal anti-aging care at Sulwhasoo Spa in Gangnam!
• 1899 Daechi Spa  – Try their slow-aging treatments and experience the power of Korean red ginseng.
• Korean Traditional Medicine Spa  – Enjoy a customized spa package using natural medicinal plants to provide you with the best experience.

Rent a Hanbok and Visit The Grand Palaces

A must have experience for solo travel to South Korea is immersing yourself in the local culture. I truly enjoy wearing hanbok in Seoul (especially at Gyeongbokgung Palace) because I always feel like a princess.

Plus the entrance fee is completely waived if you wear hanbok or use the   Discover Seoul Pass . It’s the most popular attraction for foreigners visiting South Korea. For a full guide on  how to rent hanbok in Korea, click here . 

• Hanbok That Day
• One Day Hanbok

Visit Seoul’s Many Eclectic Cafes

Koreans love their coffee shops. Since South Koreans don’t have a culture to hang out at each other’s homes, they usually go out to cafes and hang out. Below are some I’ve frequented and you should totally check out! For a full list of all my favorite  Instagrammable cafes in Seoul, click here . 

• 943 Harry Potter Cafe in Seoul
• Dinga Cake House
• Stylenanda Pink Pool Cafe in Hongdae
• Stylenanda Hotel in Myeongdong
• Greenmile Cafe in Bukchon Hanok Village
•  Appi Forest Cafe in Ikseondong
• Urban Cliff Cafe
• Mamma Mia Dosan
• DThrone Cafe

Take a Cooking Class

Part of learning about a culture is learning about their food. Taking a cooking class in Korea is a good idea. One best ways to meet other female travellers and locals while you solo travel in Seoul. I myself am a poor cook, so I find these classes super helpful when cooking my favorite Korean dishes. If it’s your first time in Korea, this is must have experience. 

• Korean Cooking Class – Learn the secrets behind making delicious local dishes from the experts.
• Korean Tea Ceremony & Kimchi Making Class – Learn the tea traditions and how to make a main side dish served on almost every Korean table.
• Makgeolli Making Class – Learn how to make this rice wine which is a Korean favorite.

Eat All The Best Korean Street Food

One of the best places for a solo traveller to try the local food is in Myeongdong. They have many street food vendors and it’s the easiest to get to since its located at the center of Seoul. One of the first things I recommend trying is tteokbokki which are spicy rice cakes.

• Namdaemun Market 
• Gwangjang Market
• Hongik University Station Exit 9

Shop Until You Drop

The sheer amount of stores in Seoul will honestly be overwhelming. Koreans love to shop. Every Korea solo trip should have a day to shop and buy K-Beauty and souvenirs. In fact, I always found something cute to purchase every time I was out. However, these are my most frequented places to shop in Seoul.

• Jamsil Lotte World Mall

Places To Go Alone At Night in Seoul

 When you travel Korea alone, you may want to go out and experience the Seoul nightlife. I myself love a good draft beer or cocktail. If I do go out drinking alone in Seoul, I always go to more classy and upscale places. Most of the people in there are pretty self-absorbed so they don’t pay attention to me. And I love it when people mind their own damn business.

• Park 913 Cheongdam
• Rooftop Cloud
• Alice in Cheongdam
• Moxy Hotel Ikseondong Rooftop
• Art Monster

Beautiful Places to Visit in Korea

The whole world doesn’t revolve around the urban jungle that is Seoul. So then the question remains: Where to go in Korea as a solo female traveler?

Here are some of my suggestions on what to do when traveling to Korea alone. Every solo trip to South Korea should definitely include one of these trips. I also have a  complete list of the best day trips from Seoul here .  

1. Nami Island

When solo traveling Korea, you have to check out Nami Island. It was made famous by the K-Drama Winter Sonata. Since then, it has become a touristy place especially during the changing of the seasons. You can take a tour to Nami Island here. It’s a great day trip from Seoul.

2. Boseong Green Tea Fields

You should also check out the Damyang Bamboo Forest nearby. Boseong is the birthplace of the commercial tea industry and the largest producer of tea in South Korea. Every year they have a festival where you can go pick tea leaves, make tea, and sample green tea snacks.  You can book a Boseong Green Tea Tour here .

3. Garden of the Morning Calm

There are so many great things to do in Korea alone. Taking a Garden of the Morning Calm tour is also a great way to make friends if you’re a solo female traveler. It’s one of my favorite attractions in Korea because it is so beautiful in every single season.

4. Gangneung

Gangneung is one of the best coastal cities in Korea. I keep returning to the east coast for the beautiful scenery. Gangnueng has a wonderful mix of cafe life, traditional architecture, and great food. While you’re there, stay at the Seamarq Hotel because of the freaking amazing infinity pool.

5. Jeju Island

There’s so many parts of the country you have to visit! I recommend going to the Hawaii of Korea. Jeju is very laid back with blue skies and beautiful beaches. It’s a beautiful island paradise and I guarantee you will have a good time no matter how long you stay. 

• The Perfect Three Day Jeju Itinerary
• Meet Real Life Mermaids The Jeju Haenyeo
• The Most Instagrammable Cafes in Jeju
• The Most Instagrammable Places in Jeju

Jeonju is where traditional meets modernity. You can get lost in the Hanok village for hours, rent a hanbok and experience delicious food. Sometimes traveling Korea alone is difficult due to the language barrier. If you take a tour, it’s hassle free. Try this Jeonju Tour from Seoul and time length including day trips and three day tours.

7. Gyeongju

Gyeongju was once the capital of the Silla Dynasty. It’s the most traditional city in Korea. Most of the attractions are within walking or biking distance. This photo was taken and Bulguksa. I recommend taking this Gyeongju tour so you can see everything .

Busan is the perfect place for a relaxed beach holiday. It’s also the third biggest city in Korea. The people are much nicer and the vibe is super laid back. It’s a really awesome city if a beach town is your vibe.

• Busan Day and Night Tour
• The Most Instagrammable Places in Busan  
• The Most Instagram Worthy Cafes in Busan
• The Perfect 4 Day Busan Itinerary  

Eating Alone in Korea

I noticed many Koreans do not like to eat alone. Many restaurants cater toward meals split for two or groups of friends. It sucks because you may want to try certain Korean dishes, but the restaurant will not serve you because you’re alone. However, I do have some recommendations for food you can eat alone.

• Insadong GeuJip (Korean food)
• Street food in Myeongdong
• Noryangjin Cup Bap Street
• Hongdae DupBul  
• PLANT Cafe (Vegan Food)

The Ugly Truth About Korea

Is south Korea safe for female travelers? While I enjoyed living in Korea and I did find it safe for the most part, there are some things you have to be aware of. South Korea is a deeply patriarchal country with some ass backwards ways of thinking. My goal is to keep my expat sisters and traveling sisters safe. The more we know, the easier it is to protect ourselves.

Clubbing Culture in Korea

Now the question I shall answer… Is Seoul safe at night? Because let’s be real, who doesn’t love going out to boogie every once in awhile? The clubbing culture in Korea is unlike anything I’ve ever experienced in my life. The party goes all night long. But when alcohol is involved and you were born female, you need to be extra cautious.

This goes without saying, don’t act a fool at the the bar or club. Locals can tell if you’re a tourist and its an easy way to put a target on your back. Just remember there are shitty people in every country.

Korea is no exception.

Some past news headlines in Korea have covered sexual assault and prostitution rings at clubs in Seoul. These disturbing allegations revolve around club staff who drugged women for VIP customers. They slipped a date rape drug into their drinks known as 물뽕 mool-bbong  which causes grogginess and significant memory loss.

In my experience, this isn’t the only club I know of in Korea doing shady shit. Since Korea is still deeply rooted in patriarchy, if you’re out drinking, dressed amazing, and in a club, it means you want to have sex. Therefore, if a man grabs you or does something to you, it’s automatically your fault. The bouncers or the police don’t give a flying fuck.

Don’t get me wrong. I’m not saying this happens everywhere in Korea and I’ve had good experiences at many bars and clubs. Consider this your warning to act vigilantly.

Itaewon is a great place for the enormous food selection and cool hangouts like rooftop bars. In addition, many foreigners live here and have opened amazing businesses with food from around the world.

During the day, Itaewon isn’t so bad. Itaewon at night is a different story.

You best believe when the sun sets my ass has already vacated the premises. The only time I’ve been stared down, cat called, and made to feel uncomfortable is by foreigners in Itaewon.

This is where all the broke college kids and English teachers fresh out of college go. There’s cheap drinking, tons of bars, hofs, and clubs. The atmosphere is also really cool with all the bright lights and street performances. Wild parties happen take place and I have seen some drunken brawling and weirdos every now and again.

Gangnam is more ritzy and upscale. I personally like drinking in Gangnam because a lot of my favorite bars are in the area. It may be because of my age or I have simply outgrown the club scene, but I refuse to go clubbing in Gangnam anymore.

Remember how earlier I told you shady shit goes on at the clubs? Gangnam is where a lot of the seedy behavior happens. We’re talking dirty cops, drugs, and prostitution rings. Moral of the story? Don’t let the price tag fool you. There’s still a dumpster fire hidden under all the glamor.

However, if you are a Kpop fan and want to run into a celeb or two, you’ll definitely see them on occasion in Gangnam at the ritzy bars or clubs.

One of the biggest news stories about the horrors of drinking alone revolved around a fellow JET alum. She was gang raped by three men in South Korea after she was slipped a 물뽕 mool-bbong. After begging a taxi driver to take her home, her assailants took her to Hooker Hill (Itaewon) and did the unspeakable.

After the incident, police didn’t take her seriously, treated her abhorrently and even wrote an open letter victim blaming her . This sent a message loud and clear that if you’re a woman and you’re drinking, then whatever happens to you is automatically your fault and not your attacker’s.

If you do choose to go out pub crawling, it’s a great place to meet tourists, expats, and locals. But again, it’s just me personally but I don’t go out drinking with a bunch of people I don’t know.

I know a lot of this is scary, but it’s the truth. You have to know these things for when you travel alone in Korea. I beg you to please be aware of your surroundings and do your best to protect yourself.

Non-Existent Sex Education

I am a woman and also a teacher. I have come hand in hand with how terrible sex education is here in South Korea. My middle school students were not well-educated very well on STIs, abortion, contraception, and reproduction. Personally, I blame the falling birth rate because they want to make more little Koreans to replace the deficit.

Refusing To Wear Condoms/ Stealthing

Another big problem in Korea is that men have been known to remove condoms without their partner’s knowledge. Stealthing is   a form of rape . It is defined when people agree to have sex with a condom and then someone either lies about putting a condom on or removes it without the other person’s permission. And the worst part? It is not a crime in Korea. There’s nothing you can do. You’re fucked.

I’m going to have a real moment of truth with ya’ll because it has happened to me. Unfortunately, I’m not the only one this has happened to. I’ve never felt so disgusting in my life. So please be careful and make sure your partner has their condom on. Truly, I do not wish this on anyone else.

In addition, I have come across many ignorant men who don’t want to use condoms. They inspect their junk to see if they’re clean and that’s it. They don’t take STI tests (because it’s shameful) and if they have no signs, they automatically assume they’re clean.

If you’re not horrified by now, I don’t know what’s going to terrify you.

So ladies, I implore you. If you want to go out and have sex, then you do you. There’s no judgement and I’m all for living your best life. Just make sure the guy you choose to take home with you uses contraception and carry your own just in case. If he bitches and says condoms are uncomfortable and he doesn’t like to wear them, proceed to throw the whole man away.

Beware Molka

Molka is an expression used for hidden cameras. These cameras are placed anywhere from hotel rooms, dressing rooms, bathrooms in subway stations, and cafes. In hotel rooms, they’re then hidden in wall sockets, smoke alarm detectors, hair dryers, toilet seats, and satellite boxes. The footage is then live-streamed online to paying customers.

Since porn is illegal in Korea, the way people get their fix is by filming women without their consent. In fact, it’s starting to become a huge problem in Korea.

Here’s how to keep yourself safe from Molka :

• Listen for a slight buzzing sound.
• Investigate smoke detectors and other electronics.
• Check for unusually long or strange wifi names, it could indicate it belongs to a hidden camera.
• Carry around a small ice pick or safety pin to break the camera lens.
• Buy a spy cam detector off Amazon .
• Use a piece of red cellophane and put it over the flash of your camera. Turn on the flash and scan the room. When the red light hits a spy cam, you’ll see a glimmer of light.

According to most crime statistics in Korea, 60% most hidden cam porn is filmed by a significant other or spouse. If you do choose to take someone to the love motel, be aware that this person could also be secretly filming you too.

The Patriarchy is Real

According to the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) Korea ranks pretty low in terms of a developed country’s equality for men and women. Sadly, the gender inequality is ranked at one of the highest in the world.

Some men will expect you to put out if they take you out on really nice dates. Korean society is a man’s paradise and they see women as below them in many aspects. Please don’t take this as me saying all men in Korea are trash. They’re not. I’ve met my fair share of incredible kind and nice men. However, some men were raised to view sex as a monetary transaction.

Is Korea Safe For Women?

Korea is safe as long as you take precautions to protect yourself. Keep valuables like your laptop and non-necessary credit cards in the safe at your hostel or hotel. Take the money you really need out. If you accidentally leave your wallet or purse somewhere, rest assured 9/10 it will be right where you left it and no one will take it.

Be aware of molka, the attitudes around women drinking, and the attitude towards sex with women is in Korea. Having a low crime rate in Korea doesn’t mean Korea is free from it. There are plenty of crimes that happen each and every day.

What you can expect from Koreans and Korea in general is the culture of thinking of the masses and not the individual. I personally thinking watching out for your neighbor and being considerate of others is one of the many beautiful things about Korean culture. When in Korea, do as the Koreans do.

I’ve seen children in Korea go about running errands themselves like buying things at the convenience store, riding public transport, and even being out until their curfew at 9pm. Because of constant CCTV surveillance, no one hurts them.

A Message to the Koreaboos

I hate I even have to write this, but here it is. If you think Korean dramas and Korean pop music videos are an accurate representation of Korean culture as a whole…

GTFO OF HERE RIGHT NOW.

Do us all a favor and sit your happy ass in your home country and don’t even bother coming. Korea is a country just like any others with problems and seedy underbelly. This is not your fairy tale land.

There are assholes who know about the K-wave and WILL take advantage of your naivety. If you’re coming to Korea just for your oppa, then don’t even book your plane ticket.

Did You Ever Feel Alone in Korea?

Honestly, no. I am someone who has always marched to the beat of my own drum. Having hobbies like photography and videography helped me make a lot of friends. In fact, a lot of friends I made with similar hobbies are still my friends to this day. If you think you’re not gonna make friends while solo traveling, think again. I have met the coolest most down to earth ladies in my travels. And I guarantee you will too.

Still Scared About South Korea Solo Travel?

Did you know there are tons of Facebook groups out there that are dedicated to helping solo female travelers? I know traveling alone and to Korea can be scary… Especially if you’ve never done it before.

• The Solo Female Traveler Network
• Free Travel Accommodation – The Solo Female Travel Network
• Travel Meetups – The Solo Female Traveler Network
• Go Wonder Solo Female Travelers
• Over 40 – The Solo Female Traveler Network

I hope you check out these solo female travel groups and connect with some seriously awesome kick ass ladies who have traversed the Earth.

Final Thoughts

So to answer your question, is solo female travel to Korea safe for foreign women? Is south Korea safe for females? Put the Land of the Morning Calm high on your list of solo female travel destinations. I think it’s one of the best places for a single woman to travel. Korea’s vibrant culture and delicious food will definitely draw you in. Seoul is an incredible destination for solo vacations for females.

This post contains affiliate links. If you choose to purchase through one of my links, at no additional cost to you, I make a small commission to keep Gina Bear’s Blog running.

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5 Comments on The Ultimate Guide To Solo Female Travel in South Korea

Thanks for sharing tips on travelling alone.

Do you mind if you share more about the acure laser experience for your acne?

What exactly do you want to know?

I had the most Amazing time in Korea. I stayed for a month, met with a lot of my Hello talk friends, travel a lot and see a lot of things and i always felt safe. I am a 46 years old woman solo traveler and i had only good encounters with male and female Koreans (aside my friends). The rudest persons i met in Korea were some women from Tailand and Russia who acted like they owened the place, all other people including other Tailand and Russian i met were extremely friendly and helpful. I recomend travel to Korea at least once in a lifetime. It is an experience you will NEVER forget. Thank you Ginabear for all the help and tips. Take care sweetie ♥️💜

Hi, I am planning to visit Seoul. Can you please help me with an itenary.. It would my first solo trip.

Do you work in Korea? I am disabled and want to visit and thought of getting the teach English classes. Do you know many doing this?

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Solo travel tips and flight attendants' secrets!

The Ultimate Solo Female Travel Guide To Seoul

This post may contain affiliate links. For more information click here !

The ultimate solo female travel guide to Seoul was a must! Seoul has my heart. I’ve travelled to Seoul many times for work as a flight attendant. But in September 2022, I planned a solo trip to South Korea for two weeks.

Seoul has everything you can dream of as a city, including nature, mountains, and hiking trails. I feel that there are certain things you need to know before coming to South Korea that would make your female solo travel trip carefree.

Before we move on! Don’t forget to check out >> 11 important travel tips for solo travel to Seoul

I’ll share everything you need to know in this ultimate solo female travel guide to Seoul! I hope you’ll enjoy Seoul to the fullest after reading this! Let’s dig in!

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Solo travel to Seoul

The best thing about travelling alone to Seoul is safety. South Korea, in general, is a super safe country for solo female travellers. Like in Singapore and most places in Thailand, like Chiang Mai , I’ve never felt unsafe.

My first time in Seoul, I went out for drinks with co-workers. I was shocked when I saw people randomly leave their belongings, like purses or phones, on the table. Koreans respect other people’s belongings!

Seoul is such a diverse and dynamic city. It reminds me a bit of New York. It never sleeps if you don’t want to. Even though it’s the middle of the night, there is always something to do and food to get.

The city has many cultural places, museums, trendy neighbourhoods, cool coffee places, outside gyms, great hiking trails, and more for any solo traveller. It’s impossible to get bored.

Just getting an iced coffee, sitting on a bench near the Han River, and doing some people-watching or reading a book is relaxing!

Related posts:

• 22 must-know safety and travel hacks for the solo female traveller
• 12 amazing beauty products flight attendants can’t live without
• 20 awesome travel accessories for the solo traveller under $25
• 10 important safety accessories for the solo female traveller

Public transport in Seoul

Public transport in Seoul is also excellent, which is great for solo budget travellers! The city has an accessible bus and subway system that is cheap too, making travelling in the city a piece of cake. You’ll need a transportation card and an app, but more on that later!

Even the train system that connects the airport to Seoul or Seoul to other cities is well-arranged and clean. I took the KTX bullet train from Seoul to Busan in 2.5 hours. At the same time, this is not the cheapest option if you plan well ahead, but I loved the experience. It was relaxing, looking out the window and enjoying South Korea’s scenery.

Is Korea safe for a solo female traveller?

I believe Seoul and South Korea are very safe for women travelling alone. I have never felt unsafe walking the streets of Seoul, even late at night. In other countries, you must keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places or on the subway.

Don’t look for trouble just because a country feels safe. Bad people are everywhere, including in South Korea. People will look and stare sometimes, but it’s nothing compared to the amount of obvious staring in countries like India.

Most of the time, dressing modestly and adjusting to the country’s values is a good idea.

Think of what you’re planning on doing. Out clubbing, revealing clothing is more acceptable than having dinner in a family restaurant. Wear whatever you like and feel comfortable in.

Scared to travel alone? I got you!

I’m launching my course, “Solo Female Travel Empowerment.” Join the waitlist! I’m giving the course away for FREE to the first 25 readers who enrol!

Where to stay in Seoul as a solo traveller?

Myeondong 명동.

What is the best area to stay in as a solo female traveller in Seoul? A location that is central but maybe not on an overly busy street. We need our beauty sleep.

Especially when travelling by public transport, staying in a location well connected to a bus or subway station is very convenient in Seoul. You don’t want to drag your luggage around for thirty minutes before getting to your hotel.

With all that in mind, and after researching many neighbourhoods in Seoul, I decided to stay in Myeongdong. Myeongdong is right in the middle of Seoul and very well connected by public transport.

Myeongdong itself is a shopping area. There are shops, restaurants, street food, and many coffee places! It’s an excellent spot to stay in, with plenty of things to do. The area around Myeongdong Street can get busy in the evenings, especially on weekends. So keep that in mind if you’re looking for a quieter area to stay in.

All the street food stalls in the evening are fantastic! You can skip dinner one evening and try all kinds of street food from the stalls.

Hotel Thomas

If you’re looking for a simple, good, and clean hotel with a great location in Myeongdong, check out Hotel Thomas . I stayed here in September and would definitely stay again.

You’ll have everything you need just around the corner. It’s a 5-minute walk to the subway station and a 10-minute walk to Myeongdong Street. This area is quieter than the area around Myeondong Street.

The hotel has a coffee bar, but I suggest walking across the street to Koffee Sniffer!

Another area in a good location, well connected to public transport and with plenty of things to do, is the Gangnam area. Especially the area near the Han River, near Sinsa Station or Apgujeong, is my favourite.

The area is more spacious than the narrow streets of Myeongdong. There are plenty of places for food, shopping, and drinking. The area in Apgujeong has some of the trendiest bars, restaurants, and shops!

It will be a bit more expensive, but worth it if you can afford the little splurge.

Patio 7 Hotel

Patio 7 Hotel is a small, trendy design hotel in Gangnam. The rooms are a little smaller but clean, with a private bathroom. I loved the set-up of the bed area.

The hotel has a wine shop and bar where you can buy a bottle of wine or have a glass.

If you want to stay in a traditional Korean home, check out this place! Unfortunately, it was already booked during my time there. But maybe you’ll be luckier! I hope to stay in a traditional hanok the next time I’m there!

Bukchonae has a fantastic location! Close to Buckchon Hanok Village, Insadong, Myeondong, and Gyeongbokgung Palace! You’ll be within a decent distance of many sights and plenty of coffee bars and restaurants!

This place looks so beautiful and has awesome reviews from other travellers! It’s worth paying a bit more for the unique experience.

Things you need in Seoul

T-money card.

You can’t stay in Seoul without a T-Money Card, and it will make your life so much easier! You can use a T-Money card for public transportation, taxis, and convenience stores. Just look for the T-Money sign.

You need to top it with cash at any of the ticket machines at the subway stations or a convenience store. Remember, you’ll need to cash for this.

You can buy a T-Money card at most convenience stores in Seoul, and you can also use it in Busan. You can use it for smaller payments in a convenience store or some taxis, but since you can use credit cards too, I would save your T-Money card for public transport.

>> Check out this bundle! It comes with a T-Money Card and a local SIM card . There is wifi in most places, but I found it very unstable sometimes. You’ll need data to get around. I highly recommend getting this bundle. You can pick it up at Incheon Airport!

Naver app/ Kakao Maps

Download Naver Maps or Kakao Maps to navigate your way through Seoul! Google Maps doesn’t work properly, unfortunately. Naver Maps is much easier when navigating public transport or looking up restaurants and sights.

The subway details tell you exactly which exit to take or which car is the fastest for easily changing lines!

There was a time when Uber didn’t work in Seoul. But the last time I was there (September 2023), Uber did work! However, I found getting a taxi sometimes took a long time.

As a backup, I would download the Kakao Taxi app. At first, it will look like you need a local credit card to order a taxi. But look for the payment option that says ‘pay to driver’. Then, you can order a taxi just like the Uber app and still use a credit card to pay when you get in the taxi.

Google Translate

Many places will have an English menu for travellers, but I found that the smaller places or places outside the main areas don’t. It can be a little intimidating to walk into a place where you don’t understand anything🥲

But Google Translate will be your saviour! Especially the feature where you can scan a sign or a restaurant menu, which will translate automatically! This feature is a lifesaver for every traveller!

The Google Translate app is essential because sometimes there’s still a language barrier in Korea!

Discover Seoul Pass

The Discover Seoul Pass is exclusively for tourists! You can buy the pass for a certain amount of days, which lets you visit any included sights. This will save you money than ending up buying all tickets separately.

The passes can be easily downloaded to your phone. A 24-hour pas will cost you about KRW50,000 (€45/ $46) with 71 attractions included.

The best things to do in Seoul for solo travellers

Bukchon hanok village.

Visiting Seoul is not complete without a visit to Bukchon Hanok Village. Have you ever seen those photos of Seoul with those fabulous-looking houses and people wearing beautiful dresses? That is Bukchon Hanok Village. 

Bukchon Village is a traditional Korean village with a rich history. The village consists of many alleys and hanoks (traditional Korean houses) and is meant to show South Korea from 600 years ago. I hope one day, when I’ll get back to Seoul, to sleep in a traditional hanok!

It’s easy to get lost in all the alleys. But the main street to take beautiful photos is Bukchon Village Photo Spot (type that into Google). You can rent a hanbok and wear it for your visit to Bukchon Village and the Gyeongbukgung Palace!

There is no entrance fee, but this is still a residential village. People live here, so don’t be loud. 

When you’re done walking up and down the steep alleys and need a delicious iced coffee or iced tea, I recommend checking out E.Chae Coffee Pub, located down the main road. The place is stunning, with a cute little courtyard. They had the best coffee from my entire trip to Seoul!

Gyeongbokgung Palace

Gyeongbokgung Palace is one of the biggest palaces in Seoul and is worth visiting. It’s near Myeong Dong or Insadong and can easily be walked.

Like renting a school uniform in Lotte World, you can rent a traditional hanbok (Korean traditional clothing from the Joseon dynasty) and visit the palace.

If you’re wearing a hanbok, the entrance to the palace is free. Many Koreans and foreigners wear a hanbok and take photo shoots.

It’s a lovely idea to rent a hanbok and take a professional photoshoot in the palace. You’ll have a remarkable memory of your trip and beautiful photos to take with you!

Book now! >> Gyeongbokgung Palace Private Photo Shoot

It’s very nice to see that you can wear traditional clothing from another culture without being accused of cultural appropriation. When walking around Bukchon Hanok Village, I also saw foreigners in hanboks walking around. But the most beautiful thing was to hear Koreans complimenting them on their appearance. Awesome!

Even if you’re not wearing a hanbok, the palace is impressive. The entrance fee is only a few euros, and visiting the palace is easy. However, if you prefer to know more about the history and visit other places, check out these tours!

• Seoul: Royal Palace Morning Walking Tour
• Seoul: DMZ, Gyeongbokgung Palace & City Tour
• Seoul: Gyeongbokgung & Bukchon Village with Hanbok

Don’t forget to visit the palace at night too! The palace is beautifully lit, which makes for beautiful photos from the square.

Gwangjang Market

Gwangjang Market became famous when it was featured on the Netflix series “Streetfood Asia”. It is a must-see, and although it has become super touristy, there’s still plenty of food to try.

Especially if you’re into trying weirder stuff like fresh octopus (it still moves on your plate😳)! I personally passed on that, but look for gimbap (Korean sushi), sundae (blood sausage), tteokbokki (rice cakes in spicy sauce), noodles, dumpling soup, and so much more!

It can get crowded during lunch hour, so keep that in mind. Many places have set menus where you can try out different foods.

>> Check out this tour that combines all of the above! Gyeongbok Palace, Bukchon, Village and Gwangjang all in one guided tour!

Korean National War Museum

When visiting a new destination, I want to visit a good museum, preferably one with art and one with history. The Korean National War Museum is one of those museums you must see!

The museum tells all about the Korean War. A subject that I found very interesting to learn more about! The best thing is that the museum is free to visit (closed on Monday).

You can visit the museum in the morning and make a combination with Namsan Seoul Tower.

The Han River is the heart of Seoul and a lively area, especially in the summer. People go for a walk or a run, ride a bike, drink, and eat. There are several spots with outdoor gyms, open spaces for picnics and BBQs, benches to sit and relax, and more.

There are also some spots with cafes and restaurants where you can enjoy the view of the river. The Starbucks near the Banpo Bridge is the best for an incredible view during sunset. You could also rent a bike and bike around the Han River. There are bike lanes everywhere for your safety.

Bike up to the Banpo Bridge and get some chicken, ramen, and beer from nearby convenience stores. Do what the locals do, and they even sell picnic mats! Chicken and beer at the Banpo Bridge is a must-do in the ultimate solo female travel guide to Seoul!

During the summer, a light show on the Banpo Bridge attracts many people having a picnic on the riverside.

Korean cooking class

No trip is complete without a cooking class! When we indulge in the local cuisine, we want to know how to make it so we can recreate and re-live our trip when we’re home.

Korean food is fantastic! We all know about Korean Fried Chicken and Korean BBQ, but how about learning to cook authentic Korean dishes to surprise your friends at home?

In this highly-rated Korean Cooking Class and Market Tour , you’ll visit a local market to buy fresh ingredients and some Korean street food. You’ll then learn how to cook four dishes, and after, you’ll enjoy them with different banchan (side dishes).

Cooking classes are also great ways to meet other travellers when travelling solo in Seoul!

Book your cooking class now! >> Korean Cooking Class and Market Tour

Hiking Inwangsan Peak

With so many parks, hiking trails, and mountains, making at least one hike is a must. It’s a great way to burn calories, and the view from these hiking trails up in the mountains is fantastic.

The weekends are super busy in the city, so they’re the perfect time to escape to the tranquillity of a quiet mountain. I visited Inwangsan Peak on a Saturday afternoon and barely encountered any people. Don’t forget to bring mosquito repellent and plenty of water!

Myeondong Skincare Shopping

If you’re into skincare and beauty shopping, Myeondong is the place to be. You’ll be tripping over beauty stores lined up next to each other. Most stores have special promotions, and walking around before purchasing pays off.

Usually, there are loads of 2-for-1 promotions, or even buy this, and you get this for free. Be careful, though! Before you know it, you’ll be walking out with triple the amount you had in mind.

The sales ladies can be a little pushy, even after you’ve said no many times. Keep your foot down, and don’t buy anything you don’t want. It’s a bit of a scam where they force you to buy up to KRW100,000 to get sales tax back right away.

If you want to buy that much, sure! But if you don’t want to, don’t let them trick you!

Starfield Library

Gangnam is also a great area to do some shopping. If you are into designer luxury brands, you will get your kicks here! The best relaxed and trendy bars, coffee places, and restaurants are here. 

The famous COEX Mall with the Starfield Library is also located in Gangnam. I didn’t find the mall that special, but the Starfield library is incredible and very instagrammable.

Photo studios

One thing that will really catch your attention is the number of photo booth studios in South Korea. They’re not just in Seoul; I also saw them in Busan.

These photo studios consist of a few photo booths in an unmanned studio. Props, such as bunny ears or crazy glasses, are available to make your photos even more fun. Some are more simple, and others are pretty professional-looking!

Do you want a fun memory of your Seoul trip? Take some funny photos in a photo booth! Hongdae is the place to do this.

Lotte World

There are two theme parks to visit in Seoul. Lotte World is easy to go to since it’s located in Jamsil, Seoul. There is a direct subway line to Lotte World. If you’re into theme parks, you can’t miss Lotte World.

It’s a tradition to rent a school uniform when visiting Lotte World. Yes, even at an age where you’re far from being a student! If you’re into cosplay, this will make your day at Lotte World extra fun!

>> Book your ticket to Lotte World with a 15% discount here!

>> If you plan on visiting multiple sights and tours, it can be smart to check out Go City Pass Seoul ! With these passes, you’ll save more bucks than getting every ticket or tour separately!

Day trips from Seoul

Demilitarized zone border.

There is a lot of fascinating history in South Korea. Visiting the War Memorial Museum is one thing, but what about visiting the border between South Korea and North Korea?

You’ll be picked up from your hotel and visit the DMZ . You’ll learn all about the history between the two countries and what led to this place’s existence.

This must be one of the most interesting tours you can do as a tourist. You’ll see the Bridge of Freedom and go in the tunnels under the demilitarized zone.

You can glimpse North Korea from the Dorasan Observatory if you’re lucky! The tour starts very early and is about half a day. You can add a shooting range experience or a city tour to the day if you want to.

You can’t miss this tour if you’re interested in South Korea’s culture and history!

Book your tour now! >> Seoul Demilitarized Zone Day Tour

Nami Island & Garden of Morning Calm

Nami Island is a half-moon-shaped isle with beautiful scenery, where many movies and K-dramas were filmed. The Garden of Morning Calm is a 300,000-meter garden with beautifully sculpted flowers, trees, and pathways. A great day trip if you’re looking to escape the busy city!

What to visit after Seoul

So what can you do after visiting Seoul? I highly recommend taking a trip to Busan or Jeju Island! Check the weather for both destinations beforehand!

Busan is the second largest city in Seoul and is near the beach. I took the bullet train (you can also fly out) from Seoul Station to Busan and stayed for three days. I loved Busan! There are three beaches to check out: Songdo Beach, Gwanggalli Beach, and Haeundae Beach.

Jeju Island

Jeju Island is THE weekend getaway for Koreans! If you’re not spending some time in Busan but want to spend some time near the beach, Jeju Island is the other option! There are several flights per day, and renting a car on the island is easier to get around.

Is Seoul budget-friendly?

Like every other city, Seoul can be as budget-friendly or as expensive as you want. However, don’t expect prices to be the same as in Asian countries like Thailand or Vietnam. If you know where to go, Seoul can be very affordable.

There are plenty of fancy bars, restaurants, and high-end BBQ places that can ring up your budget. But if you stick to street food, smaller restaurants, local alcoholic drinks (try makgeolli, a Korean rice wine, it’s delicious!), and the occasional convenience store snack and lunch, you’ll be good!

Convenience stores in South Korea are on another level! You can get good food and drinks for a budget price. If you’re a fan of Seoul, you’ve probably already seen all those reels passing by of Korean convenience store food!

The biggest expense is going to be accommodation. Accommodation will cost you an average of €60 per night for a double room with a private bathroom and air conditioning.

Things to avoid in Seoul as a solo traveller

Seoul can get very busy, especially on the weekends. Restaurants are packed, and restaurant queues can get long (most restaurants don’t accept reservations). If you’re looking to escape the busy city, this would be a perfect moment to visit nearby places or hike in the mountains.

Try to avoid taking public transport during rush hour. It gets busy on the subway in every big city during rush hour, but taking the subway in Seoul during rush hour is awful. It’s so crowded that you’ll be better off travelling before or after if you have the choice.

Lunch break

With that being said about rush hour, it’s also wise to avoid going for lunch during lunch break. There are lines everywhere, from restaurants to even the smallest coffee cafes. People who take their break during lunch hour take that opportunity to go out or run a quick errand. You’ll notice instantly how busy it gets everywhere.

The best time to visit Seoul

Check carefully in which season you would like to visit Seoul. Winter is freezing and long, summers can be extremely hot, and there is a lot of rain in July. In July 2022, there were floods in the city because of heavy rainfall.

The best time to visit Seoul is late spring and early fall. In these months you’ll have the best chance of pleasant weather!

This concludes everything you’ll need to know about solo travel to Seoul! I hope this ultimate solo female travel guide to Seoul will help you prepare for your solo trip!

→ Don’t forget to check out part 2 if you haven’t already! >> 11 important travel tips for solo travel to Seoul

Have you ever been to Seoul? Leave me a comment below!

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South Korea Travel Guide

Last Updated: July 17, 2023

Though South Korea is small (about the size of the US state of Indiana), it punches well above its weight in terms of things to see and do. Boasting a vibrant culture, incredible history, natural beauty, delicious food, and a wild nightlife, it’s home to both major cities and untouched nature, offering something for every traveler.

Seoul, the capital city and fourth-largest metropolitan area in the world (over half the country’s population of 50 million is concentrated here), is a lively hub for food lovers and partying. But while it gets all the attention, there is much more to explore, including 22 national parks, lush Jeju Island, and the infamous Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) bordering North Korea.

Best of all, since South Korea is a manageable size, you can see a good portion of it in a limited amount of time. The transportation here is modern, clean, and efficient, so it’s easy to get around quickly.

The country is also a foodie’s paradise, with cheap street food and delicious dishes like bibimbap, kimchi, and the famed Korean barbecue.

It’s one of my favorite countries in the world and one that I think is super under the radar and often overlooked by travelers. You never see the tourist crowds found in other Asian countries.

This travel guide to South Korea can help you plan your trip, save money, and make the most of your visit.

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on South Korea

Top 5 Things to See and Do in South Korea

1. Explore Seoul

Korea’s capital has a little bit of everything. It’s a bustling metropolis and global technology hub, with sleek and modern neighborhoods like Gangnam and iconic sights like the Lotte World Tower, the sixth-tallest building in the world. Yet there is a lot of history here too, including many museums, palaces, and temples, among them five UNESCO World Heritage Sites. When you’re done exploring for the day, Seoul has a robust street food scene, countless trendy restaurants, and fast-paced, soju-driven nightlife. You could easily spend weeks here and never get bored.

2. Tour the DMZ

The Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) separates North and South Korea and, despite the name, is the most militarized border in the world. You can only visit the Joint Security Area (JSA), which has military personnel from both sides, on a guided tour, but it’s a unique experience and an important way to learn about this ongoing conflict (the war started in 1950 and has not officially ended). On the tour, you’ll be able to actually stand in North Korea, visit the Third Tunnel of Aggression (which North Korea dug to sneak soldiers across the border), see the Freedom Bridge, and catch glimpses of North Korea from the Unification Observatory. Guided tours of the DMZ start from 80,000 KRW.

3. Visit Jeju Island

This volcanic, semitropical island is a popular domestic vacation spot. It’s accessible via cheap daily flights from Seoul that take just one hour. Known as “the Hawaii of Korea,” it’s a natural paradise, home to the tallest mountain in Korea (Mount Hallasan), lava tubes, beautiful beaches, and countless hiking and walking trails. Other attractions include visiting mythic Jeju Stone Park, wandering the Yeomiji Botanical Gardens, and watching the haenyeo divers — women who dive without any protective equipment to gather underwater treasures like shellfish and seaweed, which they then sell on the beaches. You can visit the Jeju Haenyeo Museum as well to learn more about this cultural practice that dates back centuries.

4. Sing karaoke

Known as noraebang , this is a cultural phenomenon and something worth experiencing at least once while visiting Korea. While the karaoke machine was originally invented in Japan, Koreans have adopted the pastime and made it their own. Here, you rent out a private room with a group of friends (instead of singing in a public bar, as is often the case in Western countries). Pricing is determined by the hour, with rates varying wildly depending on the number of people, time of day, day of the week, and whether snacks and drinks are included. Average group karaoke rates range from 5,000 to 15,000 KRW.

5. Step back in time at a hanok village

Other things to see and do in south korea, 1. visit changdeokgung palace.

One of the Joseon dynasty’s Five Grand Palaces, this 15th-century complex in Seoul was built in harmony with the natural environment at the foot of Bugaksan Mountain. Changdeokgung, or “Palace of Prospering Virtue,” was the main royal residence for 13 kings over the course of three centuries. The complex sprawls over 110 acres, 60% of which is taken up by the beautiful Huwon Secret Garden, home to over a hundred species of trees, flowers, and other plants (some of the trees here are over 300 years old!). The main draw is wandering around the exterior, with its restored buildings and gates, though you can also go inside Injeongjeon Hall, the palace’s throne room. Admission to the complex is 3,000 KRW; the Secret Garden is an additional 5,000 KRW. There are guided tours in English as well.

2. Explore Busan

Korea’s second-largest city is located just two hours from Seoul on the KTX high-speed bullet train. A coastal city, Busan boasts great beaches, such as Haeundae Beach, with its miles of sand, and Gwangalli Beach, known for its sunsets. Gamcheon Culture Village, the “mural village of Korea,” is a hillside neighborhood rich in street art and covered in murals, and nearly all the houses are painted bright colors. It’s a great place to wander around for a few hours, popping into the unique shops, cafés, and restaurants.

3. See the National Museum of Korea

If you visit only one museum in Korea, make it this one. Located in Seoul, it covers all aspects of Korean culture, art, and history, from prehistory to the early modern era. It also contains many national treasures and artifacts that have been designated as having special importance and value in Korean culture and history. Some of the most important ones include the sixth-century inscribed Bukhansan Monument, detailing military expansions; sixth-century gilt-bronze Buddhist statues; and the 10-story Gyeongcheonsa Pagoda, which dates to the 14th century. Don’t miss the exterior gardens, which feature indigenous plants, reflecting pools, and traditional Korean sculptures and lanterns. Admission to the main exhibitions and children’s museum is free.

4. Take a food tour

As a foodie, learning about a culture through its food is one of my favorite things to do while traveling. Korea has an incredible variety of amazing dishes to try, as well as a bustling (and delicious) street food scene. Taking a food tour with an experienced guide is one of the best ways to gain a deeper understanding of Korean cuisine. O’ngo Food offers a variety of tours in Seoul, Busan, Jeonju, and Jeju, with prices starting from 70,000 KRW per person.

5. Visit Gyeongbokgung Palace

Originally built in the 14th century by the kings of the Joseon dynasty, this palace in Seoul served as the seat of the government for two hundred years until it was destroyed by a fire and abandoned for centuries. Since the 19th century (and still today), it has been undergoing renovations to restore the complex to its former glory. It is considered the most stunning of all five royal palaces in Seoul, featuring grand gates, open courtyards, and terracotta-topped buildings set against the backdrop of Mount Bugak. In addition to wandering through the complex, you can also go into the many administrative halls and residential chambers set up to resemble the palace’s heyday. You can watch the changing-of-the-guard ceremony as well, every day except Monday. The National Palace Museum and the National Folk Museum are also located in the complex. Admission is 3,000 KRW.

6. See the cherry blossoms

While cherry blossoms are often associated with Japan, festivities surrounding the blooms are incredibly popular in Korea as well. Here, the season runs from late March to late April, with many festivals throughout the country. Just be prepared for crowds at the more popular ones, like the Yeouido Cherry Blossom Festival in Seoul.

7. Try taekwondo

Korean’s native martial art, taekwondo, is characterized by high kicks and punches and, like all such disciplines, emphasizes mental training. An Olympic event since 2000, taekwondo has only grown in popularity in recent years and is a point of pride in Korean culture. Kang’s Global Taekwondo in Seoul offers classes to adults and foreigners that cost around 43,000 KRW for one hour.

8. Learn to cook classic Korean foods

If you’d like to take your knowledge of Korean food one step further, take a cooking class, where you’ll learn to prepare classics like bibimbap, kimchi, bulgogi, and Korean pancakes. Hello K Cooking in Seoul offers a class where you’ll learn how to cook three main dishes and one stew — recipes and skills that you can bring home with you. Classes are 107,000 KRW.

9. Go hiking

Korea is an incredibly mountainous country, so hiking is a favorite pastime for locals. Be sure to immerse yourself in nature while visiting this lush land. There are even hiking spots near the bigger cities if you don’t have enough time or don’t want to venture too far afield. Bukhansan National Park, just outside Seoul, is a popular place to go hiking, offering panoramic views over the capital (expect crowds due to its proximity to the city, though). Yet with 22 national parks spread across the country, there are plenty of opportunities to escape the crowds (including lots of guided hikes if you don’t want to organize one yourself). For a multiday hike, the Jirisan Ridge Trek in Jirisan National Park is one of the most famous — a four-day walk from mountain shelter to mountain shelter.

10. Wander around Seoul Olympic Park

In 1988, Seoul hosted the Summer Olympics, which was only the second time the summer games had been held in Asia (the first was in Tokyo in 1964). Today, you can visit the massive park where the games were staged, and while Olympic Park does have many sports facilities, there’s much more to explore here as well. The park is divided into four sections, focusing on the arts, history, nature, and sports. In the arts section, you’ll find the SOMA Museum of Art and a park with over 200 sculptures, while in the history section, you can see the third-century defensive Mongchontoseong Earthen Fortifications, excavated dugout huts and storage pits left in the state in which they were uncovered. You can easily spend an entire afternoon here. Admission to the park is free.

11. Discover Jirisan National Park

Located in the southern part of the country (Namwon is the nearest city), this park is named after Jirisan (Mt. Jiri for short), the tallest mountain on mainland Korea. As it’s South Korea’s first national park (as well as its largest), hiking trails and cultural sites abound. You can visit seven major Buddhist temples and see several of Korea’s national treasures of ancient carved stonework from the seventh to the tenth centuries. One of the most important sites here is Samseonggung, or Three Sages Palace, a mountainside shrine dedicated to the legendary founders of Korea. Admission to the park is 1,600 KRW.

South Korea Travel Costs

Cheap hotel rooms start at 28,000 KRW for a room that sleeps one, while a double room generally costs at least 40,000 KRW. Expect basic amenities like Wi-Fi, a TV, air conditioning, and an electric teapot. Breakfast is usually not included at budget hotels.

Airbnb is available around the country, with private rooms starting at 25,000-30,000 KRW. For an entire home or apartment, expect to pay at least 50,000-70,000 KRW per night.

While wild camping is illegal in Korea, there are plenty of campgrounds should you want to pitch a tent. Expect to pay 7,000-20,000 KRW for a plot with access to bathroom and shower facilities, and usually even Wi-Fi.

Food – Korean cuisine has developed its own traditions and flavors over the centuries, with a unique emphasis on using uncooked, fermented, and pickled vegetables. Traditional Korean meals are often composed of a variety of side dishes, eaten with short-grain rice. A meal isn’t considered complete unless there’s kimchi on the table.

Common dishes include bulgogi (marinated, grilled beef), samgye-tang (chicken and ginseng soup), bibimbap (a mixed rice bowl), chap chae (a glass noodle dish), and many other noodle and rice dishes. Popular street foods include hotteok (a sweet, filled pancake), tteokbokki (spicy cylindrical rice cakes), and bungeo-ppang (a fish-shaped pastry filled with red bean paste).

Dining out in South Korea is relatively inexpensive. A meal at a casual restaurant serving traditional Korean food is around 9,000-15,000 KRW, while a three-course meal at a mid-range restaurant is around 25,000-30,000 KRW. Expect higher prices in larger cities.

Western food is more expensive. Expect to pay at least 20,000 KRW for a pasta dish at an Italian restaurant.

In terms of fast food, a combo meal (think McDonald’s) is around 7,000 KRW, while a burger is around 4,500 KRW. A typical Korean street food dish is 1,500-3,000 KRW.

A pint of beer is 4,000-5,000 KRW, a glass of wine is 6,000 KRW and up, and a cocktail is 7,000 KRW and up. A latte or cappuccino is 5,000 KRW.

If you cook your own food, expect to pay 50,000-70,000 KRW per week for basic staples like rice, pasta, vegetables, and some meat. Shopping at local markets is the best way to get great fresh produce for cheap.

Backpacking South Korea: Suggested Budgets

On a backpacking budget of 75,000 KRW per day, you can stay in a hostel dorm, cook all your meals, use public transportation and intercity buses to get around, skip the alcohol, and do mostly free activities like walking tours and hiking.

On a mid-range budget of 135,000 KRW per day, you can stay in a private Airbnb or cheap hotel, eat out for most meals at casual restaurants, enjoy a few drinks, take the occasional taxi as well as trains between cities, and do more paid activities like museum visits and food tours.

On a “luxury” budget of 255,000 KRW or more per day, you can stay in a nicer hotel or entire Airbnb apartment, eat out pretty much anywhere you want, drink at the bar, get a high-speed rail pass, and do as many guided tours and activities as you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury, though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get an idea of how much you need to budget daily. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in KRW.

South Korea Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

I find South Korea to be one of the best value countries out there. It’s a really affordable place to visit. Accommodation can add up but food and drinks are generally cheap. Here are some ways to save money when you travel around South Korea:

• Visit the free attractions – With countless museums, shrines, temples, historic neighborhoods, and parks, Korea is filled with opportunities to become immersed in its culture. Many of the nation’s museums and cultural attractions are free, so don’t pass them up!
• Purchase a KORAIL Pass – If you want to travel by train, getting a rail pass is the most economical way to do so. You’ll get unlimited train travel for the time period you choose (2-5-day increments). Prices start at 121,000 KRW.
• Get a transit pass – Most major cities in Korea offer a day pass for public transit, which means great savings if you plan to hop around using buses and subways. Seoul’s day pass costs 15,000 KRW, though the longer you stay, the more you’ll save (a seven-day pass is 64,500 KRW).
• Buy a city pass – If you plan on visiting a lot of attractions, buy a city pass . Seoul and Busan both offer ones that include admission to popular sights, a transit pass, and discounts to restaurants and other attractions. A one-day pass starts at 33,000 KRW.
• Eat from the convenience stores – Convenience stores in Korea offer not only snacks and drinks but prepared boxed meals and cheap alcohol. If you’re on a tight budget, shop in those.
• Take the bus – While the trains are fun, the cheapest way to get around Korea is by bus. They take longer but are much cheaper, so if you have the time, opt for long-distance buses. Just show up at the bus station to reserve your tickets in advance, as most websites and apps are in Korean.
• Stay with a local – Couchsurfing lets you stay with a local for free, cutting your accommodation costs drastically. You’ll get to spend time with someone who can share their tips and advice in exchange for your own travel stories and culture. You can also use the app to meet people for activities (coffee, museum visits, etc.) if you don’t feel comfortable staying with a stranger.
• Drink like the locals – Soju, the national alcohol of Korea, is incredibly cheap, as is domestic beer. Just be careful to not let it sneak up on you — both monetarily and physically. Korea’s drinking culture is infamous!
• Stay in capsule hotels – If you don’t want to Couchsurf or stay in hostels but still want to save money, capsule or pod hotels are great options. These offer just what you need to sleep (a small, basic pod) yet can be surprisingly comfy and much more affordable than a traditional hotel. Prices start as low as 45,000 KRW per night.
• Bring a water bottle – The tap water here is safe to drink, so bring a reusable water bottle to save money and reduce your plastic use. LifeStraw is my go-to brand, as its bottles have built-in filters to ensure that your water is always clean and safe.

Where to Stay in South Korea

South Korea has plenty of budget-friendly hostels and guesthouses. Here are some of my recommended places to stay when you visit:

• Time Travelers Relax Guesthouse (Seoul)
• Zzzip Guesthouse (Seoul)
• Time Travelers party Hostel (Seoul)
• INSIDE Busan (Busan)
• Jeju Hiking Inn (Jeju)
• Backpacker’s Home (Jeju)

How to Get Around South Korea

Bus – Taking a long-distance bus is the cheapest and most popular way to get around the country. There are two types: express (which makes few to no stops) and intercity (which travels between smaller destinations and makes more stops).

Your best bet for reserving tickets in advance is to go directly to the bus terminal, as most bus websites and booking apps are in Korean and only accept Korean credit or debit cards.

Pricing depends on what class ticket you choose: standard, luxury, or premium. The four-hour bus ride from Seoul to Busan costs around 36,000 KRW for a standard ticket, Incheon to Busan takes just over four hours and costs 38,000 KRW, and Seoul to Daegu is 29,000 KRW and takes just under four hours.

Train – South Korea has a robust train system that can take you all over the country. Korean Train Express (KTX) is the country’s bullet train, regularly running at speeds up to 305 kilometers (190 miles) per hour. However, these only go between major cities, have limited schedules, and are more expensive, so KTX may not always be the most convenient choice.

KORAIL (the national railway service) operates slower-speed, intercity trains that offer a wider range of schedules and destination choices. You can also get the unlimited KORAIL Pass, which is offered exclusively to international tourists. A two-day adult pass is 121,000 KRW; a five-day adult pass is 210,000 KRW.

As a comparison of the two train types: the journey from Seoul to Busan on a KRX train costs around 90,000 KRW and takes 2.5 hours, while on a regular intercity train, it takes 5.5 hours and costs 47,500 KRW.

The further out you book, the cheaper KTX train prices get, while intercity prices stay about the same. You can book up to a year in advance.

Flying – South Korea is so small that flying around the country doesn’t really make sense. Trains can get you anywhere pretty quickly. However, if you’re very pressed for time and have cash to burn, there are a few budget airlines offering domestic flights between major cities. Most are around one hour long.

The flight from Seoul to Busan is around 30,500 KRW, Seoul to Jeju is 55,000 KRW, and Busan to Jeju is 22,000 KRW. However, you can find flights even cheaper when you book further in advance.

Low-cost airlines in South Korea include the following:

Car rental – Renting a car isn’t incredibly cheap in South Korea. However, it is one of the best ways to explore all the natural wonders that the country has to offer, many of which are inaccessible by public transportation. Expect to pay around 50,000-55,000 KRW per day on a multiday rental. Drivers need to be at least 21 years old.

When to Go to South Korea

Generally, the best times to visit South Korea are March-May and September-November. During these periods, the weather is mild, with temperatures of 10-24°C (50-75°F); prices for accommodation and transportation are lower; and there are fewer crowds.

In the spring, the cherry blossoms are in bloom all over the country, while the fall brings the beautiful colors of the changing leaves. Also, if you plan on doing a lot of hiking, the fall is the best time to visit.

The summer starts with monsoon season, from June through mid-July, and the rest of the summer is hot and humid in the cities (though it cools down in the mountains and along the coasts). Prices for accommodation are also very high during this time.

Winters in South Korea get very cold, with temperatures dipping as low as -6°C (21°F), so unless you plan on skiing, visiting from December through February might not be the best option (though the temples and landscapes look beautiful covered in snow).

How to Stay Safe in South Korea

South Korea is an incredibly safe place to backpack and travel around. Petty crime is rare here, though it never hurts to be cautious on public transportation and around popular tourist landmarks. Always keep your wallet and valuables secure and out of reach, just in case. Violent crime is even more rare.

Solo female travelers should feel safe here. However, the standard safety precautions apply as always. For specific tips, consult one of the many solo female travel blogs on the web.

While scams are super rare in South Korea, to avoid getting ripped off, you can check out this list of common travel scams to avoid .

When hiking, always bring water and sunscreen. Be sure to check the weather before you depart and dress accordingly.

Earthquakes occur regularly in the region, so it’s best to be prepared and download the Emergency Ready app, which the Korean government developed to provide information in English to foreign residents and tourists. It has all kinds of advice and tips for natural disasters, shows you where nearby emergency shelters are, and sends out warnings and notifications should a disaster occur.

If you do experience an emergency, dial 112 for assistance.

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID, and forward your itinerary along to loved ones so they’ll know where you are.

South Korea Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

South Korea Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on Asia travel and continue planning your trip:

The 5 Best Hotels in Singapore

The 7 Best Hotels in Bangkok

The 4 Best Hostels in Singapore

Where to Stay in Singapore: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

The 13 Best Things to See and Do in Taipei

The 23 Best Things to Do in Hong Kong

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Seoul Solo Travel Guide

Planning a solo trip to Seoul , Korea? Here’s everything you need to know for your visit:

QUICK FACTS

• Officially known as Seoul Special City, with a population of around 10 million people.
• Part of UNESCO’s Creative Cities Network due to cutting edge design.
• Located on the banks of the Han River , with a history going back 2,000 years.
• A global financial and technological powerhouse , with the world’s fourth largest metro economy by total GDP (after Tokyo, NYC, and LA).
• Has a very high quality of life , and the world’s fastest internet connections (up to 1 Gbps).
• Nickname: Soul of Asia.

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

• Currency: Won (KRW).
• Spoken languages: Korean ,   although most locals have a basic grasp of English .
• Best time to visit: from  October to March . Pack a sweater and an umbrella, as the weather can be unpredictable.
• Arriving via airport: Incheon Airport (ICN) connects with most areas of the city via Limousine buses and Express Train with fares calculated based on distance.
• Taxi stands are located at the arrival level and cost ₩40,000 to ₩65,000 (depending on distance).

WHERE TO STAY

• Best Seoul hostel for solo travelers: Jin’s Paradise . Just a 10 minute walk from the subway station, this is a clean, cozy, and social establishment with a friendly and helpful owner (Jin). Perfect as a base for exploring the city, or for meeting others – it’s so small that you’ll end up meeting everyone by default.
• Jongno and Sinchon offer guesthouses, hostels, backpacker bars, and cafés close to the main sights, while  Itaewon boasts a great variety of shopping options.
• Garosugil and Sinsa are fashionable and quiet, while Apgujeong takes the honours for trendy cool.

GETTING AROUND

• T-Money is a transaction and transportation card that can be used to pay for subway and bus fares, giving you a ₩100 discount on tickets plus free transfers across the network.
• The Seoul Subway is the world’s largest (by length),   and known for its   efficiency and cleanliness. Lines are distinguished by color codes. Fares start at ₩1,150 and are distance dependent.
• Bus routes are also color-coded, and cover defined routes within the city with tickets based on a starting fare plus an additional ₩100 for each km thereafter.
• Group taxis are either Call Vans or Jumbo Taxis , the first being used for passengers transporting freight and cargo goods, and the latter for regular passengers. Call Vans have negotiable fares and license plates that start with the number 8; Jumbo Taxis use the meter with fares starting at ₩4,500 for the first 3 kilometers and ₩200 for each additional 164 meters. Standard (regular) taxis charge ₩2,400 for the first 2 kilometers and ₩100 for each successive 144 meters, and can be booked on 02-1330.
• Instead of a taxi , consider calling a ride via Kakao T (the most popular ride sharing service in Korea).

SEOUL NIGHTLIFE

• Drinking age is 19 ,   and last call is at  5 AM .
• Hongdae has a multitude of bars, cafés and street performances that go deep into the Korean sub culture.
• Sinchon and Gangnam Station are the watering hole of Korean university students looking for cheap drinks and casual bars that stay open late.
• Samcheong-dong is where the fashionable and trendy congregate.
• Great foreigner-friendly clubs : Cakeshop Seoul and Faust (both in Itaewon).
• Great bars for solo travelers: Zen and La Bamba (both in Hongdae).
• Bars and clubs always check IDs , so make sure you have one with you (government issued, with your date of birth).

UNIQUE LANDMARKS TO VISIT

• Gyeongbok-gung is Korea’s most famous palace, once belonging to the Joseon Dynasty.
• Seoul Tower is a communication and observation tower – the highest point in the city.
• Heunginjimun is one of the Eight Gates of Seoul in the Fortress Wall of Seoul, also designated as a National Treasure.
• The National Museum of Korea is dedicated to Korean art and history, and boasts the largest collection of relics and antiquities in the country.
• Cheongwadae is the presidential residence, also referred to as the Blue House. Visits need to be booked a week in advance.
• Sangam Stadium was built for the FIFA World Cup 2012 and is a distinct structure, shaped like a traditional Korean kite.
• Lotte World is the world’s largest indoor theme park, complete with luxury hotel, top rides, excellent shopping options and the Korean Folk Museum .

INTERESTING WALKS

• Namsan Park is perched atop its namesake mountain in the centre of Seoul, accessible by cable car.
• Insadong is a one-stop shop for everything Korean including tea houses, galleries and quaint shops selling antiques.
• Namdaemun Market is perfect for souvenir shopping over some healthy haggling.
• Bukchon Hanok Village is a beautiful area of the city bearing traditional Korean housing.

LOCAL WISDOM

• Koreans place family values above individual needs. Protocols and etiquettes are strictly enforced and respected.
• Pungmullori is a traditional Korean art form combining music, dance and acrobatics. Performances can be caught at the Korean Folk Village or at Chongdong Theater.
• Great restaurants to try: Myeongdong Kyoja (multiple locations), Buchon Yukhoe (beef tartare), Xesc Menzl (German cold cuts and sandwiches), Villa Guerrero (tacos), Star Samarkand (Uzbek food), Niuroumianguan (Taiwanese), Petra (Jordanian), Savage Garden (vegetarian), Balwoogongyang ($$$ –  with vegan options).
• Looking for great Gamjatang ? Head to Taejo Gamjaguk Sungshin Women’s Univ.. Craving fried chicken? Hyodo Chicken.
• Where to find good cheap eats : Sindang and Ojang for quick and cheap meals eaten standing up, Majang meat market for barbecue and Dobong for the city’s best tofu.
• Dangerous areas : Seoul is generally very safe. Exercise caution at night, especially when walking alone (just as in any major city).

Recommended trip duration:  3-4 days

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• A Solo Travelers Guide To...

A Solo Traveller’s Guide to Seoul

The capital city of South Korea is a pulsating metropolis that combines traditional Korean ideals with modern architecture and young neighbourhoods. While it’s often overshadowed by bigger neighbours Beijing and Tokyo, Seoul has recently become one of the hottest cities in East Asia. If you’re planning on travelling to Seoul alone, here are the top places to add to your itinerary.

Thinking of joining a small-group tour instead of going solo? Our 10-day South Korea trip will take you around the country with other like-minded travellers, led by our Local Insider.

The best neighbourhoods to visit in Seoul

Yes, this is the home of Gangnam Style, but it’s not as dorky as you might think. In fact, Gangnam is the most modern district in the city – it was farmland until the 1970s – with Starfield COEX Mall, one of the largest underground shopping malls in the world, expensive high rises and the best plastic surgeons in town. Gangnam is split into several main areas: Cheongdam-dong, home to celebrities and expensive cars; Samseong-dong, home to the Bongeunsa Temple; and Nonhyeon-dong, home to quiet, back-street bars.

Looking for a place to stay? Check out our pick of the best hotels in Gangnam .

If you have an artistic streak, you will fall in love with Insadong. This charming neighbourhood is home to local artists, teahouses, contemporary galleries and boutique shops. It’s the perfect spot for serious souvenir shopping, but you’ll also find historically significant buildings here, including the Unhyeongung Royal Residence and Jogyesa, an important Korean Buddhist temple. Read more in our guide to the best things to do in Insadong .

Shopaholics will faint when they see the seemingly endless arrangement of shops in this part of Seoul. Have you watched any Korean dramas? If so, Myeongdong will look familiar. It’s home to the largest department stores in South Korea, including Lotte and Hyundai, which means foreign shoppers can buy duty-free goods from high-end brands. In the evening, many visitors head to Myeongdong to grab a bite at one of the many local restaurants .

Want more? Browse our pick of the best places to stay in Myeongdong .

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Most travellers instantly feel at home in Itaewon: this part of town is the multicultural district of Seoul, home to a vibrant expat community. If you need a break from Korean food, this is the place to find impeccable international restaurants. On top of that, Itaewon also offers lots of nightlife with countless bars and pubs open until the early hours. For an inside take, find out what it’s like to live in Itaewon .

This university neighbourhood is where the cool kids hang. Home to four big schools – Hongik, Yonsei, Sogang and Ewha – it’s no surprise Hongdae is the best place for quirky eats, cheap shopping and thrilling nightlife. If you’ve heard about the themed cafes in South Korea, this is where the idea was born.

If Hongdae sounds like an ideal base for you, take your pick from our roundup of great hotels in the neighbourhood .

Where to stay in Seoul

Insa hostel.

If you’re looking for a budget stay that doesn’t skimp on character, Insa Hostel in the artistic Insadong neighbourhood is the ideal place. Opened in 2013, Insa benefits from being within walking distance of the Gyeongbokgung and Changdeokgung palaces as well as the Myeongdong neighbourhood. The rooms here may be simple, but the rooftop terrace, free breakfast and heated bathroom floors more than make up for it.

Makers Hotel

Brick walls, leather sofas and antique furnishings kit out this boutique hotel in bustling Jongno, the centre of Seoul for 600 years. Upstairs you’ll find stylish rooms with wood-panelling and simple decor; downstairs is the Common Cafe, a mid-century-style space, which serves a continental breakfast. With the metro station next door, there’s easy access the rest of the city.

Fancy a stay? A three-night stay in the Makers Hotel is included in Culture Trip’s carefully curated tour of South Korea , where you’ll explore Seoul and beyond over the course of 10 days.

The Shilla is one of the most sophisticated hotels in Seoul. Regularly voted as one of the top hotels in the world, it emphasises the harmony between modernism and tradition through elegant design and high-end facilities, which includes a luxurious spa, five restaurants and even a Korean sculpture garden. It has a peaceful setting on the outskirts of the city centre, but a free shuttle service will keep you connected to the sites.

Where to eat in Seoul

Mapo sutbul galbi.

Koreans love BBQ. It’s more than just food: it’s a whole social ritual with friends and drinking. One of the best places to grab galbi (meat), is Mapo Sutbul Galbi. This family-owned place is best known for its marinated beef and pork and is one of the only places in town that uses plums in their marinade – giving the meat a sweet taste.

Even though Korean cuisine is relatively meat heavy, vegetarians won’t starve. One of the top addresses for first-class veggie food in Seoul is Sanchon . This restaurant was founded by a Buddhist monk and offers set meals with more than 20 dishes prepared to Buddhist standards. If you’re visiting in the evening, you’ll experience the daily Korean dance performance at 8pm.

Myeongdong Kyoja

Myeongdong Kyoja specialises in chicken kalguksu (noodle soup), served with sliced pumpkin, spicy onions and a unique kimchi that is the pride of the restaurant. This outlet has been serving customers in the Myeongdong neighbourhood for more than 50 years – its popularity is down to the outstanding hospitality: if you’re still hungry, just ask for a free refill.

What to do in Seoul

Visit the demilitarised zone (dmz).

Many visitors like to get in touch with South Korean history. If that’s you, take a day tour up to the DMZ between North and South Korea, where the Cold War is still very much in existence. The zone is about 250km (155mi) long – head to the Joint Security Area (JSA) near the western end to head down the Third Infiltration Tunnel, try North Korean liquor and get a glimpse of the isolated nation.

Climb Bukhansan

South Koreans love hiking. With the staggering number of mountains and national parks in the country, it’s no wonder why. But don’t worry, you don’t need to travel far outside the Seoul borders to climb one of the most beautiful mountains in Korea. When you reach the top of Bukhan Mountain, to the north of the capital, you will be rewarded with breath-taking views of the city skyline.

Explore Gyeongbokgung Palace

Central Gyeongbokgung was the main palace during the Joseon Dynasty. Built in 1395, it is the largest of the Five Grand Palaces of South Korea, with some 500 buildings and 7,700 rooms. Gyeongbokgung has been undergoing extensive restoration since the 1990s, and is today the most visited attraction in South Korea, hosting various events throughout the year.

Wander the narrow streets of Bukchon Hanok Village

Travel back in time in Bukchon Hanok Village. Featuring a collection of 600-year-old Korean houses, this traditional village is filled with teahouses, coffee shops, restaurants and boutique stores. Take a stroll through the narrow alleys; you can even wear traditional Korean hanbok dresses for unforgettable holiday photos.

Take photos in Gwanghwamun Plaza

Facing Gwanghwamun, the main gate of Gyeongbokgung palace, is its eponymous plaza. This area offers superb photography opportunities in the evening when the sun sets in the distance behind the main gate. The square also features a large statue of Sejong the Great, considered one of the most important kings in Korean history as he created the Korean alphabet Hangul.

Practical tips for visiting Seoul solo

Getting around.

Seoul has a convenient network of affordable subways and public buses that are easy to use. Taking certain subway lines during rush hour can be quite nerve-wracking though – this might be the perfect time to take an Uber. South Korea also has its own version of the convenient dial-a-ride service called Kakao T, which is also widely used.

Health and safety in Seoul

It is not recommended to drink tap water in Seoul unless it’s been boiled, but don’t shy away from trying street food as South Korea has a rich foodie culture. Locals love snacking on the go and you can best experience Korean flavours when out and about. South Koreans are extremely relaxed and it’s not uncommon to leave your camera on the table while ordering coffee or to give the waiter your phone to charge it for you – this level of trust makes South Korea a safe place to travel alone.

Solo travel doesn’t have to be an entirely lonesome affair. Join Culture Trip’s 10-day South Korea adventure for the chance to experience Seoul and beyond with a small group of travellers who are as culturally curious as you are.

Did you know – Culture Trip now does bookable, small-group trips? Pick from authentic, immersive Epic Trips , compact and action-packed Mini Trips and sparkling, expansive Sailing Trips .

Culture Trips launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes places and communities so special.

Our immersive trips , led by Local Insiders, are once-in-a-lifetime experiences and an invitation to travel the world with like-minded explorers. Our Travel Experts are on hand to help you make perfect memories. All our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

All our travel guides are curated by the Culture Trip team working in tandem with local experts. From unique experiences to essential tips on how to make the most of your future travels, we’ve got you covered.

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Seoul Budget Guide for the Solo Traveller: 10 Affordable Activities to Experience the City

Seoul is the world’s 6th most expensive city, which may require a little more planning if you’re travelling solo and on a budget. But that definitely doesn’t mean you should compromise on the experience.

There are many affordable activities to take in Seoul, from lounging in a uniquely Korean jjimjilbang (sauna), to climbing Bukhansan National Park with ahjummas (older women in Korea) - it's about the value of experience over the value of expense. 

Here are 10 affordable activities that will give you a rich appreciation of Seoul.

1. Don your Hanbok at Gyeongbokgung Palace

Image credit: Lexis Korea

You can’t say you’ve been to Seoul without having gone to the Gyeongbokgung Palace. For only 3,000 won, you get to enter the traditional masterpiece - the Main Royal Palace of the Joseon Dynasty.The best times to visit would be between 10.00am and 2.00pm (except on Tuesdays - it’s closed), during this period you can witness the Changing of Guards ceremony.

Travelling solo to the Gyeongbokgung Palace doesn’t mean you have to settle for a selfie and miss out on the amazing architecture as your backdrop. Ask any local, even the ahjummas, as Koreans have amazing photography skills! 

Price: Adults aged 19-64 (3,000won); Children aged 7-18 (1,500won)

Address: 161, Sajik-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul

Opening Hours: Monday and Wednesdays - Sunday: 9.00am - 5.00/6.30pm (depending on month) (Closed on Tuesdays)

*Pro-Tip: Wear a hanbok and you get to enter for free.

2. Relive your Fairytales at Petite France

Image credit: Korea Free and Easy

Incredibly childlike and innocent, Petite France is the first ever village idealized by “The Little Prince” - cementing the Koreans’ love for the storied prince. With its colourful shop houses and unique French style, this fairytale village has played host to countless popular Korean dramas, including “My Love from the Star”, “Secret Garden” and “Running Man”. 

Apart from its Instagrammable backgrounds, Petite France also showcases a wide variety of European cultural performances, including Pinocchio, and Hand Puppet! Regardless of its European influence, there are still various Korean restaurants for a taste of local cuisine. 

Price: Adults (8,000won); Teens (6,000won); Children (5,000won); Seniors (aged 65 & above)/Persons with Disabilities (6,000won)

Address: 1063 Hoban-ro, Cheongpyeong-myeon, Gapyeong-gun, Gyeonggi-do

Opening Hours: 9.00am - 6.00pm (Last admission: 5.00pm)

*Pro-tip: Visit on a weekday to avoid the weekend crowd.

3. Hike Bukhansan National Park

Image credit: Stranger in a familiar land

Bukhansan National Park, or Mt. Samgaksan is a must for sporty travellers. The hike feels exceptionally surreal, and doesn’t feel like you’re in Seoul. The mountains provide a respite from the city life, and showcases a more beautiful and serene side of the city. 

You may have planned to hike this alone, but don’t be surprised if you’re eventually accompanied by groups of ahjummas and ahjussis who hike Bukhansan as part of their daily exercise! You can choose to follow the crowd, or explore the Golden Buddha route (1 hour), or Baegundae route (4 hours) to reach the top. 

Price: Free

Address: Gupabal Stn., Line 3, Exit 1. From here, make a U-turn and find a nearby bus stop (2min walk). Take either bus 704 and get off at the entrance to the park (or simply follow the crowd!)

Opening Hours:  From sunset to 2 hours before sunrise (Hiking at night is prohibited)

*Pro-Tip: While it is a relatively easy hike, it is safer to wear the right attire, especially footwear.

4. Colour your World at the Ihwa Mural Village

Image credit: Muslim Travel Bug

Akin to walking into a child’s drawing, the Ihwa Mural Village would be alike living the world in the eyes of an artist. Be surprised with aesthetically pleasing murals with every turn, as there are countless drawings spread throughout its walls and stairwells. 

Address: Ihwa-dong, Jongno-gu, Seoul (Hyehwa Stn. Line 4, Exit 2)

Opening Hours: 24 hours 

*Pro-Tip: Keep your noise level down to prevent disturbing the residents in the area. 

5.  Enjoy Abstract Art at Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP) 

Image credit: Another Something

Abstract architecture with a distinctively neo-futuristic design, the Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP) is a must-visit if you enjoy the beauty of design and architecture. From art exhibits to museums in this area, the plaza looks exceptionally majestic at night, and would be worth a trip to envision the space age. Many fashionistas also flock to the plaza to take their #OOTDs. 

Address: 281 Eulji-ro, Gwanghui-dong, Jung-gu, Seoul, South Korea (Dongdaemun History and Culture Park Stn., Line 2/4/5, Exit 1)

Opening Hours: Tuesday - Thursday and Sunday: 10.00am - 7.00pm Friday - Saturday: 10.00am - 9.00pm (Closed on Mondays)

6. Walk through the Youthful Hongdae District

Image credit: So Cool Korea

Hongdae District, or Hongik University Station, is the place to be to experience Seoul’s food, youthful nightlife, and shopping culture. There are countless Korean BBQ spots, popular cafes (such as Thanks Nature Sheep cafe), and hip shop houses dotted all along its streets. Not forgetting the bars and clubs. Hongdae is a must-go to truly embrace the vibrant dynamism of Korea.

Address: Eoulmadang-ro, Mapo-gu, Seoul (Hongik University Stn., Line 3, Exit 9)

Opening Hours: 24 hours

7. Delight in Myeongdong’s Street Food

Image credit: Skyscanner Singapore

Myeongdong is a famous high-end shopping district, where many people go to for face masks, clothes, make-up, and more. But if you’re not a fan of shopping, Myeongdong still deserves a spot on your list for its amazing street food! You can enjoy hottock (sweet Korean pancake), eomuk (fishcake), grilled cheese lobster, pancakes, fried ice cream… the list is endless. Do remember to bring small change as the stalls may not have sufficient cash to provide change for your big notes, you big spender! 

Price: 2,000 - 5,000won

Address: Myeongdong-gil, Jung-gu, Seoul (Myeongdong Stn., Line 4, Exit 6)

Pro-Tip: Head over to N Seoul Tower after shopping or eating at Myeongdong as it is only a 1km walk away! 

8. Enjoy the Sunset at N Seoul Tower

Image credit: Sites.psu.edu

Dubbed the “Love Tower” of Seoul, the N Seoul Tower is a renowned national landmark, and one of the world’s top romantic destinations. It is also used ever so often as a filming location for Korean dramas. 

The tower is known for its love lock fences, and slanted couple benches. There’s also good dining options, and an arcade.

Image credit: Walk with Cham

But most people come here for the panoramic view of Seoul’s cityscape. You can enjoy this from the tower’s Observatory Deck for 10,000won. 

There are two ways to get up to the N Seoul Tower – by cable car for 6,000won (Adults) & 3500won (Children & Seniors) or by hiking up Namsan Park. It is quite a long up to the tower, but the view at the top will make it worth your while. 

Price: 10,000won for 2-3 hours. This also comes with a free entry into the palace.

Address: 105 Namsangongwon-gil, Yongsan 2(i)ga-dong, Yongsan-gu, Seoul, South Korea

Opening Hours: Monday - Friday and Sunday: 10.00am - 11.00pm Saturday: 10.00am - 12.00am

*Pro-Tip: 5.00pm is the best time to set off on the hike and reach the top in time to enjoy the sunset view.  

9. Enjoy Instant Noodles and Soju by the Hangang River 

Image credit: Wesley’s Tool-Box

This has to be included in every traveller's’ Seoul Bucket List! Grab a cup of Korean Instant Noodles and soju from any convenience store, and head over to the Hangang River at night for a truly peaceful experience. Be sure to pick a spot with the view of the 27 huge arcs along the bridge.

The Hangang River stretches across Seoul. In the day, there are a variety of activities such as swimming, cafe-hopping, and cycling, that you can enjoy along different sections of the river. 

Address: Seoul-si, Gangwon-do, Chungcheongbuk-do, Gyeonggi-do

10. Relax in Siloam Sauna and Spa

Image credit: Dive Price

The Siloam Sauna and Spa is the best place to be on a cold rainy day, or after a long day of shopping. Also known as a jjimjilbang, Siloam Sauna and Spa is easily the most popular and extravagant sauna and spa you can find in Seoul. Boasting fitness facilities, entertainment areas, countless types of saunas, and even cosmetic services like manicures and pedicures. Despite it being really popular, we still recommend it as the facilities are almost second to none for this price range, plus it’s also frequented by the locals - tell-tale signs of a good spot.

Price [Bath and Jjimjilbang (Sauna)]: Adults (10,000won); Children aged under 10 (9,000won)

Address: 49 Jungnim-ro, Jung-gu, Seoul (Seoul Stn., Line 1, Exit 1)

Experiencing Seoul on a limited budget may be harder for solo travellers, but with these 10 activities, you will be able to interact with locals, and immerse in Seoul’s modern and traditional culture throughout your stay.

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Solo Traveler

Solo travel tips, destinations, stories... the source for those who travel alone.

Solo Travel Destination: Seoul, South Korea

April 7, 2016 by Guest

We are pleased to present a new  Solo Travel  Destination Post from Andrea, to complement an earlier one from Criszette. Both are members of the  Solo Travel Society  and both are from the Philippines. They both submitted reports from their solo trips to Seoul, South Korea, each from their own unique perspectives. Do you have a  solo travel  destination that you would like to recommend?  Submit your description here , along with a few photos, and share it with fellow travelers!

Languages spoken: Korean, English

Petit France

Reasons to Visit Seoul, South Korea

Andrea's story.

Solo travel  rating: 1.5  (1 is easiest, 3 is most difficult. Please see chart below)

This was my first time traveling alone and I'm glad that it was in Seoul.

Transportation   I arrived at night time from Manila to Incheon. I traveled from the airport to my hotel in Myeongdong by bus. Other options include a train (which is the most affordable) and taxi (which is the most expensive). The bus cost me 10,000 won (about US$10).

Hotel   There are a lot of hotels around the subway stations. I stayed around Myeongdong and my hotel was just a 2-minute walk from Exit 4. I stayed in a dormitory hotel, 4-sharing.

Getting Around   I planned my itinerary by reading other sites. I started by exploring nearby attractions (Gyeongbokgung Palace, Bukchon Hanok Village, Insadong, N-Seoul Tower) and then traveled to Gapyeong by train the next day for Nami Island (Naminara Republic) and Petit France. The rest of the stay was spent shopping and tasting local fare. All my destinations were reached on foot or by subway, and Gapyeong thru ITX (Intercity Train Express). I didn't take a single taxi.

Getting Help  There are tourist information centers in each district. They will provide you with maps. There are also areas where tourist guides in red suits are stationed. You can ask them for help (I saw them in Garosugil and Namsan).

Currency   1,000 won is almost equivalent to US$1.

Food – I'm quite used to eating Korean food so this was not a problem for me. Restaurants are quite pricey; you'd spend about US$10 for a bowl of ramyeon. They also tend to be spicy so be warned. McDonald's would cost between US$3.50-6.50. Street food is also around that range (US$2-5).

People   I didn't have an untoward encounter with anyone. I had locals give me a hand with my luggage when I was going up the stairs. I even received freebies from restaurants such as probiotic drinks and candies.

Shopping   Souvenir items are usually sold in bulk at US$10-15. Single items like fridge magnets are at US$3. Shopping for clothes would start at US$10. I find their shoes most affordable as you can buy a pair for US$9.90 in underground shopping centers.

Safety  I felt quite safe the whole stay. No one bothered me in any way.

Overall Experience  I had a wonderful stay in Seoul, South Korea. I would recommend visiting Bukchon Hanok Village for a cultural experience and Garosugil for chilling at cafes on a lazy afternoon. I would love to go back.

Street food in Myeongdong

Nami Island

Solo Travel  Destination Rating System

Safety   – 1  (1 very safe, 2 safe in most areas, 3 be cautious at all times.)

Language   – 2  (1 English is first language, 2 English speakers easy to find, 3 English speakers rare)

Navigation – 1  (1 easy to navigate by transit or car, 2 poor transit, car necessary, 3 not easy to get around)

Culture – 2  (1 Similar to North America or Western Europe, 2 Different from above but relaxed and easy, 3 Challenging)

Gyeongbokgung Palace

Criszette's Story

Solo travel  rating : 1.5   (1 is easiest, 4 is most difficult. Please see chart below)

Seoul has been on the top of my list ever since I was a kid, so when I was given an opportunity to visit, I literally grabbed it. It was just 4-5 hours away by plane from my home in Manila, and mostly on red-eye flights, so I have every reason to go to Seoul.

I went during the summer even though I had read in several sites that it is not the recommended season to visit because of the very hot weather. As I'm stubborn, I went anyway and spent 2 weeks in Hongdae (the nightlife neighborhood of Seoul). I can recommend the Birdsnest Hostel, which is about a 10 minute walk away from Exit 3 of the Subway and AREX (Airport Line). The owner, Mr. Lee, is very, very friendly and you will love his dog.

• I brought 3 phones on this trip, and only my iPhone would work in Korea. A better bet is to rent one at the airport – there are booths just outside of the arrival hall where you can rent a phone for your trip.
• Buy a T-Money Card – it will save you so much money. It can be used as a transportation card on subways, buses or even taxis, as well as in convenience stores like G25, 7-11 and Family Mart, and will get you discounts in other stores. You can find it in any subway station or at airports. The cards are sold from big blue machines for ₩3,000 and ₩5,000 – that's around $3.00 and $5.00. Insert the card in the machine to load it with money credits, and you're good to go! You can reload it if it runs out, or get a refund at any convenience store.

My list of  must-dos in Seoul

Myeondong (of course!), Dongdaemun Market, Namdaemun Market, Itaewon and Insadong. Malls: Time Square Mall in Yeongdeungpo, Galleria Department Store in Apgujeong (Gangnam), COEX in Samseong (Gangnam), Lotte Duty Free in Myeondong.

Attractions

• The 5 Grand Palaces of the Joseon Dynasty & Jongmyo Shrine. I suggest you buy the Integrated Palace ticket for ₩10,000. It will save you around ₩4,000 or more and you won't need to queue up anymore. This can be bought at any of the palaces.
• Namsan Tower and Teddy Bear Museum

Cheonggyecheon Stream

• Cheong Wa Dae or The Blue House, home of the South Korean President.
• National Museum of Korea
• War Memorial Museum of Korea
• Banpo Bridge Rainbow Fountain
• Bukchon Hanok Village
• Seoul World Cup Stadium

I don't have any personal favorites because every place that I tried was so delicious! Of course, you should not miss eating Korean food, especially Kimchi and Samgyeopsal (grilled beef).

• For animal lovers the must-tries are the Cat Cafes in Myeondong and Hongdae and the Dog Cafes,  especially the Bau House in Hapjeong.
• Hello Kitty Cafe in Hongdae
• Night life in Hongdae
• Meeting Korean people
• Seoul City Tour Bus which runs all over the city, day and night.
• If you are into independent art, don't miss Sangsangmadang Gallery in Hongdae.

I loved everything about Seoul!

The T-Money Card

Locks of everlasting love at Namsan Tower.

Safety   – 1  (1 very safe, 2 safe in most areas, 3 be cautious at all times.)

Language   – 2  (1 English is first language, 2 English speakers easy to find, 3 English speakers rare)

Average Rating – 1.5  (1 is easiest, 4 is most difficult)

Sharing is caring!

Publisher Janice: info @ solotravelerworld.com

Editor Tracey: tracey @ solotravelerworld.com

Sales Simon: simon @ solotravelerworld.com

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• Travel Guide
• South Korea

I Took A Solo Trip To Seoul - And Here Are The Useful Tips I Learnt

Shasha Dania  •  Jan 17, 2020

In December 2019 I crossed something off my bucket list and finally made a solo trip to Seoul! ? As someone who's wary of travelling in winter, this trip meant a lot to me as a sort of personal challenge too. From staying in a shared guesthouse dormitory to trying to travelling light with a backpack, the trip was full of many travel 'firsts' and although it was challenging at times I ended up loving the city even more by the end!

Credit:  Giphy

That being said, I definitely had to think on my feet at times and I even learnt some things I wish I'd known while planning my trip. ? If you're thinking of travelling solo to Seoul (for a 'Seoul-o' experience ?) keep reading for some useful tips on how to navigate the public transport, which halal eateries you  have  to visit, and how to survive the Korean winter!

1. Is it safe for a Muslim (woman) to travel solo in Seoul?

Safety is definitely the most important consideration when you're solo travelling. I've been to Seoul twice since 2018 (once with friends and once on my own), and both times I felt safe going out in the day and after sunset while walking alone. I did get cat-called once in 2018 but I never had any hostile encounters on the street. It's common to see some drunk people on the streets at night (especially on a Friday or Saturday) as South Korea has a strong drinking culture, but they won't get aggressive towards you and it's best to just leave them alone.

It's also more common to see hijabis in Seoul now particularly at Myeongdong, Hongdae, Itaewon, and at the major attractions. ? One of our writers even got to try on a traditional hanbok during her previous trip to Seoul that complemented her hijab! I saw quite a few hijabis wearing similar outfits around Bukchon Hanok Village and Gyeongbokgung Palace during my trip, and no one bothered or stared at them. ☺️ There were a few staying in the same guesthouse as me, and I also saw some solo hijabi travellers in the halal restaurants I visited. Overall I did feel very safe even though I was a bit nervous going back to my guesthouse at night just because it was dark, late, and cold.

Here are some tips to help you feel more secure:

• Remember to bring your passport around. This isn't just for getting tourist tax-free discounts (more on that below ?) but to ensure you have identification if you run into any issues. Make sure to keep it in a safe place in your bag!
• Do stay alert if you're walking outside after sunset (in winter the sun even sets before 6PM!) especially in Myeongdong, Hongdae, and Itaewon. Myeongdong and Hongdae get super crowded every evening, and Itaewon is home to several bars so you might see some rowdy patrons.
• Keep an eye on your bags and purses in crowds or during rush hours, and stay off your phone so you can be more aware of your surroundings. The subway trains can get very packed at the end of the day and you don't want to drop your belongings or risk getting pickpocketed!
• Before you leave your room or venture to a new place, calm your heart by reciting an appropriate du'a . My guesthouse was next to the mosque, and being able to walk past it at the start and end of each day also helped me feel more at ease. ? You can also bookmark these prayer rooms next to major attractions to plan out a break to recharge in the middle of the day.

2. Which is the best neighbourhood to stay in?

The view from the Baek In-Je House Museum in Bukchon Hanok Village showcasing a traditional hanok family house. Some of the hanok houses in the area were even converted into hostels or guesthouses for an authentic traditional Korean experience!

Seoul definitely has no shortage of accommodation options, with plenty of hostels and guesthouses having popped up in the last 10 years to accommodate the humongous tourist growth. With some research you can even book a stay in a hanok  - definitely a unique experience you won't get anywhere else! ? You can look at  hanok  villages such as Bukchon and Namsangol for options like these. There are also temple stays if you want to experience the tranquillity and zen of a traditional Korean Buddhist temple (temple food is also usually vegan-friendly with no alcohol used in cooking!).

Hongdae's streets at night are full of small shops selling everything you could dream of. ?

If you're deciding between the most popular choices of Myeongdong, Hongdae, or Itaewon I think it boils down to what your main goals are for the trip. Serious shoppers who want to be close to major attractions will love Myeongdong's accessibility . Hongdae is good for bargain hunters or if you prefer the vibrancy of a college town - night owls will also love the buskers and performers who dazzle in the streets after sundown! ??

Major advantage of staying near the mosque? Being near delicious halal food like the odeng (fishcake) and tteokbokki from Manis Kitchen! ?

For me, being near delicious halal food was my topmost priority which is why I ended up in Itaewon! ? Seoul Central Mosque is located there and the area is full of Muslim-owned eateries, shops, and even supermarkets selling any ingredients you need to whip up a meal of your own. Itaewon does have one major drawback which is that the mosque is located on top of a hill and you need to climb all  the way up to reach any of the eateries or mosque. Having stayed in another part of Itaewon last year I thought I knew how hilly it could get, but I was really unprepared for how steep the climb was! I joked to my friend that every night was 'leg day' for me, and I could really feel the burn in my knees after a long day out. ?

Going solo was a big advantage here - I could walk and explore the city at my own pace, and pick where I wanted to stay without having to bear in mind who I was travelling with. If I was travelling with my parents I definitely wouldn't have stayed in the same guesthouse, and I don't know if we would have visited Itaewon more than once because going up and down the hill just to grab a bite would have been too tiring for them.

3. How can I ensure my accommodation is safe/secure?

In the last few years, there have been several scandals where hidden cameras or spy cams were found in accommodations both in South Korea and around the world. ? Worse still, some of these were left behind by previous guests and not the staff. It was a concern my parents had when I told them I was planning to travel to Seoul on a smaller budget, and while there are lots of tips online on looking for spycams in your room you'll also have to research for trusty accommodation options and have some faith in your fellow guests or accommodation staff.

I chose a women-only dormitory in a Muslim-friendly guesthouse as I felt it was the safest choice for me that was still within my budget. It wasn't the most comfortable or luxurious place, but I felt secure there and it was also just 5 minutes from the mosque. My advice would be to check your room (even if you're staying in a more expensive hotel) the moment you check-in and immediately raise any concerns you may have to the staff. If you feel that something seems off, report it to them immediately and ask them to check the room themselves.

4. How do I navigate public transport in Seoul?

First, start by getting yourself a reloadable T-money or Cashbee card. You can use it across South Korea (not just in Seoul!) and even at some convenience stores or shops. A subway ride using the card costs KRW1,250 (base fare) and a bus ride costs between KRW900 - KRW2,300 depending on the service. There are also some transfer discounts if you transfer within 30 minutes. I topped up my card with KRW50,000 on the first day of my trip and that lasted me about 6 days, including taking the Airport Railway Express (AREX), subway and bus fares, and some small purchases. If you're in South Korea for 3 days or less you can also consider buying a tourist pass that includes free entry to popular attractions such as COEX Aquarium, Lotte World, and the Running Man Thematic Experience Center.

P.S. There are also refund machines in subway stations, so you can refund your balance at the end of your trip. ? Just avoid having to refund more than KRW50,000 as the process can take a long time.

Left: Part of the Seoul subway map in the Subway Korea app. Right: Subway Korea app showing how to get from Itaewon to Myeongdong (transfer station in orange).

Moving on, Seoul is actually one of the cities where I've had the most convenient public transport experience! The subway map is super extensive and you're never too far away from a station. The Subway Korea app (Download it on Android | iOS ) saved my life having to navigate the different lines too. It lets you pick your start and endpoints, and suggests the best route to take to get there. The station signs all have English on them, but do take note that the subway stations are HUGE! Walking from one line to another to transfer can even take 5 minutes so try to plan some extra travel time into your itinerary. ?

One downside is that there aren't a lot of signs on the ground level indicating where the nearest subway station is. You have to use a map or navigational app to find it, which might take some time. Which brings me to my next tip:

5. How do I travel around Seoul on foot?

Left: Kakao Map app showing how to get to a destination via bus. Right: Same directions but via subway train instead.

I used the Kakao Maps app (Download it on Android | iOS ) which was a lot more trustworthy than Google Maps. Kakao and Naver are the 2 most popular platforms in South Korea, but Kakao Maps has an interface that's partially in English and you can even bookmark key locations. It also tells you the estimated cost, how long till the next bus or train arrives (the red text in the image above), and if you click on an option that uses the subway it'll even suggest which door to enter for the shortest transfer time! You don't need to know Korean to fully use the app, but I think it takes about 1-2 days for you to get used to it.

6. Do I need to know Korean to communicate with locals? Are the locals friendly?

Many signs and even menus have English text, so you can generally get around the city quite easily. Knowing some basic Korean phrases will help you feel more secure or confident especially if you need to ask for help or directions. Many websites such as this one have listings of useful phrases for travellers who are unfamiliar with Korean. Most locals can communicate in simple English but they will look quite happy if you're able to thank them or ask a question in Korean. The shop owners, staff, and locals I interacted with were all very friendly, and when I boarded the wrong train late at night one woman even yelled out to me to let me know I was on the wrong train and gently explained which train I should have boarded. ?

7. Where should I visit solo? How do I plan out my days?

The beauty of travelling solo is that your days are completely up to you! If you want to spend a day visiting Seoul's iconic spots you can. And if you want to just sleep in and have a late start to the day you can too. I did a lot of research on where to go before my trip, but I ended up not completing everything by the end. An important planning tip is that many museums and some major attractions close on Mondays , and many cafés or eateries also close on Tuesdays so plan around these!

#HHWT Tip: If you're travelling during winter, I recommend not planning too much for the first 2 days as your body will need to get used to the cold. I wanted to visit Nami Island but the weather suddenly got much colder while I was there and I started to feel sick so I changed plans and stayed in Seoul for the day. ? There's still lots you can do within Seoul - like visit some photo-worthy spots !

8. Is it awkward to eat alone in Seoul? Do restaurants allow single diners?

Many restaurants and cafés in Seoul are perfectly fine with single diners! There are some that only allow for 2 or more pax to dine-in, but these are usually more expensive places (e.g. Myeongdongjeong). Casual places are totally okay, although the portion sizes are a bit more generous than what I get in Singapore. ? I think there's a mental barrier to feeling comfortable eating alone, but in my experience, the way to get over that is to go out and eat what you want anyway. ? The other guests won't judge you for it, and neither will the staff.

Here are some of the eateries I visited and dishes I had that I would absolutely recommend:

Makan 2 Chicken & Noodle is run by the same family behind Makan Halal Restaurant and specializes in j jajangmyeon (black bean noodles) and  dalgangjeong  (sweet and spicy fried chicken). Though their menu is small, their noodles are absolutely amazing. ? They have a simple home-cooked feel to them, and the black bean sauce isn't too salty. Their banchan here is just a slice of pickled radish, but the sour sweetness of the radish goes great with the noodles! They also offer takeaway boxes for their dalgangjeong which is perfect for a supper snack.

Halal Status: Muslim-owned.

Average Price:  KRW10,000

Opening Hours: 11AM - 9.30PM (Wed-Sun), 11AM - 9.15PM (Mon), closed on Tuesdays

Address: 39 Usadan-ro 10-gil, Yongsan-gu, Seoul 04405

Contact: +82 2-6406-2231

If you like spicy food, you'll love the dishes at  Hajj Restaurant . Run by a Korean convert and cook Ms Mariam, it serves authentic Korean dishes as well as Malay/Indonesian dishes such as Mie Goreng. I ordered the Braised Spicy Chicken, but I still wasn't expecting it to be so spicy when it arrived. ?? The Korean standard of 'spiciness' is super high, and the chicken was tender with some onions and leeks adding a sweetness to the soup.

Average Price: KRW15,000

Opening Hours: 10AM - 12AM

Address: 39 Usadan-ro 10-gil, Yongsan-gu, Seoul 04405 (Located next to the mosque - there's a sign pointing in the direction of the restaurant)

Contact: +82 2-749-5185

If you're a fan of good food you should definitely visit  Makan Halal Restaurant . Their  samgyetang  (ginseng chicken soup) is hearty without feeling greasy or oily, and the chicken was tender and easy to remove from the bone. The soup didn't have that bitterness that some ginseng soups had, and I think it was easily the best ginseng chicken dish I've had in years. ? They're also super generous with their  banchan  with 6 dishes served! Definitely value for money, and a good meal to warm you up during winter time.

Average Price: KRW10,000

Opening Hours: 10.30AM - 10PM (Wed-Mon), closed on Tuesdays

Address: 52 Usadan-ro 10-gil, Yongsan-gu, Seoul 140911

Contact: +82 2-6012-2231

Facebook  |  Instagram

P.S. Check out more Seoul eateries serving Korean cuisine here !

9. What solo traveller-friendly activities are there?

I visited Herb Lab Bomdong in Hongdae for a footbath café experience! Hongdae also has many other cafés including animal cafés but remember to do your research before visiting such places. ☺️

South Korea has a strong café culture, and there are many small independent cafés all over Gangnam and Hongdae perfect for some café-hopping . Many of these also serve only coffee and some cakes or sweet treats, so do dine at your own discretion. A new trend has also been cafés that offer a footbath service so you can enjoy soaking your feet in a warm herbal bath tailored for your skin, and then sip on a warm cup of tea after!

Seoul is also full of art museums and galleries both big and small. If you don't typically visit museums I encourage you to try to visit at least one, many of which show off Korean artists based locally and internationally. The National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art (MMCA) is one of the biggest art galleries in Seoul, and their main gallery next to Gyeongbokgung Palace has a mix of physical installations and video films for a multimedia experience. Smaller galleries such as the Daelim Museum are also good for spending maybe an hour or two, and the museum shops often have lots of adorable merchandise you can get as a souvenir too. ?

P.S. Museums and galleries usually charge an entrance fee of KRW8,000 to KRW15,000. If you're keeping your budget tight but still want to visit, I recommend visiting the bigger galleries to get more bang for your buck.

K-Pop fans can also look forward to permanent and temporary exhibitions throughout the city. The temporary pop-up for BTS was definitely on my list, as well as several pop-up café birthday events for K-idols and even a visit the permanent SMTOWN Coex Artium that I loved. ? Honestly, I felt self-conscious at first, but no one will bat an eye at you for being a K-Pop fan or lugging bags of merchandise around. ? You can also find birthday banner ads for your idols in many train stations - I even saw one for Taylor Swift put up by Korean fans! If you're travelling to Seoul for K-Pop, rest assured you'll have plenty of things to do to fill your days with - or you can check out our 5D4N Muslim-friendly itinerary especially for K-Pop fans !

10. How do I shop tax-free as a tourist?

Tourists can receive an immediate tax refund after shopping with a minimum purchase of KRW30,000 (capped at KRW300,000 including tax), or receive their refund at the airport before their flight back. Here are some easy steps for claiming your refund:

• Shop at stores that include tax refund services. These can be seen in logos displayed by the store, and some companies offering these include Global Tax Free, Global Blue Tax Free, or Easy Tax Refund.
• Present your passport during purchase to receive your VAT refund receipt.
• Option 1: Some stores may have a booth in-store where you can immediately get a cash refund, or apply for a cashback into your credit card. Bring your receipt to the booth and follow the instructions in English to receive your refund.
• Option 2: Upon arriving at the airport for your flight home, get your boarding pass but do not check in your luggage yet. Show your purchased goods and VAT refund receipt to the officer at the booth, and get a stamp or indication of approval.
• Check-in your luggage at the oversized baggage counter or carry it onto your flight.

I used an in-store kiosk in Myeongdong to receive an immediate cash refund, which was very convenient! At Incheon Airport, I only had to scan my passport at their kiosk and was given the go-ahead by the officers that my refund had been properly processed. ?

P.S. You can also shop duty-free at specific malls such as Lotte Duty-Free, The Shilla Duty-Free, and Shinsegae Duty-Free. Just remember to bring along your passport for confirmation of your tourist status!

11. Where are the best places to shop in Seoul?

I didn't go to Seoul intending to shop a lot (I only had a backpack and duffel bag with me!) but by the end of my trip, I was regretting not bringing more duffel bags to hold my purchases. ? I was surprised to find out that so many popular brands from apparel to cosmetics to skincare are cheaper in Seoul compared to Singapore.

The area between Ewha Womens University and Hongik University (Hongdae) is full of shops selling all kinds of apparel, accessories, and jewellery. ? The jewellery, in particular, was more affordable compared to the same items in Singapore! Many cosmetic and skincare shops also offered special box deals or packages for tourists which can be up to 40% cheaper than what you'll find at home. Just take note that if you visit during autumn/winter you'll find thicker clothing that may not be the best fit for hot and humid Southeast Asia - but perfect for your next autumn/winter holiday. ?

Best for buying: bargains, accessories, and independent brands you won't be able to find back home.

If you're looking for K-beauty such as cosmetics or skincare you can find lots of shops throughout the city - but I recommend visiting Myeongdong so you can hunt through the different brands at once! Some shops even sell a range of brands, and I managed to find a shop selling the halal-certified range from Talent Cosmetics! Even popular brands such as Innisfree, Laneige, or Mamonde were at least 5-10% cheaper than what you'd find in Singapore. ? If you're looking for sheet masks, some of the stores even offer them for less than KRW1,000 per piece!

Best for buying: international and Korean brands at a discounted price than what you'll find back home.

12. How do I deal with the Korean winter?

This was the week that was 'supposed' to not go below 0 degrees - but it ended up having the coldest day on record in 2019! It also started snowing this week, which was a happy surprise. ?

Coming from Southeast Asia, it can be a bit difficult to adjust to winter overseas at first. If you're not sure about travelling during winter, I would  not  recommend Seoul during late December as your first foray into the cold. ? The temperature was predicted to be between 2 degrees Celsius and 10 degrees Celsius while I was there - but during my trip itself, it dropped to as cold as -11 degrees! ❄️ Many stores are heat

Here are some essential tips to survive without getting frostbite:

• Buy suitable clothing ! I used Uniqlo's Ultra Warm Heat Tech and Heat Tech Lined Pants and they really seemed to work! Some evenings (when it was around 2-5 degrees Celsius) I went out wearing just a Heat Tech turtleneck, Heat Tech pants, a denim jacket, and my coat. It definitely varies from person to person, and if you're not sure how good your 'cold tolerance' is you can always pack light and buy more layers once you reach Seoul. (There will be winter discounts on too!)
• Get a fabric or padded face mask to protect against the wind. Scarves are useful too, but if you want better coverage for your face you can pop into any cosmetics store to buy a face mask. I found a face mask to be more convenient than a scarf, and the padded one I got helped keep the heat in to keep me warm too!
• Wear a good pair of shoes . The roads in Seoul can be quite uneven, and paired with (potential) snow it's important to have shoes that have a good grip and are made from thick windproof material. Sneakers can actually be okay if they have material such as leather or suede on them. However if it's snowing heavily make sure not to wear any converse or fabric which will get soaked by the snow!
• Drink lots of water and take breaks to keep yourself warm. Shops and stores will be insulated, and if you're feeling cold stop and buy a hot drink to warm yourself up!
• Plan around each part of the day. The early morning and late afternoon usually felt the least cold, because there would be less wind. Conversely, the middle of the day was actually the coldest for me (despite being the sun being out) because the wind was so strong!

13. Finally ... is it worth it to travel solo in Seoul?

This is only my 2nd trip travelling solo (and I did spend part of it hanging out with a friend who was travelling to Seoul at the same time as me) but I enjoyed it! Personally, I really enjoy solo travel because it lets me go at my own pace and as an introvert, it felt like a way to refresh myself after a long year and look forward to the start of 2020. ? Seoul was also quite easy to navigate, which definitely made the experience more positive.

However, I think it's important to know that a solo trip is not just fun and games throughout. There were 1 or 2 days where I felt too tired to go out or that I was missing my friends and family - and these are normal experiences that more seasoned solo travellers experience too! ? Solo travel is meant to push you out of your comfort zone, and I think Seoul is a great place to help ease you into that. Overall, I think travelling solo to Seoul is worth it if you want to challenge yourself and discover a new side to this fast-paced city!

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