Is Seoul expensive compared to other Asian cities?

Seoul sits in the middle - more expensive than Bangkok or Hanoi, but cheaper than Tokyo or Singapore. Accommodation and restaurants cost similar to major European cities, but public transport and street food are very affordable.

How much Korean should I learn before going?

Learn basic greetings and 'thank you' (gamsahamnida) out of politeness, but you can get by with translation apps. Seoul subway signs are in English, and younger people often speak some English. Download Papago translator app - it works offline too.

Can I use credit cards everywhere?

Not everywhere. Many small restaurants, street food vendors, and traditional markets only take cash. Withdraw won from ATMs at convenience stores (7-Eleven, CU). Your foreign cards work at most ATMs but expect $3-5 fees per withdrawal.

How to Plan a Trip to South Korea

South Korea requires 7-14 days minimum to see Seoul, Busan, and one cultural site like Gyeongju or Jeju Island. Budget $80-120 per day for mid-range travel. No visa needed for most Western passport holders for stays under 90 days.

Pick your season and duration. Spring (April-May) and fall (September-November) have the best weather. Avoid July-August heat and humidity. Plan minimum 7 days for Seoul only, 10-12 days for Seoul plus Busan, or 14 days to add Jeju Island or Gyeongju.
Book flights to Seoul (ICN). Incheon International Airport is your main entry point. Book 2-3 months ahead for better prices. Direct flights available from major US, European, and Asian cities. Airport Railroad Express gets you to Seoul Station in 43 minutes for $8.
Sort accommodation early. Book hotels 4-6 weeks ahead, especially in Gangnam, Myeongdong, or Hongdae areas. Guesthouses run $25-40/night, mid-range hotels $60-100/night. Traditional hanok stays in Bukchon cost $80-150/night but book up fast.
Get a T-money card and pocket WiFi. Buy T-money card at any subway station for seamless metro/bus travel - loads with $10-20. Rent pocket WiFi at the airport ($5-8/day) or get a Korean SIM card. Download Subway Korea app and Papago translator.
Plan your Seoul base and day trips. Spend 4-5 days in Seoul hitting Gyeongbokgung Palace, Bukchon Hanok Village, Myeongdong for shopping, Hongdae for nightlife. Take KTX bullet train to Busan (2.5 hours, $45) or domestic flight to Jeju Island (1 hour, $80-120).
Learn basic Korean etiquette. Bow slightly when greeting. Remove shoes when entering homes or some restaurants. Don't tip - it's not expected. Use both hands when receiving business cards or money. Download translation apps as English isn't widely spoken outside tourist areas.

Is Seoul expensive compared to other Asian cities?: Seoul sits in the middle - more expensive than Bangkok or Hanoi, but cheaper than Tokyo or Singapore. Accommodation and restaurants cost similar to major European cities, but public transport and street food are very affordable.
How much Korean should I learn before going?: Learn basic greetings and 'thank you' (gamsahamnida) out of politeness, but you can get by with translation apps. Seoul subway signs are in English, and younger people often speak some English. Download Papago translator app - it works offline too.
Can I use credit cards everywhere?: Not everywhere. Many small restaurants, street food vendors, and traditional markets only take cash. Withdraw won from ATMs at convenience stores (7-Eleven, CU). Your foreign cards work at most ATMs but expect $3-5 fees per withdrawal.