How much Korean should I learn before going?

Learn basic greetings (annyeonghaseyo for hello, kamsahamnida for thank you) and how to say 'excuse me' (jeogiyo). Most signs in tourist areas have English, and younger Koreans often speak some English. Download Papago translator app for everything else.

Is Seoul expensive compared to other Asian cities?

Seoul is pricier than Bangkok or Manila but cheaper than Tokyo or Singapore. Accommodation and transportation are the biggest costs. Food can be very affordable if you eat like locals — street food and casual restaurants are excellent value.

What's the best way to get from Incheon Airport to the city?

Airport Railroad Express (AREX) takes 43 minutes to Seoul Station for about $9. Regular subway takes 60+ minutes but costs only $4. Taxis cost $50-70 and take 45-90 minutes depending on traffic. Buy T-money card at airport for all public transport.

Can I drink tap water in Seoul?

Yes, Seoul's tap water is safe to drink and tastes fine. Most hotels provide filtered water, and convenience stores sell bottled water for $1-2. Water fountains are common in subway stations and public areas.

How to plan your first trip to Seoul

Plan 5-7 days for Seoul, focusing on 2-3 neighborhoods per day. Book flights 2-3 months ahead, stay in Myeongdong or Hongdae for easy access, and get a T-money card for subway travel. October-November and March-May offer the best weather and fewer crowds.

Pick your season and book flights early. Seoul is best in spring (March-May) or fall (October-November) when temperatures are mild and air quality is better. Summer is hot and humid with monsoon rains. Winter is cold but manageable if you dress warmly. Book flights 2-3 months ahead for better prices. Korean Air and Asiana often have the best direct routes.
Choose your base neighborhood. Stay in Myeongdong for shopping and central location, Hongdae for nightlife and younger crowds, or Gangnam for modern Seoul. Myeongdong puts you walking distance from major sites and has the most English signage. Book accommodations at least 6 weeks ahead — Seoul fills up fast.
Plan around Seoul's neighborhoods. Group attractions by area to minimize subway time. Day 1: Myeongdong and Jung-gu (Dongdaemun, Namdaemun markets). Day 2: Jongno-gu (Gyeongbokgung Palace, Bukchon Hanok Village, Insadong). Day 3: Gangnam (COEX, Bongeunsa Temple, shopping). Day 4: Hongdae and Mapo (nightlife, Hongik University area). Day 5: Itaewon (international district) and Yongsan.
Download essential apps before you go. Get Citymapper or Subway Korea for navigation, Papago for translation (better than Google Translate for Korean), and KakaoMap for detailed local maps. Download offline maps in Google Maps as backup. These work without Korean SIM cards if you have WiFi.
Prepare for Korean customs and etiquette. Learn basic bowing (slight nod for service workers, deeper bow for elders). Remove shoes in traditional restaurants, temples, and some homes. Don't tip — it's not expected and can be offensive. Bring business cards if traveling for work; present and receive with both hands.

How much Korean should I learn before going?: Learn basic greetings (annyeonghaseyo for hello, kamsahamnida for thank you) and how to say 'excuse me' (jeogiyo). Most signs in tourist areas have English, and younger Koreans often speak some English. Download Papago translator app for everything else.
Is Seoul expensive compared to other Asian cities?: Seoul is pricier than Bangkok or Manila but cheaper than Tokyo or Singapore. Accommodation and transportation are the biggest costs. Food can be very affordable if you eat like locals — street food and casual restaurants are excellent value.
What's the best way to get from Incheon Airport to the city?: Airport Railroad Express (AREX) takes 43 minutes to Seoul Station for about $9. Regular subway takes 60+ minutes but costs only $4. Taxis cost $50-70 and take 45-90 minutes depending on traffic. Buy T-money card at airport for all public transport.
Can I drink tap water in Seoul?: Yes, Seoul's tap water is safe to drink and tastes fine. Most hotels provide filtered water, and convenience stores sell bottled water for $1-2. Water fountains are common in subway stations and public areas.