Budget-Friendly Travel: 13 Essential Tips for South Korea

South Korea’s living expenses have been increasing; nevertheless, it remains feasible to explore the country without incurring excessive costs. With an extensive and economical transit system, diverse dining choices, and a plethora of affordable activities and attractions, South Korea stands out as an economical travel locale.

To optimize your financial resources, this guide provides essential advice for experiencing South Korea economically.

Assess the Need for a SIM Card

South Korea is among the most digitally connected nations globally, with numerous cities providing complimentary Wi-Fi in busy public spaces, transit stations, and within transportation modes. Most cafes offer free Wi-Fi, and even smaller accommodations typically feature internet access.

Given the abundance of free internet options, forgoing a SIM card to rely on the robust Wi-Fi network, along with pre-downloaded maps and translation applications, is entirely practical. However, if consistent connectivity is desired, consider acquiring a SIM card in advance via platforms such as Trazy, Klook, or Korea Sim to collect at the airport. Individuals whose phones accommodate electronic SIM cards may opt for short-term plans from eSIM Korea starting at ₩1000 daily.

Travel to South Korea during January, November, October, or March

Winter sports enthusiasts will appreciate that January represents the most economical month for air travel to South Korea, coinciding perfectly with the seasonal absence of crowds and abundant winter sports options. For those not favoring frigid temperatures, the subsequent months with lower airfare include November, October, and March. To secure optimal rates, ensure ticket purchases are made at least five weeks in advance.

Utilize Bus or Airtrain Transportation from the Airport

Opting for taxis from the airport is costly and no quicker than using the bus or airtrain. The AREX train (departing from level B1F of the airport) to Seoul Station costs between ₩4150 and ₩9500 for adult tickets, contingent upon selecting either the 60-minute all-stop or the 45-minute express service. From there, transition to the subway for navigating the capital. For travel beyond Seoul, purchasing a Korail railway ticket is optimal.

Even more cost-effective than the Korail service are the airport buses, departing directly from the airport (1F from Terminal 1, B1F from Terminal 2) to numerous major cities nationwide.

Acquire a Korail Pass for Unlimited Train Travel

For travelers intending to explore multiple cities over a brief period, consider investing in a Korail Pass. Available in two configurations – continuous three or five days, or flexible two or four days – the Korail Pass ranges from ₩131,000 to ₩244,000 for adults. If traveling in a group of two or more, the fare reduces by ₩10,000, and travelers aged 27 or younger qualify for a further discount, with costs ranging from ₩105,000 to ₩195,000. This pass is exclusively for international travelers and applicable for both the high-speed KTX and slower trains.

Consider Taking the Slow Train

If planning minimal train journeys within a five-day span, purchasing individual tickets may prove more beneficial. Seek the budget-friendly Mugunghwa trains. While this slower class of trains extends travel time significantly (for instance, the trip from Seoul to Busan takes an additional three hours with Mugunghwa relative to KTX), they afford travelers a chance to absorb captivating landscapes at a more comfortable (and less motion-sickness-inducing) speed.

For greater savings, contemplate purchasing a ticket for the dining car or standing-room zones situated between carriages. These sections offer limited seating; thus, early boarding is advisable for optimal chances of securing a spot. Alternatively, consider utilizing the intercity bus system as an economical option.

Utilize Transportation Cards for Reduced Fares

Rather than buying single-journey subway tickets or using cash for bus rides, procure a Tmoney transit card for ₩4000 and load funds at any subway station or major convenience store, such as 7-Eleven, CU, GS25, and Ministop. The Tmoney card provides fare reductions (₩100 for subways and variable amounts for buses) along with discounts for transfers within 30 minutes.

Tmoney cards are valid nationwide; however, if primarily visiting Seoul and Jeju, the regional tourist-exclusive MPASS card may be more advantageous. Available for various durations (ranging from ₩15,000 for one day to ₩64,500 for seven days), this pass allows for 20 rides per day.

Select Local Accommodations Over International Hotels

Given that international hotel chains can exceed ₩250,000 per night, budget-conscious individuals should opt for smaller, local establishments. Within Seoul, numerous charming boutique options exist. However, outside major urban centers, finding similar accommodations can be challenging; thus, consider local options such as minbak or pension, typically featuring ondol-style rooms with underfloor heating, often offering sleeping mats instead of traditional beds. Whenever possible, book directly with the proprietors rather than through intermediary sites—this approach minimizes pricing inflations that derive from service fees.

For those open to communal living arrangements, 24-hour jjimjilbang (bathhouse) options are consistently available.

Experience Local Cuisine at Traditional Markets, Street Stalls, and Family-Owned Restaurants

For heartwarming and delectable meals, explore traditional markets where generous portions of noodles, soups, and fried delicacies are available at affordable prices from various restaurants and food vendors. Budget-conscious travelers should particularly seek out pojangmacha (tented dining establishments), offering dishes like meat skewers, fish cake soup, and tteokbokki rice cakes, accompanied by soju and beer, while seated outdoors at plastic tables. Additionally, local mom-and-pop eateries also offer immense value, serving main courses complemented by a bowl of rice and a selection of (refillable) banchan side dishes.

Look for Tourist Coupons

Travelers eager to partake in extensive sightseeing should consider various tourist savings cards, which provide discounts or complimentary entries to numerous popular attractions. The Discover Seoul Pass (ranging from ₩50,000 for one day to ₩90,000 for three days) includes more than 200 offers, such as free use of the city’s public bicycles and a complimentary ride on the AREX. Similarly, the Korea Tour Pass (₩4000) encompasses benefits from 182 brands.

Both cards can be utilized as Tmoney cards for public transportation, and they also feature mobile applications. For those not planning extensive attraction visits, visiting a tourist information center may yield one-time coupon opportunities. Visit the Korea Tourism Organization’s website for a list of exclusive promotions.

Enjoy Cultural Institutions on Culture Day

If you happen to be in South Korea on the last Wednesday of the month, verify whether any venues of interest participate in Culture Day. On this occasion, over 2000 museums, art galleries, theaters, cinemas, sports facilities, and heritage sites nationwide offer free or reduced entry prices.

Flying to Jeju is More Cost-Effective than Ferry Travel

For visitors planning to include Jeju on their itinerary, flying frequently proves more economical than ferry travel, while also being significantly quicker. Select budget airlines such as Jeju Air, Air Busan, Jin Air, T’way, Air Seoul, or Eastar Jet instead of more expensive carriers like Korean Air and Asiana Airlines. Midweek flights with non-flexible cancellation policies are often available for under ₩18,000 one way.

Explore South Korea’s Expansive National Park System

Home to 22 national parks, South Korea offers numerous areas with free entry or minimal fees under ₩4000. These parks provide nature enthusiasts not only hiking opportunities but also insight into some of the country’s striking Buddhist temples nestled within. For a minimal cost, consider reserving a campsite or overnight shelter for an enhanced adventure experience.

Secure Your Sales Tax Reimbursement before Departure

Foreign visitors remaining for under six months (and overseas Koreans visiting for less than three months) can claim a refund on the 10% sales tax applied to purchases exceeding ₩30,000 and below ₩500,000 made at participating tax-free retailers. Reimbursements can be claimed promptly at the tax-free store, at designated tax refund booths in airports and ports, or at tax refund counters or kiosks within major airports. Travelers should retain receipts and their passports.