Traveling to South Korea is an adventure of vibrant cities, rich history, and mouthwatering cuisine. But beyond the glossy brochures and Instagram reels, locals hold the real secrets to experiencing Korea at its best. Whether you’re strolling through Seoul’s buzzing streets or hiking the tranquil trails of Jeju Island, knowing a few insider tips can make your journey smoother, tastier, and even more memorable. Here’s your ultimate local-approved travel guide!
🧳 Before You Go: Planning Like a Pro
📱 Download Must-Have Korean Apps
Before stepping foot in Korea, locals recommend downloading a few key apps:
- KakaoTalk – Korea’s go-to messaging app. You might even need it to communicate with guesthouses or local hosts.
- Naver Map or KakaoMap – Google Maps doesn’t work well here. Locals rely on Naver or Kakao for accurate directions.
- Papago – A translation app developed by Koreans, which works better than Google Translate for the Korean language.
- Subway Korea – A lifesaver for navigating the complex metro systems.
💳 T-Money Card Is a Game-Changer
Get yourself a T-Money card upon arrival. Locals use this contactless card for buses, subways, taxis, and even convenience stores. You can purchase and reload it at convenience stores or subway stations. It saves time and often gives small discounts compared to cash fares.
🏨 Stay Near a Subway Station
Locals always recommend booking accommodations within walking distance of a subway station. It may cost a little more, but you’ll save hours and energy. Korea’s subway system is fast, clean, and connects you to nearly every tourist hotspot.
🍜 Foodie Secrets Locals Swear By
🥢 Dine Like a Local
Avoid restaurants with pictures on the menu plastered outside. Instead, look for places with minimal signage, often filled with locals. These are hidden gems that serve authentic dishes at better prices.
⏰ Timing Matters
In Korea, lunch typically runs from 12–2 PM and dinner starts around 6 PM. To avoid long waits at famous restaurants, locals suggest going slightly earlier—11:30 AM or 5:30 PM. You’ll get seated quicker and avoid the crowds.
🥡 Try Convenience Store Meals
7-Eleven, GS25, and CU are local favorites. Don’t underestimate their triangle kimbap (삼각김밥), instant ramyeon, or microwaveable meals. They’re affordable, tasty, and often better than expected.
🥘 Join the Banchan Love
Many traditional Korean restaurants offer unlimited side dishes (banchan). Locals aren’t shy to ask for refills—just a polite “banchan jom deo juseyo (반찬 좀 더 주세요)” will do the trick!
🚇 Getting Around: Local Transit Hacks
🚆 Mastering the Metro
Korea’s subway stations can be massive. Locals always check exit numbers before arriving—each station has multiple exits leading to different areas. If you get out the wrong one, you might walk 15 minutes in the wrong direction.
🚌 City Buses and Color Codes
City buses are color-coded:
- Blue buses cover long distances between districts.
- Green buses are for shorter, local trips.
- Yellow buses loop around key areas.
- Red buses are express and go to the suburbs.
Use KakaoMap to figure out real-time arrivals and exact bus routes like a local.
🚖 Taxi Tips
Taxis in Korea are relatively cheap compared to Western countries. But beware—not all drivers speak English. Use Kakao T, an app like Uber, to call a taxi with your location already pinned.
🛍️ Shopping & Souvenir Wisdom
🛒 Visit Traditional Markets Early
Places like Gwangjang Market and Namdaemun Market get crowded by mid-morning. Locals suggest arriving early (around 9–10 AM) for the best selection and more relaxed shopping experience.
💸 Always Ask for Tax Refunds
If you’re shopping at major stores, you’re entitled to a tax refund (usually for purchases over ₩30,000). Locals know to bring their passport when shopping and ask for a tax-free receipt. At the airport, simply scan these at refund kiosks.
🎁 What to Bring Back
Skip cliché souvenirs. Locals suggest:
- Jeju tangerine chocolate 🍊
- Hanji (Korean paper) notebooks 📓
- Beauty products from Olive Young or Aritaum 💄
- Stationery from Artbox 🖋️
📱 Staying Connected & Culturally Aware
📶 Rent Pocket Wi-Fi or Get a SIM
Public Wi-Fi is common, but not always reliable. Locals recommend renting a portable Wi-Fi egg at the airport or purchasing a Korean SIM card. This keeps you online everywhere, even in the mountains or small towns.
🥺 Mind Your Manners
Koreans are polite and respectful. These are some unspoken rules:
- Don’t speak loudly in public transport.
- Always use both hands when giving or receiving something.
- Bow slightly when greeting or thanking someone.
- Take off your shoes when entering homes or certain restaurants.
🏙️ City-Specific Insider Tips
🏙️ Seoul: Beyond the Obvious
Locals escape the crowds by exploring lesser-known gems:
- Seochon Village – Traditional houses and cozy cafes
- Eungbongsan – A hidden cherry blossom spot in spring 🌸
- Oil Tank Culture Park – Repurposed industrial space turned into a culture hub
🌊 Busan: Beaches and BBQ
When in Busan, locals love:
- Gwangalli Beach over Haeundae for a less touristy vibe
- Choryang Ibagu-gil for panoramic views and murals
- Trying live seafood at Jagalchi Market—super fresh and authentic 🐙
🌋 Jeju Island: Slow and Sweet
Rent a car for Jeju; buses are infrequent and taxis can be costly. Locals also recommend:
- Manjanggul Cave – An impressive lava tube
- Seongsan Ilchulbong – A sunrise hike like no other 🌄
- Tasting black pork BBQ – Jeju’s signature dish!
💰 Budget Tips Locals Use Too
🍱 Eat in University Areas
Areas near universities (like Hongdae, Ewha, or Sinchon) are budget-friendly hubs. You’ll find delicious meals under ₩8,000 and trendy cafes without breaking the bank.
🏠 Book Hanok Stays Wisely
Staying in a hanok (traditional house) is a unique experience. Locals suggest choosing those in Bukchon or Jeonju, where you get authenticity and walkable surroundings.
💼 Save with Tourist Discount Cards
Korea offers several tourist passes:
- Discover Seoul Pass – Entry to major attractions plus transport perks
- Korail Pass – Unlimited train travel for 2-5 days, perfect for exploring beyond Seoul
🌸 Seasonal Advice from Locals
🌸 Spring (March–May)
Best season for cherry blossoms and fresh weather. Locals book cherry blossom viewing spots weeks in advance and love:
- Yeouido Park in Seoul
- Jinhae Cherry Blossom Festival
☀️ Summer (June–August)
It’s hot and humid! Locals escape to:
- Water parks like Caribbean Bay
- Beaches in Busan or East Sea (like Gangneung)
🍁 Fall (September–November)
Fall foliage is stunning! Locals recommend:
- Naejangsan National Park
- Bukhansan Mountain hikes
❄️ Winter (December–February)
Snowfall is beautiful but freezing. Locals head to:
- Ski resorts in Gangwon-do
- Nami Island for a snow-globe feel
💡 Hidden Etiquette & Cultural Tips
🧍♂️ Standing Still on Escalators
In Seoul, people stand on the right side of escalators and walk on the left. In Busan, it’s the opposite! Locals follow this unwritten rule without question.
🚷 No Tipping Culture
Koreans don’t tip in restaurants, taxis, or salons. It’s not expected and can even cause confusion. Show your appreciation with a smile and a “kamsahamnida (감사합니다).”
🙅♂️ Public Trash Cans Are Rare
Korea is super clean, yet public bins are hard to find. Locals carry a small plastic bag to collect their trash until they get home or back to the hotel.
🎉 Local Festivals You Shouldn’t Miss
🎆 Boryeong Mud Festival (July)
A crazy, muddy, fun experience that locals and tourists alike enjoy on Daecheon Beach. Think mud wrestling, mud slides, and concerts!
🏮 Jinju Lantern Festival (October)
Stunning nighttime displays over the Nam River. Locals light lanterns for wishes and take part in cultural performances.
🌸 Jeju Fire Festival (March)
Originally celebrating farming and good harvests, it’s now a fiery spectacle with performances, bonfires, and fireworks.
🧘 Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences Locals Love
🧖 Try a Jjimjilbang
Locals wind down at jjimjilbangs—Korean bathhouses with saunas, hot pools, sleeping areas, and snacks. Dragon Hill Spa in Seoul is a popular choice.
🚲 Cycle Along Han River
Rent a bike for ₩1,000 an hour and ride the peaceful Han River paths. Locals bring snacks, have riverside picnics, and watch the sunset over Seoul’s skyline 🌇
🎭 Watch a Traditional Performance
Skip the big concerts and try:
- Nanta Show – A non-verbal cooking-themed comedy
- Korea House – Traditional music and dance shows
✈️ Final Travel Wisdom from Korean Locals
- Always carry cash—small eateries and markets may not accept cards.
- If you get lost, don’t panic. Koreans are generally helpful and kind, even with language barriers.
- Respect quiet zones in trains and buses, especially during rush hours.
- Embrace public bath culture—it’s a big part of Korean wellness.
- Enjoy midnight cravings—convenience stores and fried chicken delivery are open 24/7!
Conclusion ❤️
South Korea is a place where tradition and tech blend seamlessly, where food is a celebration, and every alley holds a story. With these local tips, you won’t just be visiting Korea—you’ll be experiencing it like someone who truly belongs.
Ready to explore Korea beyond the surface? Pack your curiosity, say “Annyeonghaseyo,” and dive into the heart of this captivating country. ✈️🫰