Find out how to choose the right visa, the most comfortable time to visit, and how much you’ll spend per day — all in one guide.
Visas and Entry
Most foreign visitors need to apply for a tourist visa (C-3) to visit South Korea. Applications are usually submitted through visa agencies authorized by the Korean consulate. Required documents typically include your passport, national ID, employment certificate, and bank statements. A single-entry visa allows a stay of up to 90 days, and processing usually takes 5–10 business days. Jeju Island offers visa-free entry for eligible tourists (must arrive directly in Jeju and not travel to mainland South Korea), making it ideal for short island getaways.
Best Time to Visit
- Spring (April–May): Cherry blossoms and forsythia are in full bloom, with temperatures ranging from 10–20°C.
- Autumn (September–November): Clear skies and crisp air, perfect for viewing maple and ginkgo leaves.
- Summer (July–August): Hot and rainy, ideal for visiting Gangwon Province or the beaches of Jeju Island.
- Winter (December–February): Cold and dry, marking the ski season, with Pyeongchang Ski Resort in Gangwon Province being the most well-known.
Budget Reference (Per Person)
| Category | Daily (Excluding Flights) | Description |
|---|
| Budget | $49–$70 | Hostels/guesthouses, street food, and convenience stores |
| Comfortable | $99–$140 | 3-star hotels, Korean BBQ and Korean-style set meals |
| High-end | $210 and above | 5-star hotels, premium Korean fine dining |
Etiquette and Taboos
- When drinking with elders present, turn slightly to the side; juniors should pour drinks with both hands.
- Remove your shoes when entering a hanok (traditional Korean house), traditional restaurants, or a jjimjilbang (Korean spa).
- Avoid sitting in priority seats for seniors on the subway, even if they are empty.
- Using honorifics when speaking to elders or service staff is basic courtesy.