South Korea, a country I have had the privilege of visiting, left a lasting impression on me with its unique blend of ancient traditions and modern innovations. With a rich history spanning 5000 years, South Korea is a treasure trove of cultural wonders. Simultaneously, it boasts cutting-edge technology, thriving music scenes, and impressive infrastructure. The country amazed and delighted me at every turn.
One of the highlights of my journey was the vibrant city of Seoul, which quickly became one of my favorite cities in the world. Often referred to as the “city that never sleeps,” Seoul’s energy is contagious. During my initial visit, I had planned to spend just a few days exploring the capital, but I couldn’t bear to leave for three weeks. The city’s dynamic atmosphere, diverse attractions, and warm hospitality captivated me, making it an unforgettable experience.
However, I soon realized that South Korea had much more to offer beyond its bustling capital. From the colorful houses in Busan to the stunning coastal views and tea plantations on Jeju Island, every destination I explored left me mesmerized. The towering mountains of Seoraksan National Park provided breathtaking vistas, adding to the country’s charm. South Korea truly offers something for every traveler – from experiencing the tantalizing flavors of Korean BBQ to immersing oneself in the captivating world of K-pop, from singing karaoke to visiting majestic palaces, temples, and lively arcades.
Intrigued by the prospect of traveling to South Korea, my concern naturally turned to the cost of such an adventure. In a world where post-pandemic travel expenses have skyrocketed, I was curious to see if South Korea remained affordable. Having meticulously recorded my expenditures since 2011, I’ve been providing comprehensive budget breakdowns for various countries worldwide. Now, it’s South Korea’s turn, and I am thrilled to share my findings.
As of June 2023, the exchange rates stood at:
1 USD: 1,275 KRW
1 EUR: 1,400 KRW
1 GBP: 1,600 KRW
1 AUD: 875 KRW
While the fluctuating exchange rates presented challenges, I found that considering 10,000 KRW as approximately 8 USD (€7, £6, or 11.50 AUD) simplified cost calculations.
Accommodation Options in South Korea
When it comes to accommodation, South Korea offers various choices to suit different budgets and preferences. For budget-conscious travelers, options like Couchsurfing can provide a chance to stay with locals for free, offering unique insights into their culture and way of life. Housesitting is another option, allowing long-term travelers or retirees to care for someone’s house and, at times, their pets while exploring the country.
For those seeking a more social experience, hostels are widely available throughout South Korea, from tiny islands to major cities and national parks. Hostel prices range from $18 for a dorm bed in a well-reviewed hostel to $24 for a premium dorm experience. Private rooms in hostels cost around $30 for a basic, clean room in a good location and up to $70 for exceptionally well-reviewed rooms.
Beyond hostels, the country offers a range of accommodation choices, with hotels typically priced reasonably compared to some Western European destinations. Budget guesthouses can be found at approximately $50 per night, while four-star hotels charge between $150 and $200 per night. For a luxurious stay, five-star hotels may cost around $250 to $350 per night.
Transportation in South Korea
South Korea’s transportation system is efficient and diverse, making it convenient for travelers to explore the country. From Incheon International Airport to Seoul, visitors can opt for the Airport Railroad Express (AREX) for 9,500 KRW ($7.20) in 43 minutes or the All Stop Train for 4,150 KRW ($3.15) in 53 minutes. Utilizing a T-Money card for public transportation streamlines the process, allowing easy access to subways, buses, taxis, vending machines, and grocery stores nationwide.
The KTX (Korean Travel Express) is a high-speed train service covering significant distances at speeds exceeding 300 kilometers per hour (190 mph). While it may be the priciest option, the time saved is often worth the expense. For instance, the KTX from Seoul to Busan, spanning the length of the country, takes just over two hours and costs 59,800 KRW ($45), while slower buses and trains take four to six hours and cost 28,000 KRW ($21).
Long-distance buses provide another reliable option for travel, with both express and intercity routes available. Express buses offer a more direct journey, while intercity buses may make multiple stops along the way. Tickets range from 12,000 KRW ($9) for Busan to Daegu to 33,000 KRW ($26) for Seoul to Busan.
While South Korea’s compact size and excellent overland options make flying unnecessary for most trips, a direct flight from Seoul to Jeju Island costs around $42, with a one-way fare from Busan approximately $33. For an alternative option, a ferry from Busan to Jeju Island takes about 12 hours and costs 60,000 KRW ($45).
Delicious Korean Cuisine
As a fervent food lover, exploring South Korea’s culinary delights was a highlight of my journey. The country’s local dishes amazed me, particularly the flavorful and diverse array of kimchi, a simple yet mouthwatering side dish often served with meals. Eating out at a Korean restaurant typically costs between 10,000 KRW ($7.50) to 15,000 KRW ($11.50) for a meal, while Western restaurants may charge around 20,000 KRW ($15). Street food and fast food options are more budget-friendly, ranging from 5,000 KRW ($4) to 7,000 KRW ($5) per meal.
My favorite Korean dishes included fried chicken, bibimbap, bindaetteok (mung bean pancake), dakgalbi (stir-fried chicken), and samgyetang (chicken ginseng soup). Additionally, I indulged in local draft beer, soju, and makgeolli – all at reasonable prices.
Affordable Activities and Entrance Fees
South Korea offers a plethora of affordable activities and attractions for travelers to enjoy. Exploring the royal palaces in Seoul, including Gyeongbokgung, Changdeokgung, Deoksugung, Changgyeonggung, and Jongmyo Shrine, is a must-do. The combo ticket for these palaces costs just 10,000 KRW ($7.50), making it an excellent value for history enthusiasts.
Other engaging activities include walking along Cheonggyecheon Stream in Seoul, taking in the beautiful scenery and water features. While visiting the Joint Security Area (JSA) at the DMZ – the border between North and South Korea – was once possible, recent restrictions have limited tours, with entrance fees around 76,000 KRW ($56) to visit the DMZ without access to the JSA.
A range of entrance fees is applicable to other attractions, with options like N Seoul Tower costing 21,000 KRW ($16), the Nanta cooking show priced at 44,000 KRW ($34), and Lotte World entrance fees at 62,000 KRW ($47).
Final Thoughts on Travel Costs in South Korea
Summing up my expenses, my average daily costs in South Korea were:
Accommodation: $104.50
Transportation: $10.20
Food: $19
Activities/Entrance Fees: $3
Average total daily expenses: $137
For budget travelers, opting for dorm beds in hostels can reduce daily expenses to approximately $50. Meanwhile, couples staying in budget-to-mid-range guesthouses can expect to spend around $82 per day.
South Korea, with its captivating blend of ancient traditions and modern innovations, offers an unforgettable journey that won’t break the bank. From exploring the dynamic streets of Seoul to indulging in delectable Korean cuisine, this diverse country has something to enchant every traveler. Whether you’re fascinated by historical sites, captivated by natural beauty, or simply seeking an adventure, South Korea promises an experience that will stay with you long after you’ve returned home.
