How expensive is South Korea? How much money do I need for South Korea?
How much does a trip to South Korea cost? Is South Korea expensive? The average South Korea trip cost is broken down by category here. All of these South Korea prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers.
Accommodation Budget in South Korea
Calculated from travelers like you
The average price for one person for accommodation in South Korea is ₩53,511. For two people sharing a typical double-occupancy hotel room, the average price for a hotel room in South Korea is ₩107,021.
Looking for a hotel in South Korea? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.
Typical prices for Accommodation in South Korea are listed below. These actual costs are from real travelers and can give you an idea of the Accommodation prices in South Korea, but your costs will vary based on your travel style.
Transportation Budget in South Korea
Calculated from travelers like you
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The cost of a taxi ride in South Korea is significantly more than public transportation. On average, past travelers have spent ₩17,227 per person, per day, on local transportation in South Korea.
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Transportation1
Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
₩17,227
Typical prices for Transportation in South Korea are listed below. These actual costs are from real travelers and can give you an idea of the Transportation prices in South Korea, but your costs will vary based on your travel style.
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Seoul City Pass Plus
₩10,000
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Metro Ride
₩1,350
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Subway Card
₩5,000
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Short Taxi Ride
₩7,000
Intercity Transportation Budget in South Korea
Calculated from travelers like you
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Transportation between cities and towns in South Korea costs an average of ₩72,221. Naturally, prices vary by the length of the route, the type of transportation used, and the date.
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Intercity Transportation1
Travel between cities
₩72,221
How much does it cost to go to South Korea? Naturally, it depends on the dates. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all airlines.
The price of renting a car in South Korea will depends on dates, the type of car, the location, and your age. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all car rental companies.
Typical prices for Intercity Transportation in South Korea are listed below. These actual costs are from real travelers and can give you an idea of the Intercity Transportation prices in South Korea, but your costs will vary based on your travel style.
Food Budget in South Korea
Calculated from travelers like you
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While meal prices in South Korea can vary, the average cost of food in South Korea is ₩30,541 per day. Based on the spending habits of previous travelers, when dining out an average meal in South Korea should cost around ₩12,216 per person. Breakfast prices are usually a little cheaper than lunch or dinner. The price of food in sit-down restaurants in South Korea is often higher than fast food prices or street food prices.
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Food2
Meals for one day
₩30,541
Typical prices for Food in South Korea are listed below. These actual costs are from real travelers and can give you an idea of the Food prices in South Korea, but your costs will vary based on your travel style.
Entertainment Budget in South Korea
Calculated from travelers like you
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Entertainment and activities in South Korea typically cost an average of ₩28,489 per person, per day. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.
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Entertainment1
Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
₩28,489
Typical prices for Entertainment in South Korea are listed below. These actual costs are from real travelers and can give you an idea of the Entertainment prices in South Korea, but your costs will vary based on your travel style.
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Kimchi Museum
₩3,000
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Palace Tickets
₩8,000
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Movie Ticket
₩8,000
Tips and Handouts Budget in South Korea
Calculated from travelers like you
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The average price for Tips and Handouts in South Korea is ₩34,400 per day. The usual amount for a tip in South Korea is 5% - 15%.
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Tips and Handouts1
For guides or service providers
₩34,400
Scams, Robberies, and Mishaps Budget in South Korea
Calculated from travelers like you
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Unfortunately, bad things can happen on a trip. Well, you've just got to deal with it! The average price for a scam, robbery, or mishap in South Korea is ₩1,000.
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Scams, Robberies, and Mishaps1
₩1,000
Alcohol Budget in South Korea
Calculated from travelers like you
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The average person spends about ₩12,442 on alcoholic beverages in South Korea per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.
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Alcohol2
Drinks for one day
₩12,442
Water Budget in South Korea
Calculated from travelers like you
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On average, people spend ₩2,328 on bottled water in South Korea per day. The public water in South Korea is considered safe to drink.
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Water2
Bottled water for one day
₩2,328
Typical prices for Water in South Korea are listed below. These actual costs are from real travelers and can give you an idea of the Water prices in South Korea, but your costs will vary based on your travel style.
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2L Bottled Water
₩1,000
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Lemonade
₩4,500
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Water
₩1,000
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Milk (500ml)
₩1,450
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Starbucks Latte
₩2,000
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Rice Water
₩2,500
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Green Tea
₩3,500
Last Updated: Jul 13, 2022
South Korea On a Budget
Gyeongbokgung Palace at night, Seoul, South Korea
South Korea is a very modern and cosmopolitan country on the southern half of the Korean Peninsula. It's one of the most densely populated countries in the world, yet currently has a very low birthrate. There is a large Christian and Buddhist population spread throughout the country. The Korean culture is a fascinating one. It is heavily influenced by the Chinese culture, but there remain major fundamental differences between the two, the most obvious being the food, spoken language, and written language. The Korean population is very proud of their distinct culture and you are sure to experience this during your time in South Korea. In addition to a unique food and architecture style, Koreans enjoy sports, with some of their favorites being baseball, soccer, and badminton.
Many people overlook South Korea as a travel destination in part because it is considered so modern and lacking in some of the traditional culture found in other nearby countries. Those who take the time to visit this fascinating country will find that it offers a unique perspective into the Asian culture.
South Korea is also easily accessible in route to other travel destinations throughout Asia. Many flights have a layover at Incheon International Airport. It is recommended that you extend your layover for at least a few days so you can explore parts of this interesting country. Check out
this 3-day Seoul itinerary for some ideas.
South Korea is divided into several distinct regions. As a tourist you'll find something interesting in each one, but some of the more popular places to visit include Gyeonggi, where you'll find the city of Seoul. Gangwon is well known for its natural beauty, beaches, and ski resorts. North Chungcheong has many national parks while South Chungcheong has some famous hot springs. North Gyeongsang is the place to go if you're looking for history and culture, but South Gyeongsang has many impressive temples and some nice seaside communities. Finally, Jeju is a notable honeymoon destination for Koreans.
Whether you're visiting Korea for work or pleasure, you are sure to be welcomed openly into the homes of many Koreans. You'll quickly be made to feel right at home and you'll have a memorable and unique experience during your time here.
At A Glance
- Public transportation in South Korea is very modern and easy to use. There are trains, buses, and planes that connect most cities. Most larger cities also have their own subway system which is usually modern and efficient. You can also travel around town by taxi or by public bus. Although there is almost every form of transportation you could need throughout the country, you'll usually get the best price if you take the bus. This may also be the slowest form of transportation however.
- South Korea sells a KR Pass to any foreign non-resident visiting the country. The pass offers unlimited travel for a set period of time on Korail train. There are many restrictions on the pass so you should really consider the cost effectiveness of purchasing it before paying the money. First class and sleeping cars are not included on the pass and the limitations are even stricter during holiday and peak periods of travel. In order to make up for the cost of the pass you will have to plan some long, frequent trips through the country. If you do decide to buy a KR Pass it must be purchased five days in advance.
- Karaoke, commonly referred to as noraebang, is a popular activity in most major cities around South Korea. You should try this at least once if you're looking for the full cultural experience.
- If you're in the country in the middle of July head to the city of Boryeong in Chunchungnam. They host a famous Mud Festival that is popular throughout the country. Participants are covered in a thick mud and participate in any number of activities which range from body painting to mud wrestling. There's also a nearby beach that hosts countless parties during this time. If you're planning to go to the festival make sure you reserve a hotel room well in advance as places tend to fill up.
- Although there are ATMs throughout the country, it can be quite difficult to find one that accepts foreign cards. Look for a Citibank ATM or the special Global ATMs. These are most frequently found in airports, subway stations and Family Mart convenience stores. If you're heading out of the major cities make sure you carry plenty of cash with you.
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Top Tourist Attractions
Korean Demilitarized Zone: This area separating North and South Korea is commonly referred to as the most heavily armed area in the world. It was originally established by a cease-fire in 1953. The mysterious nature of North Korea and the ominous descriptions of this area attract tourists from around the world. The general area covers about 2 kilometers between the two countries.
Gyeongju: Located in the North Gyeongsang province, this is the former capital of Silla. It has many historic and cultural sights with some of the most popular being Gyeongju National Park, Bulguksa Temple, and Seokguram Grotto.
Jeju Island: Off the southern coast of Korea, this island is a top honeymoon destination both inside and outside of Korea. It was formed by a volcano and offers beautiful scenery and fun activities including horseback riding and hiking.
Popular Foods
Korean food is growing in popularity throughout Europe and the United States. The meals are usually based around a rice, a soup, and a protein like fish or meat. These staples are accompanied by an assortment of side dishes which are referred to as banchan.
Kimchi: This is the most famous and popular banchan dish. It is served as an accompaniment to most Korean meals and it's made from fermented cabbage and chili. Be careful though because it can be very spicy.
Doenjang: This is another side dish that is served with most meals. It's made from a fermented soybean paste and is comparable to Japanese miso.
Bulgogi: This is a type of Korean barbeque that is made from various marinated meats. Diners generally cook the meat at the table on a charcoal grill.
