South Korea Travel Checklist

A comprehensive checklist for visiting South Korea, covering entry requirements, navigation, food, culture, and everything in between.

travel, productivity

by Morris

Planning and Timing

Research and book early to get the best experience, especially during peak seasons.

• Decide on travel dates and duration
• Book flights and check baggage allowance
• Book accommodation - hotels, guesthouses, or Airbnb
• Research and plan must-see cities and day trips
• Check if your nationality requires a K-ETA or visa
• Book popular experiences in advance
• Purchase travel insurance
• Check public holidays and plan around closures

K-ETA and Entry Requirements

Complete all legal entry requirements well before departure.

• Apply for K-ETA if required for your nationality
• Ensure passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond travel dates
• Confirm your return or onward flight is booked (required for entry)
• Complete the Q-CODE health declaration if applicable
• Save copies of all travel documents digitally and on paper
• Register with your home country's embassy travel advisory

Transport Setup

Get your transport cards and passes sorted before or immediately upon arrival.

• Pick up a T-money card at the airport on arrival
• Consider an Airport Railroad (AREX) ticket into Seoul
• Research whether a KTX rail pass is worth it for your itinerary
• Download and set up metro maps offline
• Understand taxi options - regular vs Kakao T
• Note that ride-hailing apps like Uber are limited in Korea

Navigation and Apps

Google Maps is unreliable in Korea due to government mapping restrictions - set up alternatives before you leave.

• Download Naver Maps (primary navigation app)
• Download Kakao Maps as a backup
• Note that Google Maps has very limited functionality in Korea
• Download Papago (translation app) for language assistance
• Download the KakaoTalk messaging app
• Save key addresses in Korean script
• Note police station number and emergency contacts

Money and Payments

Korea is still largely cash-preferred in many places, especially markets and street food stalls.

• Notify your bank of travel dates to avoid card blocks
• Exchange some currency to Korean Won (KRW) before or on arrival
• Bring a card with no foreign transaction fees
• Use ATMs at 7-Eleven, GS25, or post offices for cash withdrawals
• Note that T-money card can also be used for small purchases
• Budget approximately per day based on travel style

Cultural Etiquette

Understanding Korean customs will help you avoid accidental offense and connect better with locals.

• Learn that tipping is not part of Korean culture
• Remove shoes when entering homes and some traditional restaurants
• Use two hands when giving or receiving items, cards, or gifts
• Learn a few basic Korean phrases
• Understand jimjilbang (Korean sauna) etiquette if you plan to visit
• Know Korean BBQ etiquette
• Avoid sticking chopsticks upright in rice (funeral symbolism)
• Respect queuing culture especially on public transit

Food and Dining

Korean food is one of the country's greatest highlights - know what to look for and how to order.

• Must-try dishes - research before you go
• Explore convenience store food options (GS25, CU, 7-Eleven, Emart24)
• Visit a traditional market for street food
• Note that many Korean restaurants have water and tea as self-serve
• Try a Korean fried chicken delivery experience at your accommodation
• Try a jimjilbang egg (maekbanseok egg) - roasted in the sauna

Shopping and Duty-Free

Korea is a shopping destination in its own right - K-beauty, fashion, and electronics.

• Research key shopping districts before you go
• For K-beauty: compare prices at Olive Young vs duty-free vs brand stores
• Order duty-free online in advance for airport pickup on departure
• Keep receipts for VAT refund (tax refund) at the airport
• Note Korean clothing/shoe sizes may differ from your home country
• Electronics: Yongsan Electronics Market or Lotte/Shinsegae department stores

Packing

Pack for the specific demands of Korea - city walking, climate variation, and cultural expectations.

• Pack comfortable walking shoes - you will walk a lot
• Check weather and pack layering options
• Pack a small day backpack for sightseeing
• Pack adaptor for Type C / Type F plugs (220V)
• Pack modest clothing for temple visits
• Pack tissues and a small hand towel
• Consider portable battery / power bank for long days out

Arrival Protocol

Know what to expect immediately after landing at Incheon Airport.

• Complete immigration form on the plane or at kiosk on arrival
• Pick up T-money card and load it immediately after baggage claim
• Get a local SIM card or pocket WiFi at the airport
• Confirm accommodation address is saved and accessible offline
• Note AREX train schedule and last train time from airport
• Declare any restricted items to customs if applicable

Returning Home

Make your departure smooth and take full advantage of airport services.

• Allow at least 3 hours at Incheon Airport for departure
• Complete duty-free shopping and tax refund claims before check-in
• Refund or transfer remaining T-money card balance
• Declare any purchases for customs in your home country
• Use City Airport Terminal for early check-in and bag drop (Seoul)
• Back up and organize photos before or during the flight home