24 Things You Need to Know Before Traveling to Korea 2024🇰🇷

If you're traveling for the first time to Korea, then here are tips for first-time travelers to Korea! If you plan to visit Seoul, Korea for the first time, here's everything you need to know :)
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[@mayaleex3]

If you have any questions about Korea, let me know :) 🇰🇷 you can get my full itinerary here! mayaleex3.gumroad.com/l/puxkq

[@HH-kg4fq]

Hiii Maya! Is there an app for the Tmoney card, so you don't have to carry that plastic card around, and are the tmoney cards sold at the convenience stores?

[@kitn136]

I just returned from my Korean holiday last week but i still watched this because I miss it hehe and seeing the Jikook mural that I had visited just 2 weeks earlier made me emotional 🥹 as soon as I came back I immediately missed Naver Maps lmao, it really became my best friend while travelling and its soo much more accurate than Google Maps... And funnily enough the Icheon Hangang area was also one of my fave locations :3

[@kazukikimura1434]

Alright, I won't lie. Since my childhood, it's been a big dream of mine to move to Korea. Not so long ago, I started learning the language too. Naively, I thought that maybe this would give me a chance to achieve my dream. But to tell the truth, I have no idea how to move there, especially at my age of 20. Additionally, there is a fear in me. I live in Hungary, which in many ways is a quite blind and often racist country. Since I've lived in such an environment, and I have no idea about the extent of racism in Korea, I'm a bit afraid that it would be hard for me to fit in, find a job, build friendships, or romantic relationships. If anyone happens to have any idea on how to achieve my dream, please don't keep it to yourself. Thank you for reading, have a nice day, and good luck in every area of your life!

[@veryberry6969]

I believe that one day you will achieve your dream of living there! Wishing you all the best for the future and have a nice day ❤✨️

[@yogyal292]

Same with me I’m 27 so don’t worry about your age 😅 u might first go for holidays just to watch if u would really love it there

[@animelover-wu8hq]

If you’re interested in teaching, that might be an easier avenue to achieve your dream to move. You can sign up through EPIK or TEFL because for them you just need a bachelor degree. But if you want to work at an actual international school that pays more, you will probably also need a bachelor of education and/ or teaching certificate

[@JV-ck1pu]

Check out scholarships sponsored by Korean government

[@mjmj734]

How about exchange student program? As a Korean I want to say that no country is perfect. Korea has its own problems so just be careful if you have a chance to come here😊and sadly there are racists in Korea too. Learn Korean language and basic cultural, historical things first. Kpop/K drama is just a small fraction of Korea.

[@iamchristinakelly]

This is so helpful! Loved learning more and feeling like we were along for your trip!

[@Gigichew]

Thanks for sharing Maya! What a way to start my morning

[@MidnightSunJJaz]

love these tips ❤ thanks, Maya

[@MyAccountForCommenting]

Thank you for covering important things as well as sharing some helpful nuggets.

[@joyamishra7037]

Thank you ma'am for this helpful video 💜

[@ClarissaRose]

Aww thank you for sharing this information and these tips with us!!!! It was so interesting to learn about!!!!! 💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗

[@catec.9088]

I've been to Korea twice already but you taught me some great new tips in this kind and helpful video!

[@mayaleex3]

Awww so glad it helped :)

[@toffylikesgames]

Thanks for the tips! :D I'm definitely nowhere near being able to go to Korea, but it's on my bucket list :) The country looks so beautiful and for now I'm just trying to learn more about the culture and the language :)

[@Renee_1510]

Thank you so much! I am planning on moving to Korea when I’m older and so this helps me a lot!

[@Jeoncloud]

One of the best videos about Korea so far!! It is so helpful thank you so much ✨✨💕

[@mariojsworld]

Great tips for Korea trip.

[@reveflwr]

thank you!! Im going to Korea to study for a month so this was super helpful

[@Loveyourlookhawaii]

Super helpful video. Ty!!! ❤

[@charmainearciga5550]

I’m going to Korea in October and this is really helpful. Thanks so much Maya!!

[@TheArktekt]

Me too, going for a week.

[@TwerkinnPandaaa]

Me too!

[@SumeetBGoode]

Thank you so much for this video.

[@bavitha5224]

Your video was so helpful thanks 😊 ❤❤❤

[@leonidasarisari5266]

Wow! Thanks for sharing. I’m planning to fly to Seoul in July. This is so helpful. ❤

[@melissamarie9839]

Me and my friend are planning a Japan x Korea trip this year and your tips are so helpful :D

[@riahann3270]

Help plz lol. My friend and I are doing the same. If you have any tips, please send them😭🤣

[@critty1114]

omg my friend group as well!

[@melissamarie9839]

@@riahann3270 we are still in the planning process! We’re still trying to decide if we want to go in May or September/ October! How far along are you guys with planning?

[@melissamarie9839]

@@critty1114 have fun! :D

[@cloudwatcher608]

I'm going with some friends as well, leaving mid April and coming back early May! They have already been to Japan, mostly Tokyo and north Japan so this time we're flying into Seoul, going down to Busan, taking the Queen Beetle ferry across to Fukuoka, and renting a car to explore Kyushu a bit, go to a ryokan, and drive to Hiroshima. From there we'll switch to trains and go to Osaka and then end my leg of the trip in Tokyo. The only problem is that we will be in Japan during Golden week, but we've still be able to book some good Airbnb's and hopefully it won't be too crazy.

[@charlesbrenan6269]

Fab - have downloaded Kakao and Naver Maps and the Subway apps. Also Airalo for the eSim. Can't wait to come back in 4 weeks - still have my T-money card from my last visit too! Many thanks for your tips! 🇰🇷😊

[@Kkwangie]

This video had so many useful tips, thank you! I'm visiting Seoul for first time in May 🤩

[@kidtrinity959]

Ayo me too! Maybe we'll cross paths, hope your trip goes well! 🫡

[@kialexandrra1113]

Thank you for these tips

[@mayaleex3]

Ahhhhh have the best time!!!

[@MUCpruc]

It was super thankful. Cheers from Germany:*

[@MichaelDNelson]

Great video with a lot of useful information! We are in Seoul right now and Maya's information is very accurate.

[@mayaleex3]

Thank you for watching :) hope you had the best time!!

[@MichaelDNelson]

We did! Seoul is a wonderful city!

[@rebekahpark4975]

I’m going to Korea in March so this video is very helpful for me :)

[@Gigichew]

Hehehehe

[@sabrinafairfoot4343]

Me too!!

[@lovergirlmp3]

me too!

[@bobtheman7054]

great Vlog

[@Rachel-sv9pq]

I'm an ARMY and I'm hoping to put together a group of ARMYs to go explore Korea next summer so this is helpful. Thank you!

[@mayaleex3]

YAY!!

[@eddiemartinez7555]

Awesome dear 😊🎉😂❤

[@ghostbum]

Ahhh i’m going to korea for a trip in a couple of days and im soooo nervous, this helps ease some of my worries thank youuu 🙏

[@mayaleex3]

you're welcome!! Once you get there it'll be so much better

[@isaackirk2825]

Very helpful tips! My brother and I are leaving for Korea in about 3 weeks! We will be staying in Seoul, Busan, then Jeonju. We will be there for 12 days. Any recommendations for your favorite places would be awesome! Thank you so much for your video.

[@stephanieesparza3176]

I won’t be going there anytime soon, but still here for Maya! lol

[@mayaleex3]

🥹💕 awww thank you for your support

[@rabbit_luv_Jesus]

Same

[@samanthaliu2104]

Makes me want to go to Korea

[@leiderson1038]

Thank you for the very helpful tips. Are there any customs one should know when visiting Korea that could help one benefit from the experience?

[@bangtinyboys245]

Being late this time 😅 because my exam is tommrow but as all ways maya you're video's help me so much😊 thankyou maya 💜

[@mayaleex3]

Ahhhh all the best on your exams ❤ study hard!

[@simplyellenxo95]

I would love to go to Korea one day…😊

[@PaolaGalvez29]

Hi Maya, loved your video, it is super helpful and you explain it in a fantastic way!! Regarding cash and credit cards, can you share if stores in Korea are now accepting apple pay or credit cards? Thank you!!

[@mayaleex3]

Yesss they do :)

[@b.w.6289]

Seeing KZbin videos warning about cults and scammers in South Korea, is giving me the tools I need for a trip planned this year. Preparing myself to keep social interations with Koreans to a minimum (mostly hotel staff or checking out at a store and/or restaurant, while being polite). Avoid and ignore those who try to socialize and approach with love bombing or asking for directions. It will be a very interesting trip. Glad I have someone to travel with! Thank you for all your tips. They are very helpful.

[@Mat_video_in_korea]

Nice video but August is quite rainy a lot as well. For the Tmoney, there's the unlimited transportation card arriving soon. I live here but I'm curious if travelers can use it or not

[@shellikim5387]

Great tips!!! Which skin care clinic did you go to?

[@LuluVargas777]

Great tips! I need really start planning my trip for Sept/October. Any recs for other cities to visit besides Busan, Jeju and Seoul?

[@mayaleex3]

Daegu is also popular for more chill / historical places :) and Suwon!

[@leonieveraesh]

Great video! Informative without any lenghts. I just got a question, when youre talking about neighbourhoods like yongsan. Are you talking about yongsan-dong or yongsan-gu? Bc I was looking into an airbnb in yongsan-gu and it seemed like there is nothing really except a huge open area and the national museum 😅 But you said anything by the river is nice which would be yongsan-gu... (sorry i think this is as confusing to read as i am rn 😂🙈)

[@mayaleex3]

Yongsan-Gu has the I’Park Mall which is huge :)! It’s a nice area and great to walk to the Han River. myeong dong and Hongdae will have way more things to do, though!

[@dmorales1064]

I was in Korea last year September and found out that Uber works there. It comes up as UT (Uber Taxi). So helpful because I was too impatient to navigate the subway system since I stayed in the Gangnam area which isn't close to the attractions. Traveling by train from Gangnam usually required transferring and I just didn't feel knowledgeable enough to try it but impatience is why I took UT most of the time. I want to go back but I will really plan things out in advance and utilize these tips.

[@ninagarafall]

Understandable, but Korea makes changing connections so easy! there are literally colored lines on the floor that say if you want to go to this direction, just follow the line. It could take some walking but I definitely recommend it because you'll also get the see underground shopping areas and snack stores. there's so much to explore! if you are comfortable using the metro in any other city and you have a rough idea how reading a metro plan works, you will be fine there. (we even accidentally went during rush hour, and it was okay. wouldn't recommend it because it takes a long time and the trains are super full that time, but it's totally doable.)

[@sun-et1fn]

Nice & fun video! Be visiting korea for just barely a day(15hrs layover) this coming summer. I just wanna visit at least one popular place with my 15 & 12 yr old girls. Myeongdong, hongdae, or yongsan? Also, which one is more convenient to travel to from ICN airport?

[@mayaleex3]

Hongdae is definitely easiest to get to as most of the time you can just take one line :) your teenage girls would love Hongdae (but it is really crowded at night time) so I recommend going in the day! Myeong dong is close by to Hongdae too. Yongsan is a little bit further out but the subway system is great hehe

[@sun-et1fn]

@@mayaleex3 You’re so nice for replying, thank you! Ok hongdae then👍🏻 I’m hoping we’d still get to go to yongsan to visit hybe😁 bts fan here💜

[@kevin19358]

0:40, Same for me, I flew Asiana airlines for the 1st time in August of 2016 from Manila to Honolulu via Seoul and both flight and service is good and okay and it's better than Korean Air.

[@miharo_moel]

Thanks for sharing! Has anybody thoughts & experiences regarding Andong [ gyeonsangbuk do] ?

[@eldenantonio8262]

I want to go to Korea now 🎉

[@mayaleex3]

it's so much fun :')

[@trinitykaye7684]

I’m going in September for my birthday!! Thank you for the tips!🫶🏽

[@MissBassDrummer]

Love your videos! Going to Korea in April. Is the eSim better and more affordable than the pocket wifi? Should I get both?

[@mayaleex3]

Yessss e-sim all the way! No need for both :)

[@_micahjo]

Hi Maya! Thank you for these helpful tips! Quick question, which among the convenience stores usually carry the BTS t-money cards? Are we required to return our t-money cards before returning home? Also, would you say bus transportation is efficient enough in Jeju or renting a car would be better? Just trying to prepare diligently for my first trip to Korea in about 2 weeks since I will be there for 3 weeks :)

[@mjmj734]

Passing Korean here~I have no idea about BTS card but you don't have to return it:) And public transportation in Jeju might be a bit annoying compared to Seoul so either rent a car or take a taxi. But the coastal road in Jeju is notorious for novice drivers so be careful!

[@sajidawaris9205]

Hi, Good info - Thank you - We are backpacking in Korea. We are reaching there end of May this year. We are travelling around for 2.2 weeks. Would you kindly guide us, which places to visit. we like more nature scenic places and small towns. so far we have booked Nami island and would love to hear your suggestion. Many Thanks

[@mytubeid]

thank you maya! Your videos are so amazing, one video request, so I don’t know if you already made it, but can you make a video how to reduce screen addiction, I try finding videos but NONE of them work 4 me. If you already made it, and you saw this comment can you please type the link down below?❤

[@chrisoulalakkas8968]

May your parents witness your success

[@kevin19358]

10:41, How about crop, I need to take off my crop, before going inside the restaurant?

[@Kpoplover1990]

I’m going to be staying at Arirang Hill Hotel Dongdaemun. I never hear that hotel recommended so I keep wondering if I made the wrong choice 😂

[@lifewithniki7139]

Wow I’m a little intimidated now after hearing what you’ll have to do in restaurants just to get fed ahaha 😱 My trip will be this year with my husband.

[@mayaleex3]

It’s okay!! Just raise your hand and the workers will come - and it’s not considered rude so it’s all gooood :)

[@catec.9088]

I never had issues with this when in Seoul or Jeju. Don't worry! Have so much fun! @@mayaleex3

[@focustkd6948]

How do you translate Naver maps to English. Coming from Canada with a group of 50. Can’t wait!

[@crossfitjohnathan9032]

I’m curious do you still study Korean I feel like that used to be a part of your routine and you would talk about it sometimes do you still study it or have you reached a level of fluency your happy with and stopped. If you do still study it any tips and study tricks you have would be an interesting video.

[@mayaleex3]

Awww as of right now I maintain by listening to kpop, watching Korean dramas, and talking to my parents in Korean. For reading & writing I definitely need to practice more 🥲🥲

[@affeaff]

I have noticed that the Shinbundang line was very expensive compared to the other subway lines in Seoul. I was planning a trip to Everland from Seoul station and the subway app recommended me a way that included the Shinbundang line, the price for that was 5300 ₩. But when I selected "fewest stops" the app gave me a way to Everland that was a little bit longer but more than half the price. So warning everyone for the Shinbundang line

[@guilhermepacerini6223]

❤

[@erindwirejeki787]

Is traveling to seoul during lunar week a good idea? Can we still enjoy holiday in seoul?

[@BillyWhaler]

Very useful. Also interested in whether it is completely uncomfortable or a complete non-issue to ask about current Korean-Japanese relationships. It’s never really brought up by those in 20’s and 30’s. Not ancient history, big impact…and not ever discussed by younger gens. 🤔

[@mayaleex3]

Ah yes… it’s a sensitive topic and as a Korean American my parents remind me of the complicated history. Japanese & Koreans seem to have a love-hate relationship🥺 but there are many Koreans who visit Japan and vice versa! I personally loveeeee visiting Japan

[@user-ro6gq8fl6j]

지금 대한민국 일본 관계는 굉장히 좋다고 말할수 있겠네요 한국인들이 제일 혐오하는 나라는 중국 북한 입니다

[@user-bk2cj5sh8u]

I am planning to go in May. Any tips?

[@skauddy755]

when😂

[@critty1114]

Im traveling there in July, will the weather app on iPhones work fine or should I download a different app? I don't want to get caught in the rain 😬

[@mayaleex3]

Weather app works fine!!

[@riahann3270]

I have so many questions! I don’t know who to ask or refer to with them lol. My friend and I are doing a Japan/korea trip. She’s been to Japan multiple times so that part is not worrisome. Having a hard time figuring out how to place it all together. The transition. Should we reach out to travel agent? Should we join tourist groups but not wanting to just to save more money. Ugh so much lol

[@mayaleex3]

Like flying from Japan to Korea? Or what to do in Korea? :) I have a travel itinerary with all of my notes for sale in my bio! It’s 7-days worth of activities separated by regions and it’s all labeled!

[@senna6443]

are there many atms around to get money from? im going to korea in a couple of months so i wanna make sure im prepared enough with money hahah

[@mayaleex3]

Yess there’s lots of banks and atms! Even the convenience stores have atms :)

[@STAYallday0801]

Are the hotels there good? I'm going to Seoul in a few months with my grandma, but I have no idea where to book the hotel. Thanks for the good tips though!

[@mayaleex3]

Yess most hotels are very clean and Korea is very safe :) find the activities you want to do first and then figure out where you'd like to stay that'll make the most sense!

[@STAYallday0801]

@@mayaleex3 Thank you sm!

[@DVu-ki7nn]

Planning go solo to Seoul in June/2024, I have phone of T-Mobil, it says T-Mobile cover the Wi-fi in Korea, Q: I can download the Naver maps and I don't have to buy the Wi-fi sim card in Korea, then I can use the maps in Seoul, right? Thanks

[@mayaleex3]

I have T-Mobile too but it’s sooooo slow in Korea! You’ll have super fast wifi with an e-sim or the pocket wifi :) but yes, if you download the maps you can navigate without - but it’s nice to navigate in real-time

[@sallylo8427]

is mid November very cold in Seoul?

[@ninagarafall]

I bought a Korean Sim Card for 14 days at the airport and that was definitely cheaper than 120$, I think it was around 60-70$.

[@stephanyscuracchio3956]

Aren’t the rush hours from 8-10am and 5-7pm?

[@EmmarcoPro]

Can I use Uber service? If I stay in seoul for 4 days, can I Uber to busan, ichone for a day tour?

[@mayaleex3]

I’ve only ever used Kakao Taxi in Korea but I believe Uber is available in most large cities!

[@LolItsADaniel]

I am considered to move too fast in America. In Korea, I felt slow lol.

[@sovannibun4981]

How about Apple map? Does that work in Korea?

[@livssn]

A question I have can you not prepay for a taxi already

[@mandieeleaver3321]

This looks like fun. Except the cults sound a little scary. No creepy buildings in the middle of deserted places thanks. but the areas you showed look interesting. I would like to go someday. Hopefully I’ll have someone with me who is better at directions than me.

[@zairaabila7999]

Hi Maya, me and my bf are going there on May 28 until June 9 I wanna know the weather by that time, i hope you could give me some help thankyou

[@mjmj734]

Korean here~April to early June is the best time to visit Korea. Bring t shirts and cardigans(A/Cs are quite strong). And umbrellas too!

[@doreenmd7148]

you are a bts fun and i saw in the seom game app

[@persephie6107]

How much money would you say to bring to korea for a week? Just for basic things like shopping, food and transportation. I’m not very bougie. I can’t afford to be either 🤣🤣

[@mayaleex3]

About $200 for one week for all your meals, a little bit of shopping, and public transportation! You could use less but $200 would ensure you’re not worried about finances while eating 3 meals a day!

[@persephie6107]

Hey thanks for the information! You’re the first KZbinr to finally answer my question!

[@kevin19358]

8:39, How about Incheon? You forgot Incheon.

[@user-rl3jq2cn5s]

Hi. I lived there for about 7 years about 20 years ago. I just bought plane tickets but noticed you are wearing a mask everywhere you go. Are they still doing that over there? That will make for a really crappy vacation playing that game everywhere I go.

[@mjmj734]

It's not mandatory anymore but many Koreans still choose to wear masks indoors.

[@kfohsgau]

Where is a good place to shop for teenager clothes, boy and girl

[@mayaleex3]

Hongdae!

[@kkob]

Just wondering what your income level and lifestyle are that you call gangnam "kind of" expensive! A few other comments on cost raised an eyebrow, too... Almost "nice" restaurant is expensive, but you get the best, most authentic Korean food at places like Kimbap Jeongol and Kimbap Nara, basically Korean fast food (but real foid, not like McDs, KFC, Taco Bell...) But public transportation really is inexpensive and extensive. No major quibbles with other comments.

[@mayaleex3]

Ahhh I’m comparing it to Los Angeles 🥲 we can’t stay anywhere here without it costing hundreds a night!

[@JiwooSullyoon]

Can you get the T money card at the airport when you get there

[@mayaleex3]

Yes :)

[@amylee5808]

The first time I went to Korea, I literally took a photoneverytime I saw a trash can. They were that rare. 😂

[@Tee-wk4qx]

I am going to Korea 한국어😂

[@Miellyss]

Can we find toilet easily ?

[@mjmj734]

Yup. But some public toilets are dirty sometimes so use department store's or shopping mall's.

[@kevin19358]

8:31, Okay, but it's too expensive to book a hotel in the city.

[@robertvail573]

Thank you for the great video. Would love to meet a nice Korean women to show me everything there is there. I think it looks beautiful and people are so nice. I might have to figure a way to come and stay for awhile to learn about Asian coulture. Someday I hope.

[@Gigichew]

BALI. PAJI.

[@mayaleex3]

LOL 👖

[@anthonywolf943]

Awe no T-Mobile is Korea?

[@peacew6]

Forgot to mention toilet paper on dinner tables. Haha

[@mayaleex3]

Omg yes LOL 🧻

[@user-ik1qj8ni4o]

*I’ve seen other vids about cults before and it scares me 😭*

[@Jean-un2or]

Omg the cult thing wth

[@Gingermarie745]

Hi, May I share the most important news you will ever hear? God the Father sent His holy Son Jesus Christ(Y'shua Ha' Mashiach) from heaven to earth, to be born of a virgin. He grew up and died on the cross for our sins. He was put into a tomb for 3 days, and then Abba Father raised Jesus to life and He appeared to people and went back to Heaven. We must all sincerely receive Jesus to be a true child of God. It says in John 1:12 "But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name." Will you genuinely believe on Christ Jesus and truly receive Him today, before it is too late?

[@JazzyGinger1]

Hello🌻🌻🌻🐕🐶🐕🐧🐧🐧🐕🐶, 🐦 God the Father loves you so much that He sent Holy and Sinless Jesus (His Holy Son) to earth to be born of a virgin. He grew up and died on a cross for our sins. He was in the tomb for 3 days, then Father God raised Jesus Christ (Y'shua) to Life! He appeared to people and went back to Heaven. We must receive Jesus sincerely to be God's childJohn 1:12. "But as many as received Him, to them He gave power to become the sons of God, even to them that BELIEVE on HIS name." That is great news! Will you sincerely receive Holy, Lord Jesus into your life today?

[@renatabranco5509]

I’m going to South Korea in November and your tips are gold! It’s extremely hard to understand how to catch a ferry from Busan to Jeju and from Jeju to Seoul since most companies vanished. The best website I can find is Sea Ferry, but it’s in Korean 😢 And Ferries Direct website says there are “no further sailings”. I already understood I might need to take the ferry in Mokpo or Haeman Usuyeong… Do you know an English website where I can book a ferry to Jeju Island? I truly appreciate your help Maya 🤍

[@user-ro6gq8fl6j]

한여름 시즌은 피해서 여행 오셔야함

[@mazmuk]

why you said that?

[@user-ro6gq8fl6j]

@@mazmuk Please travel to avoid the summer season^^

[@charlesbrenan6269]

I went in July 2022 and it was very hot and humid.

[@zoeleclezio03051997]

In 1 week (May 1st), I'm landing in Seoul at 5:40pm so I'm afraid I'll be in the rush hour in the subway.. 🥲