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The ultimate guide to cheap travel in South Korea

First to admit it: South Korea was hardly a destination that was on my budget-travel radar. But after spending several weeks exploring this incredible country, I can say that with some insider knowledge and clever planning, it’s entirely possible to backpack South Korea on a broke -budget.
In this blog, I will share my personal story of traversing South Korea on a $30-50 USD daily budget. From finding affordable accommodations and street food to uncovering lesser-known spots, and making the most of their highly developed public transportation system-everything in between-I will walk you through my secrets that I uncovered on my adventures.
Whether you’re a fellow budget traveler or simply looking for a unique and affordable destination, I hope I can inspire and prepare you to go explore the beauty, culture, and wonder of South Korea on a broke budget.

Getting from Japan to South Korea:

So, I’m in the middle of doing this epic journey from Japan to South Korea, and I must say, I am super excited to share with you my adventures so far. Being a broke backpacker, I always hunt for options that are relatively cheap, and boy, have I found some cool ways to get to South Korea from Japan.
Step 1: Getting to Fukuoka, Japan
I started this journey from Osaka, Japan, and took an overnight bus to Fukuoka. It cost about $20 USD, though I could have gone by flight or train; the bus was my cheapest means. The next step was taking a ferry from Fukuoka to Busan.
From Fukuoka, I took the Beetle Ferry across to Busan in South Korea (about $50 one way, USD). It is a ferry ride that takes roughly 10 hours but offers great views of the coastlines both of Japan and Korea.
Step 3: Arrive in Busan
Once in Busan, this city was busting, and the smells of all the street food would tempt even the strongest will. Then I spent the first days exploring the city and trying all local foods available.
Tips and Tricks:
Book in advance the ferry ticket, especially in peak season.
Bring with you your snacks and water on the ferry, as the options on board are so very limited.
If you happen to be in Busan, try local seafood-it is really something!
Cost Breakdown:
Bus from Osaka to Fukuoka: $20 USD
Fukuoka to Busan by Ferry: $50 USD
Total: $70 USD

When to go:

Spring (March to May)

  • Weather: Mild temperatures, cherry blossoms, and greenery
  • Pros: Comfortable weather, beautiful scenery, and festivals like Cherry Blossom Festival
  • Cons: Peak tourist season, higher prices

Summer (June to August)

  • Weather: Hot and humid, with occasional rain
  • Pros: Beach destinations like Jeju Island, festivals like Boryeong Mud Festival
  • Cons: Sweltering heat, crowded tourist spots

Autumn (September to November)

  • Weather: Comfortable temperatures, vibrant foliage
  • Pros: Beautiful autumn leaves, harvest festivals, and comfortable weather
  • Cons: Can be busy during peak foliage season

Winter (December to February)

  • Weather: Cold, with occasional snow
  • Pros: Ski resorts, hot springs, and winter festivals like Pyeongchang Trout Festival
  • Cons: Freezing temperatures, some attractions closed

Shoulder Season (April to May and September to November)

  • Pros: Mild weather, smaller crowds, and lower prices
  • Cons: Some attractions might still be closed after winter or before peak season

Best Time for Broke Backpackers:

If you’re on a tight budget, consider visiting during the shoulder season (April to May and September to November). Prices are lower, and the weather is still pleasant. If you don’t mind the cold, winter can also be a great time to visit, with fewer tourists and lower prices.

Best Itineraries:

3-Day Itinerary:

Day 1: Seoul

  • Explore Hongdae neighborhood
  • Visit Gyeongbokgung Palace (free admission)
  • Try street food at Myeong-dong Night Market

Day 2: Seoul

  • Visit Bukchon Hanok Village (free admission)
  • Explore Insadong neighborhood
  • Enjoy a picnic at Namsan Park

Day 3: Seoul

  • Visit National Museum of Korea (free admission)
  • Explore Itaewon neighborhood
  • Try some affordable shopping at Dongdaemun Market

1-Week Itinerary:

Day 1-3: Seoul (follow 3-day itinerary)

Day 4: Busan

  • Take bus or train to Busan (around $20-30 USD)
  • Explore Busan Tower and surrounding park
  • Try some seafood at Busan International Market

Day 5: Busan

  • Visit Haedong Yonggungsa Temple (free admission)
  • Explore Haeundae Beach
  • Enjoy some street food at Haeundae Night Market

Day 6-7: Gyeongju

  • Take bus or train to Gyeongju (around $10-20 USD)
  • Explore Bulguksa Temple and Seokguram Grotto (around $10 USD)
  • Visit Gyeongju Historic Area (free admission)

2-Week Itinerary:

Day 1-7: Follow 1-week itinerary

Day 8-9: Jeju Island

  • Take ferry or flight to Jeju Island (around $50-100 USD)
  • Explore Seongsan Ilchulbong Sunrise Peak (free admission)
  • Visit Manjanggul Lava Tube (around $10 USD)

Day 10-11: Jeju Island

  • Explore O’Sulloc Tea Museum (free admission)
  • Visit Jeju Folk Village (around $10 USD)
  • Enjoy some black pork at a local restaurant

Day 12-14: Return to Seoul

  • Explore any last-minute sights or neighborhoods
  • Enjoy some last-minute shopping or foodie adventures

1-Month Itinerary:

Week 1: Follow 1-week itinerary

Week 2: Explore Gangwon-do province

  • Visit Pyeongchang Trout Festival (free admission)
  • Explore Odaesan National Park (free admission)
  • Enjoy some skiing or snowboarding at Pyeongchang Ski Resort

Week 3: Explore Jeolla-do province

  • Visit Gwangalli Beach (free admission)
  • Explore Suncheon Bay Wetland Reserve (free admission)
  • Enjoy some local seafood at a restaurant

Week 4: Return to Seoul and explore any last-minute sights or neighborhoods

Transportation:

  1. Subway: Efficient and extensive network, with English signage and announcements.
    • Fares: 1,250 – 2,450 KRW (~ $1-2 USD)
  2. Bus: Comprehensive network, with some English signage.
    • Fares: 1,200 – 2,400 KRW (~ $1-2 USD)
  3. Train (KTX): Fast and convenient for long-distance travel.
    • Fares: 10,000 – 50,000 KRW (~ $10-50 USD)
  4. Ferry: Connects coastal cities and islands.
    • Fares: 10,000 – 50,000 KRW (~ $10-50 USD)
  5. Intercity Bus: Connects cities and towns.
    • Fares: 5,000 – 20,000 KRW (~ $5-20 USD)

Tips and Tricks

  1. T-Money Card: A prepaid card for subway, bus, and some trains. Refundable deposit: 2,500 KRW (~ $2.50 USD).
  2. Korea Rail Pass: For train travel, available for 1-5 days.
  3. Bus Pass: For intercity bus travel, available for 1-7 days.
  4. Free Transfers: Available for subway and bus, within a certain time limit.
  5. English Support: Many signs and announcements are in English, but it’s still a good idea to learn basic Korean phrases.

Popular Routes

  1. Seoul to Busan: Train (KTX): 3 hours, 10,000 KRW (~ $10 USD)
  2. Seoul to Jeju Island: Flight: 1 hour, 50,000 KRW (~ $50 USD) or Ferry: 5 hours, 20,000 KRW (~ $20 USD)
  3. Seoul to Gyeongju: Train (KTX): 2 hours, 20,000 KRW (~ $20 USD) or Bus: 4 hours, 10,000 KRW (~ $10 USD)

Top things to do:

Seoul:

  1. Explore Hongdae neighborhood (free)
  2. Visit Gyeongbokgung Palace (free admission)
  3. Try street food at Myeong-dong Night Market (around $3-5 USD)
  4. Visit Bukchon Hanok Village (free admission)
  5. Enjoy a picnic at Namsan Park (free)
  6. Explore Insadong neighborhood (free)
  7. Visit National Museum of Korea (free admission)
  8. Try some affordable shopping at Dongdaemun Market (around $10-20 USD)
  9. Visit Itaewon neighborhood (free)
  10. Enjoy a hike at Bukhansan National Park (free)

Busan:

  1. Explore Busan Tower and surrounding park (free)
  2. Visit Haedong Yonggungsa Temple (free admission)
  3. Enjoy seafood at Busan International Market (around $10-20 USD)
  4. Relax at Haeundae Beach (free)
  5. Explore Busan Museum of Art (free admission)
  6. Visit Gamcheon Cultural Village (free admission)
  7. Try some street food at Busan Night Market (around $3-5 USD)
  8. Visit UN Memorial Cemetery (free admission)
  9. Explore Busan Harbor (free)
  10. Enjoy a hike at Geumjeongsan Provincial Park (free)

Gyeongju:

  1. Visit Bulguksa Temple and Seokguram Grotto (around $10 USD)
  2. Explore Gyeongju Historic Area (free admission)
  3. Visit Cheomseongdae Observatory (free admission)
  4. Try some local tea at a traditional tea house (around $5-10 USD)
  5. Explore Anapji Pond (free admission)
  6. Visit Gyeongju National Museum (free admission)
  7. Try some local street food (around $3-5 USD)
  8. Visit Yangdong Folk Village (free admission)
  9. Explore Gyeongju’s ancient ruins (free)
  10. Enjoy a bike ride around the city (around $5-10 USD)

Jeju Island:

  1. Explore Seongsan Ilchulbong Sunrise Peak (free admission)
  2. Visit Manjanggul Lava Tube (around $10 USD)
  3. Enjoy black pork at a local restaurant (around $10-20 USD)
  4. Explore O’Sulloc Tea Museum (free admission)
  5. Visit Jeju Folk Village (around $10 USD)
  6. Try some fresh seafood (around $10-20 USD)
  7. Explore Jeju National Park (free admission)
  8. Visit Seogwipo Harbor (free)
  9. Enjoy a hike at Hallasan National Park (free)
  10. Try some local black sand coffee (around $5-10 USD)

Gangwon-do:

  1. Visit Pyeongchang Trout Festival (free admission)
  2. Explore Odaesan National Park (free admission)
  3. Enjoy skiing or snowboarding at Pyeongchang Ski Resort (around $20-50 USD)
  4. Visit Woljeongsa Temple (free admission)
  5. Explore Gangneung Beach (free)
  6. Try some local seafood (around $10-20 USD)
  7. Visit Gangneung Museum of Art (free admission)
  8. Explore Haslla Art World (free admission)
  9. Enjoy a hike at Seoraksan National Park (free)
  10. Try some local makgeolli (traditional rice wine) (around $5-10 USD)

Jeolla-do:

  1. Visit Gwangalli Beach (free admission)
  2. Explore Suncheon Bay Wetland Reserve (free admission)
  3. Try some local seafood (around $10-20 USD)
  4. Visit Boseong Green Tea Plantation (free admission)
  5. Explore Jeonju Hanok Village (free admission)
  6. Try some local bibimbap (around $5-10 USD)
  7. Visit Jeonju National Museum (free admission)
  8. Explore Mokpo Harbor (free)
  9. Enjoy a hike at Wolchulsan National Park (free)
  10. Try some local yuja (citrus) tea (around $5-10 USD)

Food:

Street Food

Street food is a staple in Korea, and for good reason. It’s affordable, delicious, and readily available. Try popular dishes like tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes), hotteok (sweet pancakes), and bungeo-ppang (fish-shaped pastry). Prices start from around 1,000 KRW (~ $0.80 USD) per piece.

Markets

Markets are a great place to find fresh produce, meats, and prepared foods at affordable prices. Visit Myeong-dong Night Market, Gwangjang Market, or Noryangjin Fish Market for a wide range of options. Try some bindaetteok (mung bean pancake) or mayak kimbap (narcotic rice roll) for around 2,000 KRW (~ $1.60 USD).

Traditional Dishes

Korean cuisine offers a wide range of traditional dishes that are both delicious and affordable. Try bibimbap (mixed rice bowl) for around 5,000 KRW (~ $4 USD), naengmyeon (cold noodles) for around 4,000 KRW (~ $3.20 USD), or bulgogi (marinated beef) for around 6,000 KRW (~ $4.80 USD).

Convenience Stores

Convenience stores like 7-Eleven, GS25, and CU offer a range of affordable food options, from sandwiches to instant noodles. Try a kimchi rice ball or a hot dog for around 1,500 KRW (~ $1.20 USD).

Tips and Tricks

  • Eat at local markets or street food stalls for the best prices.
  • Try traditional dishes at smaller restaurants or food stalls.
  • Avoid touristy areas for lower prices.
  • Share food with fellow travelers to save money.
  • Don’t be afraid to try new things!

Culture:

South Korean culture is a unique blend of traditional and modern elements, shaped by the country’s history, philosophy, and values. From K-pop to kimchi, and from Confucianism to K-drama, South Korean culture has become a global phenomenon. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the fascinating world of South Korean culture, exploring its history, customs, arts, and lifestyle.

History and Philosophy

South Korean culture is deeply rooted in Confucianism, Buddhism, and Shamanism. Confucianism emphasizes social hierarchy, respect for elders, and education. Buddhism introduced principles of compassion and mindfulness. Shamanism, with its emphasis on nature and spirits, continues to influence Korean spirituality.

Customs and Traditions

  • Respect for Elders: Older generations are highly respected in Korean culture. Children are taught from a young age to show deference to their elders.
  • Group Harmony: Koreans prioritize group cohesion over individualism. This is reflected in the concept of “jeong,” or social bonding.
  • Food Culture: Mealtimes are sacred in Korea. Sharing food is a symbol of hospitality and community.
  • Festivals: Korea celebrates various festivals throughout the year, such as Seollal (Lunar New Year) and Chuseok (Harvest Festival).

Arts and Entertainment

  • K-pop: Korean pop music has taken the world by storm, with groups like BTS and Blackpink achieving global fame.
  • K-drama: Korean dramas have become incredibly popular worldwide, known for their engaging storylines and memorable characters.
  • Traditional Music: Korea has a rich musical heritage, with instruments like the gayageum and geomungo.
  • Visual Arts: Korean art is characterized by vibrant colors, intricate patterns, and natural motifs.

Lifestyle

  • Education: Education is highly valued in Korean culture, with a strong emphasis on hard work and academic achievement.
  • Work Ethic: Koreans are known for their dedication and perseverance in the workplace.
  • Social Etiquette: Koreans place great importance on social etiquette, with rules governing behavior in various situations.
  • Food and Drink: Korean cuisine is famous for its spicy flavors, with popular dishes like kimchi, bibimbap, and bulgogi.

Accommodations:

Seoul:

  1. Namsan Guesthouse (dorms from $15 USD, privates from $30 USD)
    • Location: Myeong-dong, central Seoul
    • Amenities: Free breakfast, rooftop lounge, laundry facilities
  2. Seoul Backpackers (dorms from $12 USD, privates from $25 USD)
    • Location: Hongdae, trendy neighborhood
    • Amenities: Free breakfast, communal kitchen, game room
  3. J House Guesthouse (dorms from $10 USD, privates from $20 USD)
    • Location: Jongno, historic neighborhood
    • Amenities: Free breakfast, rooftop lounge, traditional Korean architecture

Busan:

  1. Busan International Guesthouse (dorms from $15 USD, privates from $30 USD)
    • Location: Haeundae Beach, popular beach destination
    • Amenities: Free breakfast, rooftop lounge, beach access
  2. Pobi Guesthouse (dorms from $12 USD, privates from $25 USD)
    • Location: Busan Tower, central Busan
    • Amenities: Free breakfast, communal kitchen, game room
  3. Hi Busan Guesthouse (dorms from $10 USD, privates from $20 USD)
    • Location: Nampodong, historic neighborhood
    • Amenities: Free breakfast, rooftop lounge, traditional Korean architecture

Gyeongju:

  1. Gyeongju Guesthouse (dorms from $12 USD, privates from $25 USD)
    • Location: Gyeongju Historic Area, UNESCO World Heritage Site
    • Amenities: Free breakfast, communal kitchen, traditional Korean architecture
  2. Hanok Guesthouse (dorms from $10 USD, privates from $20 USD)
    • Location: Gyeongju Historic Area, traditional Korean village
    • Amenities: Free breakfast, rooftop lounge, traditional Korean architecture

Jeju Island:

  1. Jeju Island Guesthouse (dorms from $15 USD, privates from $30 USD)
    • Location: Jeju City, central Jeju Island
    • Amenities: Free breakfast, rooftop lounge, beach access
  2. Seogwipo Guesthouse (dorms from $12 USD, privates from $25 USD)
    • Location: Seogwipo, southern Jeju Island
    • Amenities: Free breakfast, communal kitchen, game room
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Nightlife:

South Korea is known for its vibrant nightlife scene, with everything from trendy bars to dance clubs and party districts. Here’s a guide to the best nightlife spots in South Korea:

Seoul:

  1. Hongdae: Known for its indie music scene and trendy bars.
  2. Itaewon: Popular expat neighborhood with international bars and clubs.
  3. Gangnam: Upscale bars and clubs, known for its luxurious atmosphere.
  4. Myeong-dong: Shopping district by day, party district by night.

Best Bars:

  1. Bar 81 (Hongdae): Craft beer and live music.
  2. The Den (Itaewon): International bar with live sports and music.
  3. Glamour (Gangnam): Luxurious bar with high-end cocktails.

Best Clubs:

  1. Octagon (Gangnam): High-end club with top DJs.
  2. Mass (Hongdae): Indie and electronic music club.
  3. L7 (Itaewon): International club with live music and DJs.

Busan:

  1. Haeundae Beach: Popular beachside bars and clubs.
  2. Gwangalli Beach: Trendy bars and clubs with ocean views.
  3. Busan International Market: Night market with street food and bars.

Best Bars:

  1. Fuzzy Navel (Haeundae Beach): Beachside bar with live music.
  2. The Beach House (Gwangalli Beach): Trendy bar with ocean views.
  3. Gukje Market Bar (Busan International Market): Night market bar with street food.

Best Clubs:

  1. Maktum (Haeundae Beach): High-end club with top DJs.
  2. Club Fix (Gwangalli Beach): Trendy club with live music and DJs.

Jeju Island:

  1. Jeju City: Small but lively nightlife scene.
  2. Seogwipo: Trendy bars and clubs in the southern part of the island.

Best Bars:

  1. The Jeju Beer (Jeju City): Local craft beer and live music.
  2. The Hidden Cellar (Seogwipo): Trendy bar with live music and cocktails.

Best Clubs:

  1. The Club (Jeju City): Small but lively club with live music and DJs.
  2. The Lounge (Seogwipo): Trendy club with live music and cocktails.

Backpacking costs:

Daily Budget Breakdown):

  • Accommodation:
    • Hostel dorm: 8,000 – 12,000 KRW (~ $7-10 USD)
    • Camping: 3,000 – 6,000 KRW (~ $3-6 USD)
  • Food:
    • Street food: 1,500 – 3,000 KRW (~ $1.50-3 USD)
    • Convenience store meals: 2,000 – 4,000 KRW (~ $2-4 USD)
    • Grocery shopping: 5,000 – 10,000 KRW (~ $5-10 USD)
  • Transportation:
    • Subway/bus: 1,200 – 2,400 KRW (~ $1-2 USD)
    • Intercity bus: 5,000 – 10,000 KRW (~ $5-10 USD)
  • Attractions:
    • Free walking tours
    • Free museums (on certain days)
    • Temples: free – 1,000 KRW (~ $1 USD)
  • Miscellaneous:
    • Snacks: 1,000 – 2,000 KRW (~ $1-2 USD)
    • Souvenirs: 0 – 5,000 KRW (~ $5 USD)

Total daily budget: 20,000 – 35,000 KRW (~ $18-30 USD)

Weekly Budget Breakdown (Very Very Cheap):

  • Accommodation:
    • Hostel dorm: 56,000 – 84,000 KRW (~ $50-75 USD)
    • Camping: 21,000 – 42,000 KRW (~ $20-40 USD)
  • Food:
    • Street food: 10,500 – 21,000 KRW (~ $10-20 USD)
    • Convenience store meals: 14,000 – 28,000 KRW (~ $14-28 USD)
    • Grocery shopping: 35,000 – 70,000 KRW (~ $35-70 USD)
  • Transportation:
    • Subway/bus: 8,400 – 16,800 KRW (~ $8-16 USD)
    • Intercity bus: 35,000 – 70,000 KRW (~ $35-70 USD)
  • Attractions:
    • Free walking tours
    • Free museums (on certain days)
    • Temples: free – 7,000 KRW (~ $7 USD)
  • Miscellaneous:
    • Snacks: 7,000 – 14,000 KRW (~ $7-14 USD)
    • Souvenirs: 0 – 35,000 KRW (~ $35 USD)

Total weekly budget: 140,000 – 245,000 KRW (~ $125-220 USD)


Traveling on the broke in South Korea could be daunting for a back-packer, but it was such a very rewarding experience if your mind is right and prepping for it was good. Korea has something to offer every kind of traveler-from bustling cities to serene natural landscapes.
With our breakdowns of budgets, accommodation guides, and insider tips, you will see precisely how this amazing country can be made accessible without having to break a bank. Be flexible, try new things, and immerse yourself in the local culture.
South Korea indeed is a country that’s heinous on the budgets of any broke backpacker; that said, it really offers a wide range of affordable accommodation options, delicious street food that will satisfy every craving, and a great vibrant nightlife. Now, go ahead, take in all that South Korea has to offer-get a little off the beaten path and see what this great country’s character is all about.
Now pack up, strap on a backpack, and get ready for the time of your life in South Korea!