T-money vs Climate Card vs WOWPASS: Which Should You Choose?

If you are visiting South Korea, choosing a transportation card can be more confusing than using the subway itself. T-money is the simplest pay-as-you-go option and works far beyond Seoul. The Climate Card can save money if you take public transportation frequently within its coverage area. WOWPASS combines a prepaid payment card with T-money transit … Read more

Myeongdong Seoul Guide: What to Do, Shop and Eat

Travelers walking through a busy shopping street in Myeongdong Seoul

Myeongdong is one of the first Seoul neighborhoods many international travelers encounter — and one of the easiest to misunderstand. Yes, it is famous for shopping. But a visit can also include Korean beauty stores, department stores, street food, cafés, restaurants and an easy connection to Namsan and N Seoul Tower. For a first-time visitor, … Read more

Lost Something in Korea? A Tourist’s Guide to Lost and Found

International traveler checking for a lost item at a Seoul subway station

Losing your phone, wallet or passport during a trip to South Korea can quickly turn an ordinary travel day into a stressful one. The good news is that Korea has organized lost-property systems covering police, public transportation, railway stations and airports. The fastest way to recover something, however, often depends on where you lost it … Read more

Korea Travel Etiquette: What Tourists Should Know Before Visiting

International travelers following everyday travel etiquette on the Seoul subway

Traveling in South Korea does not require memorizing a long list of social rules. Most visitors will find that everyday situations are fairly easy to navigate, even when they do not know much Korean. Still, a few local habits can make public transportation, restaurants, homes and cultural sites feel much less confusing. The useful approach … Read more

How to Use a Pharmacy in Korea: What Tourists Need to Know

International traveler speaking with a pharmacist at a pharmacy in South Korea

Getting sick is never part of the itinerary. But a headache, upset stomach, cold symptoms or forgotten medication can quickly turn a sightseeing day into a search for help. Fortunately, pharmacies are easy to find in many Korean cities, and travelers can buy certain medicines without first visiting a doctor. Other medicines require a prescription, … Read more

Where to Store Luggage in Seoul: Lockers, T-Luggage and Airport Delivery

Travelers with rolling suitcases near a luggage storage counter in a Seoul railway station.

Arriving in Seoul before hotel check-in? Have a few hours to explore after checking out? Or heading to Busan for a couple of days without wanting to bring your largest suitcase? Finding somewhere to leave your luggage can make a surprisingly big difference to your day. Seoul has several options, including subway station lockers, staffed … Read more

N Seoul Tower: How to Visit, Tickets, Cable Car and Best Views

N Seoul Tower on Namsan Mountain overlooking the Seoul skyline at golden hour.

N Seoul Tower is one of the most recognizable landmarks in Seoul, but getting there takes a little more planning than simply following a map. The tower stands on Namsan Mountain, above the busy streets of central Seoul, and visitors have several ways to reach it. You can ride the Namsan Cable Car, take a … Read more

Cheonggyecheon Stream in Seoul: A First-Timer’s Walking Guide

Cheonggyecheon Stream and pedestrian walkways beneath the modern skyline of central Seoul.

Seoul is famous for its busy streets, towering buildings and neighborhoods that seem to change around every corner. Yet right in the middle of the city, Cheonggyecheon Stream offers a different way to experience the capital: a waterside walk beneath the surrounding streets. You can stop by for a short break between attractions, follow the … Read more