What it actually costs
When to go
Monsoon season (jangma). Heavy rain for weeks. Humid and hot between downpours.
Gyeongbokgung Palace at 9am opening in hanbok (free entry if you wear one, rent for ₩15,000). Cherry blossoms in April draw massive crowds to Yeouido.
What locals know
Korean BBQ: the best spots have no English menu and metal chopsticks. Majang Meat Market (wholesale area) lets you buy meat and grill it at restaurants next door — freshest and cheapest.
Jjimjilbangs (Korean spas) are an experience: sauna, sleeping rooms, food courts. Dragon Hill Spa is the famous one (₩15,000, open 24hr). Great jet-lag cure.
T-money card works on all transit + convenience stores. Buy at the airport, refill at any station.
Hongdae on Friday/Saturday night for street performers, bars, and club culture. Itaewon for international food and LGBTQ-friendly nightlife.
Honest warnings
Taxis are cheap and everywhere but some drivers refuse short rides or foreign passengers. Use Kakao T app (Korean Uber).
Soju is deceptively strong (17-20% ABV) and dirt cheap (₩4,000-5,000 per bottle). Pace yourself.
Most restaurants have buzzers to call waitstaff — don't wait to be attended, press the button.
Ready?
We'll build you a complete 4-day Seoul trip in 30 seconds. Real places. Real prices. Bookable.
Build My Seoul Trip