Is Seoul expensive to visit?

Seoul offers options for all budgets: street food and public transit are affordable, while luxury hotels and dining can be pricey. Mid-range travelers can enjoy it comfortably.

Do I need a visa for Seoul?

Many nationalities (e.g., US, EU) get visa-free stays of 90 days; check South Korea's immigration website for specific requirements.

Is English widely spoken?

English is common in tourist areas, hotels, and among younger people, but learning basic Korean phrases (hello, thank you) is appreciated.

What is the internet access like?

Free Wi-Fi is widespread in cafes, subway stations, and public areas. SIM cards or portable Wi-Fi devices are easy to rent at the airport.

Can I use credit cards everywhere?

Major cards are accepted in most establishments, but carry some cash for markets, street vendors, and small shops.

Seoul

CitySouth Korea, Asia

Seoul is a CITY in South Korea, Asia.

Seoul, the vibrant capital of South Korea, is a mesmerizing blend of ancient tradition and futuristic innovation. Nestled along the Han River and surrounded by mountains, this dynamic metropolis offers travelers an unforgettable journey through 600 years of history alongside cutting-edge technology. Explore the majestic Gyeongbokgung Palace with its changing of the guard ceremony, wander through the traditional hanok houses of Bukchon Hanok Village, and experience the spiritual tranquility of Jogyesa Temple. For modern delights, ascend the N Seoul Tower for panoramic views, shop in the neon-lit streets of Myeongdong, and discover the artistic haven of Hongdae. Food lovers will revel in the culinary adventures of Gwangjang Market's street food and the upscale dining of Gangnam. Seoul's efficient subway system connects you to hidden gems like the serene Secret Garden at Changdeokgung Palace and the bustling energy of Dongdaemun Design Plaza. With its safe streets, friendly locals, and 24-hour energy, Seoul promises a captivating experience where every corner reveals a new story.

Best time to visit Seoul

Spring (April to June) for mild weather and cherry blossoms; Autumn (September to November) for cool temperatures and vibrant foliage. These seasons avoid the extreme heat and humidity of summer (July-August) and the cold winters (December-February), though winter offers festive lights and skiing nearby. Major festivals like the Lotus Lantern Festival (May) and Seoul International Fireworks Festival (October) enhance visits.

October

Now

Right now

Condition: Partly cloudy
Temperature: 14°
Feels like: 14°
Humidity: 84%
Wind: 4 km/h
Precipitation: 0 mm

Weather from Open-Meteo

Know before you go

Getting around

Seoul's public transportation is world-class: use the extensive subway system (signs in English/Korean) with T-money cards for buses and trains. Taxis are affordable—choose regular (orange/silver) or deluxe (black) models; apps like Kakao T are popular. Biking along the Han River paths is scenic. Car rentals are not recommended due to traffic and parking challenges. Navigation apps like Naver Maps or KakaoMap are essential for real-time directions.

Stay connected

Calling code

+82

Stay safe

Seoul is one of the world's safest major cities with low violent crime. Exercise normal precautions: beware of pickpocketing in crowded areas like Myeongdong and Hongdae, and avoid poorly lit alleys late at night. Common scams are rare but include overcharging in some taxis (use metered cabs or apps) and fake luxury goods. Areas near U.S. military bases (e.g., Itaewon) can be lively at night; remain alert in bars. Emergency services are responsive, and tourist police patrol major attractions. Natural hazards are minimal, but be cautious during heavy rain or snow.

Police

112

Ambulance

119

Fire

119

Tourist Police

1330

Entry and health

Health information

Seoul has excellent medical facilities, including internationally accredited hospitals like Seoul National University Hospital and Samsung Medical Center. Tap water is safe but many locals drink bottled or filtered water. No specific vaccinations are required, but routine vaccines (MMR, hepatitis A/B) are recommended. Air quality can be poor during spring (yellow dust) and winter; sensitive travelers should monitor forecasts and consider masks. Pharmacies (yakguk) are widely available, and many doctors speak English in major hospitals. Travel insurance is advised as healthcare for foreigners can be expensive.

Culture

Local customs

Bow when greeting; remove shoes before entering homes or traditional places. Dress modestly at temples and palaces. Tipping is not customary and can be seen as rude. Use both hands when giving/receiving items, especially with elders. Avoid loud conversations in public. Dining etiquette includes waiting for the eldest to eat first and not sticking chopsticks upright in rice. Public displays of affection are minimal.

Korean

Costs and practicals

Currency

South Korean Won (KRW) · ₩

Timezone

Asia/Seoul +09:00 (GMT)

More facts

Population

9.4 million

Area

605.25 km²

Government

Special City with a Mayor and City Council

ISO code

KR-11

Type

City

https://media-cdn.zormor.tech/images/418a90e7-0da7-4d39-9943-9c3831baf1a1/thumbnail.webp

Siheungdong

Frequently Asked Questions

Also known as: سیول, Siū-ék, Soujwj, ‍සෝල්, सोल, Seulas, Sɔul, ソウルトゥクビョルシ, --特別市, سؤل, Сөүл, ছিউল, 首爾特別市, Seoul Special City, 首爾, ସିଓଲ, Sêûl, Seol, Seoul-teukbyeolsi, សេអ៊ូល, Seoel, Seúl, سيول;سيئول, Сеул, โซล, 서울시, Սեուլ, సియోల్, سول, KR-11, سیٛول, সিওল, Soul, Сэул, סעאל, 서울, Seula, 01, 漢城, Seoul Te̍k-pia̍t-chhī, Seul, 서울特別市, سئول, Szöul, Thủ Nhĩ, 서울특별시, 首尔特别市, سیئۆل, ሶል, Seúlu, სეული, Seuli, 汉城 / 漢城, Sŏul, سيئول, ਸਿਓਲ, ໂຊລ, Xơ-un, ဆိုးလ်မြို့, 首尔, ソウル特別市, Seuls, Seùl, സോൾ, Sol, Súl, Söul, སེ་ཨུལ།, சியோல், Seulo, Σεούλ, Seül, سۆل, Séoul, Seoul, सियोल, Соул, مدينة سول الخاصة, ಸೌಲ್, סיאול, Seyul, Siul, .sol., 汉城, Suulaq, Seulum