Planning your very first trip to Korea? If you’re feeling excited and slightly unsure where to start—you’re in the right place.
This Korea travel checklist was created with first-time travelers in mind. I remember when some of my foreign friends visited Korea for the first time. They asked things like:
“What SIM card should I get?”
“Do I need a visa?”
“How do I greet someone properly?”
“What should I wear in spring?”They didn’t need a fancy itinerary—they needed essential Korea travel tips that answered the real-life questions travel sites often skip.
So I gathered everything I’ve learned and created this guide. It’s warm, practical, and filled with helpful insights to help you feel confident from the moment you land.
First Time in Korea? Start With These Essentials
Whether you’re traveling solo or with friends, these are the first things you’ll want to check off your list.
1. Best Time to Visit Korea
Korea has four beautiful seasons. Depending on what kind of experience you want—cherry blossoms in spring or autumn foliage in October—this post will help you decide when to go.
2. What to Pack for Korea
Packing smart makes all the difference. Based on the season, I’ve included a practical Korea travel checklist with clothing tips, adapters, and things you’ll wish you had packed.
3. Korea’s Four Seasons Explained
Spring is floral and fresh. Summer is humid. Autumn is crisp. Winter is cold but magical. Learn how to prepare for each one.
4. Visa & K-ETA Requirements
Wondering if you need a visa? You may need a K-ETA instead. This guide walks you through what to know before going to Korea in terms of legal entry.
5. Embassy & Emergency Contacts
Just in case. Quick-access embassy phone numbers for the U.S., Canada, UK, Australia, and more.
6. Travel Insurance for Korea
Accidents happen. Learn how to prepare for your Korea trip with the right insurance coverage—and why it’s more than just a “nice to have.”
7. Money, Exchange Rates & ATMs
Bring some cash—but don’t worry, Korea is card-friendly. I also share where to get the best exchange rates and how to use local ATMs.
8. SIM Card, eSIM or Pocket WiFi?
Staying connected is a must. Whether you’re working remotely or just using Naver Maps, I compare the best ways to stay online during your trip.
9. Arriving at the Airport
New country, new language—no problem. Here’s a friendly step-by-step guide for arriving at Incheon or Gimpo, from immigration to getting into the city.
10. Cultural Etiquette
This is one of my favorite parts. These simple first time in Korea tips—like taking off your shoes indoors or not speaking loudly on public transit—will help you feel at home and show respect to locals.
How to Prepare for a Korea Trip: Things People Often Forget
Here are a few more essential Korea travel tips that aren’t always listed—but make a huge difference when you get here.
- Using Public Transportation & T-Money Cards
The subway system is amazing once you get the hang of it. Don’t forget to grab a T-money card at the airport. - Apps You’ll Actually Use in Korea
Download KakaoMap (Google Maps doesn’t work well here), Papago (translation), and Baemin (if you want delivery at your guesthouse). - Simple Korean Words & Signs to Know
You don’t need to be fluent. But knowing how to say “Excuse me” (저기요), “thank you” (감사합니다), and reading signs like “exit” and “restroom” can go a long way. - Electricity & Charging Devices
Korea uses 220V and Type C or F plugs. If you’re coming from North America, you’ll need a converter—not just an adapter! - Where to Stay in Korea
Seoul’s neighborhoods all have their own vibe—Hongdae is artsy, Gangnam is modern, and Insadong is traditional. I’ll break it down for you. - How to Eat Like a Local
Water and side dishes are usually self-serve. Don’t be shy about pressing the call button at your table when you’re ready to order! - Trash, Recycling & Public Manners
One of the most common surprises: there are almost no trash bins on the streets. You’ll often need to carry your trash until you find a bin at a café or subway. - What to Do in an Emergency
Call 1330 for tourist help in English, 119 for medical/fire, and always have your accommodation info saved on your phone.
Not Sure Where to Start?
Here’s what I recommend:
- Read the Visa & K-ETA guide
- Check the Packing Checklist
- Plan around the Best Time to Visit Korea
Each post is written with care, and many include links to booking tools or gear suggestions I personally recommend.
You can also compare cheap flights to Korea directly from this blog using our trusted airfare tool.
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I’ll personally check for you.
Save This Korea Travel Checklist
Bookmark this page and come back whenever you’re packing, planning, or looking for answers along the way.
I’ll keep it updated with new resources, checklists, and Korea travel insights.
Last updated: April 2025
I hope this guide helps you feel ready, calm, and excited about your trip. If it made your planning a little easier—then I’m really glad we met here.