Small South Korea is a larger tourist destination. South Korea is especially known for its fiery food and popular culture, but the small country can also accommodate a wide variety of other things to see from the beaches to the big cities.
SOUTH KOREA AS A TOURISM COUNTRY
Phased history and strong economic upswing
South Korea, officially known as the Republic of Korea, has gone through various stages throughout its history, largely marked by the enlargement efforts of nearby great powers, especially China and Japan. The Japanese occupation did not end until after the end of World War II.
After declaring independence in 1950, South Korea was attacked by its northern neighbor, Soviet-backed North Korea, whose troops, with the help of the United Nations and especially the United States, were repulsed.
After the wars, South Korea experienced an economic miracle. Known as one of the four tigers in Asia defined by countryaah, South Korea has become one of the richest countries in the world. Today, South Korea is known as a major hub for electronics and technology, which is also noticed by tourists, especially in the country’s state-of-the-art capital, Seoul.
In Seoul, you can jump back in history in the old Hanok districts.
Greater Seoul and the traditional culture of South Korea
Nearly half of South Korea’s more than 50 million residents live in the metropolitan area of Seoul, the capital. Therefore, it is worth preparing in advance for the endless hustle and bustle of a city saturated with shopping malls and tall buildings.
Of course, a different kind of culture is also available. A different way of life can be found even in the middle of a big city, with traditional markets bringing their own charm to Seoul. You can go even further – those who want peace should head to the Buddhist temple to enjoy the ascetic lifestyle of the monks and the green views.
Getting out of the western squirrel wheel is also easier. The delicacies of Korean cuisine will certainly take your thoughts far away from your home. Fresh squid salmon when less frequently received in the domestic market.
South Korean climate
Although the sea surrounds South Korea on three sides, the country has a continental climate. Winters are dry and cold, while summers are humid and hot.
The trip to South Korea should be timed in between. In the spring, between April and June, after the winter cold has fluctuated, the temperature is pleasant and the rains do not become a nuisance. Cherry blossoms also bloom in South Korea in the spring, and in the fall you can admire the fall in the country.
Security in South Korea
Short for KR by abbreviationfinder, South Korea is currently a safe travel destination as long as common sense goes along with the journey. In traffic, you need to keep your eyes open, and during the typhoon season, you should follow local news.
English is doing quite well in the capital, although it is worth learning at least a few phrases to be sure of the local language. In rural areas, the situation is usually different, and the language barrier can produce subtle problems. However, the Koreans are a very helpful people in general, and the lack of a common language is unlikely to cause insurmountable obstacles.
It is also good to monitor the political situation on the Korean Peninsula, as the situation between North and South Korea escalates from time to time. You can check the current travel bulletin on the website of the Finnish Ministry for Foreign Affairs.
FLIGHTS, ACCOMMODATION AND MOVEMENT IN SOUTH KOREA
Finnair will fly direct flights to Busan from 2020 onwards.
Flights to South Korea
Although there is a lot of travel to South Korea, today you can get to the site quite easily, as Finnair flies directly from Helsinki to Seoul and from 2020 to Helsinki to Busan.
The journey takes ten hours, and well-booked flights cost around € 500-700 at the cheapest. Direct flights are typically a bit more expensive.
Accommodation in South Korea
The accommodation offer, especially in the South Korean capital Seoul, is extensive, covering everything from modest inns to abundant five-star hotels.
For those accustomed to the European price level, an overnight stay is affordable. At its cheapest, you can get a roof for about 20-30 euros a night, while hundreds of rooms may have to be shelled out. Basic 3-star hotels usually charge between 50 and 100 euros for a double room.
Movement in South Korea
Moving around South Korea is largely very straightforward. The rail and road network is very comprehensive, with trains and buses running at fairly frequent intervals.
Especially in cities, public transport is smooth, and getting on the subways in particular is effortless and easy. The stations mostly have English-language signs and announcements. Taxis are also quite affordable, although their use should be avoided during the worst of peak hours.
SOUTH KOREA TRAVEL DESTINATIONS
Jeju Island is also a popular holiday destination among locals.
Seoul is the pulsating soul of South Korea
Seoul is also a megapolis, also called New York in Asia, with a metropolitan area inhabited by nearly half of all South Korean residents. For those arriving by plane, this one of the largest cities in the world is the first touch to the ground.
Crowds of people, tall skyscrapers and world-class shopping malls strike consciousness with full force. Despite its massiveness, Seoul is, as its name implies, soulful. The willingness and friendliness of Koreans in particular warms the mind of a tourist in a big city.
The capital is the right place to get to know Korean cuisine. The market tastes traditional delicacies from octopus tentacles, while Seoul’s top restaurants offer fusion cuisines combining European and local culinary heritage.
In addition to the latest electronic products and numerous business people, Seoul is also South Korea’s Cultural Center, which delights tourists with its lavish museum and art offerings. In addition to the palaces and the historical exhibitions of the traditional National Museum, you can also enjoy culture in Seoul, even in the most urban setting along the Hanjoki River.
By bullet train to Busan
Contrary to many people’s beliefs, South Korea is more than just Seoul. A few hours of bullet train travel to Busan, Southeast Korea is definitely worth the trip.
Although Busankin has a large population and, as a port city, is one of the busiest in the world, it offers a healthy value for the heartbeat of Seoul.
Haeundae Beach, for example, despite its awkward name, is a great place to relax – although it is very densely crowded in the Korean way, weather permitting. Alternatively, you can take care of yourself in one of the city’s many spas.
The spirit of the Cold War in Panmunjeom
A Korean visitor should also head north from Seoul. While traveling to the border zone may seem a bit questionable due to North Korea’s unpredictable political agenda, many offices from Seoul organize visits to demilitarized Panmunjeom.
Located in the world’s most guarded border zone, the village served as the scene of the 1953 ceasefire agreement, which can be admired on a tightly guided tour. However, solos are not worth it: the dress codes and instructions in the guide that apply in the area must be strictly followed.
In addition to its historical significance, Panmunjeom is also interesting because of its nature. The area has been uninhabited for more than half a century, which has allowed the fauna and flora to develop undisturbed. Today, it is a safe haven for many rare species, and in 2019, a few closely monitored hiking trails were opened there, which can also be accessed under the guidance of a guide.
THE BEST OF SOUTH KOREA
Seoul can be admired from above with the top N Seoul Tower.
Top destinations in South Korea
- Soul
- Panmunjeom
- Busan
- Jeju
- Daegu