South Korea delivers a dynamic mix of ancient tradition and cutting-edge modernity. From the bustling streets of Seoul, with its glittering skyscrapers and centuries-old palaces, to the serene temples of Gyeongju and the captivating landscapes of Jeju Island, South Korea offers an intoxicating blend that, once sampled, proves difficult to resist.
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT SOUTH KOREA?
The climate in South Korea is predominantly continental, with cold, dry winters and warm summers with frequent rainfall. The best times of year to visit are the spring and autumn. For more detailed information, please refer to the 'Where and When' section of our South Korea holidays page.
MAP OF SOUTH KOREA
MEDICATIONS & VACCINATIONS FOR SOUTH KOREA
There are no mandatory vaccinations required for visits to South Korea. We always recommend that you see your doctor or a travel clinic before travelling, to make sure that you have taken all the necessary health precautions. You might also like to look at the Fit for Travel website which is a good source of travel health information.
TIPPING IN SOUTH KOREA
Tipping is not customary in South Korea, and you may find attempts to tip being refused in some contexts. There are some exceptions, however.
Should you wish to tip your guide, an amount of US $15 - $20 per day is recommended (and $5 -$10 per day for a driver). In international hotels, small tips for hotel porters and housekeeping staff are less likely to be refused than in local hotels but, they are never expected. Tips will usually be declined in Korean restaurants, and you should not insist on tipping as this may cause offence. In international restaurants, a tip of 5% - 10% of the bill may be accepted for good service. When travelling in taxis, you could round up the fare or allow your driver to keep the change but, again, attempts to tip on top of this may be refused.
GET CONNECTED
Electricity supply in South Korea is 220 volts, 60 Hz. Plug sockets are typically type C or F – two round pins.
RECOMMENDED READING
- A History of Korea by Kyung Moon Hwang
- The New Koreans: The Story of a Nation by Michael Breen
- Lost Names by Richard E Kim
