The remarkable rise to international stardom of KPOP and K-Dramas have undeniably elevated the prestige and fascination the world already previously had for South Korea. Whether you are flying over the Pacific or across the whole of Europe, planning a trip to South Korea can be Herculean, with or without the barrage of questions about the country’s language barriers, safety, and transportation.
If you are stuck in a black hole of K-culture tabs and unverifiable information, fear not, as GoWithGuide has done the research for you. If you plan on doing some Seoul-searching, hoping to catch a train to Busan, or are hungry to see some history right at the DMZ, our local guides can help you devise the perfect South Korea itinerary for you. Before you start packing your bags, read up on all you need to know about South Korea.
South Korea’s Top 10 Tourism Statistics
Surrounded by the Yellow Sea to the west and the Sea of Japan to the east, South Korea, officially the Republic of Korea, finds itself nestled in the southern part of the Korean Peninsula. Together with its adjacent islands, the country is home to over 51.6 million residents with over 82,4% living in urban areas (think Seoul, Incheon, Busan, and Daegu). With 3,358 islands and 99,720 sq. km ready to be discovered, the country overflows with unforgettable experiences.
- By 2025, the Travel & Tourism market in South Korea is expected to generate revenue amounting to US$14.37 billion.
- 16.37 million: South Korea welcomed 16.37 million foreign visitors in 2024, representing 94% of the 2019 peak level and a 48.4% increase from the previous year.
- 62%: Around 62% of visitors stated that their purpose for visiting was leisure or holiday activities.
- 32% - Among younger visitors to South Korea in 2023, 32% traveled primarily for Hallyu (Korean wave) content.
- 7.8 days: In 2023, the average length of stay for visitors to South Korea was 7.8 days.
- 14.2 million: South Korea’s four major royal palaces, along with the shrine and tombs, were visited by an estimated 14.2 million people in 2024.
- -25.5°: The coldest day of the 2023 winter season arrived on January 24, reaching lows of -25.5° in Cheorwon, a northern county in South Korea.
- 1.49 trillion: The Kimchi market in South Korea reached a value of approximately 1.49 trillion South Korean won in 2023.
- 60% - In 2023, approximately 60% of tourists cited food or gourmet tours as their primary reason for choosing South Korea as a travel destination.
- $10.2 billion: South Korean beauty product exports hit a record high of US$10.2 billion last year, reflecting a 21% increase compared to 2023.
Who Else Loves South Korea?
Over the years, East Asian and Southeast Asian countries have consistently dominated the list of visitors to South Korea. The United States also holds a prominent position, while recent years have seen an increase in tourists from European and South American countries.
- China: 4.6 million
- Japan: 3.2 million
- Taipei: 1.5 million
- United States: 1.32 million
Top Must See South Korean Regions
Seoul
The country’s capital is a metropolis fusing modern skyscrapers and pop culture with centuries-old temples and savory-smelling street markets. For first timers in South Korea, Seoul should definitely be on your itinerary. The capital has a little bit of everything, so you are in for a taste of what it is like to live like a resident.
For the foodies, Seoul will appease your appetite with the best kimchi, bibimbap, and tteokbokki in the world. Ask our local guides for more information on the best foods to try in South Korea.
Jeju Island
With a volcano towering Jeju Island, it is no wonder the region attracts adventurous travelers ready for hikes, days on the beach, and being in tune with nature. The island is a wonderful place to visit all year round, but if you want to get the peak experience, the spring and summer months will find you wanting to stay for longer.
Busan
The port city of Busan is a city with surprisingly a vast expanse of greenery with a sea backdrop. Take a pick from its healing forests, South Korea’s biggest Buddha, or Lotte World.
DMZ
Korea is divided into two governments, and being on the same block of island, needed a 250 km (160 mi) long and 4 km (2.5 mi) wide Demilitarized Zone. Visit the area to learn more about the Korean Peninsula’s history with a professional tour guide to assure your safety in the area.
Best Time to Visit South Korea
South Korea is a year-round destination, but certain seasons stand out for offering unique and unforgettable experiences. Depending on your interests, specific times of the year can elevate your trip with vibrant festivals, stunning landscapes, and pleasant weather.
Spring months - April to June
By far the best time to visit the country is during the spring months, when the temperature is pleasing, the air is neither too dry nor too humid, and the atmosphere is awash with cherry blossoms.
Fall months - September to November
Our local guides also suggest visiting in the fall months if you are unable to book for the spring. The fall months are also better for those with hay fever, according to the Korean Calendar for Allergenic Pollens.
Summer months- July and August
Summer is the hottest and wettest time in the country, albeit only two months long. For those in search of some beach and ocean action, then this is the best time to dive in.
Winter - December to March
The freezing cold of South Korea can be pretty extreme,but this dry and beautiful season is the perfect time to go skiing, sightseeing, and shopping.
How to Get Around South Korea
- By train: the whole country is connected by rail, making trains an easy and affordable option for sightseeing. Our private guides can also take you on the high speed KOrail and let you know the best passes to use on your customized tour experience.
- By bus: Intercity transport is also convenient if you choose buses as your main mode of transportation.
- By ferry: To get to the islands, our local guides recommend hopping on a ferry. It is fun, does not hurt the budget, and is a once in a lifetime experience.
Insider tip: Make sure to buy a transportation card, TMoney or Cashbee, before embarking on a train or bus ride. This will save you time, money, and from avoidable stress!
Travel tips to South Korea
Safety
South Korea is an extremely safe country. The country finds itself sitting way up the 2025 safety index at 17. Forbes has also ranked Seoul as one of the safest cities for 2024. Of course watching out for tourist traps and pickpockets is a must, just like in any country, but in general, the country is safe for travelers from anywhere in the world.
Strolling with a local tour guide who speaks the language will give you the upper hand when finding the most coveted restaurants, the best deals, and the grandest views. Whilst on a private tour with a professional guide, issues related to miscommunication and language barriers are zero to none. That is one huge weight lifted off of your shoulders.
Essential Tips for South Korea
Conclusion
Searching for accurate, factual, and up-to-date information on South Korea does not have to be as difficult as learning a full out BTS or Blackpink dance routine. In fact, it should be as trouble-free and uncomplicated as enjoying the beautiful landscape of the Land of the Morning Calm.
South Korea will only continue to enchant the world, so be the first to share this all-in-one guide to friends and family. They won’t thank you enough!
