Seoul

US, Canadian, EU, Australian, and many other nationals can visit South Korea visa-free for up to 90 days. Some countries get 30 days. Check requirements at hi.korea.kr. K-ETA (Korea Electronic Travel Authorization) may be required for visa-free entry.

By Air: Incheon International Airport (ICN) is the main gateway, 50km west of Seoul. Gimpo International Airport (GMP) handles domestic and some regional flights, closer to the city.

By Train: KTX high-speed trains connect Seoul to Busan (2.5 hours), Gyeongju (2 hours), and other major cities.

Korean is the official language. English is spoken in tourist areas, hotels, and by younger people, but is limited in local neighborhoods and traditional markets. Korean alphabet (Hangul) is easy to learn - helpful for reading signs and menus.

South Korean Won (KRW). Exchange rate roughly 1,300-1,400 KRW per USD. Cards accepted widely, but cash is still common at markets and small restaurants. T-Money card works for transit and convenience stores. ATMs widely available.

Metro: Extensive 9-line system covering Seoul and surrounding areas. Clean, efficient, and easy to navigate. Get a T-Money card (works on buses too).

Buses: Comprehensive network with color-coded routes. T-Money card required.

Taxis: Abundant and affordable. Regular (orange), deluxe (black), and jumbo (van) taxis available.

Walking: Neighborhoods like Myeongdong, Insadong, Hongdae, and Gangnam are very walkable.

From Incheon:
AREX Express: Direct to Seoul Station (43 min, ₩9,500).
AREX All-Stop: Slower but cheaper (60 min, ₩4,750).
Airport Limousine Bus: To major hotels and areas (60-90 min, ₩15,000-16,000).
Taxi: Around ₩60,000-80,000 to central Seoul (50-70 min).

From Gimpo: Much closer - metro Line 5 or 9 (30-40 min, ₩1,400).