It's pretty easy to travel around South Korea, but it still helps to be prepared and to learn a little bit about its environment, transportation, and local customs.
Did you know that you can never leave chopsticks on your rice in South Korea?
Shouldn't you ever use one finger to beckon someone with your palm up? That's the way Koreans call their dogs.
The fact that writing the name of someone in red symbolizes death?
Ok, you're doing that now. To help you prepare your trip to South Korea, here are five other things to know.
1. Know what you need to pack
From season to season, South Korea has a lot of weather and temperature fluctuations, so pack accordingly, and be ready in case of rain or snow.
2. Try Public Transit
Public transport, ranging from high-speed bullet trains (KTX) to ferries, buses, and taxis, is fast, reliable, and clean in South Korea. Seoul's subway is considered one of the best in the world, as many big cities have their own subway systems. Usually, public transit is safe, but it's still wise to keep your wit about you and be mindful of local etiquette, such as not sitting in the seats at the ends of the subway car, even if the car is not complete. Those for pregnant, elderly and disabled people are reserved
3. Get a card for travel
If you're taking public transportation in South Korea, transport cards are invaluable. These easy, reloadable cards can be used in cities across the world to pay fares on public buses, subways, and taxis. Three of the key options are available: the Korea Tour Pass, T-Money, and Cashbee. The Korea Tour Card is only for international visitors, but includes small discounts on certain popular attractions. It's more expensive than the others. Slightly more commonly known are T-Money and Cashbee.
At airports, convenience stores, or subway stations, transportation cards can be purchased. When you have purchased your pass, you will need to fill it with cash for your tickets.
4. Be ready in summertime for crowds and high prices
From late June to late August, peak summer begins with the monsoon season, when the country receives some 60% of its annual rainfall, and unpleasantly hot and humid weather follows.
Although air conditioning these days makes summers much more bearable, many locals flee the muggy cities for the crowded mountains, beaches, and islands, and double the price of accommodation. There is also the possibility of a typhoon or two.
5. Look out for demonstrations from the public
Public demonstrations are part of South Korea's daily life, but they may also turn violent. You should also keep in mind that these days, due to COVID-19, large meetings have an extra degree of risk.