Tips & FAQs
TIPS
1. Some useful Korean phrases you should know:
1. Hello (00:00) – 안녕하세요 / An-nyeong-ha-se-yo
2. Thank you (00:05) – 감사합니다 / Kam-sa-ham-ni-da
3. Excuse me (00:14) – 실례합니다 / Shil-le-ham-ni-da
4. Sorry (00:21) – 최성합니다 / Chway-seong-ham-ni-da
5. How much is this? (00:28) – 얼마예요 / Eol-ma-ye-yo
6. Can you speak English? (00:34) – 영어 할 수 있어요 / Yeong-eo hal su-eet-suh-yo
7. I don’t understand. (00:42) – 잘 모르겠네요 / Jal mo-reu-geht-neh-yo
8. Where is the bathroom? (00:50) – 화장실이 어디예요 / Hwa-jang-shil-ee uh-di-eh-yo
2. Navigation:
It’s useful to download a Korean mapping app (Naver Map and Kakao Map are the most popular). Google Maps tends to have better translation capability, but less knowledge of walking or mixed transit routes, so sometimes using two apps is necessary if you aren’t able to find or self-translate a Hangul version of your destination.
3. T-Money For Public Transport:
The T-Money Card is an essential purchase for every traveler to Korea. It is a transportation card that allows contactless travel on Korea’s buses and subways. Simply buy a T-Money Card, top-up the card, then use it to travel. Not only is this transportation card really convenient, it also saves you money. You’ll receive a discount on every bus or subway journey when you pay with the T-Money Card. You can also use to buy a coffee from Starbucks, get lunch in McDonald’s, shop for Korean cosmetics, and even to watch a baseball game. It’s a very useful card that can be used anywhere you see the T-Money Card.
FAQS
1. Do I need a visa to travel to South Korea?
US citizens and tourists from 111 other countries, including Canada and Mexico, don’t need a visa to travel to South Korea. The US government and South Korea have a visa-free travel arrangement and tourists can stay for up to 90 days visa-free. However, you must apply for the K-ETA before traveling and upload your travel plans and hotel details.
For more details, please check the Korean Embassy.
2. Should I Get A Sim Card Or WiFi Router In Korea?
The choice between whether you should get a sim card or WiFi router in Korea really comes down to the costs involved and if you need a Korean phone number.
WiFi routers are cheaper and allow you to connect 3 devices, so they’re perfect for families. However, a sim card gives you a Korean phone number, which means you can call people and also register for Korean apps which require a phone number.
3. Should I Change Money At The Airport?
Exchanging money at the airport is easy and convenient as you can instantly get cash to use for shopping, transportation, and general use. However, the exchange rate at the airport is usually much higher than you’ll find in other places. If you need cash as soon as you land, withdraw a small amount ($50) and then exchange the rest in Seoul.
4. Can I Use My Bank Card In Korea?
Credit cards are widely accepted in Korea. Visa and Mastercard users shouldn’t face a problem, but other cards aren’t as widely accepted. Debit cards and cash withdrawals might not work depending on the bank. Your bank may charge a fee when using it overseas, or give a bad exchange rate. Check with your bank before traveling.