Visas are not required for US passport holders. Just ensure that your passport is valid for a minimum period of 6 months from the date of entry into South Korea. Most travelers do not need visas to stay in South Korea for up to 30 days. You must also have an onward or return ticket.

South Korea is home to a rich culinary scene featuring iconic dishes such as bibimbap—steamed rice topped with assorted vegetables and meat—along with bulgogi, a savory marinated grilled beef, and samgyeopsal, the ever-popular pork belly barbecue. When it comes to street eats, you'll find must-tries like tteokbokki (chewy rice cakes in a spicy sauce), gimbap (rice and vegetables rolled in seaweed), and hotteok (crispy pancakes filled with sweet syrup). And of course, no Korean meal is complete without kimchi, the country's signature fermented side dish. These delights are best enjoyed at bustling local markets and cozy restaurants across the country.

In South Korea, tipping isn't a common practice, as service charges are typically built into the bill. That said, if you receive outstanding service, it's appreciated to tip private tour guides between USD 8–40, and hotel staff around USD 4–8. Tipping isn't expected by taxi drivers or restaurant servers. When offering a tip, it's polite to do so quietly—ideally using an envelope or presenting it with both hands as a sign of respect.

South Korea boasts a highly efficient and modern transportation network. The Seoul Metro offers wide coverage, budget-friendly fares, and English-language signs for easy navigation. For long-distance travel, the KTX high-speed train links key destinations such as Busan and Gyeongju swiftly and comfortably. Buses provide dependable service both within cities and between regions. While taxis are easy to find, they tend to be more expensive. For convenient access across subways, buses, and select taxis, it's best to use a T-Money card.

South Korea is widely regarded as a safe destination for travelers. With its low crime rate, well-developed infrastructure, and reliable healthcare services, it offers peace of mind for visitors. As always, practicing general safety measures—such as being mindful of your environment and observing local etiquette—is recommended. For any international journey, it's also wise to keep an eye on current travel advisories and health updates.

It's advisable to have travel insurance when visiting South Korea, as it offers coverage for unforeseen situations like medical emergencies, trip cancellations, lost baggage, or delays. While the country has excellent healthcare, costs for travelers can be high, making insurance a valuable safety net in case of illness or accidents. Upon request, we provide guidance on which insurance suits you the best.

Send us an email at contact@8birdstravel.com if you have any questions. You can request brochure from our website as well.

We generally recommend 300 USD. Here's the breakdown: 2 breakfasts, 8 lunch, and 2 dinners are included. A basic Korean dish for lunch can be 6-10 USD, and dinners can range from 15-25 USD. Alcohol is excluded from these price ranges.

Traveling in South Korea can be either budget-friendly or more upscale, depending on your travel style. Backpackers and budget-conscious visitors can find hostels or guesthouses for about USD 30–50 per night, while mid-range hotels usually range from USD 100 to 150. Street food is an economical option, often costing just USD 2–5 per dish, whereas meals at sit-down restaurants typically fall between USD 8–20. Public transport is also affordable, with subway fares starting around USD 1–2.

We specialize in crafting private tours across South Korea's most captivating cities—from the bustling streets of Seoul to the coastal charm of Busan, the historical depths of Gyeongju, and beyond. Whether you're seeking cultural immersion, natural beauty, or local cuisine, our custom itineraries and experienced guides ensure a personalized journey designed entirely around your interests.

You can contact us via this contact form, send us an email at contact@8birdstravel.com or book a tour from our website.