The Real Costs of Tourism in Korea According to Koreans (as of June 2024)

 Today, I want to talk about the actual cost of living in Korea for our foreign friends planning to visit. When I travel abroad, one of my constant worries is, "Am I getting ripped off?" So, to help you anticipate and plan for appropriate expenses, I’ll provide you with an overview of Korea’s costs in USD. and In Korea, there is no tipping culture, so you don't need to worry about leaving tips

First, imagine you’ve just arrived in Seoul. The first thing to consider is accommodation. Seoul offers a wide range of options from luxury hotels to budget guesthouses. For example, staying alone in a hotel could cost around $200-$300 per night, whereas a guesthouse or hostel in areas like Hongdae or Itaewon would be much cheaper, about $20-$50 per night. My recommendation is to book in advance according to your travel style and budget.

Feeling hungry? Seoul has a variety of food options. You must try Korean cuisine when you’re here. At a restaurant, a meal typically costs around $10-$30 per person. For instance, you can enjoy a meal at a famous bulgogi restaurant in Myeongdong for about $20. Don’t miss out on street food! Snacks like tteokbokki or hotteok are delicious and cost only $1-$3 each.

Transportation in Seoul is very convenient. Using public transportation such as buses and subways costs about $1-$2 per trip, allowing you to travel all over Seoul. I recommend purchasing a transportation card upon arrival at the airport for a small discount. Taxis have a base fare of about $3-$4, with additional charges based on distance. For short trips within the city, expect to pay around $5-$10.

Seoul boasts many amazing tourist attractions. The entrance fee to palaces like Gyeongbokgung is very affordable, around $3-$10. Wearing a hanbok and exploring the palaces is a unique experience. Amusement parks like Lotte World and Everland have entrance fees of $50-$70, which is reasonable for a full day of fun.

Shopping is a must when you travel! Korean cosmetics are renowned for their quality, and you can budget about $10-$50 per product. In shopping areas like Myeongdong and Dongdaemun, you can find various fashion items ranging from $20-$100. For souvenirs, I recommend traditional crafts or mother-of-pearl items, usually priced around $5-$30.

Finally, consider other expenses during your trip. A data SIM card for use in Korea costs around $20-$30 for a week. Don’t forget to arrange travel insurance, which usually costs about $30-$100, but it’s essential for your safety.

I hope this information helps you enjoy your trip to Korea within a reasonable budget. This guide should give you a good idea of the actual costs in Korea. Plan your budget well before your trip and have a wonderful time in Korea!
Safe travels!