Current Local Time in Seoul
Current Weather in Seoul
Country Information
Major Regions & Cities
South Korea has 9 provinces and 6 metropolitan cities.
Must-Visit Landmarks
Gyeongbokgung Palace
Largest of the Five Grand Palaces built during the Joseon Dynasty.
N Seoul Tower
Iconic communications and observation tower on Namsan Mountain.
Jeju Island
Volcanic island with beaches, waterfalls, and Hallasan Mountain.
Bukchon Hanok Village
Traditional Korean village with hundreds of hanok houses.
Haeundae Beach
Most famous beach in Korea with white sand and clear water.
DMZ (Demilitarized Zone)
Buffer zone between North and South Korea with historical significance.
Brief History of South Korea
Gojoseon
Legendary first Korean kingdom founded by Dangun.
Three Kingdoms
Goguryeo, Baekje, and Silla kingdoms period.
Unified Silla
First unified Korean state under Silla dynasty.
Goryeo Dynasty
Buddhist kingdom that created the name "Korea".
Joseon Dynasty
Confucian dynasty that created Hangul alphabet.
Japanese Occupation
Korea under Japanese colonial rule.
Division
Establishment of separate governments in North and South.
Korean War
Conflict between North and South Korea.
Economic Miracle
Rapid industrialization and economic growth.
Seoul Olympics
Summer Olympics that showcased Korea to the world.
Hallyu Wave
Global spread of Korean culture through K-pop and dramas.
Travel Tips for Visitors
Visa Requirements
Many nationalities can visit visa-free for 90 days. Check requirements before travel.
Currency & Payments
Korean Won (KRW). Cash still used in markets. Credit cards widely accepted. T-money card for transport.
Transportation
Excellent subway systems in Seoul and Busan. KTX high-speed trains between cities. Taxis affordable.
Cultural Etiquette
Receive/give with two hands. Remove shoes indoors. Don't stick chopsticks upright in rice.
Best Times to Visit
Korean Cuisine
Try bibimbap, bulgogi, kimchi, tteokbokki, samgyeopsal, Korean fried chicken, bingsu.
Famous Festivals
Boryeong Mud Festival (Jul), Jinju Lantern Festival (Oct), Busan International Film Festival (Oct).
Health Precautions
Tap water safe but bottled preferred. Air pollution can be bad in spring. Good healthcare system.
Technology
Fastest internet in world. Free WiFi everywhere. KakaoTalk for messaging. Naver Maps better than Google.
K-Culture Tips
Visit K-pop entertainment companies. Try hanbok experience. Watch Korean dramas being filmed.