How much does it cost to go to South Korea? - 2026 Guide

How much does it cost to go to South Korea?

You should plan on spending around $137 per person, per day. While this changes based on the exchange rate, a typical week-long trip for two lands near $1,677—flights not included.

Most expenses go toward accommodation, local transportation, and dining. Budget travelers cut costs by choosing guesthouses and public transit, while luxury vacations involve higher spending on high-end hotels and private tours; however, activities and currency exchange fees can quickly add up.

What is the cost of flights to South Korea?

International airfare will likely be your biggest upfront cost. Data from Kayak shows round-trip flight prices to South Korea generally range from $500 to $1,500. Exact costs depend on your departure city and the specific time of year.

Long-haul flights from Western countries are naturally more expensive compared to regional departures. You'll likely fly into Incheon International Airport. Watching seasonal trends helps lower these substantial travel costs.

When is the cheapest time to fly to Seoul?

November through February usually offers the lowest flight prices for Seoul. Airlines drop fares during these colder months to fill seats when the weather gets freezing. Just be sure to pack your heaviest coat, because the wind chill is no joke. On the flip side, spring and autumn are the most expensive times to visit due to cherry blossom and foliage tourism.

Skipping peak travel windows like April and October reduces overall costs. Winter bookings are typically 15% to 25% cheaper compared to high-season rates.

How much should you budget for accommodation?

Once you arrive, accommodation will likely be your biggest daily expense. Options range from economical stays to high-end experiences, catering to every price point.

What are the prices for hotels and guesthouses in Seoul?

Prices in Seoul vary significantly based on the neighborhood and how much luxury you're looking for.

• Budget travelers typically find guesthouses and hostels ranging from $20 to $60 per night.
• Mid-range hotels generally start at $100 per night, providing standard amenities and private rooms.
• Luxury hotels often exceed $300 per night, especially those part of big international chains.

Costs fluctuate heavily depending on the specific district. Myeongdong is more expensive due to its central location and because it's close to shopping districts. Hongdae offers competitive pricing, making it a popular choice for younger visitors and backpackers. I personally love the electric atmosphere here after sunset. Staying further from major subway stations cuts costs but increases transit time.

Are hostels a good option for budget travelers?

Hostels are the most economical choice for saving money in South Korea. Choosing a dormitory bed over a private room drastically cuts daily expenses, allowing disciplined travelers to get by comfortably on approximately $50 per day total, according to Nomadic Matt. Modern facilities are common in key destinations like Seoul and Busan. This leaves you with more cash for other activities while keeping costs down.

What are the average costs for food and dining?

Dining out in Korea feels like a steal compared to prices in the US or Europe. You can often get a full, hearty meal for the price of a coffee back home. Travelers typically budget approximately $19 per day for meals. That should cover everything from quick convenience store bites to traditional sit-down restaurants.

Cities like Seoul and Busan offer plenty of places to eat for every budget level. A standard budget breakdown often means you'll spend less on food than accommodation. Low costs apply to various dining styles, including casual eateries and local markets.

How much does Korean BBQ and street food cost?

Street food stalls are the cheapest dining option. Popular snacks like tteokbokki and hotteok typically cost between $2 and $5 per item. Myeongdong is a famous hub for these quick bites, though prices there are slightly higher.

Korean BBQ is a pricier, fun group meal. Trust me, nothing beats the smell of grilling meat after a long day of walking. Restaurants generally charge per serving of meat, with pork belly (samgyeopsal) starting around $12. Premium beef cuts can double the price. A full BBQ dinner with side dishes and drinks usually ranges from $25 to $50 per person.

Is alcohol expensive in South Korea?

Alcohol prices in South Korea are surprisingly low compared to Western standards, particularly for domestic brands. You can find Soju everywhere. A standard 360ml bottle of Soju typically costs between $1 and $1.50 at convenience stores. Restaurants and bars mark this price up, generally charging $3 to $5 per bottle.

Because it's so cheap, alcohol is a huge part of the dining culture, often paired with meals like Korean BBQ. Imported beer and wine cost more, usually ranging from $6 to $10 in trendy districts like Hongdae. To save money, travelers often stick to local drafts and spirits.

How much does transportation cost within South Korea?

Public transportation in South Korea is fast, clean, and cheap. Travelers typically spend an average of $10.20 per day on local transport.

The subway systems in major cities like Seoul and Busan offer extensive coverage, cleanliness, and punctuality. Buses fill in the gaps by connecting neighborhoods that rail lines don't reach. Since transport is affordable, budget travelers can save money for other activities.

How does the T-Money card help you manage transit costs?

The T-Money card is a must-have for saving money. This reloadable smart card offers immediate discounts on the subway system and buses compared to purchasing single-journey cash tickets. Visitors typically buy the card at Incheon International Airport or convenience stores upon arrival. A standard ride within Seoul averages approximately $1 with the card.

The card also allows for free transfers between different lines and types of transport within a 30-minute window. The card simplifies budgeting by keeping all your transport spending in one place, eliminating the need for exact change.

What is the price of the KTX train to Busan?

A one-way ticket on the high-speed KTX train from Seoul to Busan typically costs approximately $45. This route is the quickest way to get between the two cities, taking just over two hours.

Travelers looking to reduce costs often choose the intercity express bus as a cheaper alternative. While the bus doubles travel time, it cuts expenses by nearly two-thirds. Balancing speed versus price is essential when planning your trip.

How can you manage connectivity and data costs?

You can save on data by avoiding expensive international roaming charges. Traditional carriers often impose daily fees exceeding $10, which adds up fast. Using a dedicated eSIM card for South Korea allows visitors to get online instantly upon arrival.

These digital plans typically cost between $15 and $20 for a standard trip. This price range is usually the cheapest way to get data in South Korea while maintaining high speeds. Selecting a local data plan means you won't get unexpected bill shock.

Why should you use an eSIM for your South Korea trip?

eSIMs eliminate language barriers when purchasing a physical SIM card from local vendors. You install your data plan digitally before departure, so you're connected the moment you land. Using a specialized eSIM solution for South Korea means you don't have to deal with swapping tiny chips and prevents the loss of a primary SIM. Digital providers like AmigoSim allow users to avoid expensive roaming fees without visiting a kiosk.

What are the entrance fees for major attractions?

Sightseeing in South Korea is very affordable, with entrance fees and activities averaging just $3 per day. Historical sites and cultural landmarks typically cost very little. For example, a ticket to Gyeongbokgung Palace costs approximately $2.50 (3,000 KRW). Natural attractions like Seoraksan National Park also have low entry fees, often under $4.

Modern entertainment options increase the daily budget. Visiting N Seoul Tower or spending a day at Lotte World costs significantly more, with tickets ranging from $10 to $50. General sightseeing remains cheap, while specialized tours and theme parks are where you'll spend the most money.

How much does a DMZ tour cost?

While general sightseeing is cheap, a DMZ tour costs significantly more. Prices for a standard half-day group tour typically range from $45 to $55 per person. This fee generally includes round-trip transportation from Seoul, a professional guide, and entrance to restricted areas like the Third Infiltration Tunnel.

Keep in mind, this trip is an exception compared to the usual $3 daily estimate for attractions. Private tours or full-day options with lunch often push costs over $100. Expect to pay more for this specialized excursion compared to visiting palaces or museums.

How can you visit Gyeongbokgung Palace for free?

You can get into Gyeongbokgung Palace for free if you wear a traditional Hanbok. It's a fun way to experience history while exploring the royal grounds. Numerous hanbok rental shops surround the attraction, offering attire for approximately $10 to $20 depending on the duration and design.

Although the rental itself requires payment, this option means you don't pay for a ticket and creates a unique photo opportunity. Combining sightseeing with this traditional experience turns a standard visit into a memorable activity. This saves you money if you were already planning to try on the clothing.

How much money do you need for shopping and souvenirs?

If you plan to hit the major retail districts, set aside $50 to $100 per day for souvenirs. Popular items include Korean skincare products, fashionable clothing, and exclusive K-Pop merchandise. Seoul is a massive shopping hub, with Myeongdong being the go-to district for cosmetics and street fashion.

K-Pop albums generally cost between $15 and $30, while high-quality face masks are often sold in bulk packs for under $20. Don't forget to factor in these non-essential purchases to avoid overspending. Tourists often find that high-quality goods are reasonably priced, making it easy to spend more than you planned without realizing it.

Is Korean skincare cheaper in Myeongdong?

Purchasing skincare in Myeongdong is significantly cheaper than buying the same brands internationally. Local prices in Seoul don't have the extra taxes and shipping markups found in Western markets. This district is a competitive beauty hub where stores frequently run "1+1" deals and 50% off sales.

The Korea Tourism Organization notes that visitors eligible for tax-free shopping receive immediate refunds on receipts over 30,000 KRW, further reducing total costs. Generous amounts of free samples given with purchases make it an even better deal compared to online orders. You might actually walk away with more freebies than products you paid for.

Do you need travel insurance for South Korea?

You should definitely get travel insurance for protecting your wallet during a trip to South Korea. A standard policy for a two-week vacation typically costs around $21. This small addition covers you for medical emergencies, lost luggage, and trip cancellations.

Providers like SafetyWing offer flexible plans that remain affordable compared to the high price of international healthcare. If something goes wrong, it can get expensive fast if travelers lack proper protection. Including this cost ensures peace of mind without breaking the bank.

How can you save money on your South Korea trip?

You can save a lot by picking the right transport and places to stay.

• Staying in hostels rather than hotels cuts daily overheads by nearly 50%.
• Using the T-Money card ensures the lowest possible fares for subways and buses.
• Street food is a delicious alternative that is far cheaper than sit-down dining.
• Visiting Gyeongbokgung Palace while wearing a hanbok rental grants free admission, eliminating ticket fees entirely.
• Planning a trip during the off-peak winter season avoids the high premiums associated with spring and autumn.

If you follow these tips, you can bring your daily travel costs in South Korea closer to the $50 range.

Sources

• https://www.kayak.com/flight-routes/United-States-US0/South-Korea-KR0
• https://www.nomadicmatt.com/travel-guides/south-korea-travel-guide/
• https://english.visitkorea.or.kr/svc/contents/contentsView.do?vcontsId=140736