Before you fly
Your First Korea Trip
Prepare the essentials first. The details become much easier once arrival, connectivity and transport are settled.
Before booking
- Confirm current entry and visa rules through an official government source.
- Choose accommodation near a subway station that fits your itinerary.
- Check your bank’s overseas card and cash-withdrawal policies.
- Buy travel insurance suited to your activities.
Phone and apps
Install a Korea-friendly map app, translation app and airline app before departure. Decide between an eSIM, physical SIM or Wi-Fi rental.
- Download an offline copy of your booking confirmations.
- Save your accommodation name, address and phone number in Korean.
- Check whether your phone is unlocked before buying a SIM.
- Carry a backup payment card separately from your main wallet.
Arrival day
Keep your hotel name and address available in Korean. Collect or activate mobile data before leaving the airport, then choose AREX, airport bus or taxi based on your destination and luggage.
Pack for the actual route
Seoul days usually involve more walking and stairs than visitors expect. Comfortable shoes, a compact weather layer and a small bag for transit are more useful than overpacking. If you take prescription medicine, carry it in its original packaging and confirm Korean entry restrictions through the relevant government authority before departure.
| Before departure | At the airport | First evening |
|---|---|---|
| Entry rules, insurance, phone compatibility | Data connection, transport ticket, Korean hotel address | Transit card, nearby meal, early rest |