South Korea Travel Guide

South Korea's history is shaped by resilience, innovation, and cultural heritage. Originally part of early Korean kingdoms such as Goguryeo, Baekje, and Silla, the peninsula saw centuries of dynastic rule, culminating in the influential Joseon Dynasty (1392–1897). After Japanese colonisation (1910–1945), Korea gained independence but was divided into North and South due to post-World War II tensions.

The Korean War (1950–1953) cemented this division, with South Korea evolving into a democratic, industrialised nation. Today, South Korea is celebrated for its rapid economic growth, technological advancements, and global influence in music, cinema, and cuisine, while preserving its deep-rooted traditions and history.

The places visited on your itinerary are generally safe and our guides will always keep an eye out for you. However, in any large city there can be opportunists and pickpockets. It is wise to be vigilant, especially at busy tourist attractions, and always take good care of your personal belongings. Make use of the safe at your hotel, and carry a photocopy of your passport when out and about. Always take extra care when using public transport. As in most countries, there is a degree of crime aimed at wealthier tourists. Please be mindful of showing expensive belongings in public and always remain vigilant and aware of your surroundings.

Although it is not obligatory, downloading the K-ETA app and entering your information and paying for this can speed up the immigration process.Currently, short term Irish visitors must obtain a Korean Electronic Travel Authorization (K-ETA) before entering Korea. K-ETA only applies to travellers who arrive under a visa waiver and does not apply to those who hold a visa for Korea. You do not need a K-ETA if you have a valid visa to enter Korea. Travellers under 18 years and over 65 years are exempt from K-ETA. British passports holders are also currently exempt from requiring a K-ETA. Please always check with your local government authorities and services for the most up to date information regarding entry requirements. Passports must be valid for the duration of your time in South Korea. Passport cards cannot be used.

Prior to travel, we recommend seeking a qualified medical practitioner’s advice about vaccinations and up-to-date precautionary medicine.

If you are on long-term prescription medication, you may need to provide extra paperwork. Check with the South Korean Embassy or Consulate or the Korean Ministry of Food and Drug Safety for advice. Carry a letter from your doctor and keep your medication in its original packaging in your carry-on luggage.

South Korea can be expensive in some areas, but food lovers will find great value, with local restaurants and street food being particularly affordable.

Tipping in bars and restaurants is not expected in South Korea. Unlike in the United States and Canada, where tipping is customary, the general rule in South Korea is that service should be exceptional at all times, with no expectation of extra pay. Tipping can lead to confusion and sometimes cause offence.

On our South Korea tours, we'll travel from Busan to Seoul on the KTX train, which is a modern, comfortable, high-speed bullet train that can reach speeds of up to 305 km/h.

Yes, the DMZ (the Demilitarized Zone on the border between North and South Korea) is generally safe to visit and is included on our holidays. The tour is under army control, and you must strictly adhere to their regulations. Please note that the tour may be closed at short notice, without prior warning, as it is a military-controlled area, and this would be beyond our control.

• Bowing is a common form of greeting. The depth of the bow depends on the level of respect or formality required, with a slight bow typical in casual settings and a deeper bow reserved for more formal occasions.
• South Koreans value personal space and tend to stand at arm's length from each other in public.
• Silence on public transport and in public spaces is considered polite, and loud conversations or phone calls are generally frowned upon.
• Respect for elders is central to Korean culture. Elders are regarded as having greater life experience and wisdom, and this is reflected in the way people speak to and address them.
• Using someone's given name is considered impolite unless you are in a close relationship or hold a higher position, so it is worth being mindful of this during your visit.