South Korea

What is the best time to visit South Korea?

South Korea is a destination that changes dramatically with the seasons, making it a great place to visit year-round.

Many New Zealand travellers consider spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) the best times to visit. Spring brings beautiful cherry blossoms, while autumn offers colourful foliage, mild temperatures and excellent sightseeing weather.

Summer can be hot and humid, while winter is cold and ideal for snow lovers heading to Korea's ski resorts.

How long should I spend in South Korea?

Most travellers from New Zealand spend 7 to 10 days in South Korea, which allows time to explore Seoul and a few other regions.

For first-time visitors, a popular itinerary includes Seoul, Busan and either Jeju Island or Gyeongju. If you're combining South Korea with Japan or another Asian destination, even 5 to 7 days can provide a memorable introduction.

Where should I go on holiday in South Korea?

South Korea offers an exciting mix of modern cities, traditional culture, naturescapes and delicious food. Travellers popularly choose Seoul for shopping, palaces and street food, Busan for beaches, seafood and coastal scenery, Jeju Island for volcanoes, waterfalls and outdoor adventures, Gyeongju for ancient temples and Korean history, and Gangwon Province for skiing and mountain landscapes.

Many first-time visitors start in Seoul and combine it with Busan or Jeju Island.

Is South Korea a good holiday destination for New Zealanders?

Absolutely. South Korea has become increasingly popular with Kiwi travellers thanks to its vibrant cities, world-famous food, efficient transport system, unique culture and growing popularity of K-pop and Korean dramas.

It offers a fantastic blend of traditional experiences and cutting-edge technology, making it suitable for couples, families, solo travellers and groups.

Do I need a visa for South Korea from New Zealand?

Entry requirements can change, so it's important to check the latest travel advice on Safe Travel before departure.

New Zealand passport holders can generally visit South Korea for short-term tourism without obtaining a traditional visa, but additional entry requirements may apply depending on current regulations.

How do I find the best South Korea holiday package?

The best South Korea holiday packages often combine flights, accommodation, rail passes and day tours.

Booking early is recommended, particularly during cherry blossom season, autumn foliage season and major festivals. A well-planned itinerary can help you experience both the modern and traditional sides of Korea.

Is South Korea expensive to visit?

South Korea is generally considered good value compared to many Western destinations.

Accommodation, public transport and food can be very affordable, while luxury hotels, shopping and premium experiences are also available for those seeking a higher-end holiday.

How much does a South Korea holiday cost from NZ?

South Korea caters to a range of budgets.

Many New Zealand travellers find they can enjoy excellent food, efficient transport, quality accommodation and memorable sightseeing at a reasonable cost. Your overall spend will depend on the season, accommodation choices, and activities included in your itinerary.

Where should I stay in South Korea?

The best place to stay depends on your itinerary and travel style. Seoul is ideal for first-time visitors and offers easy access to major attractions, Busan is perfect for beaches, seafood, and a more relaxed atmosphere, Jeju Island is popular for nature, romance and outdoor adventures, and Gyeongju offers a deeper cultural and historical experience.

South Korea has accommodation options ranging from international hotels and boutique stays to traditional Korean hanok guesthouses.

What should I pack for South Korea?

Packing will depend on the season you're travelling.

Some essentials include:

• Comfortable walking shoes
• Lightweight layers
• Portable phone charger
• Sunscreen and sunglasses
• Travel adapter
• Small umbrella or rain jacket

If travelling during winter, pack warm clothing including a coat, scarf, gloves and thermal layers, as temperatures can drop below freezing.

Do I need travel insurance for South Korea?

Yes, travel insurance is highly recommended.

A comprehensive policy can help cover medical expenses, travel interruptions, lost luggage and unexpected changes to your itinerary, giving you peace of mind throughout your trip.

What currency is used in South Korea?

South Korea uses the South Korean Won (KRW).

Cards are widely accepted throughout the country, and contactless payments are common. However, it's still useful to carry some cash for markets, street food stalls and smaller businesses.

Can I use New Zealand dollars in South Korea?

No, New Zealand dollars are not accepted for everyday purchases.

You'll need to exchange NZD into Korean Won or withdraw local currency from ATMs upon arrival.

Is South Korea safe for travellers?

Yes, South Korea is generally considered a very safe destination for visitors.

Its low crime rates, modern infrastructure and reliable public transport make it a popular choice for solo travellers, families and first-time visitors to Asia.

Can you drink tap water in South Korea?

Yes. Tap water in South Korea is generally safe to drink, although many locals and visitors prefer filtered or bottled water.

Most hotels and public places provide easy access to drinking water.

How do I get around South Korea?

South Korea has one of the world's most efficient transport systems. The country is connected by high-speed KTX trains, subways, local trains, buses and domestic flights.

The KTX rail network makes it easy to travel between major cities such as Seoul and Busan in just a few hours.

Do I need to hire a car in South Korea?

Most travellers do not need a rental car.

Public transport is fast, affordable and easy to navigate. A car may be useful on Jeju Island or in some rural areas, but for most itineraries, trains and public transport are more convenient.

What are the best things to do in South Korea?

South Korea offers a huge variety of experiences.

Some must-do activities include:

• Visiting Gyeongbokgung Palace in Seoul
• Exploring Bukchon Hanok Village
• Shopping in Myeongdong
• Taking a day trip to the DMZ
• Riding the KTX high-speed train
• Relaxing at a Korean spa (jjimjilbang)
• Visiting Jeju Island's natural attractions
• Exploring Busan's beaches and seafood markets
• Sampling Korean barbecue, bibimbap, and street food

Is South Korea family-friendly?

Yes, South Korea is a fantastic family destination.

Families enjoy attractions such as Lotte World, Everland Theme Park, aquariums, interactive museums and cultural experiences. Public transport is clean, safe and easy to use with children.

What cultural etiquette should I know before visiting South Korea?

Korean culture places a strong emphasis on politeness and respect. Be courteous when using public transport, remove your shoes when required, accept and give items with two hands where appropriate, speak quietly in public spaces and be respectful when visiting temples and cultural sites.

Learning a few basic Korean phrases is often appreciated by locals.

Do I need cash or can I use cards in South Korea?

Cards are accepted almost everywhere, including hotels, restaurants, shops and attractions.

However, carrying a small amount of cash is useful when visiting traditional markets, street food vendors or smaller local businesses.

Is South Korea a good stopover destination?

Yes. South Korea is becoming an increasingly popular stopover destination for New Zealand travellers heading to Europe or other parts of Asia.

Seoul's excellent transport system, vibrant food scene, cultural attractions and easy airport connections make it possible to experience a lot in just a few days. A stopover can also help break up a longhaul journey and reduce travel fatigue.

What apps should I download before travelling to South Korea?

These apps can make travelling in Korea much easier:

• Naver Map
• KakaoMap
• Papago Translate
• Kakao T
• Google Translate
• Subway Korea

Downloading maps and transport apps before arrival can save time once you're on the ground.