South Korea is more than just its cosmetics, dramas, music, and food. It’s also the destination for fun attractions like Lotte World and Everland, and relaxing activities like spa and facial treatments and massage sessions. If you want to explore more things to do in Korea, then this travel guide is perfect for you!
We’ll go beyond Seoul so you can experience Korea to the fullest. But before you book your flight, make sure to note down your travel requirements first — we have that covered in this guide for you. Apart from that, we’ll also help you out on how to get around in and out of Seoul, what activities to try out, and more!
Travel Requirements for US Citizens 🤓
Good news! Flying to South Korea is a breeze — you only need a passport that’s valid for at least six months and your flight ticket of course.
And take note, there’s no need to secure a tourist visa for as long as you’re staying in Korea for only 90 days or less.
How to Go to Your Hotel from Incheon International Airport 🏨
Some people find this step in traveling overseas a hard one. But hey, navigating your way from Incheon International Airport to your hotel is not as difficult as it may seem. Here are some of the most convenient transportation options after your long-haul flight that you can choose from:
1. Airport Railroad Express (AREX)
First up, the AREX Express Train — your fastest way to Seoul! The AREX Express Train can take you to the city center in just 45 minutes. It runs from Terminals 1 and 2 of the airport and then goes straight to Seoul Station. It’s the best option if you’re looking for something fast and convenient.
There’s also enough space for your luggage inside the train so you don’t have to worry about having to hold your baggage during the train ride.
How to Activate Your AREX Express Train Ticket
Once you've booked your AREX ticket, you can choose to activate either on the Klook app, AREX stations' ticket machines or on the AREX website. You could check down below for a detailed visual guide.
2. Taxis
Photo Credit: Ryoji Iwata on Unsplash
You can never go wrong with a taxi ride. When the bus lines and train rides are done for the day and your flight is late, you can still get a taxi cab to drive you to Seoul! Taxis run for 24 hours in Korea, so that’s a sure way to Seoul when you land at Incheon.
Taxis in Korea come in different types — they have the usual sedan if you’re riding solo or with 1 to 2 more people, and vans too if you’re a big group of people or have a couple of luggage.
But even if taxis are convenient, reliable, and fast, they can get pricey. Aside from the base fare and distance, prepare to pay for other charges too like freeway and even nighttime fees.
3. Seoul Bus by K Limousine
If you’re not in a hurry and want a cheaper but still convenient transport option, then this K Limousine Seoul Bus is the ride for you. The duration of the trip will take about 60 to 90 minutes, which is just enough time for you to rest or enjoy the scenic views after coming from a long-haul flight.
Riding this K Limousine Seoul Bus is a great transport option for those whose hotels are not near Seoul Station since they offer multiple routes and some stops that are either near or the actual hotel itself too.
📌 View the timetable and route for each bus here.
And hey, there’s enough luggage space aboard the bus and comfortable seating too, no need to lug around your luggage throughout the station! Simply scan your QR code or show the driver before hopping on and that’s it, you’re ready to go!
4. Private Airport Transfers
This is probably one of the most comfortable transport options there is — a private airport transfer. With a booked airport transfer, you get to enjoy a private car and chauffeur that’s sure to give you some peace and quiet after long hours on the plane. It’s a luxurious experience where you can sleep or relax since the car space is yours alone.
Klook Tip: When selecting your pick-up time, make sure to consider time spent on deboarding and getting your luggage from the baggage carousel.
Getting a private airport transfer is also ideal if you have a lot of bags or if you’re traveling as a big group. Just make sure to select the car that suits you best depending on the number of people and space needed.
5. Car Rental
Photo Credit: cho eun on Unsplash
If you still have some adventure left in you after your flight, then try driving in Korea with your very own rented car! Just select your preferred car, take note of the staff’s number which can be found in the package details section, and arrange your meet-up and pick-up on the day of your arrival.
Getting a rented car ensures privacy and a big space for your luggage and other things. You can also enjoy Korea at your own pace and time with a rented car.
Getting around Seoul and Other Cities in Korea 🚌
Photo Credit: pan zhen on Unsplash
Finding your way around Seoul is not rocket science. The city boasts an efficient public transportation system that comes with multiple transport options like subways, trains, buses, and taxis.
To save some time on buying tickets, get a transportation card like T-Money card or WowPass instead. You only need this one transportation card to go around Seoul quickly and easily! You can also use your T-Money to purchase items in convenience stores and other establishments displaying the T-Money logo.
Where to pick up your T-Money Card
1. Incheon International Airport T1
- 1/F Gate 10-11(E), KT Roaming Center (Open 24 hours)
- 1/F, Counter C, KT Roaming Center (Open from 6:00am-10:00pm)
2. Incheon International Airport T2
- 1/F Gate 2-3, KT Roaming Center (Open 24 hours)
3. Gimpo International Airport
1/F Gate 1, KT Roaming Center (Open from 6:00am-11:00pm)
Now if you want to go for intercity transportation, then you can take the KTX to Busan, Daejon, Gyeongju, and more.
But if you’re looking for an alternative that’s just as comfortable but more affordable, then you can get tickets to intercity buses instead! Intercity buses can also take you to cities like Daegu, Busan, and Jeonju just to name a few.
Things to Do in Korea 🤗
Here comes the fun part — exploring things to do in Korea! Apart from going to iconic sites like the N Seoul Tower, Gyeongbokgung Palace, and Han River, there are still some other things to do in Korea that are worth experiencing, like having a blast at amusement parks, taking on day tours, and even indulging in spa or beauty treatments.
Tours and Attractions 🎢
Seoul
1. Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) Tour
If you’ve ever wondered what North Korea looks like, then don’t miss out on this Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) tour! Here, you’ll get to explore the area that separates North and South Korea. Step into North Korea through the Joint Security Area, walk into the Third Tunnel of Aggression, and marvel at panoramic views of North Korea through the binoculars at the Dora Observatory.
After touring those key sites in the DMZ, you can also opt to visit some nearby attractions like Imjingak Park, the Freedom Bridge, and the DMZ Exhibition Hall.
2. Everland
It’s time to pump your adrenaline at Korea’s largest theme park, Everland! Inside the amusement park are five areas for everyone to explore and enjoy — Zootopia, Global Fair, American Adventure, Magic Land, and European Adventure. It’s a place packed with all things fun so make sure to add it to your list of things to do in Korea.
Consider spending about half a day or more here if you want to experience the amusement park to the fullest. But just to give you a kickstart, one of the rides that you cannot miss out on is the T Express, the country’s first wooden roller coaster. It stands 200 feet tall from the ground and goes fast at 104 km/h.
3. Lotte World
Another must-visit in Korea is Lotte World, one of the country’s top theme parks! Lotte World consists of both an indoor and an outdoor theme park with must-rides like the Gyro Drop, Moonboat, Atlantis, Gyro Swing, and The Conquistador.
If you want to take a break from all the fun, you can stay at any of the restaurants they have inside like the Crystal Palace for Western food, Treeble House for desserts, Aqua Plaza for snacks like burgers and tteokbokki (rice cake), or the Arabian Bazaar for some grilled food.
Gangwon Province
4. Nami Island
Your trip to Korea will not be complete without a visit to the beautiful Nami Island. Here, you can find the famous lined trees that change the colors of their leaves depending on the season. If you want to see the island in its full glory, we suggest planning your visit during autumn (September and November).
This half-moon-shaped paradise is located in Gangwon Province where you can also find and visit Petite France and the Garden of Morning Calm.
5. BTS IN THE SOOP Filming Location Tour
This one’s for all the ARMYs out there. This is your chance to visit BTS’ IN THE SOOP (Season 2) filming location! In this tour, you will get to see where the BTS members stayed and enjoyed a break from the city.
Explore the house’s dining area, bedrooms, pool, entertainment area, and more. You can even try to recreate some scenes from the show to commemorate your unforgettable experience.
Here’s a plus — the itinerary will also take you to Hyangho Beach, one of BTS’ album filming locations. And hey, this one-day bus tour includes official merchandise too so make sure to grab yours before the tour ends!
Beauty and Spa Treatments 😌
After all the tours and adrenaline-pumping activities, it’s time to relax and experience Korea’s take on beauty and spa treatments.
1. Sulwhasoo Spa Treatment in Gangnam
Pamper yourself with a facial and body treatment at Sulwhasoo in Gangnam. They offer various treatments depending on what you feel your body currently needs. They have the Intensive Ginseng Journey, an almost 2-hour facial and back treatment with ginseng as the main ingredient. This treatment is for those who want healthier and firmer skin, and relaxed neck and back muscles.
Another treatment to consider is the Prestige Restorative Journey. This 3-hour facial and full body treatment focuses on reducing signs of aging and bringing out that youthful energy and glow that your face and body possess.
2. K-beauty Facial & Spa at As Blanc in Seongsu
Get that glass skin glow with As Blanc’s K-beauty treatments! You can try the Vita Brightening V-line Contouring Care, an almost 2-hour treatment using their Lavender Signature Oil to reduce tension in your upper body. This package will also use ingredients with vitamin C and advanced beauty device technology to rejuvenate and brighten your skin.
Another treatment to not miss out on is the 80-minute Ultimate Glass Skin Facial with a Hyaluronic Acid Alpha Ampoule care to tighten your pores, smoothen your skin, and radiate your face’s natural glow!
3. Art de la Peau Massage Shop in Myeongdong
Give your body what it deserves with Art de la Peau’s full body massages. Try the 1-hour Aroma Body Lymph massage that will give special care to your neck, shoulder, back, waist, and lower body. This package also comes with a foot spa so you’ll really be feeling relaxed all throughout your body.
They also have the Art de la Peau X-Secret Facial Care, a 70-minute treatment for your face. The package includes peel cleansing, skin exfoliation, a lymphatic circulation massage, a hydration modeling mask pack, and more.
4. Gangnam De Oriental Spa (by Wonder Trip)
Gangnam De Oriental Spa by Wonder Trip is the place to be if you want hot stone massages and scalp care treatments. Ease your stress with their Rejuvenating Anti-Stress Massage which includes aromatherapy, a hot stone massage, full body stretch, and scalp care.
You can also try their Customized Pain Care which will address your body’s pain trigger points using techniques like acupressure, correction, and a massage.
Before you go, make sure to secure all your travel essentials first!
🇰🇷South Korea Essentials🇰🇷
🚄Trains & Airport Transfers
🚇Transportation & Prepaid Cards
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