Planning a trip to South Korea in 2025? Whether you’re visiting for the vibrant city life in Seoul, the breathtaking nature of Jeju Island, or the rich cultural history of Gyeongju, being properly prepared will make your trip smoother and more enjoyable.
Here’s the ultimate travel essentials checklist to help you pack smart and have an unforgettable experience in Korea!
1 Travel Documents & Entry Requirements
What You Need:
Passport – Ensure it’s valid for at least 6 months from your travel date.
K-ETA (Korea Electronic Travel Authorization) – Required for visa-free travelers from eligible countries. Apply online before your trip.
Visa (if applicable) – Check if your country requires a visa for entry.
Copy of Travel Itinerary & Hotel Booking – Some immigration officers may ask for proof of your stay.
Pro Tip: Always have both digital and printed copies of your documents.
How to Apply for K-ETA? Visit the official website: www.k-eta.go.kr
2 Transportation Essentials
Must-Have Travel Cards & Apps:
T-Money Card – Korea’s universal transportation card for subways, buses, and even taxis.
Korea Tour Card – A special T-Money card with additional tourist discounts on attractions and shopping.
Kakao T App – For calling taxis (Uber is not widely used in Korea).
Naver Maps or Kakao Maps – Google Maps doesn’t work well for directions in Korea.
Pro Tip: Buy a T-Money card at convenience stores (GS25, CU, 7-Eleven) or at Incheon Airport upon arrival.
3 Money & Payment Options
How to Pay in Korea?
Credit & Debit Cards – Visa, Mastercard, and American Express are widely accepted.
Korean Won (KRW) Cash – Some local markets, street food stalls, and taxis only accept cash.
Currency Exchange – Best rates are found in Myeongdong or at major banks (KEB Hana, Shinhan, Woori Bank).
Pro Tip: Always keep ₩10,000–50,000 KRW in cash for small purchases and emergencies.
4 SIM Card & Wi-Fi Options
Stay Connected in Korea:
Prepaid SIM Card – Available at Incheon Airport, convenience stores, and online.
eSIM for Korea – Skip the hassle and activate an eSIM before your trip.
Portable Wi-Fi Router – Ideal for groups or travelers needing unlimited data.
Best Providers: KT, SK Telecom, LG U+
Pro Tip: If you’re staying less than 30 days, renting a portable Wi-Fi device may be cheaper than a SIM card.
5 Essential Packing List for Korea
Clothes & Seasonal Essentials
Korea has four distinct seasons:
Spring (March–May) – Light jackets, sneakers, sunglasses
Summer (June–August) – Breathable clothes, sunscreen, portable fan
Autumn (September–November) – Sweaters, windbreakers, comfortable walking shoes
Winter (December–February) – Thermal wear, heavy coat, gloves, heat packs
Pro Tip: If visiting in summer, bring a portable fan & cooling wipes—Korea gets very humid!
Toiletries & Skincare Essentials
Toothbrush & toothpaste (not always provided in hotels)
Shampoo & body wash (hotels may provide, but not always)
Skincare products – Korean air can be dry, especially in winter
Sunscreen – A must, even in colder months!
Deodorant – Hard to find in Korea, so bring your own.
Pro Tip: Korea is a skincare paradise—you can buy local brands like Innisfree, Laneige, and COSRX at Olive Young!
6 Must-Have Travel Gadgets
Universal Power Adapter (Korea uses 220V, Type C & F plugs)
Portable Charger (Power Bank) for long sightseeing days
Noise-Canceling Headphones (for subways and flights)
Camera or Smartphone with Good Storage – You’ll take tons of photos!
Pro Tip: Buy a Korean power adapter before your trip—international ones may not fit snugly into Korean outlets.
7 Health & Safety Essentials
Better Safe Than Sorry:
Travel Insurance – Medical costs in Korea can be expensive for foreigners.
Personal Medications – Bring prescriptions with a doctor’s note if necessary.
First Aid Kit – Band-aids, pain relievers, cold medicine, and motion sickness pills.
Face Masks – Still commonly worn in public transport & hospitals.
Pro Tip: Emergency Number in Korea: 1339 (Medical Helpline) & 112 (Police)
8 Shopping & Souvenirs
Where to Shop in Korea?
Myeongdong – Best for skincare, cosmetics, and fashion.
Hongdae – Trendy streetwear & K-pop merch.
Insadong – Traditional souvenirs & tea.
Dongdaemun – Late-night fashion markets.
Pro Tip: Always ask for tax-free shopping if spending over ₩30,000 KRW in a single store.
Final Checklist Before You Fly
Passport & K-ETA – Essential for entry
SIM Card / Wi-Fi – Stay connected
T-Money Card – For easy transportation
Cash & Credit Cards – Not all places take cards
Power Adapter & Travel Essentials – Be prepared!
By packing smart, you’ll be ready for an amazing adventure in South Korea!
What’s your must-have travel item for Korea? Let us know in the comments!
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