There are several ways to travel to South Korea on a budget. First, when booking flights, using low-cost carriers (LCC) can significantly reduce your expenses. Major Korean LCCs include Jeju Air, Jin Air, and T’way Air. Additionally, traveling during the off-peak seasons, typically from March to May and September to November, can help you find cheaper flights and accommodations. When booking flights, it’s advantageous to use comparison sites like Skyscanner, Google Flights, and Kayak to find the best deals.
For accommodation, consider staying in guesthouses and hostels, which are affordable and clean. You can find these easily in major cities like Seoul, Busan, and Jeju. Business hotels are also a good option, offering clean and comfortable stays at reasonable prices. Additionally, Airbnb can be a great way to find budget-friendly accommodations.
Transportation costs can be managed by using transportation cards like T-money or Cashbee, which offer cheaper fares for buses and subways. For long-distance travel, booking high-speed trains (KTX, SRT) in advance or using discount promotions can save money. Intercity buses are another economical and convenient option for traveling between cities.
When it comes to food, Korean street food is both cheap and delicious. Enjoy a variety of snacks such as tteokbokki, hotteok, and bungeoppang. Small eateries, known as "bunsikjip," offer affordable and tasty Korean dishes. Additionally, Korean buffet restaurants provide a variety of foods at a reasonable price.
To save on attractions, consider purchasing city passes like the Seoul City Pass or Discover Seoul Pass, which offer discounted entry to major tourist sites. Many attractions in Korea are free or inexpensive, such as the Han River parks, Gyeongbokgung Palace, and Changdeokgung Palace, along with numerous museums and art galleries.
For shopping, make use of duty-free shops where you can purchase items at tax-exempt prices, especially in areas like Myeongdong and Gangnam. Traditional markets like Namdaemun Market, Dongdaemun Market, and Gwangjang Market offer local goods and souvenirs at affordable prices.
Finally, utilize local discount apps and websites like Coupang, WeMakePrice, and Tmon to find deals on food, shopping, and activities. By following these tips and planning ahead, you can enjoy a budget-friendly trip to South Korea.