Travel essentials · 2026 edition
Korea, made simple
Eight practical primers that take the friction out of a first Korea trip — visa to wellness, written for visitors who've never been.
- Updated 2026
- 8 topics · 3 phases
- No login needed
Traveling to Korea isn't hard — but the first trip stacks a hundred small unknowns. How do I get K-ETA? Will my card work? How do I call the server? Those small questions add up until departure feels stressful.
This guide answers them in advance. We've split everything into 3 phases — what to handle before you fly, what to do on arrival, and what to know during your stay. All prices and policies reflect 2026.
Before You Fly
Visa, K-ETA, and the paperwork that gets you on the plane.
On Arrival
The first 24 hours — airport to city, transit cards, and apps.
First Time in Korea
The essentials — AREX express, T-money vs WOWPASS, and what to safely skip until day 2.
Read full guideTransportation & Climate Card
Climate Card unlimited pass vs T-money, KTX booking rules, and Seoul subway transfers.
Read full guideConnectivity & Apps
eSIM vs SIM, the Naver Map advantage, and how to hail a Kakao Taxi as a foreigner.
Read full guideMoney & Payment (WOWPASS)
WOWPASS features, foreign credit card acceptance, and why you still need some cash.
Read full guideDuring Your Stay
Manners, safety, and how to use Korea's wellness scene smartly.
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