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Before you land in Korea: transport, maps and booking basics

What first-time visitors should prepare — without relying on outdated travel hacks.

FIELD NOTES / KOREA04
01

Check entry conditions for your own passport

Visa, arrival-document and eligibility rules depend on nationality, travel purpose and date. Do not rely on an old blog post claiming every visitor follows the same rules. Use your government's guidance and current official Korean immigration sources.

If your trip includes family members with different passports, check each person's circumstances separately.

02

Plan the first trip from the airport to the hotel

Look up the arrival airport, your hotel’s exact address and the time your flight lands. Compare rail, bus and taxi options with current schedules, especially if you arrive late or travel with bulky luggage.

A useful first-day plan is intentionally light: reach your accommodation, eat nearby and leave time to recover.

03

Use live mapping and booking information

Save attraction names in Korean as well as English for easier searching and communication. Use a Korean-focused map alongside general map tools, and verify journey times close to departure rather than treating an AI estimate as live traffic data.

For intercity trains, use KORAIL's official booking website. It is a reference for train availability and fares, not an affiliate promotion.

04

Money, connectivity and accessibility

Check whether your payment cards work internationally, consider a backup payment method and compare eSIM or roaming options before leaving. A small amount of local currency can still be useful.

For wheelchair access, allergies or other specific needs, verify directly with each venue. A generic itinerary cannot guarantee accessibility or food safety.

Check official sources

Transport, prices, closures and entry rules change. Verify time-sensitive details with current official information before your trip.

VISITKOREA · Official visitor guidance KORAIL · Official train information