Practical Korea Travel Guide
Everything international travelers need to know before and during their trip to South Korea: transit cards, SIM cards, payments, etiquette, and 24/7 hotline support.
1. T-money & Public Transit
- T-money Card: Purchase at any convenience store (CU, GS25, 7-Eleven) for 4,000 KRW and top up with cash at subway stations.
- KTX Bullet Trains: Book high-speed train tickets up to 30 days in advance via official Korail website (LetsKorail).
- Navigation Apps: Google Maps is limited for walking/driving directions; download Naver Map or KakaoMap (both support English).
2. WOWPASS & Money Tips
- WOWPASS Card: All-in-one prepaid card for foreign tourists. Exchange foreign currency to KRW and pay everywhere like a local card.
- Credit Cards: Visa and Mastercard are accepted at 99% of shops, cafes, and taxis. Keep some cash for traditional night markets.
3. Connectivity & eSIM
- Unlimited Data eSIM: Reserve SK Telecom, KT, or LG U+ eSIM online before arrival and pick up instantly at Incheon Airport (ICN).
4. Emergency & 24/7 Helpline
- 1330 Korea Travel Helpline: Free 24/7 multilingual support (English, Japanese, Chinese) for translation, directions, and tourist assistance.
- Emergency Numbers: Police 112, Ambulance/Fire 119.