Why visit
South Korea layers palaces and hanok villages over high-tech Seoul, adds Busan's beach-city energy, and tops it with temple stays in Gyeongju. K-food and convenience culture make travel unusually frictionless.
Country - Asia
South Korea
culturefoodcityhistory
How to use this result
Use it as a country shortlist
South Korea works best as a first-pass travel idea. Start with the region, season, and themes on this page, then compare flights, entry rules, safety guidance, and local transport before treating it as a real option.
Compare the capital and side trips
Use Seoul as the administrative starting point, then check whether the strongest trip idea is actually the capital, a coastal area, a nature route, or another city in South Korea.
At a glance
Location
37.0°, 127.5°
Coast
Has coastline
Country area
100,210 km²
38,691 mi²
Country population
51.6 million
515/km²
Subregion
Eastern Asia
Currency
South Korean won (₩)
KRW
Dial
+82
Language
Korean
Demonym
South Korean
Internet
.kr
UN
Member state
ISO code
KR / KOR
Where in the world
37.0° - 127.5°
South Korea
Open in Google Maps
Click the map to open in Google Maps. Outline via svg-maps/world - CC BY 4.0
Did you know
- South Korea has the fastest average internet speeds on earth.
- Seoul has 11,000+ convenience stores: one for every ~900 people.
- Korean age adds ~1–2 years to Western age: you are 1 the day you are born and gain a year every Jan 1st.
Bordering South Korea
Traveler notes
- K-ETA online authorization for most visitors
- Seoul + Busan + Jeju covers the country in 10 days
- Autumn foliage peaks late October in the mountains
Plan checks
- Start research with the capital Seoul, then compare two or three other regions.
- Check passport validity, visa rules, health requirements, and travel insurance for current conditions.
- Reserve top restaurants 2–4 weeks out and plan two standout meals per city.
- Check opening days. Major sites close on Mondays or Tuesdays in many countries.
Explore more
Facts last reviewed June 2026 against GeoNames and national statistics sources. See the editorial policy for how destination data is maintained.
Frequently asked about South Korea
What is the capital of South Korea?
Seoul is the capital of South Korea.
What currency does South Korea use?
South Korea uses the South Korean won (₩), ISO code KRW.
What languages are spoken in South Korea?
The primary language is Korean.
Is South Korea landlocked?
No, South Korea has a coastline.
What countries border South Korea?
South Korea borders North Korea.
What is the international calling code for South Korea?
The calling code is +82.
When is the best time to visit South Korea?
Apr, Sep–Oct. Check current weather and local events before booking.
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