South Korea is one of the most rewarding destinations in Asia — incredible food, seamless transport, rich culture, and some of the fastest internet in the world. But a little preparation goes a long way.
Here's the complete checklist for visiting Korea in 2026, from documents to apps to cash tips.
📋 Before You Fly
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Documents & Entry
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Passport Must
Valid for at least 6 months beyond your travel dates. Check expiry well in advance.
K-ETA (Korea Electronic Travel Authorisation) Must
Most nationalities visiting visa-free (including Australia, UK, US, EU) require a K-ETA. Some countries are designated K-ETA waiver nations — check if your passport qualifies on the official K-ETA website →. Apply at least 72 hours before departure. Cost: around USD $10.
Return flight booking Must
Immigration may ask for proof of onward travel. Have your return booking accessible on your phone.
Travel insurance Highly Recommended
Korea has excellent hospitals but healthcare costs can be high for foreigners without insurance.
Accommodation confirmation Nice
Print or save your hotel/Airbnb booking — immigration occasionally asks for it.
💡 K-ETA Tip
K-ETA approval is usually instant but can take up to 72 hours. Apply as soon as your flights are booked — don't leave it to the last minute.
📱 Staying Connected
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Data & Connectivity
Korea eSIM Highly Recommended
Set up your eSIM before you fly. You'll have data the moment you land — no queuing at airport SIM kiosks. Get yours from Roamie Kim →
Check your phone is eSIM-compatible Highly Recommended
iPhone XS (2018) or later, most Samsung Galaxy S20+, Google Pixel 3+. Your phone must also be carrier-unlocked.
Download offline maps Nice
Download Seoul, Busan, or Jeju in Google Maps or NAVER Map for offline use — useful for subways and hiking.
📌 Why eSIM beats airport SIM
Airport SIM kiosks in Incheon have long queues and limited English support. With an eSIM, you're connected the moment your plane lands — no waiting, no hassle.
💳 Money & Payments
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Cash & Cards
Korean Won (KRW) cash Highly Recommended
Many traditional markets (Namdaemun, Gwangjang), small restaurants, and taxis prefer cash. Withdraw from ATMs at convenience stores (GS25, CU, 7-Eleven) — they accept foreign cards.
Notify your bank before travelling Highly Recommended
Let your bank know you're visiting Korea to avoid your card being blocked for suspicious overseas transactions.
T-money or Cashbee card Highly Recommended
Korea's transit card used for subways, buses, and taxis nationwide. Buy at any convenience store for around ₩4,000 and top up as needed. Saves you buying tickets every time.
Wise or Revolut card Nice
Low-fee international cards that give near-perfect exchange rates. Great for larger purchases and avoiding ATM fees.
💡 Exchange Rate Tip
The best exchange rates in Korea are at Myeongdong's private money exchangers — better than banks or airport kiosks. Bring USD or AUD cash to exchange there.
📲 Essential Apps to Download
Download these before you fly — some require Korean phone verification to set up.
🗺️ NAVER Map
The most accurate map for Korea. Better than Google Maps for public transport, walking, and hiking routes.
🚇 Kakao Metro
Real-time subway maps and directions for Seoul, Busan, and other cities. Shows exact arrival times.
🚕 Kakao T
Korea's main ride-hailing app. Works like Uber. Essential for late nights or areas with few taxis.
🌐 Papago
Naver's translation app. Better than Google Translate for Korean — includes camera translation for menus.
🏨 Naver Pay / KakaoPay
Mobile payment apps widely accepted in Korea. Useful if you set them up before arriving.
🍽️ Coupang Eats
Korea's top food delivery app. Great for late-night meals or if you want to try local dishes in your accommodation.
🎒 What to Pack
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Packing Essentials
Universal power adapter Highly Recommended
Korea uses Type C plugs (220V). Australian, UK, and US plugs won't fit without an adapter.
Portable charger (power bank) Highly Recommended
You'll be using maps, translation apps, and taking photos all day. A 10,000mAh power bank is ideal.
Comfortable walking shoes Highly Recommended
Korea involves a LOT of walking — palaces, markets, hiking trails. Bring shoes you've already broken in.
Sunscreen Nice
Korean sunscreen is actually excellent quality and very affordable — you can also buy it there.
Reusable water bottle Nice
Tap water in Korea is safe to drink. Free water dispensers are common in subway stations and public buildings.
Small day bag / cross-body bag Nice
For daily sightseeing. Lockers are available at most major tourist sites and subway stations.
⚡ Quick Tips for First-Timers
- Tipping is not a thing — Korea has no tipping culture. Don't tip at restaurants, taxis, or hotels.
- Shoes you can slip off — Some traditional restaurants and temples require you to remove shoes.
- 7-Elevens are your best friend — Open 24/7, sell food, drinks, ATM access, and T-money top-ups.
- Google Maps can be unreliable — Use NAVER Map for transport directions inside Korea.
- Subway is king — Seoul's subway is cheap, clean, and goes almost everywhere. T-money card makes it effortless.
- English is more common in tourist areas — Myeongdong, Hongdae, and Itaewon have lots of English-friendly restaurants and shops.
⚠️ Don't Forget
Set up your eSIM at home before you fly. It only takes 2 minutes and means you'll have data the moment you land at Incheon — no queuing at kiosks.
All set — now get your Korea eSIM 📱
Stay connected from the moment you land. QR code delivered to your email in minutes.
View Plans from A$9 →