Top 10 Seoul Travel Tips: Tech Hacks, Street Food, and Social Etiquette
“Prague never lets you go… this dear little mother has sharp claws.”
Seoul is a high-speed collision of ancient palaces and neon-lit skyscrapers. It’s a place where you can visit a 14th-century temple in the morning and a 24-hour robot-run cafe at night. But Seul operates on its own digital ecosystem—standard apps you use elsewhere might not work here.
To navigate the "Miracle on the Han River" like a local, you need to be tech-ready and culturally aware. Here is your essential guide to conquering Seoul.
1.
Google Maps Won't Help You Here
Due to national security laws, Google Maps does not work for walking or driving directions in South Korea. It’s frustrating for tourists.
The Hack: Download Naver Map or KakaoMap. These are the local giants and offer perfect real-time data for subways, buses, and walking paths. Also, download Papago for translation; it’s far more accurate for Korean than Google Translate.
2.
Get a T-Money Card Immediately
You cannot pay for buses or subways with cash in Seoul.
The Rule: Buy a T-Money card at any 7-Eleven or CU convenience store as soon as you arrive. You can use it for all public transport and even pay at convenience stores and some taxis. Remember to tap your card when you get on AND when you get off!
3.
The Mystery of the Missing Trash Cans
One thing you’ll notice quickly: there are almost no public trash cans on the streets of Seoul.
The Hack: Koreans carry their trash with them until they find a bathroom, a subway station, or go back to their hotel. Alternatively, look for a 7-Eleven; they usually have bins outside or inside. Whatever you do, do not leave trash on the street—it is highly frowned upon.
4.
Dress Code: Shoulders vs. Legs
Seoul is fashion-forward but culturally specific.
The Rule: Showing a lot of leg (short skirts/shorts) is perfectly acceptable and very common. However, showing a lot of cleavage or bare shoulders (tank tops) is still considered somewhat "provocative" in many areas. If you want to blend in, keep your tops more modest.
5.
Eat at "Gwangjang Market" for Authenticity
Myeongdong is famous for street food, but it’s overpriced and built for tourists.
The Hack: For a real local experience, go to Gwangjang Market. Sit at a crowded stall and try Mayak Kimbap (addictive rice rolls), Bindaetteok (mung bean pancakes), and Sannakji if you’re brave. It’s cheaper, louder, and much more delicious.
6.
Escalator Etiquette: Stand on the Right
Seoul is a city of efficiency.
The Rule: On escalators (especially in the subway), stand on the right side if you are stationary. The left side is strictly for people who are walking/climbing. If you stand on the left and block the path, expect a gentle (or not-so-gentle) nudge from a busy commuter.
7.
Visit the Palaces in a Hanbok for Free
Seoul has five grand palaces, and Gyeongbokgung is the largest.
The Hack: If you rent and wear a Hanbok (traditional Korean dress), you get free admission to all the palaces. There are hundreds of rental shops nearby. It’s a great way to take incredible photos and save on ticket fees.
8.
Don't Tip (It’s Not Expected)
Like in Japan, tipping is not part of the culture in South Korea.
The Rule: The price on the menu is the price you pay. Service workers are paid a fair wage, and leaving extra money might actually cause confusion. A simple "Kamsahamnida" (Thank you) is the best way to show appreciation.
9.
Use the "Climate Card" for Unlimited Rides
If you are staying in Seoul for a few days and plan to move around a lot, look for the Climate Card.
The Hack: It’s a new tourist-friendly pass that offers unlimited rides on the Seoul subway and buses for a fixed price (available for 1, 3, or 5 days). It can save you a significant amount of money compared to individual T-Money charges.
10.
The 24-Hour Culture: Cafes and Delivery
Seoul truly never sleeps. Most neighborhoods have 24-hour cafes, study rooms, and restaurants.
The Tip: If you are hungry at 3 AM, you can use the Baedal Minjok (Baemin) app to have anything—from fried chicken to ice cream—delivered to your hotel door. It’s the ultimate Seoul luxury.
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