Is South Korea Worth Visiting? My Honest Review in 2026

South Korea was one of my favorite destinations in all of my travels last year! And honestly, I had zero intention of visiting at first. I thought it might be too expensive and it just seemed kind of out of the way, but after spotting a super cheap flight from Tokyo, I decided to end my Japan trip with a quick little hop over to Korea (perks of being a travel blogger, I guess? haha).

And maybe you’re thinking the same thing I was… is Korea worth visiting? It’s been getting way more popular recently thanks to K-pop, K-dramas, and honestly even things like Demon Hunters blowing up online. Suddenly it feels like everyone has Seoul on their bucket list.

But is it ACTUALLY worth it? Is it similar to its neighbors, or does it have those “wait, this is INSANE” moments that make a trip unforgettable? And I mean, if you can’t already tell, I definitely think it’s worth it, but this guide will help you figure out if Korea is the right destination for you, with the real pros, cons, and what to expect.

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Is Korea Worth Visiting? My Honest Review in 2026

Is South Korea Worth Visiting? My Quick Answer

So I can’t even pretend this was a hard decision for me to come to… Seoul has genuinely become my favorite city in Asia. Even Busan down south was amazing, so for me, South Korea is 100% worth visiting.

I had 10 days to explore and managed to see three totally different cities, each one full of surprises. I also visited the DMZ, which was seriously a once-in-a-lifetime experience… I mean, when else am I going to see North Koreans casually riding their bikes around? It was wild.

Between the night markets, next-level shopping, and the most stunning palaces (and I’m saying that after seeing temples in Japan just days before), Korea felt completely unique. The architecture, the energy, the culture… it was all so special. Honestly, I think just about anyone could find something to love here, so if you’re asking me? Book that ticket!!!

What Visiting South Korea is Like

Before we get into the pros and cons, I want to give you a little glimpse into what kind of trip you can actually expect in Korea. I genuinely loved my days there because nothing felt insanely rushed. Compared to Japan and China, where I felt like I was constantly running around like a chicken with my head cut off, Korea was just… easier.

Yes, Seoul is still a big city, but it’s nothing like the chaos of the other two. To me, it felt way more chill. There aren’t a million “must-see” sights you have to sprint between, and the handful of touristy spots are honestly pretty easy to fit into your day without overplanning everything.

Most days in Korea started with a cafe, then a few neighborhood strolls, some amazing food, maybe a street market, and nights spent grilling meat and having a beer. It felt less like I was ticking off attractions and more like I was just blending into life there for a bit, which is probably why I loved it so much. Now, if you’re someone who needs 100 activities packed into every day, you can travel that way… but you might find Korea a little slower-paced than you expect.

5 Reasons to Visit Korea

If you’re still on the fence about whether Korea deserves a spot on your travel list, let me make it easy for you.

These are the biggest reasons I think South Korea is absolutely worth visiting, from the culture to the food to the overall vibe.

1. Korean Culture

I don’t think there’s a single person who hasn’t heard Gangnam Style at least once in their life, and honestly… that was kind of the beginning of Korean culture really making its way into the West. Since then, K-pop has become huge, K-dramas have taken over everyone’s watchlist, and now Netflix is even dropping things like K-pop Demon Hunters (which was awesome, by the way). Korean pop culture has never been more everywhere than it is right now.

And getting to actually visit the country and experience it in real life is such a big reason Korea is worth the trip. It made me feel so much more connected to the culture beyond just what you see online.

But what makes Korea really special is that it’s not only modern pop culture. The historical side is just as fascinating, and you’ll see it everywhere, from stunning traditional palaces to quiet old neighborhoods tucked right into the middle of the city. Korea does that perfect mix of old and new, and it’s honestly such a fun destination for all kinds of travelers. Kids will love the K-pop relevance, and parents will be just as obsessed with the architecture and history.

2. It’s Super Easy to Travel Around

South Korea is a relatively small country, and the transportation system is seriously amazing. That makes it such a great destination for actually exploring beyond just Seoul. I was able to hop on a train for about two hours and suddenly I was at the coast, and it was super affordable too.

There are also comfortable buses going all over the country, so getting from city to city is genuinely simple and stress-free. And once you’re actually in the cities, public transportation is just as good. The metro is cheap, easy to navigate, and everything is clearly marked in English, so you can zip around without constantly worrying about getting lost.

3. The Food Is Amazing

If you like spicy food like me, then Korean food is basically going to make all your dreams come true. Everything I ate was so good… Korean fried chicken, BBQ, street food, you name it. Honestly, I don’t think I had a single bad meal the entire trip.

And even if you’re not a huge spice person, there are so many amazing food options like hand-cut noodle soups, fresh kimbap, and bibimbap bowls loaded with veggies that will absolutely hit the spot.

Food is such a huge part of Korean culture, and so much of life revolves around sharing meals with friends, grilling meat together, and having a soju or two. Whether you’re snacking your way through a night market or sitting down for BBQ on a chilly evening, you’re going to be blown away.

4. Diversity of the Cities

Like I mentioned, I was able to travel to three different cities in just one trip — Seoul, Busan, and Gyeongju — and they all felt completely different. Seoul had the big city lights and that nonstop energy where something is always happening, Busan gave me beachy coastal vibes, and Gyeongju was much more cultural and nature-filled.

It honestly felt like I got a little taste of everything Korea has to offer, which is why this country can appeal to so many different types of travelers. And if you’re visiting during the warmer months, you can even hop on a quick flight to Jeju Island for a totally different experience, with crystal-clear water, volcanic landscapes, and some seriously epic hiking.

5. Korea Feels Totally Unique

Korea was honestly different than anywhere I’d been before. I expected it to feel similar to Japan, but it really didn’t. Yes, it has that futuristic side with amazing public transportation, clean streets, and super advanced technology, but at the same time it still feels a little more raw and real… like it has more edge.

The markets are still super traditional, even the touristy ones, and the city just feels more lived-in. There’s this mix of modern and old-school that makes it feel exciting without being overly polished.

And one thing I really loved was how relaxed it felt compared to Japan. In Japan, the social rules can feel a bit intense sometimes, like not eating or drinking while walking. Korea felt way more free in that sense, people are out here with iced coffees, snacking on the go, just living their lives. But it never felt messy or unsafe, just more human.

I don’t know… it’s hard to explain, but Korea really has its own vibe, and that’s what made it so special.

5 Reasons You Might Not Want to Visit Korea

None of these are dealbreakers in my opinion… but they are worth considering, especially if you’re a newer traveler, traveling solo for the first time, or just want a super easy, zero-stress trip.

1. The Language Barrier

In Seoul, you’ll be totally fine most of the time, especially in touristy areas. But once you get outside of that bubble, English definitely drops off. There were moments where menus were only in Korean, subway announcements moved a little too fast, or I had to do a lot of awkward pointing and smiling.

People are still super helpful, but it’s not like some destinations where English is everywhere. Having Papago downloaded is basically a must, it’s the best translation app for Korea.

2. Some Apps Don’t Work the Way You Expect

This one surprised me the most. Google Maps, which I rely on so heavily when I travel, just isn’t that reliable in Korea. Directions can be off, walking routes don’t always work, and it can get frustrating when you’re trying to find a cafe down a tiny alley.

Locals mostly use apps like Naver Maps or Kakao, so you may have to adjust a little at the start. It’s not a huge problem once you get used to it, but it’s definitely not as seamless as Japan.

3. It’s Not the Cheapest Destination

Korea isn’t outrageously expensive, but it’s also not a budget backpacker paradise either. Seoul in particular can add up quickly, especially when it comes to accommodation. And don’t even get me started on shopping… you will be tempted.

Food and public transport are pretty affordable, but overall it’s more of a mid-range destination than a cheap one.

4. It’s More City-Focused Than Nature

If you’re dreaming of beaches, jungle, or nature-heavy adventures every day, Korea might feel a little more urban than expected. The main highlights are definitely the cities, neighborhoods, cafes, markets, and food culture.

You can find nature (and places like Jeju are amazing), but Korea is very much a city-lover’s destination at its core.

5. It’s Not a “Big Tourist Attraction” Place

This is a big one. Korea isn’t like Paris where you have ten iconic landmarks to tick off, or Rome where every corner has some ancient ruin. The magic of Korea is more in the everyday moments… wandering through cool neighborhoods, stumbling into markets, eating the best street food of your life, and soaking up the atmosphere.

If you’re someone who needs huge bucket-list sights every single day, Korea might feel a little slower paced. It’s more about the vibe than the checklist.

Best Things to Do in Korea

If you’re still not totally sure based on the pros and cons, here’s a quick glimpse at some of the best things to do in Korea that might help you decide.

For me, once I saw that you could take a DMZ tour, I knew I had to visit Seoul… it was instantly bucket-list level. So maybe all you need is a little inspiration to picture what your trip could actually look like.

Take a DMZ Tour

Visiting the DMZ was genuinely one of the most surreal things I’ve ever done while traveling. Standing that close to North Korea feels unreal, and it’s one of those experiences you can’t really compare to anything else. If you’re even slightly interested in history or politics, this alone is a reason to visit Seoul.

Book the exact DMZ tour I did here!

Explore Seoul’s Neighborhoods

One of the best things about Seoul is that every neighborhood feels like its own little world. You can go from trendy streets packed with shops and cafes to quiet traditional alleyways in the same afternoon. Honestly, just wandering around is one of the best ways to experience the city. Check out my guide to is Seoul Worth Visiting here!

Visit a Traditional Palace

Korea’s palaces are seriously stunning, and they feel completely different from the temples I saw in Japan. Walking through places like Gyeongbokgung or Changdeokgung makes you realize how much history is sitting right in the middle of modern Seoul. It’s such a cool old-meets-new moment.

Eat Your Way Through a Night Market

The night markets in Korea are unreal, even if you show up with zero plan. There’s food everywhere, the energy is so fun, and you’ll want to try a little bit of everything. It’s one of the easiest ways to have a memorable night without doing anything fancy.

Do Korean BBQ (At Least Once… or Five Times)

Korean BBQ isn’t just a meal, it’s basically an event. Sitting around a grill with meat sizzling, side dishes covering the table, and a cold beer or soju is such a classic Korea experience. Even if you think you’ve had BBQ before, it hits different here.

Take a Quick Trip to Busan

If you want a break from the city, Busan is the perfect coastal escape. You get beaches, seafood, colorful neighborhoods, and a totally different pace compared to Seoul. It’s super easy to reach by train, so it makes an amazing add-on to your itinerary.

Spend a Day Café Hopping

Korea’s café culture is next level, and it’s honestly one of the best parts of traveling there. Cafes aren’t just places to grab coffee, they’re full-on experiences, from hanok-style tea houses to wildly creative dessert spots. It’s the perfect way to slow down and enjoy the vibe.

Escape to Jeju Island

If you’re visiting in warmer months, Jeju is like Korea’s little adventure island. It has volcanic landscapes, crystal-clear water, black sand beaches, and some of the best hiking in the country. It feels like a totally different side of Korea and makes an incredible trip extension.

Visit Gyeongju for History and Nature

Gyeongju felt like stepping into Korea’s past, with ancient tombs, temples, and peaceful landscapes everywhere. It’s much slower and quieter than Seoul, which makes it such a nice contrast. If you want to see the cultural side of Korea, this is the place.

Who Should Visit Korea

If you love discovering cute cafes, wandering through different neighborhoods, and just getting a little lost in the best way, then you will absolutely thrive in Korea. It’s the kind of place where your days can feel relaxed but still exciting, like you’re just soaking up everyday life instead of sprinting between tourist attractions. If you enjoy street markets, late-night food, and cities that feel lived-in and real, Korea is such a good match.

It’s also perfect for travelers who want something a little different. Korea doesn’t feel like Japan, it doesn’t feel like China, and it definitely doesn’t feel like anywhere in Southeast Asia… it really has its own vibe. So if you’re craving a destination that feels unique, modern but still traditional, and full of small surprises every day, Korea is 100% worth putting on your list.

Who Shouldn’t Visit Korea

If you’re someone who needs big, iconic tourist attractions every single day, Korea might not be the perfect fit. The country is much more about the vibe, the neighborhoods, the food, and everyday experiences rather than nonstop bucket-list landmarks. You can definitely sightsee, but it’s not a destination where you’re ticking off world-famous monuments from morning to night.

It also might not be ideal if you’re looking for a super cheap, beachy, laid-back trip. Korea is more city-focused, and while it can be relaxing, it’s not the kind of place you go to do nothing but sit by the ocean for a week. And if the idea of navigating a bit of a language barrier or adjusting to different apps and travel systems stresses you out, it may feel a little overwhelming at first.

FAQ: Why Visit South Korea?

Is South Korea friendly to tourists?

Yes, South Korea is very tourist-friendly, especially in major cities like Seoul and Busan. People might not always speak perfect English, but locals are generally kind, helpful, and used to visitors. Plus, the country feels extremely safe and easy to navigate once you get the hang of it.

What are the pros and cons of visiting South Korea?

The biggest pros are the food, the culture, the modern cities, and how easy it is to travel around. Korea has such a unique vibe that feels different from anywhere else in Asia. The cons are mostly small things like the language barrier, some apps not working, and it not being the cheapest destination compared to places like Thailand or Vietnam.

Is Korea expensive to visit?

Korea isn’t a super budget destination, but it’s not outrageously expensive either. Accommodation in Seoul can add up, and shopping is definitely tempting, but food and public transportation are very affordable. Overall, it’s more of a mid-range trip rather than a cheap backpacker one.

Is Korea worth visiting after Japan?

Absolutely, and this is exactly what I did. I flew from Tokyo to Seoul for less than $100, and it was such an awesome way to experience how different the two countries feel, even though they’re so close. Korea has its own vibe, its own food culture, and a much more relaxed, lived-in energy compared to Japan. You can also easily fly straight into Busan if you want to start your trip on the coast instead of in the capital.

Final Thought on Is Korea Worth Visiting?

As much as I wish I could’ve made this article a little less biased… I honestly can’t help it. I absolutely fell in love with Korea, and I already can’t wait to go back, so for me it’s a 10/10 worth visiting.

Even with the few reasons I mentioned that might make someone hesitate, I really don’t think any of them are strong enough to skip a trip here (and trust me, I tried hard to find real cons okay!!). Korea is just one of those destinations that surprises you in the best way, whether you’re there for the food, the culture, the cities, or just the overall vibe.

I really hope this guide helped you figure out if Korea is the right place for you… and honestly, I have a feeling it is. And if you’re ready to start planning, make sure to check out my Korea itinerary to help map out your days, because I’m almost positive you’re going to have the best time.