South Korea is the trendiest travel destination right now. But with so much to see, where do you start? If you are visiting from India or abroad, you might worry about finding vegetarian food or navigating the language barrier.
Here is your curated list of must-do things in South Korea, covering food, shopping, and essential survival tips.
1. Must Eat: Korean Food Guide
Korean food is a total flavor party. While meat is popular, there are incredible options for everyone.
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Korean BBQ: The quintessential experience. Grill thick slices of Samgyeopsal (pork belly).
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Bibimbap: The famous mixed rice bowl. It is delicious with beef, or you can ask for “Yachae” (Vegetable) Bibimbap to keep it fresh and meat-free.
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Tteokbokki: Chewy, spicy rice cakes.
Note: The sauce usually contains fish paste, even if it looks vegetarian.
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Chimaek: Nothing beats this late-night combo of crispy fried chicken and cold beer (Maekju).
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Temple Food: Zen out with a Michelin-star, 100% vegan feast at Balwoo Gongyang.
To tell your host the food is delicious, say “Mashisseoyo” (ma-she-so-yo).
2. Must Buy: The Ultimate Shopping List
Leave space in your suitcase because Seoul is a shopper’s paradise!
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Skincare at Olive Young: Stock up on the world’s best sheet masks, sunscreens, and pimple patches.
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Socks: Korea makes the highest-quality socks. They cost only 1,500 KRW (approx â‚ą90) per pair.
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Ginseng: This famous medicinal root is great for immunity. Buy high-quality sets at Duty-Free shops.
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Cute Stationery: Visit Artbox or Daiso for affordable, adorable pens and planners.
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K-Pop Merch: Find rare albums and light sticks at the Myeong-dong Underground Shopping Center.
3. Must Try: Unique Korean Experiences
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Wear a Hanbok: Rent a traditional dress near the palaces.
Bonus: Wearing a Hanbok gets you free entry into Gyeongbokgung and Changdeokgung palaces.
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Picnic at Han River: Go to Yeouido Hangang Park. Rent a mat, buy instant Ramyeon from a convenience store (CU or GS25), and cook it on the automatic boiling machines by the river.
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Jjimjilbang (Korean Sauna): Visit Cimer Spa or a local bathhouse. Soak in hot tubs and wear the famous “Lamb Head” towel.
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Photo Booths: Take photos at Life4Cut. It’s a huge trend; you get cute printed strips instantly.
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Sing Your Heart Out: Channel your inner K-Pop star in a private Noraebang (karaoke room), it’s the ultimate way to end a night out!
4. Must Know: Logistics & Survival Tips
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Google Maps Doesn’t Work: Google Maps cannot give walking or driving directions. You must download Naver Map or KakaoMap.
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The T-Money Card: It is a reloadable card used for subways, buses, taxis, and even paying at convenience stores. Buy one at the airport upon arrival.
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Translation is Key: Download Papago. It translates Korean much better than Google Translate.
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Power Plugs: Korea uses Type C/F (two round pins). If you are coming from India or the UK, bring a universal travel adapter.
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No Tipping: Tipping is not part of the culture and can sometimes be seen as rude.
5. Must Go Places
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N Seoul Tower: Lock your love padlock on the fence at the top for good luck.
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Starfield Library: The famous “book wall” in Gangnam (COEX Mall).
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Hongdae Street: The center of youth culture, live busking, and dance performances.
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DMZ (Demilitarized Zone): Book a tour to see the border of North and South Korea. It is an intense and educational experience.
Annyeonghi gaseyo! (Safe travels!) 
South Korea is safe, clean, and incredibly fun. Whether you are shopping for skincare or eating spicy noodles by the river, you will love it.
Which part of the trip are you most excited about? Let us know in the comments!
Need help planning? Check out our 7-Day South Korea Itinerary & Visa Guide