Subway, Money Exchange, Wi-Fi & Cultural Etiquette Guide ✨
Planning your first trip to South Korea? Welcome! π
Korea is a vibrant and modern country full of rich culture, delicious food, and efficient public transportation.
But if it’s your first time visiting, you might feel a little overwhelmed.
Don’t worry — this guide is here to help you travel smoothly and confidently! πΌ✈️
π 1. How to Use the Subway in Korea
✔️ Get a T-money Card
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Purchase at convenience stores (GS25, CU, 7-Eleven) or subway stations
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Rechargeable transportation card used on subways, buses, and even taxis!
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You can check your balance and recharge via the T-money app π±
✔️ Subway Tips
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English signs and announcements are available on most lines
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Download KakaoMetro or Naver Map for accurate routes and transfer info
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Be quiet and polite on the train — avoid phone calls and loud conversations
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Don’t sit in priority seats unless you’re elderly or pregnant π ♀️
π± 2. Money Exchange & Payment Tips
✔️ Exchange Currency
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Avoid airport exchange booths if possible — use Myeongdong or Itaewon for better rates
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Major banks like KB, Shinhan, and Woori Bank also offer currency exchange
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Consider using Wise or Revolut for international payments
✔️ Credit Card & Cash
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Credit/debit cards are widely accepted at shops, restaurants, and even taxis
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Small street vendors or traditional markets may be cash-only, so carry some KRW
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Ask for tax-free receipts when shopping — refunds available at the airport!
πΆ 3. Wi-Fi, SIM & Pocket Wi-Fi
✔️ Free Wi-Fi
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Available at many public places: cafΓ©s, subways, and shopping malls
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For secure connection, a local SIM or pocket Wi-Fi is more reliable π
✔️ SIM or eSIM Card
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Buy at the airport or pre-order via websites like Klook or Trazy
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Available in different durations: 5 days, 10 days, 30 days, etc.
✔️ Pocket Wi-Fi
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Great for groups traveling together
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Rent and return at the airport, or check if your hotel provides one
π± 4. Food & Dining Tips
✔️ Spicy Korean Food
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Dishes like kimchi stew, tteokbokki, and buldak can be spicy πΆ️
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If you're not a fan of spicy food, say: “Not spicy, please”
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Try: bibimbap, bulgogi, and Korean BBQ — widely loved by travelers
✔️ Vegetarian or Vegan?
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Korean cuisine often includes meat or seafood, even in soups and stews
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Use apps like HappyCow to find vegetarian-friendly restaurants
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Say: “Please no meat” = “Gogi bae juseyo” (κ³ κΈ° λΉΌ μ£ΌμΈμ)
π 5. Shopping & Tax Refund
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Ask for tax-free receipts at stores with "TAX FREE" sign
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Show passport at checkout for instant refund or collect receipts
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Claim tax refund at the airport kiosk before departure
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Some stores offer extra discounts for foreign tourists, just show your passport!
π 6. Korean Etiquette to Remember
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π Bow slightly when greeting — it’s a polite way to say hello
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π Take off your shoes when entering homes, some restaurants, and temples
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π£️ Use polite language like “thank you” (κ°μ¬ν©λλ€ / gamsahamnida)
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π Smiling and respectful behavior go a long way!
π± 7. Recommended Travel Apps
| Purpose | Recommended Apps |
|---|---|
| Subway & Transport | KakaoMetro, Naver Map |
| Navigation | KakaoMap, Google Maps |
| Food Delivery | Baemin (λ°°λ¬μλ―Όμ‘±), Yogiyo |
| Translation | Papago, Google Translate |
| Taxi Booking | Kakao T |
| SIM/Router Booking | Klook, Trazy |
π¬ Final Thoughts
South Korea is an amazing mix of tradition and technology — from centuries-old palaces to cutting-edge cafes! ☕️π±
With a little preparation, even first-time travelers can enjoy a safe, comfortable, and unforgettable trip.
Don’t be afraid to explore, smile, and say “Annyeonghaseyo!” π°π·
If you have any more questions, feel free to comment below —
Happy travels and see you in Korea! π«πΈ
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