Flights to South Korea

Getting around

KTX high-speed trains link Seoul with Busan in around two and a half hours and with Gyeongju, the old Silla capital, in about two. Jeju, the volcanic holiday island off the south coast, is a short domestic flight away. A rechargeable T-money card covers metros and buses in most cities.

History

The Joseon dynasty ruled Korea from 1392 to 1910 from palaces in Seoul, several of which have been restored. Japan annexed the peninsula in 1910, and after the Second World War it was divided. The Korean War left the border at the Demilitarised Zone, which can be visited on guided tours. Since then, South Korea has become a major economy, known worldwide for its music, film and food.

Mountains, coast and food

Hiking is a national pastime, from Bukhansan on the edge of Seoul to Seoraksan in the east. Busan has beaches, fish markets and hillside villages, and Jeju has lava tubes and the crater of Seongsan Ilchulbong. Barbecue, kimchi and bibimbap are everywhere.

Entry, money and time

British visitors don't need a visa for short holidays, but check whether you need a K-ETA travel authorisation and complete the e-arrival card before you fly. The won is the currency. Traffic drives on the right. South Korea is nine hours ahead of the UK in winter and eight in summer. Check current UK government travel advice and your insurance before you go.

When to go

Spring cherry blossom and autumn colours are the most popular seasons. Summer is hot and wet, with the monsoon in late June and July, and winter cold and dry, with skiing in the eastern mountains. Chuseok, the autumn harvest holiday, and the lunar new year are the busiest times for domestic travel.

Want help planning Seoul with Busan or Jeju? Call 020 7871 4545 and we'll put the flights together.