How to Travel South Korea on a Budget

So, how much does it cost to travel in Korea? Honestly, less than you probably think. You don’t need to spend a lot to have a good time here.

Sure, if you want five-star hotels and fancy tasting menus, the bill adds up fast. But if you’re happy with hostels, street food, and the subway, you can keep your daily Korea travel budget pretty low.

That’s the thing about South Korea. It works for everyone. In this travel guide, I’ll share easy ways to travel Korea on a budget so you can spend less and still see it all.

How Expensive is South Korea?

South Korea isn’t the cheapest destination in Asia, but it doesn’t have to break your budget either. 

I’d put it in the middle: more expensive than Thailand, sometimes even pricier than Japan, but still affordable compared to Europe or the US. How much you spend really depends on how you travel.

Affordable Places to Stay in Korea

Finding somewhere budget-friendly in Korea is easier than you might think. You don’t have to lower your standards to save money either.

If you want the cheapest option, hostel dorms are around ₩30,000–40,000 ($23–30) per night. They’re simple but usually clean, and you’ll often meet other travelers.

For something private, most guesthouses and small hostels charge around $45 USD for a double room. It’s a solid deal if you’re traveling as a couple or with a friend.

A little step up would be budget hotels, which usually cost ₩80,000–100,000 ($60–75) per night. They’re basic but comfortable, with Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and clean bathrooms.

If you’re looking for something cultural, try a hanok guesthouse. These traditional Korean houses start at about ₩90,000 ($68) per night for a private room.

My tip is to stay just outside the busiest tourist zones. In Seoul, moving a few subway stops away from places like Myeongdong or Hongdae usually gets you a better price, and you’re still close enough to the action.

I usually check Booking.com or Agoda for guesthouses, and Expedia is great for budget hotels with reviews.

Cheap Ways to Get Around Korea

Transportation in Korea is super budget-friendly if you do it right.

Start with a T-money card. It’s a little reloadable card you’ll use on subways and buses. Fares are about ₩1,400 ($1) per ride, so you’ll get around all day for just a few dollars. You can even tap it at some shops.

Taxis are handy when you’re tired or it’s late at night, but they start at around ₩4,800 ($3.50) and add up fast. For your Korea budget trip, I’d stick to public transport most of the time.

If you’re moving between cities, you’ve got two good choices.

• The KTX train is fast and comfortable, though not the cheapest.
• Intercity buses take longer, but they cost less.

And for Jeju Island? I usually recommend booking a domestic flight. Prices from Seoul start at about ₩40,000 ($30), and if you book early, it’s often cheaper and faster than a ferry.

Related: South Korea Travel Cost Guide if you want exact numbers.

Cheap Food in South Korea

If you’re trying to keep your South Korea travel budget low, food is the easiest place to save. The best part? You won’t feel like you’re missing out.

Street Food Prices in Korea

You’ll see food stalls on almost every corner, and they’re worth stopping for.

A plate of tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes) or some fish cakes on skewers will usually cost ₩3,000–4,000 ($2–3).

Grab a hot, sugary hotteok pancake for around ₩2,000 ($1.50), and if you’re lucky, you’ll spot bungeo-ppang (those little fish-shaped pastries). They often go for ₩1,000 ($0.75) for a few pieces.

You can snack your way through a market like Gwangjang or Namdaemun and leave full for ₩10,000 ($7.50). If you’re booking a Seoul food tour, Klook often has great options.

Cheap Meals at Local Diners

Want something more filling? Local diners are your best friend.

A big bowl of bibimbap, a bubbling kimchi stew, or a hearty noodle soup usually costs ₩7,000–10,000 ($5–7.50).

And don’t forget the banchan. Those free side dishes keep coming, so you’ll never walk away hungry.

Mid-Range Dining Costs

If you want to sit down somewhere a little nicer, most meals are still very reasonable. Regular restaurants often charge ₩12,000–20,000 ($9–15) per person.

Korean barbecue is the one splurge that’s worth it, and even that usually runs about ₩20,000–25,000 ($15–19) per person. Not bad for grilling meat right at your table.

Coffee and Snacks

Now, here’s where things can sneak up on you.

Cafés are huge in Korea, and it’s easy to get carried away. An Americano or latte usually costs ₩4,500–6,000 ($3.50–4.50), and if you add a slice of cake, you’re looking at another ₩6,000–8,000 ($4.50–6).

I still love café-hopping, but if you’re trying to stick to a budget trip in Korea, it’s better to treat it as an occasional splurge.

So basically, you can eat three solid meals a day for around ₩20,000–30,000 ($15–23) if you mix local spots with street food. That’s pretty great value for the quality you get.

Cheapest Time to Visit South Korea

If you’re planning a budget trip to South Korea, timing makes a big difference.

The cheapest months to visit South Korea are usually late winter (January–February) and early spring (March–April, before cherry blossom season really kicks off). Flights and hotels are lower then because there are fewer tourists.

I always suggest avoiding Chuseok (harvest festival in September) and Seollal (Lunar New Year in January or February) if you’re trying to save. Transport gets packed, prices climb, and even cheap guesthouses fill up fast.

Summer can also cost more, especially July and August, when Koreans head to the beaches.

So if you’re looking for the sweet spot, I’d say late February to mid-March or late October to early December. You’ll get decent weather, cheaper flights, and way fewer crowds. That’s a win for both your wallet and your sanity.

Free Things to Do in South Korea

If you’re keeping your Korea travel budget tight, you’ll love how many things you can do for free. Here are a few I always tell people to check out:

• Palace walks on Cultural Day: You can actually get into places like Gyeongbokgung or Changdeokgung for free if you visit on Cultural Day. Or get in for free with your Hanbok!
• Bukchon Hanok Village: I love wandering these little lanes. You’ll see traditional houses, tiled roofs, and it doesn’t cost you anything.
• Ihwa Mural Village: If you like art, you’ll enjoy this. Murals cover the walls and stairways, and you can spend an hour or two exploring without spending a won.
• Seoul Forest: You can walk, relax, or even pack a picnic. Totally free.
• Bongeunsa Temple in Gangnam: Right in the middle of flashy Gangnam, you’ll find this quiet temple. It’s peaceful, and you don’t need a ticket.
• Seoul Street Arts Festival: If you’re in the city at the right time, you can catch free outdoor performances. It’s lively, colorful, and doesn’t cost a thing.

Cheap Things to Do in South Korea

Not everything is free, but some activities are so cheap you won’t even notice them in your budget. Here’s what I’d put on your list:

• Explore the palaces: Even on regular days, tickets for places like Gyeongbokgung or Changdeokgung cost only ₩3,000–5,000 ($2.50–4). For that little money, you get hours of history and beautiful photo spots.
• Take day trips: Cities like Jeonju or Gyeongju are packed with culture, and entrance fees are usually low. You might spend a few dollars here and there, but the experience is worth so much more.
• Try budget-friendly museums: From quirky local museums to the O’Sulloc Tea Museum on Jeju, many spots charge under ₩10,000 ($7.50). 
• Enjoy cheap eats as part of the fun: I know food technically counts as meals, but eating in Korea is an activity all by itself. For a few dollars, you can sit in a bustling market or grab street food while people-watching, and it doubles as entertainment.

Budget Itineraries for South Korea

3-Day Seoul Budget Itinerary

Seoul is big, fast, and full of cheap things to do. Here’s how I’d plan 3 budget-friendly days in Seoul.

• Start with a palace. I’d go for Gyeongbokgung or Changdeokgung because you get that classic Seoul mix of history and photo spots.
• Take your time wandering Bukchon Hanok Village. The traditional houses and little side streets feel like stepping back in time.
• Head up to Namsan Tower in the evening. The city lights from up there always make Seoul feel bigger than you imagined.
• Don’t skip the markets. Grab a plate of dumplings or spicy rice cakes at Gwangjang Market or snack your way through Myeongdong.

2-Day Busan Budget Itinerary

Busan has a totally different vibe from Seoul. It’s a port city with beaches, fresh seafood, and colorful neighborhoods. Here’s a simple two-day budget plan:

• Spend a lazy morning at Haeundae Beach. It’s one of those places where you can just sit, watch the waves, and feel the city slow down.
• Lunch at Jagalchi Market is a must. The seafood here is fresh and cooked right in front of you.
• In the afternoon, wander the bright alleys of Gamcheon Culture Village. It’s colorful, artsy, and perfect for photos.
• Stay in a guesthouse near the beach so you can walk everywhere without spending extra on rides.

2-Day Jeju Budget Itinerary

Jeju feels more laid-back and natural compared to the cities. It’s known for its landscapes, waterfalls, and markets. This is how I’d do visit Jeju on a budget:

• Start at Dongmun Market. It’s a lively spot with plenty of local snacks to try while you explore.
• Check out a couple of Jeju’s waterfalls, like Cheonjiyeon. They’re easy to get to and beautiful no matter the season.
• If you’re into caves, the lava tubes are worth a visit. It feels like another world under the island.
• Spend a morning hiking Hallasan Mountain. It’s a workout, but the views are worth it.
• Buses run across Jeju, but I recommend renting a car here. It makes the island feel more doable without blowing your budget.

Affordable Shopping in South Korea

Shopping in Korea doesn’t have to empty your wallet. You just need to know where to look.

For affordable fashion, skip the big malls and head to places like Namdaemun Market or Dongdaemun. You’ll find clothes, bags, and shoes for a fraction of what you’d pay in department stores.

If you want trendy but affordable, Hongdae and Ewha Women’s University area are perfect for budget-friendly street style.

Cosmetics are another big one. Every corner has skincare shops, but the best deals usually come from Olive Young sales or bundles at duty-free stores.

If you’re into souvenirs, traditional markets are better than tourist shops. Pick up Korean snacks, keychains, or socks (yes, socks are huge here) for a couple of dollars each.

And if you’re staying longer, check out secondhand apps like Karrot or flea markets, where you can score big bargains.

Payment Tips in South Korea (and Hidden Costs)

Korea is pretty budget-friendly overall, but there are a few extra costs that can catch you off guard:

Cards

You can use Visa or Mastercard almost everywhere, from cafés to department stores. I like carrying a travel debit card (like Wise) so I don’t get hit with big foreign transaction fees. Just keep in mind that some smaller shops or street stalls might still be cash-only.

Cash

It’s always good to have a little cash for markets, mom-and-pop restaurants, or bus rides in rural areas.

ATMs marked “Global” will accept foreign cards, but most charge a fee of ₩3,000–5,000 ($2–4) per withdrawal. To save money, I usually take out a bigger amount at once instead of lots of small ones.

T-money Card

This little transport card is a must for buses, subways, and even some shops.

You can grab one at convenience stores or stations, load it with cash, and tap as you go. It makes travel cheaper and so much easier.

Holiday surcharges

One thing to watch is Korea’s big holidays. During Seollal (Lunar New Year) and Chuseok (harvest festival), train tickets and hotels sell out fast, and prices go up.

The same happens during cherry blossom season in spring and autumn foliage in October and November.

If your trip falls in those windows, book early to keep your budget under control.

Tips to Travel Korea on a Budget

Let’s be honest, nobody likes those budget lists that tell you to skip everything fun. Traveling cheap in Korea doesn’t mean you have to miss out. Here are the tips I actually use.

• Eat where locals eat. Street food, market stalls, and small diners are cheap and filling. A plate of kimbap or a bowl of kimchi stew is usually under ₩10,000 ($7).
• Stick with public transport. Subways and buses are clean, fast, and cost about ₩1,400 ($1) per ride with a T-money card. It’s the easiest way to save.
• Bring a reusable water bottle. Tap water in Korea is safe to drink, so skip buying bottled water every day.
• Mix free and paid activities. Visit palaces, hike mountains, and explore neighborhoods for free. Then spend on big experiences like a DMZ tour or Korean barbecue night.
• Book in advance when you can. KTX tickets, tours, and even some hotels are cheaper if you book early online.