Seoul's Best 100

The top 100 MUST SEE sights of Seoul:
Zone 1
001 Gyeongbokgung (Palace)
002 Changdeokgung (palace)
003 Changdeokgung Garden
004 Jongmyo (Royal Shrine)
005 Changgyeonggung (Palace)
006 Deoksugung (Palace)
007 Gyeonghuigung (Palace)
008 Seoul Museum of History
009 Sungkok Art Museum
010 Seoul Plaza and Gwanghwamun Square
011 Unhyeongung
012 Byeolgunggil
013 Insadong
014 Ssamziegil
015 Bukchon Hanok Village
016 Samcheongdonggil
To be continued…

  1. Hello Betchay,
    I’m finally going to Korea next month for 2 months. I’m wondering if there is a Filipino store in Seoul as I will be away from home, there will be times that I will miss Filipino food and would like to cook some. With the number of Filipinos living in Korea right now, I think there might be more than one and also Filipino restaurants.
    Please advise. Thank you.

    1. Ms. Rosita, help naman po. We’re planning to visit Seoul din po kasi. Plan namin is August or September 2011. How much po ba show money for a tourist visa? 3 or 4 days lang naman kami kasi may work din po kami dito sa Pinas. First time po namin magtravel international ng friends ko eh. Hope you could advise us. Thanks po :p
      Email: marquez_ivankarlo@yahoo.com
      Facebook: Ivan Karlo Marquez

  2. Hello Betchay,
    I’m finally going to Korea next month for 2 months. I’m wondering if there is a Filipino store in Seoul as I will be away from home, there will be times that I will miss Filipino food and would like to cook some. With the number of Filipinos living in Korea right now, I think there might be more than one and also Filipino restaurants.
    Please advise. Thank you.

    1. Ms. Rosita, help naman po. We’re planning to visit Seoul din po kasi. Plan namin is August or September 2011. How much po ba show money for a tourist visa? 3 or 4 days lang naman kami kasi may work din po kami dito sa Pinas. First time po namin magtravel international ng friends ko eh. Hope you could advise us. Thanks po :p
      Email: marquez_ivankarlo@yahoo.com
      Facebook: Ivan Karlo Marquez

  3. Good morning Betchay, i just want to ask if you can help me find a job here in korea.Im living here in Songpa,Seoul Korea and im looking for a job even part time is ok. I’m married to a korean but my husband is working in other country. I finished Bachelors Degree in college major in Customs Administration.
    I hope you can help me,
    Thank you,
    Joan Doh

  4. Good morning Betchay, i just want to ask if you can help me find a job here in korea.Im living here in Songpa,Seoul Korea and im looking for a job even part time is ok. I’m married to a korean but my husband is working in other country. I finished Bachelors Degree in college major in Customs Administration.
    I hope you can help me,
    Thank you,
    Joan Doh

  5. Hi there! I am an English tutor teaching Koreans for quite a long time now, and I am just wondering how much money
    (in pesos) do I need to get to and from Korea and how much pocket money should I take with me for a week’s vacation. Please advice. Am really eager to know. Thanks! Grace Q.

    1. hi Grace! pocket money is relative eh pero siguro this weekend eh magpo-post ako ng sample budget for tourists and sample itinerary na rin… along with a list of must try korean food, etc… ay sana magawa ko… LOL
      as for your money in the bank… wala naman daw kasi guarantee kung magkano ang dapat na pera mo para makakuha ng visa… minsan kahit 30,000 pesos ang nasa banko eh nakakakuha ng visa… meron din iba na nade-deny kahit 300,000 pesos ang pera nila sa banko…

  6. Hi there! I am an English tutor teaching Koreans for quite a long time now, and I am just wondering how much money
    (in pesos) do I need to get to and from Korea and how much pocket money should I take with me for a week’s vacation. Please advice. Am really eager to know. Thanks! Grace Q.

    1. hi Grace! pocket money is relative eh pero siguro this weekend eh magpo-post ako ng sample budget for tourists and sample itinerary na rin… along with a list of must try korean food, etc… ay sana magawa ko… LOL
      as for your money in the bank… wala naman daw kasi guarantee kung magkano ang dapat na pera mo para makakuha ng visa… minsan kahit 30,000 pesos ang nasa banko eh nakakakuha ng visa… meron din iba na nade-deny kahit 300,000 pesos ang pera nila sa banko…

  7. Add ko ulit (mag-suggest ulit ako)
    – Lee-Um Art Museum
    – Nami Island (is that still part of Seoul?)
    – Hyewa dong
    – Myongdong
    – Namsan Tower

  8. Hmm…i’ll try.
    Day 1 — Namsan Tower, Myongdong for shopping, (malapit naman kasi yun sa Namsan. and believe me, you’ll need long hours of shopping at Myongdong, sobrang dami kasi ng shops na fashionable dun)
    Day 2–COEX, go to COEX aquarium. Or… try Han River Cruise if you’re sick and tired of shopping / mall.
    Day 3 — Itaewon for sight-seeing, dining and / or souvernir shopping. Then go to Lee-Um Art Museum since it is near Itaewon.

  9. Hmm…i’ll try.
    Day 1 — Namsan Tower, Myongdong for shopping, (malapit naman kasi yun sa Namsan. and believe me, you’ll need long hours of shopping at Myongdong, sobrang dami kasi ng shops na fashionable dun)
    Day 2–COEX, go to COEX aquarium. Or… try Han River Cruise if you’re sick and tired of shopping / mall.
    Day 3 — Itaewon for sight-seeing, dining and / or souvernir shopping. Then go to Lee-Um Art Museum since it is near Itaewon.

  10. Hi Ms. Betchay! 🙂 My friends and I are planning to visit South Korea by early next year. Do we need to get a visa though we’ll stay there for only a week?

  11. Hi Ms. Betchay! 🙂 My friends and I are planning to visit South Korea by early next year. Do we need to get a visa though we’ll stay there for only a week?

  12. hi…just wanna know..coz im planning to visit in korea this Christmas break..sponsored lang po ako ng friend ko who works in Korea. im a student. my parents don’t have any bank account. is it ok if i could use the bank account of my sponsor? kasi nabasa ko sa requirements.
    God bless

  13. hi…just wanna know..coz im planning to visit in korea this Christmas break..sponsored lang po ako ng friend ko who works in Korea. im a student. my parents don’t have any bank account. is it ok if i could use the bank account of my sponsor? kasi nabasa ko sa requirements.
    God bless

  14. hi ms. betchay….I hope you don’t mind if I ask a few more questions. My friend with 4 kids of 7-15 years will be visiting Korea from Dec 16-20. They plan to go for snow skiing, go to Lotte World, Everland, DMZ and day tour. They’re looking for website for guest houses (cheaper J). Do you recommend any specific place to stay in Korea where it will be convenient for them to go to places by train/bus? Can you please recommend good guest houses that suitable for her family stay?
    Thank you so much.

  15. hi ms. betchay….I hope you don’t mind if I ask a few more questions. My friend with 4 kids of 7-15 years will be visiting Korea from Dec 16-20. They plan to go for snow skiing, go to Lotte World, Everland, DMZ and day tour. They’re looking for website for guest houses (cheaper J). Do you recommend any specific place to stay in Korea where it will be convenient for them to go to places by train/bus? Can you please recommend good guest houses that suitable for her family stay?
    Thank you so much.

  16. Hi, Ms. Betchay!
    We are going in SoKor this Nov.23-26 for a business trip in another city away from Seoul, May I ask lang po what type of clothes should we wear and bring with us? And on the 26th going back na kami, could we make an early check in as early as 10am? for Cebu Pacific, if our flight is 10pm pa, so we could have time to go shopping or sight seeing pa.
    Thank you and God bless u as always!

  17. Hi, Ms. Betchay!
    We are going in SoKor this Nov.23-26 for a business trip in another city away from Seoul, May I ask lang po what type of clothes should we wear and bring with us? And on the 26th going back na kami, could we make an early check in as early as 10am? for Cebu Pacific, if our flight is 10pm pa, so we could have time to go shopping or sight seeing pa.
    Thank you and God bless u as always!

  18. Hello Ms. Betchay,
    ask ko po kung posible po bang maireport ko kung halimbawang may alam akong tao na gumawa ng bagong passport sa ibang pangalan na papunta ngayon sa korea? di kasi magandang halimbawa sa iba na ganun na lang pala kadali gumawa ng ibang papeles sa ibang pangalan para lang makapunta ng ibang bansa. ano po ang dapat kung gawin? salamat.

  19. Hi. I will be visiting korea on April 2011 (Holy week). Can you recommend a place to stay. Cheap but clean hotel in a nice location. May nabasa ako Toyoko Inn Seoul Dongdaemun, is this ok? I will be going with my husband and 2 daughters.
    Are there travel agencies we can go to for local tours of Must-see attractions in Seoul and nearby towns. thanks

    1. Hi Marlette! Toyoko Inn is quite new and most of their clients are Japanese. It’s near the Dongdaemun shopping area and just a few meters from the subway. Hotel Astoria in Chungmuro is also in a nice location (at the base of Namsan). I think if you plan ahead and do some research, you won’t need to hire the services of a travel agency. You can tour on your own. The locals are quite helpful with tourists even if they could hardly speak English.

    2. ms. marlette – will be travelling to korea ALSO this holy week (monday to good friday) with family and 18-month old son. reply with your email and i can send you some tips, places, and itinerary my friend made for us (he is based there). by the way, have you applied for your visa already? did you have to apply individually including for your daughters (i.e. are they minors)? can give you tips for accommodations also as we have been looking around for a places with good deals also

  20. Hi. I will be visiting korea on April 2011 (Holy week). Can you recommend a place to stay. Cheap but clean hotel in a nice location. May nabasa ako Toyoko Inn Seoul Dongdaemun, is this ok? I will be going with my husband and 2 daughters.
    Are there travel agencies we can go to for local tours of Must-see attractions in Seoul and nearby towns. thanks

    1. Hi Marlette! Toyoko Inn is quite new and most of their clients are Japanese. It’s near the Dongdaemun shopping area and just a few meters from the subway. Hotel Astoria in Chungmuro is also in a nice location (at the base of Namsan). I think if you plan ahead and do some research, you won’t need to hire the services of a travel agency. You can tour on your own. The locals are quite helpful with tourists even if they could hardly speak English.

    2. hello for more info you can go and visit itaewon stn.tourist information center and you can also get your some tourist travellers book and subway map from dongdaemun taxi fare is around 10 thou korean won.

    3. ms. marlette – will be travelling to korea ALSO this holy week (monday to good friday) with family and 18-month old son. reply with your email and i can send you some tips, places, and itinerary my friend made for us (he is based there). by the way, have you applied for your visa already? did you have to apply individually including for your daughters (i.e. are they minors)? can give you tips for accommodations also as we have been looking around for a places with good deals also

  21. Hi Ms. Betchay,
    I will be going to South Korea on April 30-May 3, 2011. What clothes should I bring? also are there any special events in Seoul by these dates?
    Thank you.

  22. Hi Ms. Betchay,
    I will be going to South Korea on April 30-May 3, 2011. What clothes should I bring? also are there any special events in Seoul by these dates?
    Thank you.

  23. hello punta po ako korea feb 11 to look for a wedding gowns san po ba pwede pumunta sa seoul? may alam po ba kayo?? thanks…

  24. hello punta po ako korea feb 11 to look for a wedding gowns san po ba pwede pumunta sa seoul? may alam po ba kayo?? thanks…

  25. hello po..mag-ask po sana ko ng advice sa mga nakapagspent na po ng christmas sa seoul.dadalhin ko po kasi ang parents ko this christmas pero di ko po sure kung san maganda punta sa seoul kapag winter. ask din po sana ko kung sobrang taas na po ng snow pag christmas to new year. tska kung tama ok kulang po ang 150k(php) para sa aming 3. salamat po.

    1. hi carla! sandali lang naman ang snow sa Seoul… pero medyo madulas ang daan di ba… enough na yung 150K… why not travel in autumn? mas maganda ang weather

      1. Hi Betchay, sorry po natagalan ako bago nakasagot sa reply niyo..pangarap ko po kasi na makakita ng snow ang parents ko and naisip ko po na pinakamadali na ang Seoul na puntahan para maka-experience sila ng snow kahit sandali lang…may mairerecommend po ba kayong lugar na maganda sa ganitong weather? salamat po uli

  26. hello po..mag-ask po sana ko ng advice sa mga nakapagspent na po ng christmas sa seoul.dadalhin ko po kasi ang parents ko this christmas pero di ko po sure kung san maganda punta sa seoul kapag winter. ask din po sana ko kung sobrang taas na po ng snow pag christmas to new year. tska kung tama ok kulang po ang 150k(php) para sa aming 3. salamat po.

    1. hi carla! sandali lang naman ang snow sa Seoul… pero medyo madulas ang daan di ba… enough na yung 150K… why not travel in autumn? mas maganda ang weather

      1. Hi Betchay, sorry po natagalan ako bago nakasagot sa reply niyo..pangarap ko po kasi na makakita ng snow ang parents ko and naisip ko po na pinakamadali na ang Seoul na puntahan para maka-experience sila ng snow kahit sandali lang…may mairerecommend po ba kayong lugar na maganda sa ganitong weather? salamat po uli

  27. Hello po Ms. Betchay!
    I am visiting Korea this May for 5 days. Any suggested itineraries po or an Agency maybe that accommodates. I just wanna experience Korea’s nature, food and culture.
    I have been wanting to go to Korea for the last couple of years as I find the people friendly, health-conscious and nature lover. Hope you can suggest.
    Thank you so much! =)

  28. Hello po Ms. Betchay!
    I am visiting Korea this May for 5 days. Any suggested itineraries po or an Agency maybe that accommodates. I just wanna experience Korea’s nature, food and culture.
    I have been wanting to go to Korea for the last couple of years as I find the people friendly, health-conscious and nature lover. Hope you can suggest.
    Thank you so much! =)

  29. Hi Ms. Betchay,
    Just browsing re SoKor and found your blog. We’ll be visting Korea this June for 9 days with our 2yo daughter. Can you suggest accommodation na convenient para sa mga a must places to visit. Hope you can help me sa pag gawa ng itinerary. Thanks!

    1. ms. aileen – will be travelling to korea this holy week with family and 18-month old son. reply with your email and i can send you some tips, places, and itinerary my friend made for us (he is based there). by the way, have you applie dfor your visa already? did you have to apply individually including for your daughter?

      1. hi rob sorry for late reply. will apply this end of april for the visa. here’s my email alc219@gmail. com

  30. Hi Ms. Betchay,
    Just browsing re SoKor and found your blog. We’ll be visting Korea this June for 9 days with our 2yo daughter. Can you suggest accommodation na convenient para sa mga a must places to visit. Hope you can help me sa pag gawa ng itinerary. Thanks!

    1. ms. aileen – will be travelling to korea this holy week with family and 18-month old son. reply with your email and i can send you some tips, places, and itinerary my friend made for us (he is based there). by the way, have you applie dfor your visa already? did you have to apply individually including for your daughter?

      1. hi rob sorry for late reply. will apply this end of april for the visa. here’s my email alc219@gmail. com

  31. pa add nmn po just in case na nasa korea na ako me contact po ako sa mga filipino na tga korea salamat poh:)) im just only woundering if how korean life they had.. theres a lot of differences between our country and there country
    advice naman poh natatakot kase ako pag nsa korea na ako ee baka mag bago attitude ng asawa ko to frankly im afraid to hurt me if im stay w/ him n korea n his country madame na poh kc ako naririnig na domestic violence in korea it because of there husband..kc nga wala sila sa sariling bansa keya hindi sila lumalaban advice nmn poh flight ko na kc for this coming week nag da doubt ako na will one of them…. advice poh thanks^^

  32. pa add nmn po just in case na nasa korea na ako me contact po ako sa mga filipino na tga korea salamat poh:)) im just only woundering if how korean life they had.. theres a lot of differences between our country and there country
    advice naman poh natatakot kase ako pag nsa korea na ako ee baka mag bago attitude ng asawa ko to frankly im afraid to hurt me if im stay w/ him n korea n his country madame na poh kc ako naririnig na domestic violence in korea it because of there husband..kc nga wala sila sa sariling bansa keya hindi sila lumalaban advice nmn poh flight ko na kc for this coming week nag da doubt ako na will one of them…. advice poh thanks^^

    1. Unfortunately, the only place I know where you can get authentic Coach bags are at the department stores. My sister sent me one from the US. It was tagged 328 USD but at Lotte Dept. Store it is 430,000 won.

    1. Unfortunately, the only place I know where you can get authentic Coach bags are at the department stores. My sister sent me one from the US. It was tagged 328 USD but at Lotte Dept. Store it is 430,000 won.

  33. hi Betchay,
    I’m Jve from Malaysia…
    I will visit to Korea on next month 20th can i check with u , isn’t still can see the Cherry Blossom at Gangneung City , Yeouido Island or Everland Theme Park…?
    This is my 1st time visit to Korea with my family … my mum would like to see the Cherry Blossom so i afraid her so dissapoint…We hope can see the Cherry Blossom at Korea.

    1. Hi Jve! The cherry blossoms festival at Yeouido will end on April 19 but you can check Gangneung. Or better yet go to Seoul Grand Park (subway line 4)… It isn’t as crowded as Yeouido but the scenery is as beautiful ;p

  34. hi Betchay,
    I’m Jve from Malaysia…
    I will visit to Korea on next month 20th can i check with u , isn’t still can see the Cherry Blossom at Gangneung City , Yeouido Island or Everland Theme Park…?
    This is my 1st time visit to Korea with my family … my mum would like to see the Cherry Blossom so i afraid her so dissapoint…We hope can see the Cherry Blossom at Korea.

    1. Hi Jve! The cherry blossoms festival at Yeouido will end on April 19 but you can check Gangneung. Or better yet go to Seoul Grand Park (subway line 4)… It isn’t as crowded as Yeouido but the scenery is as beautiful ;p

  35. Hi! where is the best place to stay in seoul? ibis hotel is kinda expensive for a small room and also the hotel skypark. We are going there on may 13 to 18. can someone give us an itinerary for 5 days. Thanks

    1. hi guest house is much cheaper and there is a lot of hotel that is not too costlyvisit this site http://www.travellerspoint.com/accomodationseoulkorea
      for your itenerary you try to visit the blue house (presidential House )namsan tower,cheongyocheon stream,byeongbukgong palace ,korean war memorial park ,insadong and dnt forget to drop by at the myeondong shopping district ….im sure you will love the place have fun we will be there in korea on may 17 to may 31.

  36. Hi! where is the best place to stay in seoul? ibis hotel is kinda expensive for a small room and also the hotel skypark. We are going there on may 13 to 18. can someone give us an itinerary for 5 days. Thanks

    1. hi guest house is much cheaper and there is a lot of hotel that is not too costlyvisit this site http://www.travellerspoint.com/accomodationseoulkorea
      for your itenerary you try to visit the blue house (presidential House )namsan tower,cheongyocheon stream,byeongbukgong palace ,korean war memorial park ,insadong and dnt forget to drop by at the myeondong shopping district ….im sure you will love the place have fun we will be there in korea on may 17 to may 31.

  37. Hi Ms. Betchay,
    I will be going to Seoul Korea on April 30-May 3, 2011. What clothes should I bring? Hoping for your fast response. Thank you.

  38. hi betchay.. do you happen to know kung saan yung dream forest. napanood ko kasi ito sa save the last dance.. ang tagal na namin hinahanap ng friend ko yung place na to sa internet

  39. hi betchay.. do you happen to know kung saan yung dream forest. napanood ko kasi ito sa save the last dance.. ang tagal na namin hinahanap ng friend ko yung place na to sa internet

  40. hi po ms. betchay ask ko lng po kung magkano pamasahe sa seol korea? tiaka ano pong mga important na requirements?

    1. For airfare, depends what airlines you’re taking. Try mo kumuha pag merong seat sale lalo na pag sa Cebu Pacific. Makaka-save ka talaga.
      For the requirements, check mo yung tab na “KOREAN VISA FOR FILIPINOS” sa taas ng page.

  41. hi po ms. betchay ask ko lng po kung magkano pamasahe sa seol korea? tiaka ano pong mga important na requirements?

    1. For airfare, depends what airlines you’re taking. Try mo kumuha pag merong seat sale lalo na pag sa Cebu Pacific. Makaka-save ka talaga.
      For the requirements, check mo yung tab na “KOREAN VISA FOR FILIPINOS” sa taas ng page.

  42. hi,
    suggestion please, i got my visa last april 19, 2011, im planning to visit korea for 5 days before classes starts on june, is 50k enough to cover the expenses? (like plane tickets, food, hotel and busfares). tnx if u can help me.

    1. hi Anj,
      magcocomment lang ako… kung pupunta ka dito sa Korea, ok na yang 50k kung nde ka gaanong magsho-shopping… pero I should warn you, maraming shopping places dito sa Korea…
      Kung about naman sa affordable places na pwedeng pasyalan, marami kang mapupuntahan dito lalo na kung ikaw ung tipo na mahilig mag-nature tripping… dun siguro, makakatipid ka.
      Pero kung pupunta ka sa major places dito like Jeju Island, Nami Island, Lotte World, Everland, etc., kukulangin yung 50k mo… considering na kasama na sa 50k ung plane tickets, hotel, food, etc.

      1. mr. r-nel, how much ba ung estimated expenses for like a week or 2 trip in korea..ung parang site seeing lang…

  43. hello, betchay…can you help me find a job in south korea? what are the qualifications and requirements for me to have a good job there? please help me.. here’s my email: kathleen_vallescas@yahoo.com.. thanks a lot. God bless!

  44. hello, betchay…can you help me find a job in south korea? what are the qualifications and requirements for me to have a good job there? please help me.. here’s my email: kathleen_vallescas@yahoo.com.. thanks a lot. God bless!

  45. hello po maam betchay ask ko lng po saan ako pwede mkabili ng ph.food my balak po ako magtinda ng ph food..comments nman ,,maraming salamat po

  46. hello po maam betchay ask ko lng po saan ako pwede mkabili ng ph.food my balak po ako magtinda ng ph food..comments nman ,,maraming salamat po

  47. hi ms. betchay!saw your nami island pics!ganda!i’m planning to go there 1st week of november,autumn na ba by that time?and what’s the easiest way to get there?by bus or by train?i’m planning to stay at hongdae area,hope you can help me.please!!!
    btw are you familiar with KoreaHas in KOrea?yung goodmorning tours,since they offer jisan ski tour,and balak namin iavail,may snow na ba as early as november?hehehe,dami ko question,sorry!hope you can help me..have a nice day!

    1. hi angel you office ne namiseon is located in insadong by bus is much better 19 thou won two way un fare plus un entrance fee sa island and sa ferry boat(:

  48. hi ms. betchay!saw your nami island pics!ganda!i’m planning to go there 1st week of november,autumn na ba by that time?and what’s the easiest way to get there?by bus or by train?i’m planning to stay at hongdae area,hope you can help me.please!!!
    btw are you familiar with KoreaHas in KOrea?yung goodmorning tours,since they offer jisan ski tour,and balak namin iavail,may snow na ba as early as november?hehehe,dami ko question,sorry!hope you can help me..have a nice day!

    1. hi angel you office ne namiseon is located in insadong by bus is much better 19 thou won two way un fare plus un entrance fee sa island and sa ferry boat(:

  49. Hi Ms. betchay 🙂
    I really really want to visit korea.
    ask ko po sana kung magkano ang budget for a tour mga 5days or a week.
    Approximately budget with fare and pang shopping.
    mga 30,000php will do na kaya ? 😀

  50. Hi Ms. betchay 🙂
    I really really want to visit korea.
    ask ko po sana kung magkano ang budget for a tour mga 5days or a week.
    Approximately budget with fare and pang shopping.
    mga 30,000php will do na kaya ? 😀

  51. hi betchay, well be going to busan next year february. Do u have any suggestion on which hotel we can stay (not too much expensive but ok)? and whats the best way or mode of transportation we can use to go to seoul from busan? thanks

  52. hi betchay, well be going to busan next year february. Do u have any suggestion on which hotel we can stay (not too much expensive but ok)? and whats the best way or mode of transportation we can use to go to seoul from busan? thanks

  53. Hi Ms. Betchay, punta kami Seoul with my friends end of August. 5-6 days yata. Ano sample itinerary? May open na ba na ski resort? Salamat.

  54. Hi Ms. Betchay, punta kami Seoul with my friends end of August. 5-6 days yata. Ano sample itinerary? May open na ba na ski resort? Salamat.

    1. Hi Lee! Mga late Nov open ng ski resorts pero pwede mo try PlayDoCi. Yung itinerary will depend on your interests. Some of you might not be interested in historical places, which I would recommend. I will also be making an itinerary for my two sis who will also visit us in late October and I will post it here. Wait for that…

  55. I hope you write the itinerary soon. 🙂 We purchased our tickets for 1st week of october. Do you recommend any budget friendly accommodations? or areas na safe? Thanks!

    1. Hello Emi try to visit seoul walker guest house and Hey backpackers in hongdae area this 2 guest house is nice owner is really so helpful and the location is near everywhere(;

  56. Hi po, ano po ba ang weather dun around march? Makakakita po ba kami ng cherry blossoms during that time? At three days lang po kami halos so mahal po ba ang gagastusin namin in case gusto namin mgpunta sa Jeju-do at Seoul?
    Thanks 🙂

    1. Hi Julas! Late winter na pero hindi pa rin kayo makakakita ng cherry blossoms. Usually first week ng April namumulaklak ang mga puno na ‘to.

  57. Hi po, ano po ba ang weather dun around march? Makakakita po ba kami ng cherry blossoms during that time? At three days lang po kami halos so mahal po ba ang gagastusin namin in case gusto namin mgpunta sa Jeju-do at Seoul?
    Thanks 🙂

    1. Hi Julas! Late winter na pero hindi pa rin kayo makakakita ng cherry blossoms. Usually first week ng April namumulaklak ang mga puno na ‘to.

  58. Ano po ba weather diyan ngayon? We’ll be going there next week (Friday to Monday). Should we bring jackets? Thanks!

  59. Ano po ba weather diyan ngayon? We’ll be going there next week (Friday to Monday). Should we bring jackets? Thanks!

  60. Hi Ms. Betchay, hope you can help me with this.^^
    We plan to be in Seoul by Mar 10-13, and we want to watch Strong Heart! (BIG Lee Seung Gi fanatic!^^) Would you know how can we watch it in the studio? Thanks a lot!^^

  61. Hi Ms. Betchay, hope you can help me with this.^^
    We plan to be in Seoul by Mar 10-13, and we want to watch Strong Heart! (BIG Lee Seung Gi fanatic!^^) Would you know how can we watch it in the studio? Thanks a lot!^^

  62. WOW! Thank you very much for replying! Your blog is very informative and friendly! Hope to hear again from you soon!^^

  63. WOW! Thank you very much for replying! Your blog is very informative and friendly! Hope to hear again from you soon!^^

  64. Hi Betchay,
    I will be visiting Seoul 3-7/9 (first trip, solo) and I wonder if you could help to give me some guides?
    Thanks,
    Joe, Malaysia.

  65. Hi Betchay,
    I will be visiting Seoul 3-7/9 (first trip, solo) and I wonder if you could help to give me some guides?
    Thanks,
    Joe, Malaysia.

  66. hi po ms betchay,
    me and my mom are planning to visit seoul. anong month po ba magandang pumunta dun? yung month/s po na nagssnow sana…?tsaka how much po ang kailangan for 4 days 3 nights stay…? thanks po..

    1. hi eve! the best time to visit korea is in the spring or autumn… i wouldn’t recommend winter… it’s terribly cold and the trees are hibernating… parang walang buhay… pag spring ang sarap sarap lumabas… pag autumn naman ganda rin ng paligid kasi colorful ang mga puno
      as for how much ang kailangan for 4 days 3 nights stay… depende sa inyo yun… pwede kang mag-budget ng 100 USD a day kasama na hostel

  67. hi po ms betchay,
    me and my mom are planning to visit seoul. anong month po ba magandang pumunta dun? yung month/s po na nagssnow sana…?tsaka how much po ang kailangan for 4 days 3 nights stay…? thanks po..

    1. hi eve! the best time to visit korea is in the spring or autumn… i wouldn’t recommend winter… it’s terribly cold and the trees are hibernating… parang walang buhay… pag spring ang sarap sarap lumabas… pag autumn naman ganda rin ng paligid kasi colorful ang mga puno
      as for how much ang kailangan for 4 days 3 nights stay… depende sa inyo yun… pwede kang mag-budget ng 100 USD a day kasama na hostel

  68. hi im aileen, gusto ko sana pong magvacation sa korea, gusto ko lng poh na makahingi ng info about visa process, cost of plane ticket….and other info poh….thank u,im hoping for you reply.god bless you

  69. hi im aileen, gusto ko sana pong magvacation sa korea, gusto ko lng poh na makahingi ng info about visa process, cost of plane ticket….and other info poh….thank u,im hoping for you reply.god bless you

  70. Goodmorning Ms.Betchay. I’ll be waiting for your ‘sample budget for tourists and sample itinerary’ post. We’ll be visiting Korea this Oct.14. I hope you can help us.. do you know some nice and affordable place to stay in Seoul? =) Thanks so much!

  71. Goodmorning Ms.Betchay. I’ll be waiting for your ‘sample budget for tourists and sample itinerary’ post. We’ll be visiting Korea this Oct.14. I hope you can help us.. do you know some nice and affordable place to stay in Seoul? =) Thanks so much!

  72. Hi Miss Betchay,
    Munta kami ken magtour Oct 2-7. Bisa kami sana manalbe korean variety show or music show, makananu po ba kukuwa ticket? Thanks! 🙂

  73. Hi Miss Betchay,
    Munta kami ken magtour Oct 2-7. Bisa kami sana manalbe korean variety show or music show, makananu po ba kukuwa ticket? Thanks! 🙂

  74. hi ms betchay..
    i enjoyed reading your blog. ahh can i ask u to write a itinerary for me.. we will be travelling on korea (4pax) on oct 26-30. we want to visit nami island, everland or lotte world, seoul tower, temples and shopping markets… we are booked at kim’s friends guesthouse near the hongik university…pls pls do help me… ill be waiting for you mail. thanks a lot. god bless!

  75. hi ms betchay..
    i enjoyed reading your blog. ahh can i ask u to write a itinerary for me.. we will be travelling on korea (4pax) on oct 26-30. we want to visit nami island, everland or lotte world, seoul tower, temples and shopping markets… we are booked at kim’s friends guesthouse near the hongik university…pls pls do help me… ill be waiting for you mail. thanks a lot. god bless!

  76. hello, :0)
    my husband and i are planning to have our very late honeymon in seoul..help us naman please, like how much pocket money ang kailangan namin dalhin, and do you know any cheap inn or hotels that we can stay for 5 days?..by the way are you currently residing in Korea?

  77. hello, :0)
    my husband and i are planning to have our very late honeymon in seoul..help us naman please, like how much pocket money ang kailangan namin dalhin, and do you know any cheap inn or hotels that we can stay for 5 days?..by the way are you currently residing in Korea?

  78. ms betchay..
    suggest k nmn ng places esp during christmas time.. winter… iinvite ksi ng sajang ko ung family ko for 7days…
    sobra lamig yun .. sana maka adjust cla sa temperature dito sa korea… ung idea ko plang eh sa everland sa christmas.. ok dw ung fireworks then lotte world its a dome..theme park… then seoul towr… norebang for sing along… at cyempre korean restaurants… location ko yong in…

  79. ms betchay..
    suggest k nmn ng places esp during christmas time.. winter… iinvite ksi ng sajang ko ung family ko for 7days…
    sobra lamig yun .. sana maka adjust cla sa temperature dito sa korea… ung idea ko plang eh sa everland sa christmas.. ok dw ung fireworks then lotte world its a dome..theme park… then seoul towr… norebang for sing along… at cyempre korean restaurants… location ko yong in…

  80. Krizzia
    DAY 1 Gyeongbokgung palace,changdeokgung Palace, Jongmyo Royal Shrine – since magkakatabi sila. then proceed to Namsangol Korean Village after that spend the night in Namsan Seoul Tower
    DAY 2 check out the parks for nature tripping olympic park and dream forest then proceed to COEXmall and agpujeong
    DAy3 Everland since it’s outside seoul you will be spending 1 whole day sa theme park
    DAY 4 check out world cup park/stadium then proceed to Playdoci ( indoor ski and sledding) then try han river cruise by 6pm
    DAY 5 check out insadong, itaewon and dongdaenum for shopping
    hope it helps

  81. Krizzia
    DAY 1 Gyeongbokgung palace,changdeokgung Palace, Jongmyo Royal Shrine – since magkakatabi sila. then proceed to Namsangol Korean Village after that spend the night in Namsan Seoul Tower
    DAY 2 check out the parks for nature tripping olympic park and dream forest then proceed to COEXmall and agpujeong
    DAy3 Everland since it’s outside seoul you will be spending 1 whole day sa theme park
    DAY 4 check out world cup park/stadium then proceed to Playdoci ( indoor ski and sledding) then try han river cruise by 6pm
    DAY 5 check out insadong, itaewon and dongdaenum for shopping
    hope it helps

  82. Hi,
    I hope you can help me out. Would you know where can I buy korean won here in metro manila that has a good exchange rate?
    Thanks!
    Gel

    1. Hi gel, were u able to get the answer for your enquiry? Pls let me know where I could also exchange peso to won thank you.

  83. Hi,
    I hope you can help me out. Would you know where can I buy korean won here in metro manila that has a good exchange rate?
    Thanks!
    Gel

    1. Hi gel, were u able to get the answer for your enquiry? Pls let me know where I could also exchange peso to won thank you.

  84. help naman po sa itinerary.booked a 3d/2n trip on december. will be staying in Yongsan-gu i think. thanks in advance

  85. Hi kiki,
    you can check out the itinerary for krizzia, Since madaming attractions sa seoul 3 days is not enough for you to see them all. It now depends on yoiur preference. you can check it out and decide.
    rap

  86. Hi kiki,
    you can check out the itinerary for krizzia, Since madaming attractions sa seoul 3 days is not enough for you to see them all. It now depends on yoiur preference. you can check it out and decide.
    rap

    1. @rap thank you!
      is it advisable to stay sa hanok house if mid december?di ba super lamig? any place that you can recommend sa bukchon area?

  87. Dear Ms Betchay’
    Balak ko po sana pumunta Sa Seoul Next year khit 4days lng to visit my Bf. What po ba mga requirmnts na kailangan ko po i prepare at magkano po kaya magagastos ko. Thanks po -Pamie

  88. hi,
    we were given a visa for incheon this nov. 21-24,2011,we are coming mostly for sightseeing and a lil shopping.what clothing wear is suitable in this time of year there?thanks

  89. hi,
    we were given a visa for incheon this nov. 21-24,2011,we are coming mostly for sightseeing and a lil shopping.what clothing wear is suitable in this time of year there?thanks

  90. Hello Kabayan,
    I will be going to Seoul by Dec 22 to Jan 02 2012, mag isa lang po ako gusto ko pong mag celebrate ng Christmas Eve sa isang lugar where Christmas Spirit are there. Paki advise po.. Thanks

  91. Hello Kabayan,
    I will be going to Seoul by Dec 22 to Jan 02 2012, mag isa lang po ako gusto ko pong mag celebrate ng Christmas Eve sa isang lugar where Christmas Spirit are there. Paki advise po.. Thanks

  92. Hi!
    we were going to korea this feb, e mejo tight budget kami. Is 18k budget ok per person? 4 kaming pupunta. We already booked a cheap hostel. Beewon Guesthouse. We are planning to go to Nami Island, Everland and den sa mga Palaces na. Thanks!

      1. Hi Ms. Betchay!
        ALmost 4 days po kami. Feb. 17 -20. Feb 17 po ng gabi ang dating namin sa Korea. Gusto dn po sana naming magskiing pero mjeo kulang n dn ng oras and budget.. Hehehe.. And nabasa namin n may snowbuster n sa Everland.
        Thanks!

  93. Hi!
    we were going to korea this feb, e mejo tight budget kami. Is 18k budget ok per person? 4 kaming pupunta. We already booked a cheap hostel. Beewon Guesthouse. We are planning to go to Nami Island, Everland and den sa mga Palaces na. Thanks!

      1. Hi Ms. Betchay!
        ALmost 4 days po kami. Feb. 17 -20. Feb 17 po ng gabi ang dating namin sa Korea. Gusto dn po sana naming magskiing pero mjeo kulang n dn ng oras and budget.. Hehehe.. And nabasa namin n may snowbuster n sa Everland.
        Thanks!

  94. hi Ms. Betchay,
    our visas were granted alreadY! yey! we’re coming early march.
    would like to ask, ano maganda puntahan sa incheon? Balak kse nmin mag-incheon muna bago punta ng seoul.
    Thanks for your response! ^^

    1. Incheon? I think you can visit the Songdo International Freeport Zone. There’s a Hello Kitty Planet there. You may also want to visit Chinatown and Wolmido. At the airport island, you can go to the Full House filming location.

  95. hi, nakabook kami , me and my 17yo daughter for south korea this march 26 to 30, I also booked at TRIA hotel in seoul, i just saw it sa net, is it safe there? I have no idea kasi sa mga hotel dun, and 2 lang kami ng daughter ko…ano b weather by that time? super lamig pb? Haven’t submitted our visa wala p kasi cert of employment ng husband ko, still waiting p ko marelease from saudi..hopefully this week or nxt week makapagsubmit n ko..hoping to receive your reply, tnx..

    1. hi ms cristina:) my friend just got back from s.korea last mon (12mar). accdg to her, the weather is still cold. temp varies from 7 to -2 degrees Celsius. this may last till march since spring usually starts around april-june. light rains maybe expected. it’ll be best if you pack up some winter clothes to keep u & ur daughter warm.oh, & a folded umbrella might come in handy. enjoy ur vacation. don’t forget to visit namsangol village=)

  96. been bothered with the reviews regarding tria hotel, is it true that it looks like a love hotel? (Motel) , is it safe to stay there….hope to receive reply soon, i am planning to change my booking but still thinking…

    1. I found it on Daum and it says that it’s a business and boutique hotel. It’s in Gangnam, which is below the Han River. It usually takes about 30 minutes by subway to go to the tourist spots in downtown Seoul (Gangbuk). Here is the facade…
      Tria Hotel in Gangnam, Seoul

  97. been bothered with the reviews regarding tria hotel, is it true that it looks like a love hotel? (Motel) , is it safe to stay there….hope to receive reply soon, i am planning to change my booking but still thinking…

    1. I found it on Daum and it says that it’s a business and boutique hotel. It’s in Gangnam, which is below the Han River. It usually takes about 30 minutes by subway to go to the tourist spots in downtown Seoul (Gangbuk). Here is the facade…
      Tria Hotel in Gangnam, Seoul

  98. Hi Po Miss Betchay
    Dream country ko po talaga ang Korea… Me and my boyfriend are planning a holiday vacation on April around 3 to 4 days… Is 50K enough budget na ba yan for two? Bali ang ticket namin is di pa kasali sa 50k. Need po ba talaga ang VISA if days lang ang visit?
    Salamat po..:)

    1. Hi ShinAnne! Okay na ang 50K at kailangan mo talaga ang visa kahit isang araw lang (pwera na lang kung andito ko for a layover).

    2. hi, ShinAnne. i think you and your bf will survive korea with your php50K pocket money=). my mom and I enjoyed it with only a php24K pocket money (for the both of us) :). enjoy ur vacation!! im also a fan of that Country. love the palaces! be sure to tour those..godbless

  99. Hi Po Miss Betchay
    Dream country ko po talaga ang Korea… Me and my boyfriend are planning a holiday vacation on April around 3 to 4 days… Is 50K enough budget na ba yan for two? Bali ang ticket namin is di pa kasali sa 50k. Need po ba talaga ang VISA if days lang ang visit?
    Salamat po..:)

    1. hi, ShinAnne. i think you and your bf will survive korea with your php50K pocket money=). my mom and I enjoyed it with only a php24K pocket money (for the both of us) :). enjoy ur vacation!! im also a fan of that Country. love the palaces! be sure to tour those..godbless

  100. Hi! Will be coming to Korea this march 9. Ask ko lang ano weather? Need pa ba ng thermalwear? Thanks!

  101. Hi! Will be coming to Korea this march 9. Ask ko lang ano weather? Need pa ba ng thermalwear? Thanks!

  102. yung friend ko papaunta ng korea anu ba ang wetaher dyan ngayun at anu ba ang dapat nyan dalhin na kalse ng damit..thank you

  103. yung friend ko papaunta ng korea anu ba ang wetaher dyan ngayun at anu ba ang dapat nyan dalhin na kalse ng damit..thank you

  104. Hi Betchay,
    I saw your blog today while searching for some answers to my questions regarding South Korea. I’m leaving on April 7-10, 2012 for the ocular visit in preparation for our incoming board meeting in JW Marriot Hotel.
    May i get your suggestion please on what to wear during these dates? How is the weather there, you know in Manila we are not use to a cold weather. How about the shoes, is rubber shoes (NIKE) ok? Appreciate your quick reply.
    Nice blog and very helpful.

  105. Hi Betchay,
    I saw your blog today while searching for some answers to my questions regarding South Korea. I’m leaving on April 7-10, 2012 for the ocular visit in preparation for our incoming board meeting in JW Marriot Hotel.
    May i get your suggestion please on what to wear during these dates? How is the weather there, you know in Manila we are not use to a cold weather. How about the shoes, is rubber shoes (NIKE) ok? Appreciate your quick reply.
    Nice blog and very helpful.

  106. Hi Betchay,
    I am going to Seoul with my husband for 8 days. Enough na ba ang US$1000 na pocket money for the both of us, excluding the airfare and hotel? Thanks.

  107. Hi Betchay,
    I am going to Seoul with my husband for 8 days. Enough na ba ang US$1000 na pocket money for the both of us, excluding the airfare and hotel? Thanks.

  108. Hello Ms. Betchay! I’m an electronics engineer but I already worked as an ESL/Private tutor for a year. I’m planning to work in Korea. Do you think it’s possible na mag apply ako dun? Di po ba talaga pede ung magpapasa ako ng resume ko sa students ko sa mga companies dun? I already know how to read/write/speak in Korean, sobrang gusto ko tlaga ma experience ang korean culture. I like almost all the Korean foods that I’ve tried. My students want me to go there and they are willing to invite and support me like living in their house. I hope for your reply. THANKS!

  109. Hello Ms. Betchay! I’m an electronics engineer but I already worked as an ESL/Private tutor for a year. I’m planning to work in Korea. Do you think it’s possible na mag apply ako dun? Di po ba talaga pede ung magpapasa ako ng resume ko sa students ko sa mga companies dun? I already know how to read/write/speak in Korean, sobrang gusto ko tlaga ma experience ang korean culture. I like almost all the Korean foods that I’ve tried. My students want me to go there and they are willing to invite and support me like living in their house. I hope for your reply. THANKS!

    1. mas maganda wag mo na palitan ang surname mo… later on kung maging korean citizen ka at mag-change ng name, ganun din

    1. mas maganda wag mo na palitan ang surname mo… later on kung maging korean citizen ka at mag-change ng name, ganun din

  110. Hello po miss betchay im rafael from philippines im freshly grad. (BS HRM) meron po ba filipino resto or any coffee shop na hiring? pangarap ko po talaga mag work sa seoul korea. Dream Country ko po yan at gustong gusto ko ang klima. Sana po matulungan nyo po ako maraming salamat po.

  111. Hello po miss betchay im rafael from philippines im freshly grad. (BS HRM) meron po ba filipino resto or any coffee shop na hiring? pangarap ko po talaga mag work sa seoul korea. Dream Country ko po yan at gustong gusto ko ang klima. Sana po matulungan nyo po ako maraming salamat po.

  112. Greetings! Hello po! Me and my sister are planning to visit Korea this September. How much should we have as our pocket money? Thank you po!

      1. We will be staying for 4 days. Matipid naman po kami. haha But we really like to go to different theme parks there.

        1. Hi Emkei! I would recommend Everland on a weekday. Don’t visit the theme parks on weekends. Weekends = long lines!

  113. Greetings! Hello po! Me and my sister are planning to visit Korea this September. How much should we have as our pocket money? Thank you po!

      1. We will be staying for 4 days. Matipid naman po kami. haha But we really like to go to different theme parks there.

        1. Hi Emkei! I would recommend Everland on a weekday. Don’t visit the theme parks on weekends. Weekends = long lines!

  114. Hello po, may i ask if kelan usually in full bloom ang cherry blossoms during April, can you recommend anong week kami dapat pumunta para makita namin in full bloom? 2nd or 3rd week? Thanks po.

  115. Hello po, may i ask if kelan usually in full bloom ang cherry blossoms during April, can you recommend anong week kami dapat pumunta para makita namin in full bloom? 2nd or 3rd week? Thanks po.

  116. possible bang magkaron ng job sa korea kahit 18 years old lng at high school graduate??????? ty

  117. possible bang magkaron ng job sa korea kahit 18 years old lng at high school graduate??????? ty

  118. Hello po! Ask ko lang po kung magkano po ba ung pocket money para masulit ko ung bisita ko sa seoul? excluded po ung airfare at hotel? mga P30K pwede na po ba? Thanks po, God Bless and more power…

  119. Hello po! Ask ko lang po kung magkano po ba ung pocket money para masulit ko ung bisita ko sa seoul? excluded po ung airfare at hotel? mga P30K pwede na po ba? Thanks po, God Bless and more power…

  120. mahirap po ba talaga ngayon makapunta ang pilipino sa korea?dahil sa scar borough?ano po conect ng away ng china at pilipino sa korea?tama po ba?

    1. Hi melo! Walang connect ang Scarborough issue sa pagbibigay ng Korea ng visa. Mahigpit talaga sila noon pa.

  121. mahirap po ba talaga ngayon makapunta ang pilipino sa korea?dahil sa scar borough?ano po conect ng away ng china at pilipino sa korea?tama po ba?

    1. Hi melo! Walang connect ang Scarborough issue sa pagbibigay ng Korea ng visa. Mahigpit talaga sila noon pa.

  122. mam, good afternoon, may i know the weather in southkorea during july? is it to much too ask for an itinerary for 3 days to nights? thank you very much.

  123. mam, good afternoon, may i know the weather in southkorea during july? is it to much too ask for an itinerary for 3 days to nights? thank you very much.

  124. Dear Ms Betchay,
    My friends and I are visiting SK on 26-30 November and we wish to visit the following places. Can you please help in arranging the groupings of the places per day? Pasensya na po sa abala at maraming salamat. More power!
    – Namsan Tower
    – Namsan Hanok Village
    – Myeongdong
    – Dongdaemun
    – Namdaemun
    – Nami Island
    – KBS Suwon
    – Samcheong-dong
    – Gyeongbok Palace
    – Cheonggyecheon Stream
    Please also suggest other places of interest.

  125. Dear Ms Betchay,
    My friends and I are visiting SK on 26-30 November and we wish to visit the following places. Can you please help in arranging the groupings of the places per day? Pasensya na po sa abala at maraming salamat. More power!
    – Namsan Tower
    – Namsan Hanok Village
    – Myeongdong
    – Dongdaemun
    – Namdaemun
    – Nami Island
    – KBS Suwon
    – Samcheong-dong
    – Gyeongbok Palace
    – Cheonggyecheon Stream
    Please also suggest other places of interest.

  126. Ms Betchay. My Untie and i are planning going in Korea next year (Christmas). How much can i spend money from buying clothes, Souvenir,Hotel,and Foods in Korea? How much is a pair of shoe or Sandals? and the most cheapest hotel or Room that can you give to us. maybe December 25-30, 2013?
    TY.

  127. Ms Betchay. My Untie and i are planning going in Korea next year (Christmas). How much can i spend money from buying clothes, Souvenir,Hotel,and Foods in Korea? How much is a pair of shoe or Sandals? and the most cheapest hotel or Room that can you give to us. maybe December 25-30, 2013?
    TY.

  128. Hi Maria,
    try ko lang kasi i was in seoul last nov 2011.
    1st day siguro is hanok village,namdaemun market then myeongdon since they are near each other.
    2nd you can try gyeongbokgung palace, since it’s a huge palaceyou ‘ll be needing at least 5 hours to walk around and enjoy the place. then namsan tower at night, it’s best to go at night to see the whole of seoul.
    3rd day you can goto nami Island the whole day
    4th day- cheongyecheon, suwon, samcheong dong
    5th day – try visiting olympic park in the morning and a han river cruise at night.
    hope it helps.

  129. Hi Maria,
    try ko lang kasi i was in seoul last nov 2011.
    1st day siguro is hanok village,namdaemun market then myeongdon since they are near each other.
    2nd you can try gyeongbokgung palace, since it’s a huge palaceyou ‘ll be needing at least 5 hours to walk around and enjoy the place. then namsan tower at night, it’s best to go at night to see the whole of seoul.
    3rd day you can goto nami Island the whole day
    4th day- cheongyecheon, suwon, samcheong dong
    5th day – try visiting olympic park in the morning and a han river cruise at night.
    hope it helps.

  130. Hi rapgab,
    Many thanks for your suggested itinerary. This will guide us through. Was it too cold when you were there in November? This will be my first time in Korea, if God permits.
    Maraming salamat ulet 🙂

    1. Hi Maria,
      It’s starting to get cold when I was there 1st and 2nd week of nov. lalo na siguro sa last part of november. I suggest you bring with you some winter clothes na rin just to be ready. Enjoy youre stay in seoul! Such a wonderful place.

  131. Hi rapgab,
    Many thanks for your suggested itinerary. This will guide us through. Was it too cold when you were there in November? This will be my first time in Korea, if God permits.
    Maraming salamat ulet 🙂

    1. Hi Maria,
      It’s starting to get cold when I was there 1st and 2nd week of nov. lalo na siguro sa last part of november. I suggest you bring with you some winter clothes na rin just to be ready. Enjoy youre stay in seoul! Such a wonderful place.

  132. hi ms betchay, me and friends are going to seoul this sep 20. malamig ba ngayon sa seoul? tolerable ba ang weather to wear shorts?

  133. hi ms betchay, me and friends are going to seoul this sep 20. malamig ba ngayon sa seoul? tolerable ba ang weather to wear shorts?

  134. HI MS. BETCHAY…
    will 15k be enough to stroll around sokor. i am planning to go there this comming april 2013…can you give me itenerary where to go to with that amount and how many days do you think will that amount last. by the way how much would it cost for my visa in going there and my airline tickets as well….
    thank you so much and i hope for your reply…more power!:)

  135. HI MS. BETCHAY…
    will 15k be enough to stroll around sokor. i am planning to go there this comming april 2013…can you give me itenerary where to go to with that amount and how many days do you think will that amount last. by the way how much would it cost for my visa in going there and my airline tickets as well….
    thank you so much and i hope for your reply…more power!:)

  136. hi! ate betchay my pwede po kau irecommend na paupahan,,na haws? ung mura lang po..pu2nta po ako jan,,nov. or december para mag work,,kasal po ako sa korean,,asa gyeongsangnamdo po xa now,,nagwo2rk,,sana po maulungan nyo ako na makahanap nang villa na pwede upahan,,bandang anseong or ansan po,,salamat kindly reply,,

  137. hi! ate betchay my pwede po kau irecommend na paupahan,,na haws? ung mura lang po..pu2nta po ako jan,,nov. or december para mag work,,kasal po ako sa korean,,asa gyeongsangnamdo po xa now,,nagwo2rk,,sana po maulungan nyo ako na makahanap nang villa na pwede upahan,,bandang anseong or ansan po,,salamat kindly reply,,

  138. Hi Ms Batchay, am in Siheung, South Korea on a tourist visa to spend time with my girlfriend who works here as an esl teacher ( a non Korean) on an E-2 visa.
    I like the country and i want to stay here with her but my predicament is,I need a job,i have a BA in linguistics,any kind of job,even tutoring i don’t mind and some advice on extending my stay.
    I will appreciate your assistance.
    Thank you.

  139. Hi Ms Batchay, am in Siheung, South Korea on a tourist visa to spend time with my girlfriend who works here as an esl teacher ( a non Korean) on an E-2 visa.
    I like the country and i want to stay here with her but my predicament is,I need a job,i have a BA in linguistics,any kind of job,even tutoring i don’t mind and some advice on extending my stay.
    I will appreciate your assistance.
    Thank you.

  140. i want to work there in korea, but i dont know what should do.. help please…im currently working here in bahrain as admin.. meron kaya akong chance makapunta jan?? help…

  141. i want to work there in korea, but i dont know what should do.. help please…im currently working here in bahrain as admin.. meron kaya akong chance makapunta jan?? help…

  142. hi! good morning, may concern lang po ako sa pag punta sa south korea. Im not working but my boyfriend wants to bring me there .. i dont know what to do.. any suggestion..??? sana masagot nyo po tanong ko 🙁

  143. hi! good morning, may concern lang po ako sa pag punta sa south korea. Im not working but my boyfriend wants to bring me there .. i dont know what to do.. any suggestion..??? sana masagot nyo po tanong ko 🙁

  144. Hello, everyone! I’ll be in Korea for a 7-day vacation, alone! my companion was not granted Visa. I’m hoping to meet folks who are in Korea that can probably show me around. I’m working on an itinerary but would love to also go out with people who are familiar of the area. I’ll be staying in Seoul. 🙂

  145. Hello, everyone! I’ll be in Korea for a 7-day vacation, alone! my companion was not granted Visa. I’m hoping to meet folks who are in Korea that can probably show me around. I’m working on an itinerary but would love to also go out with people who are familiar of the area. I’ll be staying in Seoul. 🙂

  146. im going to to seoul without a tour guide or tour package in end of February 2012, would u like to be our tour guide? I need help in finding budget hotels and transportations.

  147. im going to to seoul without a tour guide or tour package in end of February 2012, would u like to be our tour guide? I need help in finding budget hotels and transportations.

  148. @rhoobz:
    do you have an fb acct? meron kc ako inquiry din sna regarding visa granted & ung s kasama u po n hindi ngrant. thanks

  149. @rhoobz:
    do you have an fb acct? meron kc ako inquiry din sna regarding visa granted & ung s kasama u po n hindi ngrant. thanks

  150. I’m happy to share that I was granted a visitor’s visa. As long as you submit the complete requirements, wala sigurong problema. Regarding bank account statement, hindi din basis ng approval, kasi yung kasama ko has barely P40k in her account pero na-grant din ng visa. It would also help if you have previous travels abroad. Please ensure that you also fill up the visa application form correctly. Good luck to those who have yet to submit their application. No harm in trying!

    1. Hi Maria! Enjoy your vacation here. You’re right, hindi lang ang pera sa bangko ang basis kung mabibigyan ng visa or not. Mas importante ang ties mo sa Pilipinas, gaya ng negosyo o trabaho.

  151. I’m happy to share that I was granted a visitor’s visa. As long as you submit the complete requirements, wala sigurong problema. Regarding bank account statement, hindi din basis ng approval, kasi yung kasama ko has barely P40k in her account pero na-grant din ng visa. It would also help if you have previous travels abroad. Please ensure that you also fill up the visa application form correctly. Good luck to those who have yet to submit their application. No harm in trying!

    1. Hi Maria! Enjoy your vacation here. You’re right, hindi lang ang pera sa bangko ang basis kung mabibigyan ng visa or not. Mas importante ang ties mo sa Pilipinas, gaya ng negosyo o trabaho.

  152. Good PM po ms. Betchay plan po kc namin na mag vacation sa korea in autumn Ano po ba dapat ang unang kunin or mag karoon VISA or Ticket 1st time po kc namin to travel abroad napapaisip po kc ako na baka makabili na kami ng ticket yung sa PISO fare ng Cebu Pcfic tapos bka hindi naman kami ma grant ng Visa kasi kaming tatlo ng cous at sis ko is stop sa school and wlang pa pong trabaho naipon lang talaga kami ng money for this dream trip. OK na po ba yung 20 k each budget ang lagay namin sa bank para sa show money for Visa we are 3 girls all 21 yrs old…thank you po at may ganitong site na tumutulong para sa mga new palang sa travelling abroad and advices..thank you ng marami and more power to your site…

    1. Hi Chana,
      Baka busy si Ms Betchay kaya hindi pa nasasagot ang tanong mo. If I may give my opinion, baka mahirapan kayong makakuha ng visa kung wala kayong trabaho at nakahinto din kayo sa pag-aaral. Kailangan kasing patunayan ninyo sa South Korean Embassy na may sapat kayong pera sa pagbiyahe ninyo. Pero walang masamang sumubok. I suggest na kumuha muna kayo ng visa bago bumili ng ticket. Now, kung ready kayong mag-gamble na bumili muna ng ticket, kung makakakuha kayo ng Piso fare, pwede nyo din gawin na bumili muna ng ticket. Pero walang guaranty na makakakuha kayo ng visa with your situation. Anyways, ito yung mga requirements for students for securing a visitor’s or tourist’s visa:
      Hi Chana,
      FOR STUDENTS WHO WILL TOUR KOREA
      – School certificate (original)
      – Photocopy of School ID
      – Birth certificate (photocopy)
      – Copy of parent’s passport first page
      – Parents bank certificate (original)
      – Parents Employment certificate (original)
      – Parents Income Tax Return (photocopy)
      Kailangan kumpleto yan. Kasi yung pamangkin ng kaibigan ko na newly graduate at mag-one year pa lang sa trabaho, may sapat pa syang pera sa bangko, na-deny ng visa. Hindi kita sinisiraan ng loob pero dapat kumpletohin muna ninyo ang requirements bago nyo i-submit. Kung wala kayong school certificate kasi hindi kayo nag-aaral ngayon, dapat may supporting document din kayo bakit hindi kayo nag-aaral. Pero kung marami siguro kayong pera sa bangko na maipapakita, maaaring ma-grant kayo ng visa. Ipag-pray niyo din. Good luck! 🙂

  153. Good PM po ms. Betchay plan po kc namin na mag vacation sa korea in autumn Ano po ba dapat ang unang kunin or mag karoon VISA or Ticket 1st time po kc namin to travel abroad napapaisip po kc ako na baka makabili na kami ng ticket yung sa PISO fare ng Cebu Pcfic tapos bka hindi naman kami ma grant ng Visa kasi kaming tatlo ng cous at sis ko is stop sa school and wlang pa pong trabaho naipon lang talaga kami ng money for this dream trip. OK na po ba yung 20 k each budget ang lagay namin sa bank para sa show money for Visa we are 3 girls all 21 yrs old…thank you po at may ganitong site na tumutulong para sa mga new palang sa travelling abroad and advices..thank you ng marami and more power to your site…

    1. Hi Chana,
      Baka busy si Ms Betchay kaya hindi pa nasasagot ang tanong mo. If I may give my opinion, baka mahirapan kayong makakuha ng visa kung wala kayong trabaho at nakahinto din kayo sa pag-aaral. Kailangan kasing patunayan ninyo sa South Korean Embassy na may sapat kayong pera sa pagbiyahe ninyo. Pero walang masamang sumubok. I suggest na kumuha muna kayo ng visa bago bumili ng ticket. Now, kung ready kayong mag-gamble na bumili muna ng ticket, kung makakakuha kayo ng Piso fare, pwede nyo din gawin na bumili muna ng ticket. Pero walang guaranty na makakakuha kayo ng visa with your situation. Anyways, ito yung mga requirements for students for securing a visitor’s or tourist’s visa:
      Hi Chana,
      FOR STUDENTS WHO WILL TOUR KOREA
      – School certificate (original)
      – Photocopy of School ID
      – Birth certificate (photocopy)
      – Copy of parent’s passport first page
      – Parents bank certificate (original)
      – Parents Employment certificate (original)
      – Parents Income Tax Return (photocopy)
      Kailangan kumpleto yan. Kasi yung pamangkin ng kaibigan ko na newly graduate at mag-one year pa lang sa trabaho, may sapat pa syang pera sa bangko, na-deny ng visa. Hindi kita sinisiraan ng loob pero dapat kumpletohin muna ninyo ang requirements bago nyo i-submit. Kung wala kayong school certificate kasi hindi kayo nag-aaral ngayon, dapat may supporting document din kayo bakit hindi kayo nag-aaral. Pero kung marami siguro kayong pera sa bangko na maipapakita, maaaring ma-grant kayo ng visa. Ipag-pray niyo din. Good luck! 🙂

  154. Hi Ms, Betcha,
    Good Morning and happened to read your website about korea. My family of four adults are planning to visit Seoul Korea sometime in August. I would like to ask for your guide on where to stay, 3-4 star hotel near myeongdong shopping district and suggested tour for 4 days and 3 nights. AM looking at the following hotels: Grand Hyatt, Westin CHosun, Lotte HOtel and Ibis Myeongdong. My phil travel agent has given me an iteneraries but requires to stay in different hotels. I want a tour that will brings us to nice spots in seoul which does not require for a hotel transfer. I want us to be picked up and brought back to our chosen hotel.
    Thank you and hoping for a reply from your end.
    Have a nice day.
    Edith

    1. Ibis Myeongdong is in Myeongdong so it’s in a really good location. If I were to stay in any of those hotels, I’d choose Grand Hyatt. Their breakfast buffet is really good and it’s in Mt. Namsan. Usually, hotels in Korea offer tours to their guests at a fee.

  155. Hi Ms, Betcha,
    Good Morning and happened to read your website about korea. My family of four adults are planning to visit Seoul Korea sometime in August. I would like to ask for your guide on where to stay, 3-4 star hotel near myeongdong shopping district and suggested tour for 4 days and 3 nights. AM looking at the following hotels: Grand Hyatt, Westin CHosun, Lotte HOtel and Ibis Myeongdong. My phil travel agent has given me an iteneraries but requires to stay in different hotels. I want a tour that will brings us to nice spots in seoul which does not require for a hotel transfer. I want us to be picked up and brought back to our chosen hotel.
    Thank you and hoping for a reply from your end.
    Have a nice day.
    Edith

    1. Ibis Myeongdong is in Myeongdong so it’s in a really good location. If I were to stay in any of those hotels, I’d choose Grand Hyatt. Their breakfast buffet is really good and it’s in Mt. Namsan. Usually, hotels in Korea offer tours to their guests at a fee.

  156. Hello Ms Betchay,
    I was informed today by my Dutch BF who is in Incheon now for his School Ground training at the airport( Captain pilot) that the other pilot who is Swiss national working in Asiana air that he just sent supported invitation letter and his passport with working visa in incheon to his filipina gf and she was granted C-3 visa last year.
    I just want to hear from u if u heard any same case like this?
    thank you and hoping ur reply….:)

  157. Hello Ms Betchay,
    I was informed today by my Dutch BF who is in Incheon now for his School Ground training at the airport( Captain pilot) that the other pilot who is Swiss national working in Asiana air that he just sent supported invitation letter and his passport with working visa in incheon to his filipina gf and she was granted C-3 visa last year.
    I just want to hear from u if u heard any same case like this?
    thank you and hoping ur reply….:)

  158. hi ms betchay ok na po ba yung 20,000 pesos para sa pagkain sa korea 3 days lang namin kami dun… medyo tight budget po kse.

  159. hi ms betchay ok na po ba yung 20,000 pesos para sa pagkain sa korea 3 days lang namin kami dun… medyo tight budget po kse.

  160. i will go korea on october… with long term visa in japan can i work korea for sponsor or part time first time at korea help naman jan tnx

  161. i will go korea on october… with long term visa in japan can i work korea for sponsor or part time first time at korea help naman jan tnx

  162. tnx…) mam betchay pwede nyo bang tulungan asawa ko pakistani tourist visa sya paano makahanap ng agency para employee sa south korea tnx po… sya ay galing jeddah german hospital under ensurance company tnx bago lng po kami kinasal

  163. tnx…) mam betchay pwede nyo bang tulungan asawa ko pakistani tourist visa sya paano makahanap ng agency para employee sa south korea tnx po… sya ay galing jeddah german hospital under ensurance company tnx bago lng po kami kinasal

  164. Hi were going in seoul on november 14 -19 with my friends what is suitable itenerary for us? We are interested on city/nature sight seeing, foods , snow ski if possible..

  165. Hi were going in seoul on november 14 -19 with my friends what is suitable itenerary for us? We are interested on city/nature sight seeing, foods , snow ski if possible..

  166. Hi,
    Ask ko lang how is the weather around March (end) to April (around first week)?
    Also, ask ko lang estimated budget per person if we will tour Seoul only without going to Nami, Jeju, etc? Mga 3-4 days ba ay enough?
    Thanks!

  167. Hi,
    Ask ko lang how is the weather around March (end) to April (around first week)?
    Also, ask ko lang estimated budget per person if we will tour Seoul only without going to Nami, Jeju, etc? Mga 3-4 days ba ay enough?
    Thanks!

  168. hi betchay,
    my friend and i will be in korea this coming 24 nov for 5 days. what would be budget for that stay. we already booked our hotel so it is only the foods that’s matter.
    pls. reply. by the way how’s the weather there, during that period.
    thanks much

    1. Hi! It’s going to be very cold that time. I remember that we had an early snowfall last year, around the end of November. By next week, mornings are going to be below zero! Be sure to bring thick jackets, warm sweater and scarf. As for your budget, that will really depend on how well you spend, but Korea isn’t as expensive as it seems to be. Subway fare is 1,100 won for the first 10 km (44.59 PHP)… a box of Kyochon chicken is 16,000 won (or 648 PHP)… entrance tickets to palaces are only 3,000 won and if you want to go to theme parks, they are in the range of 35-40,000 won. Base taxi fare is 3,000 won.
      At least allot 20,000 won per person per day… that’s only 800 PHP. Remember, that’s minimum…

  169. hi betchay,
    my friend and i will be in korea this coming 24 nov for 5 days. what would be budget for that stay. we already booked our hotel so it is only the foods that’s matter.
    pls. reply. by the way how’s the weather there, during that period.
    thanks much

    1. Hi! It’s going to be very cold that time. I remember that we had an early snowfall last year, around the end of November. By next week, mornings are going to be below zero! Be sure to bring thick jackets, warm sweater and scarf. As for your budget, that will really depend on how well you spend, but Korea isn’t as expensive as it seems to be. Subway fare is 1,100 won for the first 10 km (44.59 PHP)… a box of Kyochon chicken is 16,000 won (or 648 PHP)… entrance tickets to palaces are only 3,000 won and if you want to go to theme parks, they are in the range of 35-40,000 won. Base taxi fare is 3,000 won.
      At least allot 20,000 won per person per day… that’s only 800 PHP. Remember, that’s minimum…

  170. hi bechay,
    i will be at seoul by 28 november 2013 for a 4day visit in a group of four. madali bang mag libot sa city with out a guide? priority naming puntahan ang mga palaces, teddybear museum and lotte park. thank you.
    iking

    1. Yes! Madali maglibot sa Seoul kahit walang guide. At merong mga Tourist Information Centers na pwedeng pagtanungan. Generally, Koreans are friendly and helpful and they would try to help tourists despite language barrier. Wag lang sa mga matatanda ha ;p

      1. hello again, thanks for the info. isa pang tanong? advisable bang magdala ng php peso instead of US dollars? sa hongkong , singapore at kl kasi napakadaling magpapalit ng php peso. salamat ulit.
        iking

  171. hi bechay,
    i will be at seoul by 28 november 2013 for a 4day visit in a group of four. madali bang mag libot sa city with out a guide? priority naming puntahan ang mga palaces, teddybear museum and lotte park. thank you.
    iking

    1. Yes! Madali maglibot sa Seoul kahit walang guide. At merong mga Tourist Information Centers na pwedeng pagtanungan. Generally, Koreans are friendly and helpful and they would try to help tourists despite language barrier. Wag lang sa mga matatanda ha ;p

      1. hello again, thanks for the info. isa pang tanong? advisable bang magdala ng php peso instead of US dollars? sa hongkong , singapore at kl kasi napakadaling magpapalit ng php peso. salamat ulit.
        iking

  172. Hi po! I just wanna ask po kung saan maganda magpapalit ng Phil Peso to Korean Won in Seoul/Incheon po? Nabalitaan ko po kasi na ok magpapalit sa airport pero mababa po rate. Baka po may marerecommend kayo na bank or money exchange store na maganda po rate ng Phil Peso to Won po. First time po kasi ako magtratravel sa Korea. Thanks po in advance!! =)

    1. The best rate is with Korea Exchange Bank. The rate is the same at the airport as it is with other banks. I don’t know of any other place that exchanges Philippine Peso since I have never tried it. Sorry I can’t help you much with this.

    2. I suggest you buy dollars in the Philippines na lang then un ang bitbitin mo pa-korea. Ganun na lang ginagawa namin eh. or ask your bank if you can withdraw money using your atm card sa korea. that’s what i do if i don’t want to bring too much money. may mga international ATM machines naman dun eh 🙂

  173. Hi po! I just wanna ask po kung saan maganda magpapalit ng Phil Peso to Korean Won in Seoul/Incheon po? Nabalitaan ko po kasi na ok magpapalit sa airport pero mababa po rate. Baka po may marerecommend kayo na bank or money exchange store na maganda po rate ng Phil Peso to Won po. First time po kasi ako magtratravel sa Korea. Thanks po in advance!! =)

    1. The best rate is with Korea Exchange Bank. The rate is the same at the airport as it is with other banks. I don’t know of any other place that exchanges Philippine Peso since I have never tried it. Sorry I can’t help you much with this.

    2. I suggest you buy dollars in the Philippines na lang then un ang bitbitin mo pa-korea. Ganun na lang ginagawa namin eh. or ask your bank if you can withdraw money using your atm card sa korea. that’s what i do if i don’t want to bring too much money. may mga international ATM machines naman dun eh 🙂

  174. Hi i got my korean visa (finally) and is planning to visit Seoul next month. My visit in Seoul is actually not as planned as it can be since I just wanted to return a favor for a Korean friend who invited me since she will be leaving Korea for greener pasture. She just want to show me how lovely Korea is. I am just actually bothered as my trip will be tight budget one. I will just ask if you could give me an idea how much should i bring when i have m 7 days tour. I old my friend that i dont need to go to expensive places. Cultural sites is okay with me. Note that i will be staying at my friends house so i do not need to have a hotel. ill be waiting for your reply. Here is my email address ytel_01@yahoo.com. I hop you can help me

    1. Hi! Since you’re staying at your friend’s house, consider your breakfast covered ;p
      If not, you could have a roll of kimbap for 2,500 won or 5,000 won for a breakfast at a kimbap restaurant.
      Allow 7,000 won for other meals (although some places could be cheaper). Samgyupsal goes for 10~15K depending on the restaurant or you could go to a Selfbar for an eat-all-you-can buffet at 10,000 won.
      Tickets to cultural sites are from 1~5K won… not that expensive. Subway fare is 1,100 won one way.
      Plan the places you want to see so you could check how much the prices are beforehand. 30,000 won a day is enough but if you really want to enjoy, I’d say have a budget of 50K a day.
      Some of the places you could visit:
      Deoksugung Palace – 1,000 won
      Gyeongbokgung – 3,000 won (recommended)
      Changdeokgung – 3,000 won (recommended)
      Changgyeonggung – 1,000 won
      Namsan – free (recommended)
      N Tower – 9,000 won
      War Museum – free (recommended)
      Gwanghwamun Plaza – free (recommended)
      Sejong and Lee Sun Shin exhibits at Gwanghwamun – free
      Cheongyecheon (stream in Seoul) – free
      Myeongdong – free for eye shopping
      Namdaemun – free for eye shopping – recommended for souvenirs
      Dongdaemun – free for eye shopping
      Namiseom – 8,000 won
      Namsan Hanok Village – free (recommended)
      Korean Folk Village – 15,000 (recommended)
      Seoul Grand Park – free to walk around; zoo is 3,000; theme garden is 2,000 won
      Cheongwadae (Blue Palace where the president lives) – free but needs booking in advance
      Cheongwadae Sarangchae (the museum near the Blue Palace) – free
      National Assembly – free (recommended)
      Bukcheon Hanok Village – free (recommended)
      Gwangjang Market – free and you must come here for the food!
      Insadong – not as enjoyable as before but free for eye shopping
      Make sure to visit a temple… it’s also free!
      Some of the food that you may want to try:
      Samgyetang (chicken stew) at Tosokchon – not sure of the price now but it was 15,000 won before
      Korean shabu-shabu at Chaesundang – 10,000 won per person
      Samgyupsal – depends where but usually 5,000 ~ 15,000 won or try the buffet at Selfbar for 10,000 won
      Kalbitang – usually 10,000
      Tteokbokki – 2,500 (street)
      Dalk-kochi (chicken barbecue on stick) – 2,000
      In Myeongdong, you could try the bori bap place I always bring my guests to… it’s only 5,000 won and they serve 25 different side dishes. It’s at the back of Sejong Hotel.
      So there…
      For souvenirs… make sure that when you’re in Myeongdong, accept all the freebies from the cosmetics shop. You don’t need to buy anything. Souvenirs are cheapest in Namdaemun

      1. Hi Betchay:
        This is super helpful. I will discuss this with my friend. Ill be there on Feb 13-19 just in case you have any additional tips for me. thank you so much bechay.

  175. Hi i got my korean visa (finally) and is planning to visit Seoul next month. My visit in Seoul is actually not as planned as it can be since I just wanted to return a favor for a Korean friend who invited me since she will be leaving Korea for greener pasture. She just want to show me how lovely Korea is. I am just actually bothered as my trip will be tight budget one. I will just ask if you could give me an idea how much should i bring when i have m 7 days tour. I old my friend that i dont need to go to expensive places. Cultural sites is okay with me. Note that i will be staying at my friends house so i do not need to have a hotel. ill be waiting for your reply. Here is my email address ytel_01@yahoo.com. I hop you can help me

    1. Hi! Since you’re staying at your friend’s house, consider your breakfast covered ;p
      If not, you could have a roll of kimbap for 2,500 won or 5,000 won for a breakfast at a kimbap restaurant.
      Allow 7,000 won for other meals (although some places could be cheaper). Samgyupsal goes for 10~15K depending on the restaurant or you could go to a Selfbar for an eat-all-you-can buffet at 10,000 won.
      Tickets to cultural sites are from 1~5K won… not that expensive. Subway fare is 1,100 won one way.
      Plan the places you want to see so you could check how much the prices are beforehand. 30,000 won a day is enough but if you really want to enjoy, I’d say have a budget of 50K a day.
      Some of the places you could visit:
      Deoksugung Palace – 1,000 won
      Gyeongbokgung – 3,000 won (recommended)
      Changdeokgung – 3,000 won (recommended)
      Changgyeonggung – 1,000 won
      Namsan – free (recommended)
      N Tower – 9,000 won
      War Museum – free (recommended)
      Gwanghwamun Plaza – free (recommended)
      Sejong and Lee Sun Shin exhibits at Gwanghwamun – free
      Cheongyecheon (stream in Seoul) – free
      Myeongdong – free for eye shopping
      Namdaemun – free for eye shopping – recommended for souvenirs
      Dongdaemun – free for eye shopping
      Namiseom – 8,000 won
      Namsan Hanok Village – free (recommended)
      Korean Folk Village – 15,000 (recommended)
      Seoul Grand Park – free to walk around; zoo is 3,000; theme garden is 2,000 won
      Cheongwadae (Blue Palace where the president lives) – free but needs booking in advance
      Cheongwadae Sarangchae (the museum near the Blue Palace) – free
      National Assembly – free (recommended)
      Bukcheon Hanok Village – free (recommended)
      Gwangjang Market – free and you must come here for the food!
      Insadong – not as enjoyable as before but free for eye shopping
      Make sure to visit a temple… it’s also free!
      Some of the food that you may want to try:
      Samgyetang (chicken stew) at Tosokchon – not sure of the price now but it was 15,000 won before
      Korean shabu-shabu at Chaesundang – 10,000 won per person
      Samgyupsal – depends where but usually 5,000 ~ 15,000 won or try the buffet at Selfbar for 10,000 won
      Kalbitang – usually 10,000
      Tteokbokki – 2,500 (street)
      Dalk-kochi (chicken barbecue on stick) – 2,000
      In Myeongdong, you could try the bori bap place I always bring my guests to… it’s only 5,000 won and they serve 25 different side dishes. It’s at the back of Sejong Hotel.
      So there…
      For souvenirs… make sure that when you’re in Myeongdong, accept all the freebies from the cosmetics shop. You don’t need to buy anything. Souvenirs are cheapest in Namdaemun

      1. Hi Betchay:
        This is super helpful. I will discuss this with my friend. Ill be there on Feb 13-19 just in case you have any additional tips for me. thank you so much bechay.

  176. Hi Ma’am,
    Your blogpost has been really helpful. I just wanna know the weather from March 12-20? I’m not sure which clothes to bring lol.

    1. Hi! It’s early spring so be sure to bring a parka or a cardigan that you could wear over long sleeve shirts. Temperature during this time is usually in the 10s in the afternoon, just like Baguio in December (I think).

  177. Hi Ma’am,
    Your blogpost has been really helpful. I just wanna know the weather from March 12-20? I’m not sure which clothes to bring lol.

    1. Hi! It’s early spring so be sure to bring a parka or a cardigan that you could wear over long sleeve shirts. Temperature during this time is usually in the 10s in the afternoon, just like Baguio in December (I think).

  178. Hi Betchay..
    Here i go again… Just want to ask if you could give an advice on what currency should i bring. Should it be won or dollar and then just change there. Another thing, can you give suggestions on what present a Korean father and mother mostly like. Thank you so much

  179. Hi Betchay..
    Here i go again… Just want to ask if you could give an advice on what currency should i bring. Should it be won or dollar and then just change there. Another thing, can you give suggestions on what present a Korean father and mother mostly like. Thank you so much

  180. Dear Ms Betchay,
    Happy New Year! May I ask if you have already been to Busan? If yes, can you please suggest a economical hotel or inn (strategically located, safe and clean), as well as must visit places? Maraming salamat po.

    1. Hi Maria! I’ve been to Busan in 2004 so I’m not really sure how I could help you. We stayed at a condominium along Haeundae Beach on a weekday and we paid less than 50,000 won that time.

      1. hi bechay, every 2 yrs kasi my family is travelling overseas. now we are planning to go to korea. nakakita na ako ng promo fare for nov 1-9. we are 6 in the family. im a mother of four kids. 20 (working), 17, 12 &10. my problem is can i apply for visa as early as today? before sana ako magpa book sa airline? kaso di ba 59 days lang ang free if tourist visa ina applyan mo. di ko tuloy alam ano uunahin ko?natatakot naman akong mag pa book baka di ma approve visa namin.pwede bang mag apply for visa gagamitin sya november pa? please advice.thanks!

        1. Ung visa po ay valid for 3 months lang, parang if it was issued today, kailangan nakapasok na kayo ng Korea by April 23. So I suggest po, kumuha kayo ng visa a month before kayo umalis. Ung ticket naman, mashado ng mahal pag a month before ng alis kayo bumili. What my friends and I always do is we buy ung mga naka promo na fare like sa cebupacific, para kahit po madeny, indi sobrang money ung nasayang.

  181. Dear Ms Betchay,
    Happy New Year! May I ask if you have already been to Busan? If yes, can you please suggest a economical hotel or inn (strategically located, safe and clean), as well as must visit places? Maraming salamat po.

    1. Hi Maria! I’ve been to Busan in 2004 so I’m not really sure how I could help you. We stayed at a condominium along Haeundae Beach on a weekday and we paid less than 50,000 won that time.

      1. hi bechay, every 2 yrs kasi my family is travelling overseas. now we are planning to go to korea. nakakita na ako ng promo fare for nov 1-9. we are 6 in the family. im a mother of four kids. 20 (working), 17, 12 &10. my problem is can i apply for visa as early as today? before sana ako magpa book sa airline? kaso di ba 59 days lang ang free if tourist visa ina applyan mo. di ko tuloy alam ano uunahin ko?natatakot naman akong mag pa book baka di ma approve visa namin.pwede bang mag apply for visa gagamitin sya november pa? please advice.thanks!

        1. Ung visa po ay valid for 3 months lang, parang if it was issued today, kailangan nakapasok na kayo ng Korea by April 23. So I suggest po, kumuha kayo ng visa a month before kayo umalis. Ung ticket naman, mashado ng mahal pag a month before ng alis kayo bumili. What my friends and I always do is we buy ung mga naka promo na fare like sa cebupacific, para kahit po madeny, indi sobrang money ung nasayang.

  182. Hi po, ask ko lang kung meron pa kami pwde puntahan na location either resort or province ung may snow on end of march – 1st april? Thanks