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Hello! This is Sunny from K-Music Note.

So, you're finally planning that dream first trip to Seoul! But after the initial excitement, the panic starts to set in. Flights, SIM cards, transportation, must-have apps... where do you even begin?

If you're feeling lost in a sea of conflicting information, I've got you covered.

This isn't just another list of tips. This is your A-to-Z roadmap, a clear, step-by-step guide that will take you from 3 months before your flight to the moment you land in Seoul. Follow this guide, and I promise your trip planning will be absolutely perfect. Let's get started!

Step 1. Building the Foundation (1-3 Months Before)

First things first. Let's lock down the two biggest pieces of the puzzle: your flight and your accommodation.

Flights: When and How to Buy?

The golden rule of airfare is that booking early almost always saves you money. If you're planning to visit during peak season (spring, autumn, or the end-of-year holidays), you should book at least three months in advance. Use price comparison sites like Skyscanner or Google Flights to scope out the best deals across different airlines.

Accommodation: Where Should You Stay?

Your choice of neighborhood sets the tone for your whole trip. If you want to be in the heart of the shopping and sightseeing action, look at 'Myeongdong'. For a youthful, artistic vibe, choose 'Hongdae'. For a taste of the chic, modern city, go for 'Gangnam'. Don't forget to read the reviews carefully on sites like Agoda and Booking.com!

Visa: Don't Forget Your K-ETA!

Even if you're from a visa-waiver country, you are likely required to apply for a Korea Electronic Travel Authorization (K-ETA) before your trip. You must apply at least 72 hours before departure, so get this done early. You can find the one and only official website below.

▶ Official K-ETA Application Website for the Republic of Korea

Step 2. Getting Ready for Arrival (1-2 Weeks Before)

Now it's time to sort out the essentials you'll need the moment you land: connectivity and transportation. Prepping this now is a pro-level travel hack.

Connectivity: SIM vs. eSIM vs. Pocket Wi-Fi?

You have three main options for staying connected in Korea. Each has clear pros and cons, so pick the one that fits your travel style.

Option	Pros	Cons	Best For
Physical SIM	Most affordable and reliable	Requires swapping out your home SIM	Budget-conscious solo travelers
eSIM	Instantly activate via QR code, super convenient	Slightly pricier, not all phones are compatible	Travelers who prioritize convenience
Pocket Wi-Fi	Connect multiple devices at once	Must carry and charge a separate device	Groups or families traveling together

The easiest method is to book your SIM or eSIM online in advance and pick it up at the airport upon arrival. It's often cheaper to book via sites like Klook or KKday than to buy it on the spot.

Transportation: The T-money Card is Your Key

Seoul’s public transport (subway, buses) is world-class. A single 'T-money' card is all you need to use everything seamlessly, and you even get discounts when you transfer. You can easily buy and top up the card at any airport convenience store or subway station vending machine.

Step 3. Setting Up Your Phone Like a Local (The Day Before)

Your smartphone is your magic wand for navigating a new city. Download these essential apps before you fly to explore Seoul like a pro.

• Maps: Naver Map - This is non-negotiable. Google Maps has limited functionality in South Korea, especially for walking directions. Naver Map is the local standard and works perfectly.
• Taxis: Kakao T - The "Uber of Korea." Use it to hail a taxi from anywhere without worrying about language barriers or getting ripped off.
• Translation: Papago - Incredibly useful for translating menus (using your camera), signs, or having a voice-to-voice conversation with a local.

[Rookie Mistake to Avoid]
So many travelers land in Korea, open Google Maps, and panic when the walking directions don't work. It's a known issue due to local regulations. Save yourself the headache: download Naver Map from the start and star your hotel and must-visit spots before you even leave home. It's a game-changer.

The 3-Line Summary

• 1-3 Months Out: Book your flight and accommodation, and most importantly, complete your K-ETA application.
• 1-2 Weeks Out: Pre-book your SIM/eSIM online for airport pickup. For transport, know that the T-money card is all you'll need.
• Day Before: Ditch Google Maps for 'Naver Map', get 'Kakao T' for taxis, and install 'Papago' for translation. You're all set!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Where's the best place to exchange currency?

A1: The best rates are often at private money changers in areas like Myeongdong. However, for convenience, you can pre-order currency through a banking app for airport pickup or simply withdraw cash from a global ATM at the airport upon arrival.

Q2: What's the electrical voltage and plug type in Korea?

A2: South Korea uses a 220V voltage and the two-round-pin Type F plug (also known as the Europlug). If your country uses a different standard, you will absolutely need a travel adapter.

Q3: Can I use my credit card everywhere? How much cash do I need?

A3: Credit card acceptance is extremely high in Korea; you can use it in almost all shops and restaurants. However, it's wise to carry some cash (perhaps around 100,000 KRW) for small purchases at traditional markets, street food stalls, or for topping up your T-money card.