Seoul Traveler Essentials
- Safety rating
- 9/10
- Best time to visit
- April–May (cherry blossoms) and September–November (autumn colors). Winters are very cold.
- Population
- 9.8M
Overview
Seoul is one of Asia's most dynamic capitals — ancient palaces beside K-pop studios, world-leading street food, futuristic skyscrapers, and 24/7 energy.
Getting around
Seoul Metro is extensive, clean, and affordable. T-money card works on metro and buses.
Local etiquette
Bow when greeting, and use both hands when giving or receiving objects, pouring drinks, or exchanging business cards. Remove your shoes before entering homes and many traditional restaurants, and wait for the eldest to begin eating. Never stick chopsticks upright in rice, pour your own drink, or write someone's name in red ink, all of which carry negative connotations.
Safety
Seoul is extremely safe — consistently among the world's safest major cities.