Thanks to a number of new agreements recently concluded between South Korea and the Russian Federation, a visa to Korea for Russians in 2020 will not be required if the period of stay does not exceed sixty days, the purpose of the visit can be anything.
For a longer visit, an entry visa is made in advance at the Embassy of South Korea or at the Consulates located in the cities of St. Petersburg, Vladivostok, Irkutsk. Also, travel agencies accredited at the Embassy have the right to apply for a Korean visa.
The Republic of Korea is one of the four "Asian Tigers" - the most economically developed countries in the region.
The need to obtain a Korean visa
For Russians who plan to visit the state for the purpose of tourism, a private visit (to friends or family, for other personal purposes), a business trip, transit, a visa to South Korea not required if their stay is short. That is, the rules of a visa-free regime are in force, when, when crossing the border, a corresponding entry stamp is simply put into a foreign passport. If a long visit, study, work or long-term treatment is planned, then an application for a visa to South Korea must be submitted in advance in Russia.
It should be remembered that South Korea and North Korea are two different states that are still in a state of military conflict (no peace treaty has been signed between them). North Korea's visa legislation differs significantly from that of its southern neighbor. It is not easy to get to North Korea, and if it does, then severe restrictions are imposed on the movement of a foreigner. Do you need a visa to North Korea or not - there is an unequivocal answer to this question: yes, you do. This issue will be discussed later.
Visa-free entry
South Korea is becoming an increasingly attractive tourist destination for Russians, especially those who live in South Siberia or the Far East. For example, residents of Vladivostok, Khabarovsk and Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky travel to Seoul much less in time than to Moscow. Moreover, many Russian companies have business ties with South Korean partners, which in turn have economic interests in the Russian Federation.
To simplify bureaucratic procedures, a mutual visa-free regime border crossing. Now you do not need to worry about whether you need a visa to South Korea for short-term visits and calmly get ready for a trip - the borders are open.
Documents for visa-free entry
To cross the border without hindrance, a citizen of the Russian Federation will need to present only a few documents:
- A current international passport, which is valid for another six months ( the report comes from the moment of entry into the state, and not from the moment of departure, as in many other states);
- A pre-filled migration card, which is issued while still on board the aircraft (or other transport by which the passenger arrives in the state);
- Customs declaration (even if there is nothing to declare, this document still needs to be filled out);
- Return tickets from South Korea for any transport (it can be both air tickets and ship tickets), or travel documents to a third country if a foreigner is traveling in transit;
- Confirmation of the availability of money for a stay in South Korea, or confirmation of solvency (a paid reservation from a hotel, a printout from a bank account, from a credit card valid in the state, cash, and so on).
Korean border guards are not very picky about the citizens of the Russian Federation, they do not arrange a thorough examination and examination of documents. The procedure is often quick and formal, and the process takes several minutes.
Migration card
This is a small form in which personal information about the newcomer is entered, his address while in South Korea, and passport details. It is easy to fill it out, if you have any questions or difficulties, you can contact the flight attendant (on the plane), or the border guard officers at the airport.
Customs declaration
Completing this form will require a little knowledge of english language... All columns must be marked with an "X" if the traveler is unlucky with him:
- Animals;
- Plants;
- Any products for sale;
- Weapons;
- Money in excess of USD 10,000 (or KRW 10,000);
- Other things prohibited for import.
If you have difficulty filling out the declaration, you should ask the personnel of the aircraft or ship for help. If such an opportunity is not given, then you can turn to a compatriot or a foreigner who speaks English.
Traveling with children
Children are also subject to visa-free travel regulations. In order for a minor child to safely enter the country, his parents only need a birth certificate (this requirement is not mandatory, but it is better to take it with you)
For a child who travels with one parent, a power of attorney is required, allowing him to be taken out of the country from the other parent. The same nome applies to legal guardians.
If a long-term visa to Korea is required for a child, then it is obtained according to the same rules as for adults.
Types of entry visas to Korea
If the purpose of a trip to South Korea requires a long-term stay (for example, work under a contract or study), then the question of whether a visa to Korea is needed is not worth it - it must be obtained in advance at the Embassy of South Korea or at the Consulates of the country. Visas are assigned different categories depending on the purpose and duration of stay: D, E, H, F-4.
Work visa (D, E, H)
South Korea is a developed country with a fairly strong economy, progressive innovations and many practical areas that drive science. That is why a work visa to Korea for Russians in 2020 can be available only to those professional specialists who have high qualifications, in-demand knowledge and relevant experience. Competent managers and narrow specialists can also apply for employment in South Korea (and hence for the appropriate level of payment).
It should be remembered that there are candidates for vacant positions in the country, but if a Korean employer still wants to hire a foreigner, then he has the right to do so.
A work visa to Korea is made not only on the basis of an official invitation from the employing company, it can also be obtained by submitting an application to the Embassy, \u200b\u200b(in this case not yet having an employment contract). This option is more difficult, but it can also be implemented.
Student visa (D, E, H)
Such a document will be required for students who want to study in South Korea. There is a list of Universities that have the right to accept foreign students for study... It can be viewed on the website of the Korean Embassy (it is updated periodically).
Visa for foreign compatriots (F-4)
Such a visa is intended for Koreans who permanently reside in other countries, but not everyone is eligible for such a document. Only highly qualified workers, masters and graduate students with a scientific degree, or employees of South Korean companies who have previously worked in the country and have shown themselves on the good side can receive this type of visa.
Researcher Visa (E-1, E-3, E-5)
Such a visa will be required for a narrow circle of people who conduct scientific research, conduct any research activities. This type of visa is easiest to obtain if you justify the purpose of your visit at the Embassy. You can clarify the possibility of issuing a document on the website of the Korean mission
A visa to Korea for researchers can be issued online, in this case, in response to a request, an electronic document is sent (if the visa is approved), which must be shown at passport control.
Features of long-term visas
To be able to apply for a long-term visa to South Korea, you need to provide confirmation that a citizen of the Russian Federation has a guarantor on the territory of this state. It can be either an employing company (in the case of a work visa) or an individual (friend, relative) who is a citizen or resident of South Korea.
The guarantor submits an application to the Immigration Service, after which the visa applicant is allowed to submit papers to the Consular Section of the Embassy (Consulate) in Moscow or other cities.
Documents for a long-term visa
The list of required documents for a long-term visa to South Korea is not very long. You will need to provide:
- Questionnaire completed in English and Korean (two copies of the form - one in English, the other in Korean);
- Passport, which must be valid for another six months (these 6 months are counted from the moment of leaving the country), with free space for sticking a visa;
- A copy of the spread of the passport with personal data and photograph;
- If you have an old passport with Schengen visas, as well as visas from Canada, USA, Japan, Australia, you will need a copy of it;
- Photo 35 x 45 mm with standard parameters on a light background, the head size should occupy 80% of the image;
- An invitation from an employer / individual / university.
Hotel or other accommodation reservations are not requested.
Sample completed visa application form for the Republic of Korea
Application procedure
The applicant can bring the necessary documents personally to the representative office of South Korea, as well as send from any place (region) of Russia using the Pony Express service.
After submitting the papers, you just need to wait for a decision. Korean immigration law does not require financial information, job certificates, or bank statements. In this sense, it is quite loyal to the Russians.
Validity of visas
Any visa to South Korea for Russians has its own validity period. After this period, there is a convenient possibility to extend the document.
Extension of a visa
If the visa to Korea has expired, then it can be extended without leaving the state. All documents are subject to this rule except for visa categories E-1, E-3, E-5. The Republic of Korea Immigration Service deals with renewal issues.
The cost
Each visa to Korea has its own price, the actual amounts are shown in the table below.
If the documents are sent via Pony Express, then the cost of shipping services will be added to the consular fee.
Processing time
Obtaining a long-term visa to Korea for Russians will take from 10 days to 4 weeks, depending on the completeness of the package of necessary documents.
Visa for North Korea
You can get a visa to North Korea in two cases: if you go on a group organized tour or as an individual tourist, who will be assigned a professional Korean guide. A foreigner is not given the right to travel within the country.
If a foreigner wants to visit North Korea, it will not be easy to obtain a visa, it is generally impossible to do it on your own. The country continues to build communism under the leadership of the permanent ruling Kim clan, which has established a total dictatorship on the territory of the state. In order not to shake the foundations of their power, the leadership restricts the entry of foreigners as much as possible.
In the case of a group tour, the visa is issued by a tour operator who is officially recognized by the North Korean authorities. If an individual trip is planned, then it can also be made only with a tour operator, which in this case will act as an applicant for a visa to North Korea.
The visa application is reviewed for a month, and a usual tourist application form must be filled in as many as 3 languages: Russian, Korean and English... The North Korean Embassy in the Russian Federation does not even have a website, so no more or less correct examples or tips cannot be viewed, from which the conclusion is drawn - in the presence of such barriers, most likely, independent tourists in North Korea are not welcome, a visit is possible only through an approved tour operator.
conclusions
South Korea is of great interest among tourists from Russia. The country has everything - beach holidays, megacities, and natural attractions. The simplified entry regime, which has become possible since 2014, eliminates many formalities and wasted time when planning a trip. Russians who regret going on vacation (or with other whole people) to this country need to remember the following main points:
- Now you do not need to worry about whether you need a visa to Korea for a short tourist trip - according to the new legislation, it is allowed to stay for 2 months without first obtaining an entry document at the Embassy;
- The Korean authorities are loyal to Russian tourists; for a trip to the country you do not need to collect an endless list of documents to confirm your intentions or connection with your homeland;
- Unlike some countries (primarily the Schengen area), the Immigration Visa Service does not consider every person arriving from another country as a potential illegal, therefore, viewing documents at the border is rather a formal procedure, but nevertheless, you must always have a complete list of documents with you ;
- When visiting North Korea, you need to take into account the peculiarities of this country: you cannot use a mobile phone, the Internet, travel without a guide, scold the current leader Kim Jong-un (or his relatives).
Planning a trip to Korea? Getting ready for a long vacation? There are many things to take care of before making travel plans and starting packing your bags. Introducing some of them for your attention.
Primarily
For togoto fully enjoy your time in Korea, you should go on a trip in a good mood. After all, Korea is far from a heavenly and calm place where your problems just disappear like magic. There is a high probability that mistakes you made at home will be repeated in Korea. So stop dreaming and start living.
Will pass whether your holiday is wonderful or not is entirely up to you. Try to think clearly, understand and embrace Korean culture.
The Republic of Korea (South Korea) is a state in East Asia located on the Korean Peninsula. The Republic of Korea occupies the southern part of the Korean Peninsula, which protrudes 1100 kilometers from the main part of Asia. From the west, the peninsula is washed by the Yellow Sea, from the east - by the Sea of \u200b\u200bJapan, and from the south - by the Korea Strait and the East China Sea.
Visa to Korea
For arrival at Southern Korea foreign guests must have a valid passport and obtain a Korean visa prior to entering the country. However, people from some countries can visit Korea temporarily without a visa. Additional for tourist, student and work visas, please visit the section Visa.
Flights
Many airlines with international routes fly regularly to Korea. Airlines Korean Air and Asiana Airlines also fly from different points around the world. Besides In addition, low-cost airlines fly here with the help of which you can significantly save money.
Money
Korean the currency is won (₩). Banknote denominations: 1000 1000, 5000 ₩, 10000 ₩ and 50,000 ₩, as well as coins of 10 ₩, 50 ₩, 100 ₩ and 500 ₩.
Money can be exchanged at banks, exchange service centers, or at official exchange offices. Prices in banks vary, so it is better to stop your choice at other currency exchange offices.
Important Note that with the exception of Citibank bank accounts, only Korean bank accounts are reflected when accepting cash at ATMs in Korea.
ATM machines (CD) are commonly found in shops, subways, train stations, bus stations and shopping centers. By using international debit cards with Plus and Cirrus logos, it is possible to access funds from international bank accounts through ATMs with the same logos.
Transfer from the airport and back
Exists various travel options between airports and settlements Korea.
Taxi: despite their comfort, taxis are one of the most expensive modes of transport. By information from the Incheon International Airport website (http://www.airport.kr) a trip from Seoul to airport, which lasts about an hour, costs about 44,000 won for a standard taxi and 80,000 won for a luxury taxi.
Buses: Various types of buses, including special buses, leave from airports in Korea. airport transport, local buses, etc.
Car rent: Car rental is available in Korea for people with an international driver's certificate. You can rent a car at the airport, major railway stations, and express bus stations.
Voltage and frequency
Voltage The power grid in Korea is 220 volts, 60 Hz. Plugs with two round pins are used. Depending on the voltage of your device and the shape of the plug, you may need to converter voltage or adapter. Both can be purchased at discounted prices at centers such as E-Mart and Home plus or electronics stores.
When crossing the border, you must present the following documents:
passport valid at the time of entry;
return tickets, or tickets to a third country;
confirmation of the availability of sufficient funds for the entire period
stay in the country. If you have a hotel reservation (printouts from the Internet
enough) or a voucher of a travel agency, border guards are rarely interested in
the presence of funds from the tourist;
completed migration card and customs declaration
(issued on the plane, on the ferry or in the arrival hall in front of the booths
passport control).
Culture and etiquette
Your This is a brief introduction to etiquette and Korean culture to help you better understand life in Korea.
Bow: bowing is the most common form of greeting in Korea. Informal form of bow reminds a nod, and a deep bow is considered the most polite greeting. Koreans sit cross-legged on the floor and bow down deeply in front of the elderly.
The usual form of bowing consists of several stages:
Stand up right at a distance of 1-2 meters from the person to whom you intend to bow.
Bow down from the lower back, while keeping the neck straight.
Straighten up.
Say hello "안녕하십니까"?
In order to feel natural, you first need to practice this procedure. Bow and the words: "안녕하십니까"? - are liked by most Koreans as it expresses respect and modesty. It is also important to note that eye contact is considered disrespectful when speaking with elders.
Handshake: Despite the increased number of handshakes in recent years, it is not a traditional part of Korean culture. Shaking hands with a person of a higher position or older yourself, while performing a light bow, place your left hand on your right forearm. In the West, a very strong handshake is a sign of trust and respect, but if you do this in Korea, your new acquaintance may feel uncomfortable.
Respect for elders: Koreans have a reverent attitude towards age. Seniors are treated with great respect. Young people always greet older people first. Guys call sisters or girls older girls - "Nuna", and younger girls - "Unni". "Hyun" is an older brother or a grown man for guys, and "Oppa" is for girls. If the person is over forty or if there is 10- summer age difference, such men are called "Achzhossi", and women - "Ajuma".
Language of the body: touching someone who is not a relative or close friend is considered by Koreans to be a violation of his personal space. When communicating, try to avoid touching and patting. Always pass and receive items with your right hand (wrist or forearm should be supported with the left) or with both hands. To call someone, you need to stretch your hand with your palm down and make “scratching movements” with your fingers. And never direct your index finger. When sitting, do not cross your legs. Keep your feet flat on the floor, not on a desk or chair.
Attachment: girlfriends and women who are relatives of each other can be recognized by the way they walk hand in hand, which is a symbol of close relationships. Close friends relations among men, they are also expressed in a tendency to show less personal space in relation to each other, in comparison with what is customary in the West. Close connection is demonstrated through friendly gestures. However, hugs as a greeting are less common among Koreans than in Europe. Kissing and other intimate displays of love in public are not acceptable.
Public transport: At the end of metro cars and at the front of buses, there are special seats designed for the elderly, disabled and pregnant women. If everything busy, then it is customary for these persons to give up seats in another part of the transport. Elderly people often flatly refuse such an offer, but the person who gives in, as a rule, insists on his own. When there is one free seat, Korean women are more likely to allow their companions - men sit, but they themselves prefer to ride standing. Those sitting are expected to hold their comrades' bags.
Washroom / WC: Not all public places (bars, restaurants, etc.) have latrines, but some use a shared toilet inside the building. It is advisable to always carry napkins with you, since all restrooms can provide them. In some stations and other public places, you may find Asian-style toilets where the user has to "squat" and throwing away used wipes in specially designed containers. Most restaurants and cafes such as Outback Steakhouse, McDonald's, Coffee Bean, Tea Leaf, Starbucks have Western-style restrooms.
The street: Usually Koreans walk on the left side of the sidewalk, opposite the traffic flow. It is not common to see pedestrians walking and eating food at the same time. In many areas can meet places where they sell various snacks and light meals. However, it is customary to eat on the spot, standing in front of the counter. Do not forget that in Korea there is right-hand traffic. And on the sidewalks periodically, as if out of nowhere, scooter delivery men appear, so be vigilant!
Safety and security
South Korea is a relatively safe country. Until late at night as in big citiesand in the countryside, you can meet people on the street.
You can bring your pets
For, so that bring your pets, you need a certificate of quarantine or rabies vaccination issued veterinary clinic or your government. In addition, with a certificate of quarantine you must contact the National Veterinary Research and Quarantine Service.
30.08.19 13 453 14
In April 2019, my husband and I went to South Korea for 17 days.
Valentina Alekseeva
traveled to South Korea
During this time, we visited three regions: Seoul, Jeju and Sokcho. We looked at cherry blossoms, visited national parks and conquered two volcanoes. In South Korea, there are tropical islands, like in the TV series "Lost", and megalopolises, and chic spas with programs for only 500 rubles.
Expenses for 17 days for one person - 78 551 R
Air tickets Moscow - Seoul
23 243 RUB
20 480 RUB
20 930 RUB
Transport
11 686 RUB
sights
2212 RUB
Route
We made the route without hesitation. First, to the metropolis - Seoul. From there to Seoraksan National Park near Sokcho City. This park is popular among lovers of hiking - short hikes in the highlands along specially equipped trails. After that, we went to Jeju Island to watch the volcanoes.
We also wanted to definitely see the cherry blossoms. In South Korea, major sakura festivals are held in Seoul and Jeju Island. Cherry blossom time depends on the location: in Jeju trees bloom at the end of March, in Seoul - from the second week of April. We had time to see sakura only in Seoul.
Flights
We bought tickets to Seoul in December 2018 at an Aeroflot sale. A direct round-trip flight cost 23 243 R per person. The same flight for September 2019 costs about 40 thousand. The air ticket price included a place for hand luggage, luggage up to 23 kg, dinner and breakfast on the plane - 9 hours flight time.
We flew to Jeju Island from Seoul on a local T-Way flight. Two round-trip tickets with luggage up to 15 kg cost 108,800 ₩ (2950 R). It's an hour to fly, only water was handed out for free on board.
46 486 RUB
we paid for tickets to and from Seoul
We flew from two Seoul airports - Incheon and Gimpo. international Airport Incheon resembles a city in size, so I advise you to arrive there at least 2.5 hours before departure. And Gimpo is a small airport with mostly domestic flights.
In Korea, the procedure for checking checked baggage is unusual: first, you check it in at the check-in counter, and then wait 10-15 minutes for it to be scanned. If something suspicious is found during the contactless check, then you will have to be present at the inspection of the suitcases. Without your presence, the suitcase can neither be opened nor passed further. Only when they say that everything is in order, you can go to passport control.
Width \u003d "2000" height \u003d "1670" class \u003d "outline-bordered" style \u003d "max-width: 1000.0px; height: auto" data-bordered \u003d "true"\u003e 23,340 Р are tickets for March 2020 from the airline "Es-7" on the route Moscow - Seoul with a stopover in Irkutsk width \u003d "2000" height \u003d "1479" class \u003d "outline-bordered" style \u003d "max-width: 1000.0px; height: auto" data-bordered \u003d " true "\u003e Korean Air is more expensive: a flight with Korean Air from Moscow to Seoul and back in April 2020 will cost 43,616 rubles
Visa
Russians do not need a visa for a tourist trip to South Korea. But passport control officers have the right to request return tickets, financial guarantees and hotel reservations. Therefore, we printed out all confirmations of the reservation in advance and took a bank statement. At Seoul Airport, you must fill out a migration card - this is a standard procedure.
At passport control we were asked for the date of the return flight and issued a form for entering the country. South Korea no longer puts stamps in passports. It is not scary to lose the form, because upon departure, the border guards check the date of entry in a special system using the passport number. It is not clear, however, why this form is needed at all.
Housing
In Seoul, the price of accommodation depends not so much on the area as on the type of accommodation. A bed in an eight-bed room in a hostel with breakfast will cost 600 rubles. Small apartment on Airbnb or a room in guest house with a private bathroom costs from 2000 RUR per day, a room in a three-star hotel - from 4000 RUR. Lovers of comfort and five-star hotels will have to fork out: the minimum price I found is 10,400 RUR per night.
Inexpensive options are dismantled quickly, so it is better to book accommodation several months in advance. We decided to stay in guest houses. These are such small private hotels in which all rooms are rented separately. Unlike hostels, guests in such houses live in conditions close to home - as if they came to visit relatives.
Find out how to relax for a penny
In Seoul, we lived in Oh My Guest House in the very center. It is 10 minutes from Gyeongbokgung Palace, the city's main attraction. We spent 4 nights there, it cost us 128,000 ₩ (7180 R). For this money we got a double room with a private bathroom and breakfast.
We booked another night directly from the owners for 32,000 ₩ (1,800 R), although at the aggregators at that time the price increased to 40,000 ₩ (2,270 R). We saved 470 RUR - I advise you to extend your stay not through Booking, but directly to save money.
₩
won, the national currency of South Korea
The last night in Seoul, on the eve of our flight to Russia, we spent at the Holiday Inn Express Seoul Euljiro. For 92 565 ₩ (5515 R) we got a spacious room and breakfast - a buffet. Two minutes from the hotel there was a bus stop for the airport.
On Jeju Island we stopped at three different locations to visit as many natural attractions as possible. We drove around the island by car so as not to adjust to the public transport schedule.
In the south, we wanted to see waterfalls and a huge bridge "7 nymphs", green cliffs near Songaksan Mountain, O'Sallok tea plantations and Sanbangsan Mountain against a background of yellow flowers. To do this, we stopped at The Areumdaun House: three nights cost 115 678 ₩ (6350 R). This amount includes a separate apartment with a kitchen and a private bathroom.
The Thai Story Pension was conveniently located for Hallasan, the largest volcano on the island, as well as the small extinct Ilchubong volcano. There we spent 2 nights at the hotel, which cost us 125 530 ₩ (6890 R). We booked a standard room, but upon arrival, the hotel owners made us a free upgrade to a deluxe suite - so we got a 48 m2 house with a kitchen and a bathroom.
40 960 RUB
the two of us spent 17 days on housing in South Korea
We spent the last night in the main city of the island - Jeju. The Jeju Hotel B&B has easy access to the airport, with a bus stop just five minutes away. The car was handed over the day before departure, because an additional day of rental was more expensive than 2 bus tickets from the airport and back. A night at the hotel cost 39 109 ₩ (2146 R).
In the city of Sokcholocated by the sea, we chose the guest house With You, a two-minute walk from the bus station. For 4 nights we paid 206 270 ₩ (11 079 R) and got a double room with a bathroom, washing machine and breakfast.
Sakura blossom festivals
Seoul's cherry blossom festivals were held in three parks: Yuido, Namsan, and Lotte World. We managed to visit only the first two. The entrance is free everywhere.
Sakura blooms for only 7-10 days in the first half of April. The flowering dates depend on the weather: if the spring is cold, the flowering will be belated, and vice versa.
Some companies are adjusting to the cherry blossoms: Starbucks and Coffee Bean, for example, produce coffee cups featuring pink cherry blossoms. And beer producers make cherry-flavored drinks in special packages.
What else to see in South Korea
In Seoul. Tourists come to the South Korean capital for three reasons: to test advanced technology, to see palaces and to eat deliciously. At the Seoul airport, tourists are greeted by robots that tell you how to get to the desired sector or gate. There are huge panels with touchscreens in the metro and shopping centers, and in tourist centers robots recognize speech and respond in different languages. Back in South Korea, the world's fastest wireless internet is 5G.
Korean corporations Samsung, LG, Hyundai, SK Hynix show their latest developments free of charge in the exhibition pavilions in Digital Media City and Dongdaemun Design Plaza.
We began our tour of Seoul by visiting the palaces. A combined ticket to all the palaces of the Joseon Dynasty costs 10,000 ₩ (560 R). It is sold only at the checkout and is valid for a month. The ticket includes a visit to the palaces of Gyeongbokgung, Changdeokgung, Deoksugung, Changgyeonggung and Jongmyo Shrine.
The territories near the palaces are large, and the buildings themselves have been perfectly preserved from the 14th century. The buildings are similar to each other in architecture and interior decoration, but the surrounding space of each palace is decorated in a special way. In the first half of April, sakura blossoms everywhere, and visitors arranged photo sessions in traditional costumes.
Width \u003d "1000" height \u003d "459" class \u003d "outline-bordered" style \u003d "max-width: 1000px; height: auto" data-bordered \u003d "true"\u003e Combo ticket that saved time in checkout lines , and another 4000 ₩ (about 200 R)
To Jeju the main thing is nature. It is a volcanic island with several national parks and other natural attractions. Everywhere entrance is paid, tickets cost us 34,000 ₩ (2000 R).
Seongsan Ilchulbong Park - a visiting card of the island and an object world heritage UNESCO. An extinct volcano there rises directly from the sea and is connected to the mainland by a small isthmus. The crater is surrounded by a crown of sharp rocks, and in the center it is overgrown with grass and resembles a huge football field. We bought a ticket there for 2000 ₩ (112 R).
O'Sulloc is a tea plantation that stretches to the horizon. O'Sulloc Tea House is also located here. In it, visitors are told about the tea culture of Korea: history and traditions, as well as the processes of growing and making tea. We tried different types of tea with desserts. A visit to the plantations and the museum is free.
Cheonjeyeon is a place in Seogwipo province where a river flows out of a cave and forms first a crystal clear pool, and then a cascade of three waterfalls. They move between the waterfalls along special wooden paths. The entrance ticket costs 2500 ₩ (140 R).
Jeongbang Falls is the only waterfall in Asia that falls directly into the sea. Its height is 23 meters and its width reaches 8 meters during the rainy season. The ticket costs 2000 ₩ (112 R).
4424 RUB
we spent on sightseeing trips
Hallasan Volcano is located in the center of Jeju Island. It is popular with hiking fans. In fact, there is not one volcano in the Hallasan National Park, but as many as 368 so-called oreums - side cones of one large volcano. Walking routes open all year round, their length is from 6 to 10 km, depending on the slope.
Due to the sharp difference in elevation in some areas, the ascent takes up to 5 hours. Therefore, you need to be at the top no later than 14:00, otherwise you will not have time to descend before dark. Local rangers strictly monitor this. The entrance to the park is free. I advise you to arrive at 9 a.m. to take a parking spot, otherwise you will have to leave your car far from the park entrance.
Sokcho is a city on the east coast of the Korean Peninsula. We found the local beach completely deserted. The swimming season there lasts from June to September, and in April the water temperature is only about +14 ° C. There is a pine forest around the beach.
Seoraksan National Park and hot springs are the main attractions of this region. The entrance to the national park costs 7000 ₩ (392 R). There are several hiking trails in the park, but in April only two were opened: to the top of Mount Ulsanbavi and to the waterfalls. Both routes, with a total length of 12 km, are easy to complete in one day. Bring a windproof jacket with you as it can get windy upstairs.
After hiking and climbing the mountain, we went to the Cheoksan hot springs. Entrance costs 7000 ₩ (412 R) per person. Men and women bathe separately. We counted 10 pools with water of different temperatures.
Cafes and restaurants
Korean restaurants are a godsend for budget travelers. When ordering any meal, 3 to 7 more snacks and a bottle of water are served free of charge. And in South Korea, it is not customary to leave a tip.
Local residents said that it is cheaper to eat in a cafe than to cook at home. Therefore, in the evenings, the establishments are crowded and noisy: after a hard day at work, the locals go to dinner and drink soju, a traditional Korean alcoholic drink infused with sweet potatoes. We didn't like the soju, in my opinion, it's even worse than Russian moonshine.
"Is it true that all Koreans eat dogs?" - the first question that my acquaintances asked me when I returned from Korea. This is the same myth as the fact that bears walk the streets in Russia. If anyone eats dogs there, it’s only older Koreans in special restaurants. They can serve "posinthan", or "longevity soup", which is very expensive even by the standards of people with an average monthly salary of $ 4,000.
Korean street food is cheap and tasty. Here's what we were recommended to try, everything costs up to 2000 ₩ (112 R):
- Dakkochi (Dak-kochi) - chicken and vegetable kebabs, hearty and especially tasty with a sauce of your choice.
- Pondagi (Beondegi or Pupa) are steamed silkworm pupae that we did not dare to try because of the smell, but Koreans swallow them like seeds.
- Tokpokki (Tteokbokki) - a broth with savory dumplings made from mashed rice in the shape of a sausage.
- Twigim - seafood, vegetables or deep-fried potatoes.
- Keran-ppang (Gyeran-ppang) - an egg in bread.
41,860 RUB
went to food
To save money, we had breakfast at the hotel, in the afternoon ate ready-made food from the supermarket, and dined in a cafe. Food prices are about the same throughout the country:
- dumplings with pork or beef in a cafe with a Michelin star - 15,000 ₩ (55 R);
- sashimi at the fish market - from 15,000 ₩ (855 R);
- a dish in a diner for locals without an English menu - 9000 ₩ (514 R);
- chicken kebabs, fried shrimps, small tortillas, roll gimbap, an egg in a bun from a street counter and other street food - about 2000 ₩ (115 R).
In Seoul, eateries at the Tongin market do not speak English at all, but they prepare three of the most popular soups in Korea at a price of 7,000 ₩ (380 R):
- samgyetang (samgyetang) - spicy chicken soup with ginseng, which, according to legend, helps against all diseases;
- kamdyatan (gamjatang) - rich soup made from pork, potatoes and vegetables;
- yukgaejang - thick spicy soup with beef broth with fern and mushrooms.
Street food in Seoul. The portions are small, and to fill up, you still need to spend the same amount as in a cafe
Supermarkets
Sometimes we bought ready-made food from supermarkets. The prices for dishes from the culinary department in supermarkets are about 30% lower than in any cafe. At 7-Eleven and CU, we used onigiri triangles - stuffed rice wrapped in nori algae leaves, they cost 700-1000 ₩ (40-60 R) apiece. When scanning at the checkout, the system warned if the onigiri expired on the same day.
In general, products in South Korea are much more expensive than in Russia:
- 1 kg of strawberries - 9900 ₩ (565 R);
- 16 packs of Activia yoghurt - 6000 ₩ (342 R);
- 1 kg of bananas - 5980 ₩ (341 R);
- 15 eggs - 4890 ₩ (280 R);
- 1 kg of apples - 1480 ₩ (85 R);
- instant noodles - 800 ₩ (45 R).
141 RUB
there is a liter of milk in a supermarket - because Koreans practically do not drink milk
The locals often eat instant noodles. In Seoul, we met a special ramen soup vending machine right outside the convenience store. A pack of dry ramen is sold in a special package where you need to put the noodles and all other ingredients, and then pour water from the machine. The machine will not work without the noodles.
 | width \u003d "495" height \u003d "667" class \u003d "" style \u003d "max-width: 495px; height: auto"\u003e You can eat at the food court at eMart. The price of one dish is 7000 ₩ (about 400 R) |
| width \u003d "495" height \u003d "667" class \u003d "" style \u003d "max-width: 495px; height: auto"\u003e Onigiri is a rice triangle with a filling. Healthy snack for 40 R | width \u003d "495" height \u003d "667" class \u003d "" style \u003d "max-width: 495px; height: auto"\u003e Supermarket sushi. The price of such a package is 19,000 ₩ (about 1080 R). If the set is not bought within 3-4 hours, they get a 30% discount |
width \u003d "495" height \u003d "667" class \u003d "" style \u003d "max-width: 495px; height: auto"\u003e You can eat at the food court at eMart. The price of one dish is 7000 ₩ (about 400 Р) width \u003d "495" height \u003d "667" class \u003d "" style \u003d "max-width: 495px; height: auto"\u003e Onigiri is a rice triangle with filling. Healthy snack for 40 P width \u003d "495" height \u003d "667" class \u003d "" style \u003d "max-width: 495px; height: auto"\u003e Supermarket sushi. The price of such a package is 19,000 ₩ (about 1080 R). If the set is not bought within 3-4 hours, they get a 30% discount
Public transport
In Seoul and Sokcho, we used public transport and paid for travel with a T-Money card. We bought it immediately upon arrival at the Incheon airport at the CU store for 4000 ₩ (224 R). The fare in the Seoul subway depends on the distance: up to 10 km - 1250 ₩ (70 R) for each next 5 km you have to pay an additional 100 ₩ (6 R). The T-Money card gives a discount on the trip from 100 ₩ (6 R). For a trip from Gyeongbokgung station, where our guest house was located, to Yeouinaru station, near which the cherry blossom festival was held, 1150 ₩ (64 Р) will be debited from the card. Each passenger must have their own card - it will not work to drive one by one.
The T-Money card works on the metro, buses and taxis. You can replenish it only in cash at machines at metro stations or in GS25, CU, 7-Eleven stores.
The T-Money card must be applied to the turnstiles at the entrance, exit and at transfers, so the final price of the trip is clear only at the exit from the transport. For a metro ride with two transfers from Incheon Airport to the station where our guest house was, we paid about 8000 ₩ (450 R). On this trip with the card, we saved about 500 ₩ (27 R).
The fare for buses depends on their type. In Seoul, yellow buses run through the city center, green buses run within city districts, blue buses run between districts, and red buses go to the suburbs. The fare is paid in cash or with a T-Money card - travel on yellow buses costs 1200 Р (68 Р).
On the day of departure to Moscow, a taxi driver drove up to us on the street and offered to take us to the airport for 30,000 ₩ (1690 R) for two. We agreed because the shuttle bus ride to Incheon Airport, which is located 35 km from Seoul, would have cost us the same. In the taxi, we paid with the same T-Money card.
It took us two hours to get from Seoul to Sokcho by intercity bus. The ticket price depends on the type of bus: in a regular intercity bus it costs 13,800 (RUB 805) per person, and in a luxury bus with leather seats, as in the business class of the aircraft, and increased legroom - ₩ 17,900 (RUB 1,052 ).
23 372 RUB
we spent on transport
The transport system in South Korea is well developed: there are many buses, all routes are described in detail, there are information boards at the stops, however, all information is only in Korean. So it’s impossible to figure out how to get to the right place without outside help: “Google maps” in South Korea do not work, and offline maps.me do not show public transport routes.
Once we were walking around the city, when suddenly it started to rain. On the nearest bus stop there were 20 routes, which one is ours is a mystery. We asked advice from local residentswho were also waiting for the bus, showing them the address of our guest house on the map. Five people immediately got involved in a heated discussion and as a result gave us the route number - and we successfully got home. We were impressed that all the people at the bus stop volunteered to help.
Width \u003d "1000" height \u003d "667" class \u003d "outline-bordered" style \u003d "max-width: 1000px; height: auto" data-bordered \u003d "true"\u003e Every subway station in Seoul has automatic lockers. We handed over things for 6 hours and paid 8000 ₩ (about 450 R) for it. The storage of things was paid for with the same T-Money card
Car rent
On Jeju Island, we rented a car from Sixt rental company. The reservation was made on the Internet through the Skyscanner website a month before the trip.
Five days of renting a Kia Morning with an automatic transmission cost us 102 600 ₩ (5572 R). The price also included unlimited mileage, accident and theft insurance, and a built-in navigator. Russian and international rights were required from the documents. The deposit was not taken from us, but the credit card details were recorded.
An international driving license is not valid without a national driving license in any country that has signed the Vienna Convention on Road Traffic
The rental company was located outside Jeju Airport, but a free shuttle bus was sent to pick us up. On the spot, we signed a lease agreement, examined the car, recorded all damage and fuel level.
It took us 5 days to calmly explore all the sights of the island. We drove 300 km. We spent 52 470 ₩ (3102 R) on gasoline. The roads are good everywhere, we have not met any reckless drivers. We saw several police posts, so it's better to observe traffic rules.
Jeju has both paid and free parking. The cost of parking in a multi-level parking lot is 5000 ₩ (90 R) per day, we paid for it at the machine or in a kiosk on the ground floor of the parking lot.
To save money in South Korea
- Purchase the T-Money Pass to travel by public transport.
- When booking hotels, compare prices on different aggregators.
- Go to local eateries - they are tastier and cheaper.
- Buy ready-made food from 7-Eleven, GS25, eMart and CU supermarkets - they are delicious there.
- It is more profitable to buy combined tickets to visit several attractions at once.
13453 30 August 2019 Map Icon - Neutral Kim Jong-Un by Benjamin Bours from the Noun Project Tags
To be fully prepared for your trip to the Land of Morning Freshness and get answers to all possible questions before your trip, use our tips.
1. How and when to fly
South Korea is pleasant to travel all year round. If you want to bask by the sea, the ideal month for this is August: the rainy season is over, and the air warms up to 27-30 ° С. Autumn in Korea is warm and dry, you can walk through the numerous national parks, enjoying the bright autumn colors, admiring the famous red maples, and the best time for this - the end of September - the beginning of November. In winter, temperatures rarely drop below –6 ° C, which is great weather for skiing and snowboarding. Spring in Korea is warm and sunny with very little rainfall. Cherries, dogwood, azaleas bloom in the spring, and it is worth admiring this. The peak of flowering occurs in April. Learn more about what to do in different seasons in South Korea.
There is a seasonal direct flight from St. Petersburg to Seoul from the largest South Korean airline Korean Air, which means that from spring to autumn you can fly to the capital of Korea without unnecessary headaches and transfers. Departures are carried out daily, except Mondays and Wednesdays, the flight time is 8 hours 50 minutes.
2. How to get around the city
Seoul has a problem like any other modern metropolis - traffic jams. Therefore, if possible, it is better to use the metro and other public transport. It's easy with a single T-money card, which will save you 10% off each trip compared to a single ticket.
T-money and Cashbee transport cards are valid on buses and subways in Seoul and other regions of Korea (all major cities have subways), and you can also use them to pay for taxi fares.
City buses run in all regions of Korea and have a specific color. All buses in Seoul are painted in four colors: yellow - circular, green operate within the same area between subway stations, blue serve several areas, red operate commuter services. For more information on Seoul buses and other modes of transportation, see the Transportation section of the Korea Tourism Organization's website.
Sometimes it is more convenient to take a taxi. A lot of them. More budgetary ones are orange (in Seoul; in satellite cities - silver), luxury taxis are black with a yellow sign on the roof.
3. Where to change money and whether to tip
The Korean currency is won. The exchange rate may vary, but currently 1,000 Korean won (KRW) \u003d 57.6 rubles, or slightly less than $ 1. Almost everywhere, except for small shops and markets, cards of international payment systems are accepted.
Cash is best exchanged at Korean banks or specialized points located in tourist areas such as Insadong, Itaewon, Myeongdong. You can also exchange money at large hotels or directly at the airport (Incheon or Gimpo), but the commission will be higher than in the city.
Save the documents - you can change the local currency, which is not useful for the trip, back to dollars only upon presentation of a certificate from the bank.
Tipping is not customary in Korea. Attempting to tip is perceived negatively by Koreans. However, in European or American bars in South Korea, where there are no Koreans among the staff or superiors, such a gesture will be appreciated as usual.
4. How and what to buy
Korea is called the paradise of shopaholics. In large department stores, the world's high-end brands Chanel, Gucci, Prada, Hermes, Bulgari and many others are represented. There are interesting clusters with clothes from local designers. Excellent cosmetics, beautiful products made of mother-of-pearl and pearls and, of course, souvenirs. The most popular are the Korean national costume hanbok, tojagi ceramics, buchkhe fan, and bok jumoni pouch for luck.
Large shopping centers and markets are often open around the clock.
And more good news for shoppers: Duty Free, that is, a duty-free zone, is available not only at airports and ports in Korea, but also in department stores of major brands (for example, local majors Lotte and Huindai).
There is also the usual tax refund on goods purchased in the country - Tax Refund in Korea. Look for blue star stickers. If you don't find such a sticker, ask the staff for Global Blue, Tax Refund or Tax Free. The minimum purchase amount is 30,000 won. The purchase price must not exceed KRW 500,000 including tax. It will be possible to return from 10 to 20% for jewelry. Save your receipts, fill out the Tax Free Form, prepare your passport and purchased items and go to the refund point, which is not only at the airport, but also in the city center - they are indicated on receipts and at duty-free points. If you cannot wait, use the Global Blue mailbox located next to customs. Place your completed, stamped Tax Free receipt form there to receive your credit card refund.
And yet, every summer in Seoul there is a big summer sale (Seoul Summer Sale), where a tourist can get up to 50% discount if they get a special card at the airport in advance.
5. What language to speak
Before traveling to a non-English-speaking country, the question always arises whether it is necessary to acquire a phrasebook in order to somehow communicate with the locals, if necessary.
The official language in South Korea is Korean. If you want to be known as a polyglot among local acquaintances, memorize a few useful phrases. Hello - anyon haseyo. In a more informal dialogue with friends, you can say "anion" - "hello". “Nice to meet you” - “mannaso pongauoyo”. "Thank you" - "kamsakhamnida". "Goodbye" - "annyonghi keseyo" - is said to the one who remains. These phrases will be enough to make a good impression.
But do not hesitate to ask directions or ask any other questions in English, because Koreans devote a lot of time to learning this language and will not mind practicing. If you don't know who to turn to on the street, look for the tourist police, whose representatives are distinguished by their blue uniforms and black berets. Its staff will help you navigate the area or translate the sign on the sign (although most are duplicated in English). Information support is also part of their responsibilities.
6. How not to be left without communication
South Korea is famous for the fastest Internet in the world - 26.1 Mbps, as well as its availability for the population. Free Wi-Fi is available in many places and hotels in Seoul, museums, train stations and airports, and even on the subway, but outside the capital it is somewhat more difficult to find. Therefore, local operators offer portable Wi-Fi routers (also called Wi-Fi eggs) that allow you to access the Internet wherever there is a cellular connection. A Wi-Fi router can be rented at the airport, although it is quite expensive.
Those who want to buy a SIM card from a local operator can do it online in advance and then pick up the SIM card at the airport. The most popular among foreign tourists are 5, 10 and 30-day SIM-cards, which provide unlimited access to the Internet. SIM cards are also sold in large supermarkets and specialized stores. Don't forget to check if your phone is unlocked for use abroad.
It should be noted that electricity in Korea is standard - 220V, 60Hz, sockets are the same as in Russia. So you don't need to buy any special adapters.
Do's and Don'ts
In the house it is customary to take off your shoes and walk barefoot.
It is not customary to pierce food with chopsticks like a fork. Chopsticks should not be left upright on a plate, especially when stuck in rice. And you shouldn't use them as a pointer during a conversation.
It is considered bad form to say a categorical “no”. Here, evasive answers are accepted and there is practically no imperative mood.
In Korean culture, personal space is highly valued, so it is not customary to pat on the back, hug unfamiliar people, and generally touch strangers.
Better not to gesticulate: the gestures we are used to can have a completely different meaning in Korean culture and even seem offensive.
In Korea, elders are revered - by age, position. There are many things you cannot do in front of your elders, and besides, you should treat them in a special way: bow deeply, wait for someone to give you a hand, and answer the shake with both hands. Pouring wine, handing over objects to the elder must also be done with both hands or holding the other by the wrist.
It is not accepted to blow your nose in public, but it is supposed to sneeze loudly. You can even chomp to show that you enjoy the food.
Korea is one of the safest countries in the world: there is not a lot of thefts, no drug addicts, no robberies, and public morality is so developed and strong that it is almost impossible to hear rudeness addressed to you.
If you decide to go to South Korea, namely to, decide in advance on specific dates, because the cost of the flight will depend on them, and not on how much in advance you buy plane tickets. The cheapest tickets to South Korea are, and.
If we talk about transport in Seoul, then to rent a car you will need an international license book - Russian plastic is not suitable. The whole public transport and the orange taxi (public) is paid by the T-money system - a plastic card on which money is deposited through the terminal.
Everything is like in Russia - you put your card to the turnstile, it tells you the balance of funds, and you go further.
The subway is quiet and calm inside the carriages, but no one waits for people to leave and enter immediately, so get ready to push for a long time. If you live in Moscow and think that you will not be surprised by this, you are mistaken, in Korea everything is much tougher.
There are yellow fluted paths in the metro and on the streets - landmarks for the blind. In Seoul, everything is quite well equipped for people with disabilities, so if you or your relatives were afraid to face the problem of the unsuitability of Korean streets, then feel free to dismiss all fears.
Money. Don't count on credit cards - they are accepted, but rarely and reluctantly: Koreans are very fond of cash. Therefore, exchange some of the money immediately at the airport, and the rest at banks. When you go shopping, pay attention to the price tags. If they are not there, the price of the product is most likely greatly overstated, and you will not be able to bargain.
If you smoke, take a supply of cigarettes with you, because Koreans hardly smoke and it can be difficult to buy cigarettes.
Before the trip, you must also remember about the traditional greeting - you need to bow slightly. As a thank you, Koreans also prefer to bow than say the word "thank you." A direct look in the eyes, by the way, can be regarded as a threat and disrespect. You can shake hands, but this also has a special ritual: they serve and shake both the right and left hands, although preference is given to the right - the left hand is placed under the right. If this rule is not observed, it will be believed that you are a very uncivilized and far from politeness person.
If it turns out that you will be drinking with someone from Koreans, you should never refill your glass - pour it for others, not for yourself.
While we're on the topic of alcohol, it's worth mentioning food. You cannot start a meal until the oldest person sits at the table. When choosing food, do not think that only dogs and insects are cooked in Seoul, you can find perfectly normal European cuisine there, but the food is often more spicy than we are used to. Also, not all cafes and restaurants have tea, but water is always brought free. But be prepared for the fact that in some restaurants and cafes, dishes are washed right on the road, and you are watching all this.
