Seoul

1. Currency and Payment Methods

• Currency: The official currency is the South Korean Won (KRW). Coins come in denominations of 10, 50, 100, and 500 KRW, while bills are available in 1,000, 5,000, 10,000, and 50,000 KRW.
• Exchange Rates: Exchange your money at reputable currency exchange counters in Seoul, such as those in Myeongdong, which often offer better rates than banks or airports. Avoid exchanging money at the airport unless absolutely necessary.
• Payment Methods: Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Seoul, even for small transactions. However, it’s always good to carry some cash for street food, small shops, or traditional markets.
• T-Money Card: Purchase a T-Money card (a rechargeable transportation card) for convenience and discounts on public transportation. It can also be used at convenience stores and some taxis.

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2. Budget-Friendly Dining

Seoul is a food lover’s paradise, and you don’t need to spend a fortune to enjoy delicious meals.

Street Food

• Visit street food markets like Gwangjang Market, Myeongdong Night Market, or Hongdae Street for affordable and authentic Korean snacks such as tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes), gimbap (seaweed rice rolls), and hotteok (sweet pancakes). Prices range from 1,000 to 5,000 KRW per item.

Convenience Stores

• Convenience stores like GS25, CU, and 7-Eleven offer affordable meal options such as triangle kimbap (1,000–1,500 KRW), instant ramen (2,000–3,000 KRW), and pre-packaged meals (4,000–6,000 KRW).

Budget Restaurants

• Look for kimbap cheonguk (kimbap heaven) restaurants, which serve affordable Korean dishes like bibimbap, kimchi jjigae, and kimbap for 5,000–8,000 KRW.
• Many Korean barbecue restaurants offer lunch specials or all-you-can-eat deals for around 10,000–15,000 KRW per person.

Cultural Tip: Sharing food is common in Korea, so dining with friends or family can help you save money while enjoying a variety of dishes.

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3. Transportation

Seoul’s public transportation system is efficient, affordable, and easy to navigate.

T-Money Card

• Purchase a T-Money card for 2,500–4,000 KRW at convenience stores or subway stations. Load it with credit to use on buses, subways, and some taxis.
• Using a T-Money card gives you a discount on fares compared to paying in cash. For example, a subway ride costs 1,250 KRW with the card, while cash fares are slightly higher.
• Transfers between buses and subways are free within a certain time limit when using the T-Money card.

Subway

• The subway is the most cost-effective way to get around Seoul. Fares start at 1,250 KRW for the first 10 km, with small increments for additional distance.
• Download apps like KakaoMetro or Naver Map for real-time subway navigation.

Buses

• Buses are another affordable option, with fares starting at 1,200 KRW. Look for blue buses (long-distance), green buses (local), and red buses (express).

Airport Transportation

• Use the AREX (Airport Railroad Express) to travel between Incheon Airport and Seoul. The all-stop train costs 4,150 KRW, while the express train costs 9,500 KRW.
• Alternatively, airport buses (limousine buses) cost 10,000–15,000 KRW and are a comfortable option.

Cultural Tip: Avoid taxis during rush hours (7–9 AM and 6–8 PM) as traffic can increase costs significantly. If you must take a taxi, opt for regular taxis (orange or silver) instead of deluxe ones (black).

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4. Shopping

Seoul is a shopping haven, and there are plenty of ways to save money while indulging in retail therapy.

Traditional Markets

• Visit markets like Namdaemun Market, Dongdaemun Market, and Gwangjang Market for affordable clothing, accessories, and souvenirs. Bargaining is acceptable in these markets, so don’t hesitate to negotiate.

Budget-Friendly Shopping Areas

• Explore Ewha Womans University Shopping Street and Hongdae for trendy yet affordable fashion and accessories.
• Myeongdong is great for cosmetics and skincare products. Look for stores offering "1+1" deals (buy one, get one free) and free samples.

Tax Refunds

• Foreigners can claim tax refunds on purchases over 30,000 KRW at participating stores. Look for "Tax-Free" signs and keep your receipts. Refunds can be claimed at the airport or designated refund counters in the city.

Cultural Tip: Korean culture values politeness, so always greet shopkeepers with a smile and say "annyeonghaseyo" (hello) when entering a store.

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5. Accommodations

Seoul offers a wide range of accommodations to suit all budgets.

Guesthouses and Hostels

• Stay in guesthouses or hostels in areas like Hongdae, Itaewon, or Myeongdong. Prices range from 15,000–30,000 KRW per night for dormitory-style rooms and 40,000–70,000 KRW for private rooms.

Budget Hotels

• Budget hotel chains like Toyoko Inn, Hotel Tong, and Hotel Maui offer clean and comfortable rooms starting at 50,000–80,000 KRW per night.

Hanok Stays

• For a unique experience, consider staying in a traditional Korean house (hanok) in areas like Bukchon Hanok Village. Prices vary but can be affordable if booked in advance.

Airbnb

• Airbnb is widely available in Seoul, with options ranging from shared apartments to entire homes. Prices start at around 30,000 KRW per night.

Cultural Tip: Many accommodations provide free breakfast, so take advantage of this to save on meals.

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6. Local Discounts and Cards

• Discover Seoul Pass: This pass offers free or discounted entry to over 50 attractions, including palaces, museums, and theme parks. It also includes a T-Money card function. Prices start at 39,900 KRW for a 24-hour pass.
• Korea Tour Card: Specifically designed for tourists, this card offers discounts on transportation, shopping, and attractions. It can also be used as a T-Money card.
• Free Walking Tours: The Seoul Metropolitan Government offers free guided walking tours of popular areas like Bukchon Hanok Village and Gwanghwamun. Check their website for schedules.

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7. Additional Tips

• Free Attractions: Many of Seoul’s top attractions, such as Gyeongbokgung Palace (free on the last Wednesday of each month) and Namsan Seoul Tower (free to hike up), are either free or very affordable.
• Seasonal Festivals: Attend free cultural events and festivals, such as the Seoul Lantern Festival or the Cherry Blossom Festival, for a memorable experience.
• Water and Snacks: Carry a reusable water bottle, as public water fountains are common. Convenience stores also sell affordable snacks and drinks.

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By following these tips, you can enjoy Seoul on a budget while making the most of your time in this dynamic city. Happy travels!