10 Things to Do in South Korea: A Complete Travel Guide for First-Time Travellers

K-pop, K-dramas, labubus, rameyon, and the love for all things South Korean have gripped Indians. It has also inspired many to travel to the country and explore their culture, experience their larger-than-life music concerts and try local cuisine. With peak season coming to a close this month, now is the perfect time to pack your bags, book those tickets and head to the country that’s brimming with culture. However, Indians do need to apply for a visa before travelling to the country.

South Korea is also well-known for its minimal yet effective skincare, beauty routines and clothes, making it a great destination for the younger lot of travellers. Recently, Prime Minister Narendra Modi met South Korea’s President Lee Jae-myung at the G20 Summit

to reaffirm the country’s commitment to deepen the India–South Korea Special Strategic Partnership and expand cooperation across trade, investment and advanced technologies.

Travel creator Simran Balar Jain shares 10 things you should add to your list of experiences to have when travelling to South Korea.

Ride the Seouldal Hot-Air Balloon for the Best City Views
Located at Yeouido near the Han River, Seouldal is a moon-themed tethered hot-air-balloon that rises 130 metres above the ground. It offers stunning aerial views of Seoul’s skyline and is perfect for dreamy photos and romantic moments. Since flights depend on weather, book your slot in advance.

Explore Seoul’s Trendiest Neighbourhoods
Go beyond basic sightseeing and spend time in Hongdae, Ikseon-dong and Seongsu-dong, packed with aesthetic cafés, indie fashion stores, thrift clothing, street music, Korean stationery and experimental lifestyle brands. These districts capture Korea’s youthful and artistic vibe.

Dive Into Korea’s Beauty, Hair and Wellness Culture
Korea is the world capital of beauty and it’s not just about shopping, it’s an entire experience. Start at Olive Young, where every shopper gets skin analysis to understand their skin type and concerns before buying products. Then try viral Korean facials, scalp-targeted hair spa, body scrubs, aromatherapy and traditional bathhouses (Jjimjilbang). These treatments genuinely show visible results and are surprisingly affordable.

Try Perfume-Making and Craft Workshops
Korea is full of DIY studios that offer experiences like perfume making, ceramic art, resin art, candle moulding and clay sculpture. They’re fun, aesthetic and you get to take home a customised souvenir created by you.

Take a Day Trip to Nami Island
Famous for its dreamy tree-lined paths, Nami Island is perfect for couples, families and photographers. Spend a slow day cycling, strolling along the riverside and hopping around pretty cafés.

Visit the DMZ for an Eye-Opening Experience
The Demilitarized Zone tour gives powerful insight into North-South Korea relations, featuring observatory points, tunnels and real stories from the divided peninsula — a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Watch the Sunset from N-Seoul Tower
Take the cable car up to N-Seoul Tower for panoramic skyline views. The love-lock area is especially beautiful during sunset and makes for romantic photos.

Enjoy Vegetarian-Friendly Korean Street Food
Try dishes like Tteokbokki, Bibimbap without meat, Jumeokbap, Korean sweet potatoes and strawberry milk. Learn phrases like “chaesik juseyo” (vegetarian) and “gogi mulhayo” (no meat) to make ordering easy.

Experience Korea’s Nightlife the Local Way
End the day in Itaewon or Gangnam, known for rooftop bars, karaoke rooms (Noraebang) and safe late-night energy.

Move Around Easily with Public Transport
Buy a T-Money card and use the subway — fast, clean, safe and English-friendly. Taxis via the Kakao T app are also reliable.