Everything You Need to Know About Staying in South Korea for One Month
Living in South Korea for a month is a fantastic way to experience Korean culture beyond typical travel. From choosing the best area to stay, estimating your budget, using public transport, and discovering the best local food, this guide covers everything!
π Best Places to Stay in Korea for a Month
π Seoul – Best for City Life & Convenience
- π Gangnam – Upscale, modern, and full of shopping & entertainment
- π Hongdae – Youthful, artistic, and full of indie cafes & nightlife
- π Itaewon – International atmosphere with many foreign restaurants
- π Seongsu – Trendy, Instagrammable cafes & creative spaces
π Busan – Best for Beach Lovers & Relaxed Vibes
- π Haeundae – Coastal living with beachside cafes & restaurants
- π Seomyeon – Bustling downtown with great food & nightlife
π Jeju – Best for Nature & Relaxation
- π Seogwipo – Scenic coastal views & waterfalls
- π Jeju City – More urban but still relaxed
π° Estimated Cost of Living in Korea for One Month
| Category | Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| π Rent | $400 - $1,500 |
| π Transportation | $30 - $80 |
| π½ Food & Dining | $300 - $600 |
| ☕ Cafes & Entertainment | $100 - $300 |
| π Shopping & Extras | $50 - $300 |
| π΅ Total (Monthly) | $1,000 - $2,500 |
π Public Transportation in Korea
- π Subway & Bus: Use T-Money Card for easy access
- π Taxi & Ride-Sharing: Use Kakao T instead of Uber
- π KTX (High-Speed Train): Travel from Seoul to Busan in 2.5 hours
π Must-Try Korean Food
- Kimchi Jjigae – Spicy & savory stew
- Samgyeopsal – Korean BBQ
- Tteokbokki – Spicy rice cakes
- Bibimbap – Rice bowl with mixed veggies
- Korean Fried Chicken – Extra crispy with sweet or spicy sauce
π± Essential Apps for Living in Korea
- ✅ Naver Maps / Kakao Maps – More accurate than Google Maps
- ✅ Papago Translator – Better Korean translation than Google Translate
- ✅ Baedal Minjok – Order Korean food delivery
- ✅ Kakao T – Taxi, car rental & shared bikes
- ✅ Korail Talk – Book KTX train tickets
π What Foreigners Should Know Before Moving to Korea
1️⃣ Visa & Entry Requirements
Many countries can stay up to 90 days visa-free
K-ETA (Korea Electronic Travel Authorization) required for some travelers (Apply here)
If planning to work, consider Working Holiday Visa
2️⃣ Korean Culture & Manners
✅ No tipping at restaurants
✅ Use two hands when giving or receiving something
✅ Respect personal space in public transport
✅ Avoid loud phone calls on buses & subways
3️⃣ Internet & Mobile SIM Cards
✅ eSIM or SIM card from KT, SKT, LG U+
✅ Free WiFi available in most cafes, subways, and public areas
4️⃣ Healthcare & Emergency Contacts
✅ 112 – Police
✅ 119 – Medical emergency
✅ 1330 – Tourist helpline (English support)
✅ Major hospitals in Seoul: Samsung Medical Center, Asan Medical Center
π FAQs – One Month in Korea
- Can I live in Korea for a month without speaking Korean? – Yes! Many Koreans speak basic English, and translation apps help.
- How can I make friends in Korea? – Join Meetup, HelloTalk, or language exchange cafes.
- Is Korea safe for solo travelers? – Yes! Korea is one of the safest countries.
- What is the best time to stay in Korea for a month? – Spring (April-May) & Fall (September-October)
π― Final Thoughts: Is Living in Korea for a Month Worth It?
✅ Safe, modern, and convenient
✅ Amazing food, culture, and shopping
✅ Excellent transport & internet connectivity
If you want to experience Korea like a local, a one-month stay is perfect. From K-pop streets in Seoul to scenic beaches in Busan and Jeju’s nature spots, Korea offers a unique blend of modern and traditional culture.
