Let’s be real—when people think of South Korea, they often imagine flashy K-pop concerts, luxury skincare treatments, and trendy cafes with ₩10,000 drinks. But here's the secret: South Korea doesn’t have to be expensive!
Whether you are a student, traveler, or expat trying to make the most of your time in South Korea without burning through your savings, you’re in luck. South Korea is packed with affordable gems that deliver big experiences for small prices.
Here are 20 budget-friendly things to do that will let you enjoy South Korea to the fullest—without going broke.
1. Hike South Korea’s Gorgeous Trails — Free!🏞️
Hiking in South Korea is a national obsession—and luckily for you, it is completely free. The country is filled with scenic trails of all difficulty levels. From Bukhansan in Seoul to Seoraksan in Gangwon and Hallasan in Jeju, there is something for every nature lover. Trails are well-maintained, safe, and accessible by public transport. Pack a picnic and enjoy panoramic views, waterfalls and temples along the way.
Bonus: It is a great way to meet friendly locals!
2. Visit Museums for FREE on Cultural Day🎫
Cultural Day (문화가 있는 날) happens on the last Wednesday of every month, and it is your golden ticket to South Korea’s culture—for free or super cheap. Museums, palaces, and even movie theaters offer free or discounted entry. Explore the National Museum of Korea, wander Gyeongbokgung, or enjoy a ₩5,000 film at CGV. It is a perfect day to dive into South Korea’s history, art and entertainment—on a budget.
3. Eat Delicious Street Food for Under ₩5,000 🍜
South Korean street food is cheap, tasty, and part of the culture. For under ₩5,000, you can fill your belly with classics like tteokbokki, kimbap, hotteok, eomuk (fish cakes) and mandu. Visit vibrant food spots like Gwangjang Market, Myeongdong or Busan’s BIFF Square. You can eat like a king for the price of a coffee back home!
4. Affordable Transport for ₩1,400 🚌
Getting around South Korea is fast, easy, and affordable. The subway starts at just ₩1,400 and covers nearly every inch of major cities. Buses are also clean and efficient, with routes connecting you to both urban and rural areas. Need to travel between cities? Skip the pricey KTX and go for the intercity or express buses—they are comfortable and often half the price.
To make your journey even smoother, download these apps:
📱 Naver Map or KakaoMap – Real-time directions, subway/bus schedules, and walking routes (available in English)
📱 KakaoMetro – Great for navigating subways with live updates
📱 T-Money Pay – Recharge and manage your transport card
📱 Kobus / Bustago – Book intercity bus tickets online
South Korea’s public transportation is one of the best in the world—and now you are ready to master it like a local!
5. Stay in Affordable Guesthouses or Goshiwons 🛏️
Accommodation does not have to be expensive. Hostels and guesthouses cost as little as ₩15,000 per night and often include breakfast. If you are staying long-term, look into goshiwons—tiny but private rooms with shared kitchens and laundry, starting around ₩300,000/month. They are super common in student areas and perfect for solo travelers.
6. Study or Relax at a Korean Public Library For Free!☕
Study cafés and Instagrammable spots in South Korea are trendy but can cost ₩5,000–₩10,000 just for a seat and a drink. If you are trying to save money while staying productive, public libraries are your best-kept secret. They are clean, quiet and packed with useful amenities like free Wi-Fi, charging stations, air-conditioning and study desks. Some even have rooftop gardens, exhibition spaces and cozy reading nooks. Plus, you will often find English-language books and helpful staff. Popular spots include Seoul Library (City Hall), National Library of Korea (Seocho), and the super aesthetic Forest of Wisdom in Paju.
💡 Perfect for students, remote workers and anyone who wants peace and focus.
7. Visit Free Museums and Galleries 🎨
Even outside Culture Day, South Korea has tons of free or low-cost museums. Discover history at the Seoul Museum of History, admire modern art at smaller galleries in Insadong or Seochon, or pop into quirky exhibitions in university districts. Many museums even offer English guides and free lockers, making them perfect for budget-friendly solo or group outings.
8. Shop for Vintage at Dongmyo Flea Market🛍️
Want unique fashion without fast fashion prices? Head to Dongmyo Flea Market (동묘벼룩시장) for vintage jackets, secondhand sneakers, vinyl records, cameras and more—often for just a few thousand won. Go early for the best finds, and bargaining is totally normal here. It is a thrifter’s paradise and a must-visit for fashion lovers and collectors.
9. Catch a Movie for ₩5,000–₩7,000 🎥
Love movies? Catching a film in South Korea does not have to cost a fortune. Many theaters offer ₩5,000–₩7,000 tickets during early hours or on weekdays. Chains like CGV, Lotte Cinema, and Megabox are everywhere and some offer English-subtitled screenings. Treat yourself to a comfy chair and popcorn without breaking the bank.
10. Join a Free Walking Tour — Great for Learning and Exploring 🚶
Want to learn about South Korean history while making new friends? Free walking tours are offered by locals and students in Seoul, Busan and beyond. Check out Seoul Free Walking Tour or search VisitKorea and TripAdvisor for listings. Popular routes include Gyeongbokgung, Bukchon Hanok Village, Insadong, and even Gamcheon Culture Village in Busan. Just bring comfy shoes and some appreciation for your guide!
11. Try Noraebang (Karaoke) for ₩5,000/hr🎤
You haven’t really experienced South Korea until you have screamed your heart out at a noraebang. These private karaoke rooms are super fun and surprisingly cheap—just ₩5,000–₩10,000 per hour, split between friends. Many places run late-night deals too. Bonus: You will find English songs and tambourines waiting inside.
12. Convenience Store Dining= Cheap & Fun 🍱
South Korean convenience stores are legendary. For ₩4,000–₩6,000, you can grab a hot meal—ramyeon, dosirak (lunch box), triangle kimbap or fried snacks—and eat right there at a small table. Perfect for late-night cravings or spontaneous budget meals. Plus, the people-watching is top-tier.
13. Relax on Korea’s Beautiful Beaches 🏖️
Dreaming of a beach day? South Korea’s coastline is full of free-entry beaches. In summer, head to Haeundae or Songjeong (Busan), Eurwangni (Incheon) or Gyeongpo (Gangneung). Bring snacks, a towel, and sunscreen—you do not need anything else. Bonus: most beaches have free showers, convenience stores, and even lockers.
14. Enjoy Free Views from Parks & Hills 🌇
Skip the ticket to N Seoul Tower and instead hike up to Haneul Park, Naksan Park, or Eungbongsan. These spots offer breathtaking city views, especially at sunset or night. You will get great Instagram shots without paying a single won—just wear comfy shoes and bring your camera.
15. Try a Jjimjilbang (Korean Spa) for ₩10,000–₩15,000🛁
Jjimjilbangs are public bathhouses, saunas and rest areas all in one. For ₩10,000–₩15,000, you get access to hot tubs, saunas, sleeping rooms and even snack bars. Spend hours—or even the night! Try Siloam Sauna (Seoul) or Spa Land (Busan) for a true Korean wellness experience.
16. Rent a Bike with Seoul’s Ddareungi for ₩1,000/hr🚲
Explore South Korea on two wheels! Seoul’s public bike rental service, Ddareungi, costs just ₩1,000 per hour, and you will find stations all around the city. Ride along the Han River, through cherry blossom paths, or from café to café. All you need is a phone, card, and Naver Map.
17. Join Free or Low-Cost Community Classes🧘
Want to learn Korean cooking, calligraphy, or dancing? Many community centers and global hubs offer free or low-cost classes for foreigners. Check out Seoul Global Center, Korean Culture Houses or university language programs. Great way to learn something new and meet people—without spending much.
18. Use Apps for Coupons and Deals📱
Don’t pay full price! Download apps like Baemin, Yogiyo, Klook, TMON, or Naver Map for food discounts, attraction tickets, and travel deals. You can also find coupon codes for beauty stores, cafés, and even jjimjilbangs. Always check before you pay—it adds up!
19. Enjoy Free Seasonal Festivals🌸
From cherry blossom season in April to lantern festivals, fireworks shows, kimchi-making events and night markets, South Korea is full of vibrant free festivals all year round. Follow your city’s event calendar or VisitKorea’s website to find what’s happening. Bring your camera and enjoy the energy!
20. Send Packages Abroad Without Overpaying 📦
Need to send gifts, souvenirs, or essentials back home? International shipping from SouthKorea doesn’t have to be expensive—HaeTek makes it easy and budget-friendly! Whether you are a student, expat, or traveler, you can ship boxes worldwide with affordable rates and English-friendly service. Instead of struggling with language barriers or overpriced options at the post office, just book online and let HaeTek handle the rest.
💡 Bonus: Students get 5% discount!
💬 Final Thoughts
South Korea doesn’t have to drain your wallet. With a little planning and a curious mindset, you can experience incredible food, culture, nature and fun—all while staying within budget.
