First-timer checklist for Korea

Before you book

• Confirm passport validity (many airlines expect 6+ months remaining — check your carrier).
• Look up your nationality’s entry rules on official sites (K-ETA, visa-free stay, or visa). Never assume a friend’s passport rules apply to you.
• Decide nights in Seoul vs day trips; short trips usually work better with one base near a subway interchange.

2–3 weeks out

1. 1
   Complete any required K-ETA or visa application early; screenshot approvals offline.
2. 2
   If you are on the temporary K-ETA exemption list, plan the e-Arrival card instead (see Electronic arrival).
3. 3
   Get an eSIM QR (download offline) or know where to buy a SIM / Wi-Fi egg at ICN.