Seongnam-si Gyeonggi-do, South Korea Travel Guide
South Korea has three main mobile carriers: SK Telecom, KT, and LG U+. All offer excellent scope and fast internet speeds.
Korean (한국어 - Hanguk-eo) is the official language. English proficiency varies, more common in tourist areas.
Download Papago and essential maps like KakaoMap or Naver Map before your arrival for seamless navigation and communication.
Schedules can vary, especially during holidays. Plan ahead for a smoother trip.
Independent Stores: Typically open 10-11 AM, close 9-10 PM. Department Stores: 10:30 AM to 8-9 PM, with occasional monthly closing days.
Restaurants: Lunch 11:30 AM-2 PM, Dinner 5-9 PM (many stay open later). Cafes: Early morning to late evening. Convenience Stores: Many operate 24/7.
Museums & Attractions: Generally 9-10 AM to 5-6 PM. Many are closed on Mondays. Always check official websites for current hours.
Banks: Weekdays 9 AM-4 PM. Closed weekends/holidays. ATMs: Widely available 24/7; look for "Global ATM" signs.
Major Holidays (Seollal, Chuseok): Cause widespread temporary closures and travel surges. Check a Korean holiday calendar.
When planning your itinerary, especially around national holidays, always double-check the operating hours of specific attractions and restaurants.
Engaging with local the culture in a respectful way enriches your travel experience and fosters positive interactions.
A slight bow is a common greeting, especially with elders. Use polite tongue and show deference to older individuals.
Tipping is not customary or expected in South Korea. Avoid blowing your nose at the table; excuse yourself to the restroom.
Always ask permission before taking photos of individuals. Do not photograph military or government sites.
General: Casual but neat attire is acceptable. Temples: Dress modestly, ensuring shoulders and knees are covered.
Always offer and receive items, especially money or business cards, with two hands as a sign of respect.
Seongnam-si, especially newer districts, has progressed in accessibility. Planning benefits travelers with mobility needs.
Modern Areas (Bundang-gu): Well-designed with wide sidewalks, ramps, and elevators in most public buildings.
Subway: Modern stations generally accessible with elevators, escalators, and wheelchair-accessible toilets. Tactile paving common.
Visual Impairment: Subway stations feature tactile paving and Braille signage. Audio announcements on public transport.
Korea Tourism Organization (KTO) Website: Often details on accessible tourism in South Korea.
Research specific attractions and transportation routes in advance to confirm their accessibility features. Contact the Korea Travel Hotline (1330) for specific inquiries.
