Jeollabuk Do, South Korea
These are indispensable for navigation. Google Maps has limited functionality. Download either for accurate, real-time bus tracking and route planning. Switch to English in settings.
Naver's translation app is excellent for Korean-English translation. It offers text, voice, and image translation, helpful for menus, signs, or communicating.
This is the leading app for hailing taxis and ride-sharing. See estimated fares, track your driver, and pay via the app.
The most widely used messaging app. While not strictly needed for tourists, it can be useful for guesthouse hosts or local tour operators.
The official tourism app from the Korea Tourism Organization (KTO). It delivers general tourist information, attractions, and event listings across Korea, including Jeonju.
English.visitkorea.or.kr. This is the official and most comprehensive source for tourism information across all of South Korea, including detailed sections on Jeonju.
Www.jeonju.go.kr/eng/ (look for the English version). This website shares specific information about Jeonju, local events, festivals, and detailed guides.
Www.letskorail.com. The official website for booking KTX high-speed train tickets and other train services. It has an English interface.
Www.hikorea.go.kr. The official Korean Immigration Service website. Use this for the most up-to-date and accurate information regarding visa requirements and entry procedures.
Follow official KTO accounts (e.g., @imagineyourkorea on Instagram) for general inspiration, beautiful photography, and updates. Search Instagram for hashtags like #Jeonju, #JeonjuHanokVillage for user-generated content.
While specific Jeonju guidebooks are rare, comprehensive South Korea guidebooks (e.g., from major travel publishers) have dedicated sections on Jeonju. Free, detailed tourist maps of Jeonju are typically at Tourist Information Centers and Hanok guesthouses. These aid navigation of narrow alleys.
"Honbul" (Spirit Fire) by Choi Myeong-hee provides deep insight into traditional Korean life, customs, and culture. The Choi Myeong-hee Literary House in Jeonju is dedicated to her. Explore other non-fiction books on Korean history, art, or cuisine for background to your visit.
Look for free tourist brochures, event calendars, or small local magazines at tourist information centers, hotels, or cafes. These share up-to-date information on local happenings, festivals, and new attractions, enriching your immediate travel plans.
Police: 112, Ambulance/Fire: 119, Korea Travel Hotline: 1330.
Jeonbuk National University Hospital, Jeonju Jesus Hospital.
Use local navigation, carry cash, watch air quality.
During spring and sometimes winter, air pollution can be a concern. Check daily forecasts and consider wearing a KF94 mask on high pollution days.
Some smaller vendors, especially in traditional markets or very local eateries, may prefer or only accept cash. Always have some Won on hand.
Credit cards are widely accepted in larger establishments and department stores.
Inform your bank and credit card companies of your travel dates and destinations to prevent your cards from being flagged for suspicious activity.
Free public Wi-Fi is common in many cafes, hotels, and public spaces.
Purchasing a local SIM or ESIM for South Korea upon arrival provides reliable data and call services.
Apps like Papago are valuable for Korean-English translation.
Plan your Hanok Village exploration in a logical loop. Start at a main entrance (like near Gyeonggijeon Shrine), explore central attractions, then branch out to areas like Jeondong Catholic Church and Omokdae, all walkable.
Using the city bus system with a T-Money card is the most economical way to move around Jeonju. It offers a slight fare reduction and, importantly, free transfers between buses within a set time.
Kakao T is the dominant app for hailing taxis. It allows you to see estimated fares, track your driver, and often pay via the app, for convenient travel around the city.
Download and familiarize yourself with essential apps like Naver Map/Kakao Map, Papago, and Kakao T before you depart.
