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As a solo female traveler, I’m always on the lookout for countries that offer endless adventures, mouthwatering eats, deep cultural vibes, and, above all, a safe environment. I had heard that South Korea may check all those boxes! So, I set out to discover if South Korea truly lives up to the hype for women traveling alone.
South Korea’s Incredible Transformation
Once devastated by the Korean War, South Korea has risen from a developing, third-world nation to a high-tech powerhouse that is now considered a first-world country. From towering skyscrapers in Seoul to eco-friendly bullet trains threading the countryside and the preservation of historic sites, this nation’s comeback is legendary.
You can tour the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) to learn about the impact of the Korean War and get a peek at the contrast between North and South Korea’s development. It’s impressive how quickly South Korea recovered and developed a strong economy, infrastructure, and international business presence.
K-Beauty products flooding international markets and major K-Dramas, like Parasite and Squid Game, receiving global accolades, aided South Korea’s growing popularity. As tourists began experiencing South Korea’s vibrant culture and friendly locals, the buzz around this country continues to grow. It’s a relatively inexpensive, super clean, well-organized country.
Now is the perfect time to plan a trip to South Korea! While it’s a fantastic destination, South Korea is not overly crowded with tourists. I went during April, known as the most popular time for tourists, thanks to the blooming cherry blossoms, and it was not crowded at all! Even the super touristy spots were very manageable.
This Trip Recap Will Cover:
- Safety In South Korea
- Things To Do In South Korea
- K-Beauty
- A Foodie’s Paradise
- Breaking Down The Major Cities
- Navigating Public Transportation in South Korea As A Solo Female Traveler
- My Priorities as a Solo-Female Traveler
- Tips For First-Time Solo Female Travelers In South Korea
- The Best Time To Visit South Korea
Safety In South Korea
I am normally the solo female traveler who wears a fake wedding ring, brings a portable door lock, and never takes my eyes off my belongings. I often warn other women to be on guard when solo traveling, yet in South Korea, I never once felt uneasy. This safety is particularly noticeable compared to other destinations where news stories about crime often dominate. I was shocked at how safe South Korea is!
With blonde hair, I’m always more apprehensive about traveling to a country where I can’t blend in, but no one in South Korea even cared. Not one person touched my hair or took a photo with me (yes, that happens all the time when I travel). The locals didn’t even notice me. It was great!
You can feel safe walking alone at night. You don’t need to worry about pickpockets, scammers, or people trying to hustle you. If you forget your purse on the subway, it will still be there, untouched, when you go back to look for it. This is a wild concept to me!
South Korea is so safe for a few reasons. There are CCTV cameras everywhere keeping an eye on everything, and the proactive police presence makes crime nearly nonexistent. Plus, there is a high level of community trust. Lost items, like a credit card on the ground, get left in plain sight as locals know you’ll come back for it.
Women traveling alone can feel confident that South Korea is a safe destination. If you want a more in-depth look at the safety, check out this article by U30X founder Matt Wilson.
Read More: The Ultimate Guide to Travel Safety in South Korea
Things To Do In South Korea
A country being safe is only part of the reason to travel there. I travel to do, not just to see, and South Korea delivers in every way. From luxurious spa treatments to rowdy baseball games, South Korea offers an exciting mix of modern thrills and cultural treasures that will create a wonderful itinerary.
Seoul
Seoul, the capital of South Korea, is a sprawling metropolis that rivals New York City in both size and energy. With over nine million people calling Seoul home, the city buzzes with life. Seoul is a labyrinth of palaces, street markets, art museums, underground shopping malls, public parks, waterside trails, and restaurants. A few must-visit spots include Gyeongbokgung Palace, where you can catch a glimpse of Korea’s royal history, and Bukchon Hanok Village, where traditional architecture will transport you back in time.
Seoul comes alive at night. The neon-lit streets are lined with crowded food stalls, loud bars, and bopping clubs. Book a karaoke room with your friends and sing along to BTS, or experience Korean gaming culture and spend time in one of Seoul’s massive arcades.
Jeonju
For a change of pace from Seoul's urban energy, we stayed in Jeonju’s Hanok Village. With over 800 beautifully preserved Hanok houses, the village offers a quiet, cultural environment. We slept on traditional floor bedding in a Hanok guesthouse.
Wandering through the village, we admired local art, sampled regional food, and enjoyed the slower rhythm of life. To further embrace the heritage of the region, you can rent a ceremonial hanbok and explore the village in traditional Korean dress.
One of the biggest highlights of my trip was taking a K-pop dance class in Jeonju. The instructor choreographed a fun routine that had us all channeling our inner Blackpink. We also tried the Dalgona cookie challenge made famous in the television show Squid Game. Our group tried our luck, carefully carving out shapes from the fragile sugar candy without breaking the outline.
Busan
If Seoul is comparable to NYC, then Busan is similar to Miami. Skyscrapers rise over beaches, large marinas decorate the coastline, and seaside restaurants and bars open their patios. During spring and summer, you can take a dip in the ocean, sign up for a stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) class, or just relax on the beach.
One of Busan’s most iconic sights is the Haedong Yonggungsa Dragon Temple. A stunning seaside temple perched on the cliffs overlooking the ocean with multiple levels, intricate statues, colorful lanterns, and prayer rooms. It is considered the most beautiful temple in South Korea.
Another unforgettable moment from the trip was taking a taekwondo class led by Korean masters. We practiced our kicks and punches, and even got to break a wooden board. My certificate of participation is proudly being displayed on the fridge.
K-Beauty: The Star Of The Show
Korean beauty products and treatments are coveted around the world. All the women on my trip, myself included, were very excited to dive into the world of K-Beauty. And let me tell you, the results are so good! My skin has never looked better.
Deeply rooted in holistic health, Korean beauty treatments consider how the entire body works together. Everything I tried incorporated elements like lymphatic drainage, aromatherapy, and stress relief, leaving me not just glowing but deeply relaxed.
Of course, we also all did massive Olive Young hauls to bring the magic of K-Beauty home with us. Pro tip: bring your passport when shopping at Olive Young for an instant tax refund on your purchases.
Here are a few must-try Korean beauty treatments:
- 18-Step Scalp Treatment: Pamper your scalp with steam, red light therapy, oils, herbs, exfoliation, and a custom tonic to promote healthy hair growth. The ‘before’ photos are a little scary, but you’ll leave with a sparkling scalp, shiny hair, and a fresh style perfect for looking fabulous for the rest of your trip.
- Facial: These facials are next level. With multiple steps customized to your specific skin needs, they leave your skin looking clear, calm, and radiant. If glass skin is your goal, book a Korean facial!
- Full Body Massage: After a long flight, this was exactly what I needed. I went straight from the airport to the spa, and it was the best massage I’ve ever had. My therapist’s hands could heal the world.
- Color Analysis: Curious about which colors of clothing and shades of makeup suit you best? Korean color consultants use a scientific approach to determine your optimal color palette.
- Botox: For those looking for something a bit more intensive, South Korea is known for high-quality, affordable cosmetic procedures. A Botox touch-up is a fraction of the price in South Korea.
- Jjimjilbang (Korean Bathhouse): A traditional spa experience with saunas, hot and cold baths, and themed relaxation rooms. Try SpaLand in Busan!
Want more info on Korean Beauty treatments, spas, and products? Read about my experience with K-Beauty, plus my complete list of recommended spas and Olive Young products.
South Korea Is A Foodie’s Paradise
Get ready to eat! South Korea has so many delicious, authentic Korean dishes worth trying. The table quickly gets filled with meats, seafood, noodles, vegetables, pancakes, soups, stews, and rice.
As a solo traveler, I love that small group trips often share family-style meals. It’s so fun to get to sample a bit of everything. Seoul’s Gwangjang Food Market is a great place to try an array of sweet and savory treats for lunch.
It’s no secret that Koreans love meat and seafood, so it can be a difficult country for vegetarians and vegans. Many recipes have a base of anchovy or beef broth, so be sure to ask before ordering. But don’t worry, there are still tons of amazing Korean meals you can try. If you’re traveling alone, download the HappyCow app to help you locate nearby vegetarian and vegan food options. When you travel with Under30Experiences, your guide speaks the local language and can help you order food and give you recommendations for places to eat.
What to eat and drink in South Korea:
- Bibimbap: Rice with meat, an egg, and assorted vegetables - Vegetarian and vegan options available
- Kimbap: Shredded vegetables and other fillings rolled in rice and seaweed - Vegetarian and vegan options available
- Bindaetteok: Mung bean pancake - Vegetarian and vegan friendly
- Korean Fried Chicken: Best shared with friends over a beer.
- Bulgogi: Thinly-sliced meat marinated in soy sauce.
- Kimchijeon: A Kimchi pancake - May contain seafood. Contains eggs.
- Salt Bread: A buttery, salty roll - Vegetarian friendly. Contains butter.
- Bungeoppang: A fish-shaped pastry filled with sweet custard - Vegetarian friendly. Contains dairy.
- Makgeolli: A slightly sparkling rice wine
- Soju: A distilled alcoholic beverage traditionally made from rice
For more unique Korean food experiences and tips on navigating Korea as a vegetarian or vegan, read my Korean food diary. Warning: Do not read on an empty stomach!
Breaking Down The Major Cities
Is Seoul safe for solo female travelers?
Absolutely! Seoul is one of the safest major cities in the world, especially for solo female travelers. The public transportation system is incredibly efficient and spotless. Most commuters keep to themselves, so it’s rare to hear any conversation. You can ride the subway without fear of harassment.
For accommodation, I recommend staying in Myeongdong, a centrally located neighborhood with lots to do within walking distance. It’s clean, well-lit, and has many cafes, restaurants, and spas.
Is Jeonju safe for solo female travelers?
Yes, especially the charming Hanok village, where you’ll likely spend most of your time. The area is peaceful and welcoming.
I had lots of free time to explore on my own and never once felt unsafe. What stood out to me was how respectful the street vendors were. No catcalling, no pressure to enter shops, no one trying to hustle you. It was a refreshing change from other places I’ve traveled.
Is Busan safe for solo female travelers?
Busan is also very safe and has incredibly friendly locals. I explored Gwangalli and Haeundae Beach, wandered through the city, hiked up to a mountain viewpoint, and felt completely at ease.
When I was trying to figure out which bus to take back to my hotel, an elderly man noticed me looking confused and offered help. He checked the map, told me we were taking the same bus, and even pointed out my stop when it was time for me to get off. That’s the kind of kindness you can expect in Busan.
Navigating Public Transportation in South Korea As A Solo Female Traveler
South Korea is an incredibly organized country with a well-developed public transportation system. However, Google Maps doesn’t work well in South Korea, so download Naver Maps or Kakao Maps instead. These apps provide accurate directions, including which subway line and even which car to board.
To use public transportation, you’ll need a T-Money card, which you can load with cash at any subway station. Credit cards won’t work for tapping on and off buses or subways.
If you ever find yourself overwhelmed with public transport, you can use Kakao Maps or Uber to call a taxi. Be aware that during rush hour, traffic can be intense. Walking is often faster than a taxi and gives you a better feel for the city anyway. When walking, be aware of the traffic. Drivers can be aggressive, so be cautious when crossing streets.
My Priorities as a Solo-Female Traveler
After safety and fun activities, I always consider a few key priorities when planning a trip. As a solo female traveler, I do my best to reduce my environmental impact and support the communities I visit. I believe travel should give back, not take away. I look for experiences that align with that mindset.
That’s one of the reasons I love traveling with Under30Experiences. They share these values and design their trips to be both sustainable and community-focused. On this trip, you’ll visit the Gamcheon Culture Village in Busan. Once an impoverished hillside neighborhood, the locals transformed it by painting their homes in vibrant colors and decorating the streets with murals. Their creativity turned the area into a thriving cultural destination, helping to revitalize the community and bring in tourism dollars.
Today, Gamcheon is a tourist hotspot in Busan. It’s a great place to pick up classic souvenirs like magnets, postcards, and keychains. There are also many adorable bakeries and coffee shops.
Tips For First-Time Solo Female Travelers In South Korea
South Korea is an incredibly safe and exciting destination for solo female travelers, but Seoul, Jeonju, and Busan are still major cities, so it’s important to use common sense.
Our guide prepared us for a few common questions locals might ask. Here’s how we were advised to answer them to avoid drawing unnecessary attention or getting caught in awkward conversations:
- Are you American? Say no. While there’s no animosity toward Americans, saying yes may spark a long conversation about U.S. politics.
- Are you Christian? Say yes. If you say no, someone may try to share the love of Jesus with you.
- Are you married? Say yes. South Korea is a respectful culture, and saying you’re married can help deter unwanted attention.
Other helpful tips for solo female travelers:
- Don’t announce that you’re traveling alone
- Never share your hotel name or room number with strangers
- Always buy travel insurance
- Get an eSIM (Airalo, HolaFly, or FlexiRoam are good options) or activate your phone’s international plan
- Dress modestly. South Korea values conservative dress, especially at temples, palaces, and cultural sites. For more details on what to wear, check out my solo female traveler’s guide to packing for South Korea.
The Best Time To Visit South Korea
Spring and fall are regarded as the best times to visit South Korea. In spring, the weather is mild and the cherry blossoms are in bloom. In autumn, the mountains get covered in stunning fall foliage. Summer and winter have more extreme weather and temperature, but both seasons still have lots to offer. The hot, humid summer is great for water sports, so Busan and Jeju Island see an influx of visitors. The snowy, cold winter is great for skiing and cozying up in a sauna. Skip the monsoon season in late summer to avoid heavy rain.
Safe Solo Female Travel In South Korea
After nine days in Seoul, Jeonju, and Busan, I can confirm that South Korea is a great place for solo female travel. With culture, cuisine, and peace of mind, women can travel alone to South Korea and have a great trip.
Since South Korea is so safe for women to travel (and a lengthy flight), consider adding a trip to Jeju Island to your itinerary for sweeping coastlines and natural beauty. Or hop over to Japan for another solo-female-friendly destination.
Join me on an Under30Experiences trip to connect with fellow travelers and make memories that last a lifetime.
Looking for more amazing and safe destinations for solo female travelers? Get inspiration from my other article, which covers some of the best places for solo travel.
