Flights from Penang (PEN) to South Korea

Discover South Korea

Discover South Korea

Why visit South Korea?
South Korea blends modern energy with deep-rooted tradition, from neon-lit districts and K-pop beats to serene palaces and coastal temples. You can move easily between high-tech cities and quiet countryside within a single trip.
What to expect
Most visitors split their time between Seoul in the north-west, the port city of Busan in the south-east, and surrounding countryside of mountains and national parks. Each region offers its own character, from riverside districts and cultural villages to coastal promenades and hot springs.
Plan your trip
South Korea is a compact, well-connected gateway to North-east Asia, with efficient rail and road links between major cities. It works well for both short urban breaks and longer itineraries that include nature, culture, and onward connections around the region.

Top experiences in South Korea

Explore historic Seoul palaces

Wander through grand palace complexes in Seoul, with courtyards, pavilions, and city views that reveal centuries of Korean royal history.

Stroll Busan's Haeundae and Gwangalli beaches

Enjoy long sandy beaches, coastal walks, and illuminated bridges that make Busan's shoreline one of the country's most scenic urban escapes.

Hike in South Korea's national parks

Head to rugged national parks for well-marked trails, rocky peaks, and forested valleys within a few hours of the main cities.

Immerse yourself in K-pop and youth culture

Browse music shops, themed cafés, and lively shopping streets where you can experience South Korea's contemporary pop culture up close.

Relax in hot springs and bathhouses

Unwind in traditional bathhouses and hot spring resorts, where you can enjoy warm pools, saunas, and quiet rest areas.

Discover coastal markets and harbours

Visit bustling harbours and waterfront markets in cities like Busan, where fishermen, vendors, and cafés cluster by the sea.

Walk vibrant shopping streets at night

After sunset, explore illuminated shopping districts where boutiques, beauty stores, and snack stalls create a lively evening atmosphere.

Experience South Korea's way of life

Getting around
South Korea has fast and reliable intercity trains linking Seoul, Busan, and other major hubs, with subway lines and buses covering most neighbourhoods. Taxis and ride-hailing services are widely available for shorter journeys, and prepaid transport cards make transfers simple.
Local life & culture
Daily life flows between modern city living and long-held customs, visible in neighbourhood parks, traditional houses, and cultural centres. You will find arts districts, design spaces, and music venues sitting side by side with older streets and quiet residential lanes.
Where to unwind
Across the country you can slow down in riverside parks, mountain viewpoints, and coastal promenades. Urban green spaces, hiking trails, and seaside paths in both Seoul and Busan offer easy options to step away from the rush and enjoy open air scenery.

A taste of South Korea

National dishes & specialties
South Korea is known for flavourful grilled meats, hearty stews, and shared side dishes that appear with almost every meal. Different cities highlight particular styles, from Seoul's classic comfort food to Busan's seafood-focused specialities.
Casual & modern dining hubs
In Seoul, Busan, and other cities, you will find everything from quick street-side snacks to modern cafés and casual restaurants. Lively districts cluster eateries close together, so it is easy to sample different flavours within one neighbourhood.
Signature & scenic dining
For memorable meals, look out for restaurants with city views, riverside terraces, or coastal outlooks. Some dining rooms sit atop high-rise buildings or along waterfronts, offering a chance to pair your meal with wide panoramas.

Retail therapy in South Korea

Malls & lifestyle hubs
Major cities like Seoul and Busan feature large shopping complexes that combine international brands, local designers, cafés, and cinemas. Many are directly connected to subway stations, making them easy to reach in any weather.
Markets & local crafts
Traditional markets and smaller shopping streets are ideal for discovering local crafts, textiles, and everyday goods. Areas in Seoul, Busan, and regional cities showcase a mix of long-running stalls and newer boutiques.
Evening retail scene
After dark, busy shopping districts glow with neon signs, bright storefronts, and late-opening stores. Night-time markets and illuminated streets make browsing and people-watching a key part of the city experience.

Best time to visit South Korea

Peak season: Late March to May and September to October bring mild, pleasant weather, with average temperatures around 10–22°C (50–72°F). Cherry blossoms and autumn colours make these popular months for city walks and outdoor trips. Shoulder season: June and early July, plus November, see more varied weather, from warm days around 18–26°C (64–79°F) to cooler evenings. Rain can be more frequent, but cities and attractions are generally less crowded. Low season: December to February is winter, with temperatures often between -2–8°C (28–46°F), especially inland and in the north. It is colder but offers clear days, winter scenery, and a quieter atmosphere at many outdoor sights.

Frequently Asked Questions