Daily costs per person in US dollars. DMZ tours are the main expense — the rest of the budget covers Seoul accommodation and food, which are very affordable by international standards.
Daily cost breakdown
Currency: KRW (Won) (Cards widely accepted in Seoul)
| Category | Budget | Mid-range | Splurge | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | $15–30 | $50–100 | $150+ | Hostels → guesthouses → hotels |
| Food | $10–20 | $25–50 | $60+ | Street food & konbini → restaurants → BBQ & fine dining |
| Transport | $5–10 | $15–30 | $40+ | Metro & bus → taxi → private car |
| Activities | $0–40 | $40–80 | $100+ | Free sites → DMZ tour → JSA + DMZ combo |
| Entry Fees | $0–5 | $5–15 | $15–30 | Many sites free or very cheap |
| Daily Total | $40–70 | $120–250 | $350+ | Budget backpacker → comfortable mid → luxury |
Money-saving tips
Book DMZ tours in advance
DMZ and JSA tours must be booked through authorised operators. Prices range from 50,000-80,000 won ($40-65) for basic DMZ tours to 100,000-130,000 won ($80-100) for JSA tours. Book online for the best rates.
Use Seoul's metro system
Seoul's metro is clean, efficient, and incredibly cheap. A single ride costs 1,350 won ($1). Load a T-money card at any convenience store for seamless travel on all public transport.
Eat at local restaurants
Korean food is affordable and filling. A meal of bibimbap, kimbap, or jjigae costs 7,000-12,000 won ($5-10) at local restaurants. Convenience stores (CU, GS25) sell excellent ready meals for 3,000-5,000 won.
Stay in guesthouses
Seoul has excellent guesthouses and hostels in the Hongdae, Jongno, and Myeongdong areas from 20,000-40,000 won ($15-30) per night. Many include breakfast and have English-speaking staff.
Free attractions in Seoul
Many of Seoul's top attractions are free — the War Memorial, National Museum, palaces with hanbok rental, Bukchon Hanok Village, and Gwangjang Market are all free to enter.
Get a Korea Tour Card
The Korea Tour Card combines T-money transit with discounts at major attractions, shops, and restaurants. Available at airports and convenience stores — good value for a multi-day Seoul stay.
