Daily costs per person in US dollars. DMZ tours are the main expense, and 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, it is good value for a multi-day Seoul stay.
