5 Budget-friendly Activities In Korea
1. Cafe Hopping
For our first budget-friendly activity: if you don’t already know, cafes are kind of a big deal in Korea. There’s truly one for everyone. Whether your thing is the K-pop group BTS, natural waterfalls, traditional Korean villages, or specific types of delicious pastries and espresso. In Korea, you can expect giant three story cafes and tiny ones with minimal seating. Whatever kind you like, cafes are a great place to hang out if you want to see your friends but don’t want to completely blow your budget. Order a coffee and a slice of cake to share and enjoy the afternoon!
2. Hiking
Korea is a mountainous and beautiful country. Regardless of what city or town you live in, you’ll probably be a short train or bus ride away from hiking trails. Of course, hiking is completely free, but it’s also a great way to exercise, spend time in nature, and hang out with friends. Check out our blog post on three of my favorite hikes here in Korea!
3. Catching A Baseball Game
Looking for a less physically-demanding budget-friendly activity? Weekday tickets to professional baseball games in Korea are about 13,000 won (roughly $10). I went to a game in June, and it was epic! I took my dad (a life-long Chicago Cubs fan) to the game, and he couldn’t get over how excited the Korean fans were for their teams. In Korea, the spectators cheer for the entire game. It makes you feel a little bit like you’re watching a game in the World Series!
4. Traditional Korean Pub
While western-style bars and clubs are extremely fun, the best place to go if you want to drink affordably is a traditional Korean-style pub. Some of my favorite nights out since moving to Korea have involved staying at a pub until the subways opened again at 5:30 in the morning. Order rounds of makgeolli and soju and load up on kimchi jjigae and pajeon, and I promise you won’t be missing your local bar back home!
5. Picnic By The Han River
Going on a sunset picnic by the Han River is easily my favorite budget-friendly activity to do in Seoul. All you need is your friends, a cheap blanket from Daiso, and a quick run to the convenience store for ramen and drinks, and you’re ready to go. I’ve gone countless times since moving to Seoul, and not only is it cheap, but it’s also created so many beautiful memories!
Diana Richtman, Marketing Assistant
Diana Richtman is a writer and ESL teacher living in Seoul, South Korea. Originally from Savannah, Georgia in the United States, Diana holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Georgia in English & Women’s Studies. After receiving her TEFL certification, Diana moved to South Korea where she works at one of Creverse’s April Institutes. When Diana isn’t working, she loves exploring Korea, drinking warm cups of tea, and scaring away her friends with her karaoke performances.