What’s the budget for a two-week trip to South Korea in 2025?

Planning a Two-Week Trip to South Korea in 2025: Budget, Flights, and Travel Tips

Planning a two-week trip to South Korea means diving into a land where ancient traditions coexist with futuristic cities. But before you book your flight, one key question arises: how much should you budget?

This 2025 travel guide gives you a realistic breakdown of the costs involved, tailored to your travel style—budget, mid-range, or comfort. It also covers transportation options, domestic flights, driving regulations with an international permit, and practical savings tips.

Round-Trip Flight Costs to South Korea

In 2025, a round-trip flight from major airports in the US or Europe to South Korea typically costs between $700 and $980 USD, depending on the airline and booking date. Low-cost options are limited, but airlines like Korean Air, Qatar Airways, and Air France occasionally offer last-minute deals.

✨ Tip: Use flexible layovers via Dubai, Bangkok, Tahiti, or even New Zealand to grab cheaper multi-leg flights if you're traveling on a tight budget.

How to Find Cheap Flights to South Korea

To find cheap flights in 2025, use a flight comparison tool like Liligo, Skyscanner, or Google Flights. Set alerts for direct or flexible-stop flights from JFK, LAX, BVA, or European hubs like CDG.

Consider one-way tickets, budget airlines like Ryanair, and combining routes through various comparators to get the lowest fares.

Online travel agencies and flight search engines also help you compare airfare prices, including baggage fees. Always double-check what's included.

Why Choose South Korea as a 2025 Destination?

Compared to Japan, Thailand, or New Zealand, South Korea offers great value:

• Lower cost of living

• Direct flights available from many international cities

• Safe, modern, and budget-friendly

It's ideal for budget-conscious travelers looking to explore Asia without compromising comfort.

Accommodation Costs for 14 Nights

• Budget travel: Hostels, goshiwon, guesthouses ($270–$375)

• Standard: 2-3 star hotels ($480–$750)

• Comfort: 4-star hotels, Airbnb ($850–$1,300)

In Seoul, neighborhoods like Hongdae, Itaewon, and Dongdaemun offer a good balance of price, vibe, and accessibility.

Food and Drink Budget

• Street food: $5.50–$9

• Casual restaurant: $11–$22

• 2-week food budget: $160–$380

Try local markets or delivery apps—perfect for spontaneous road-trippers!

Getting Around: Metro, Train, Domestic Flights or Rental Car?

• T-Money Card: $27–$43 for subway/bus

• KTX High-Speed Train (Seoul–Busan): ~$86 round trip

• Domestic flights: Convenient for Jeju or Daegu

• Rental car: Best for rural or island exploration

Some airlines offer multi-trip passes ideal for Working Holiday Visas or round-the-world itineraries.

Major Airports in South Korea

There are 15+ airports. Key ones include:

• Incheon (ICN): Main international hub

• Gimpo (GMP): Domestic flights

• Gimhae (Busan), Jeju, Daegu, Gwangju: Regional travel

Watch for baggage fees with low-cost domestic carriers.

Driving in South Korea with an International Permit

Yes, but it must comply with the 1949 Geneva Convention. South Korea does not accept 1968 Vienna Convention permits.

• Carry both your national license and valid international permit

• Valid for up to 1 year

• Best for driving in Jeju, rural areas, or mountainous regions

Things to Do: Attractions & Culture

• Temples, palaces, museums: $2–$5

• Hanbok rental: $16

• Theme parks: up to $65

Book in advance via Klook or Trazy to enjoy discounts.

Shopping, Souvenirs & Extras

Between skincare, snacks, gadgets, and crafts, it's easy to overspend:

• Suggested budget: $55–$160

Other Travel Costs

• Travel insurance: $27–$55

• Unlimited SIM/eSIM: $16–$32

• Bank fees: Avoidable with Wise, Charles Schwab, Chime, or Monzo

• Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months

Estimated Total Budget for 2 Weeks in South Korea

Travel StyleEstimated Budget

Budget $1,300–$1,650

Standard $1,750–$2,400

Comfort $2,600–$3,500

FAQ – Flights, Budget & Travel Tips for 2025

What are the cheapest routes to South Korea?
Flights with stopovers in Dubai, Bangkok, or Hong Kong can lower average airfare.

Is South Korea cheaper than Polynesia or Costa Rica?
Yes. Overall, South Korea's cost of living is much lower.

Can I book last-minute?
Yes, but low-cost options are rare. For first-timers, booking 2–3 months ahead is best.

Are hostels safe?
Yes. Korean hostels are clean, safe, and ideal for budget travelers.

Does the Working Holiday Visa (PVT) include flights?
No, but youth fares are available via round-the-world travel agencies.

Which flight comparison tool is best for Korea?
Liligo, Skyscanner, and Kayak are top choices in 2025.

Should I book via agency or directly?
For packages, use an agency. For solo flights, use a search engine for best rates.

Are there direct flights from Paris to Seoul?
Yes, from CDG and occasionally LYS or Brussels.

What about one-way tickets?
Usually more expensive than round-trip—except with some budget airlines and smart comparison tools.

Is flexible budgeting possible?
Yes! Being open to dates, stopovers, and low-cost airlines helps lower your overall budget.

When is the best time to book flights to South Korea?
The best flight prices are usually found 2 to 3 months before your departure. If you’re looking to book cheap and score the best deals, use trusted travel sites and set alerts for promotions.

Where can I find the cheapest flights to Korea?
Use platforms like Skyscanner, Google Flights, and Kayak to find flights, compare airfares, and track cheap airline tickets. These tools help you find the cheapest options based on your itinerary and preferences.

Is it better to book a roundtrip or one-way flight?
A roundtrip ticket often offers a cheaper airfare than booking two separate one-way flights. Always compare both options before deciding.

Which airlines offer the best flight deals to Korea?
Airlines like JetBlue, Korean Air, Qatar Airways, and Asiana Airlines regularly offer flight deals. Check multiple travel sites to find the best flight and avoid overpaying.

How to get a cheap flight with a layover?
Adding a layover in cities like Bangkok, Dubai, or Hong Kong can help find the cheapest flights. Just make sure to check the total travel time and baggage policies.

Can I book flights with checked luggage included?
Some cheap airline options do not include luggage, so always verify what’s included before booking. It’s sometimes better to book flights with full-service carriers for better value.

What’s the difference between nonstop and connecting flights?
Nonstop flights are faster and more convenient but can be more expensive. Connecting flights often come with better travel deals, especially if you're flexible with your departing date.

Are international flights cheaper with certain departure cities?
Yes, you can sometimes find a cheapest flight by departing from larger hubs like JFK, LAX, or CDG. Use searches across multiple cities if you're willing to travel a bit to fly for less.

Do car-rental services offer discounts with flights?
Some platforms like Expedia or Booking.com offer package deals on car-rental services when you book flights together. These travel deals can help reduce your total budget.

How much are airline tickets to South Korea in 2025?
Average airline ticket prices range between $700 and $980 USD for international flights, but savvy travelers using searches and alerts can find the cheapest flight tickets well below that.