Resuming short-term visit visa issuance: Starting February 11, 2023

Starting on February 11, 2023, the Korean government has announced the reissuance of short-term visit visas with COVID-19 testing requirements still in place. However, the testing mandate is expected to end sooner than previously anticipated.

Until the end of February, all visitors entering South Korea from China, Hong Kong, and Macau must undergo COVID-19 testing prior to their arrival. This includes either a COVID-19 PCR test taken within 48 hours of departure or a rapid antigen test taken within 24 hours of departure, with a negative result required. 

COVID-19 Test requirement for China, Hong Kong and Macau (until late-February): Visitors must have a negative test result from COVID-19 PCR Test taken within 48 hours of departure or a rapid antigen test (RAT) within 24 hours of departure. And also must receive a COVID-19 PCR Test within one day of entry.

Additionally, these visitors must take another COVID-19 PCR test within one day of entering South Korea. This requirement applies to anyone who has stayed in or visited China within the past 7 days before coming to South Korea. Short-term visitors from China must take a PCR test immediately upon arrival and await the results in a designated waiting area. 

Returning South Korean citizens and long-term stay visitors entering from China must take the test within one day of entry and await the results at their residence.

In the event of a positive test result, short-term visitors will be accommodated at temporary housing facilities located in different cities and provinces. 

Those who test positive upon arrival at the airport will be housed at temporary quarantine facilities.

Templestay in Korea

Looking for a way to escape the chaos of city life and recharge your soul? Look no further than Templestay, a unique program that offers a chance to experience Korean Buddhism and its daily lifestyle, rituals, and spirituality.

What is Templestay?

Templestay is a one-of-a-kind experience that involves staying at a Buddhist temple and participating in daily monastic activities. It has become one of the most popular programs among both locals and foreign visitors, who are seeking to immerse themselves in Korean Buddhism.

What to Expect During a Templestay

A typical templestay program usually includes a Buddhist service, seon meditation, 108 prostrations, and communal work. 

Some programs may also offer education on monastic meal offerings and tea ceremony rituals.

Another popular program is the creation of a lotus lantern, which is a form of Buddhist art. The lotus-shaped lantern symbolizes a light that illuminates the darkness and is hung at temples and surrounding areas across the country during Buddha's Birthday, the eighth day of the fourth lunar month. During this time, there are various events held across the country that attract tourists from near and far.

Traditional markets in Seoul offer a fascinating blend of modern and traditional experiences.

Popular Traditional Markets in Seoul

Traditional markets in Seoul offer a fascinating blend of modern and traditional experiences. With vendors selling a variety of goods and street foods, these markets are must-visit destinations for anyone looking to shop or eat.

Tongin Market

Tongin Market is located in Seochon near Gyeongbokgung Palace and was formed due to the rapid population growth that took place after the Korean War. Today, the market boasts over 80 vendors and stores, mostly consisting of restaurants and food stalls. One of the unique features of Tongin Market is the Dosirak Café, where you can buy a lunch tray and 10 yeopjeon (brass coins; old Korean currency) for 5,000 won. 

You can then use the yeopjeon to purchase food and fill up your tray as you explore the market, offering a fun and novel dining experience. Do note that the Dosirak Café is closed on Mondays and the third Sunday of the month. The market is conveniently located near popular attractions like Gyeongbokgung Palace, Gwanghwamun Gate, and Samcheongdong-gil Road.

Namdaemun Market

Namdaemun Market is a traditional market with over 600 years of history. It offers over 1,700 varieties of goods at affordable prices, including pottery, clothing, accessories, kitchenware, and regional specialties. It is also known for being one of the best places to buy traditional handicrafts, glasses, and sunglasses. 

In addition to shopping, visitors can indulge in delicious foods like guksu (noodles), jokbal (pig's trotters), and galchi jorim (stewed beltfish). Namdaemun Market is located near popular tourist attractions like Myeong-dong, Deoksugung Palace, and Gwanghwamun Gate, making it a great place to stop by after a tour of the area.

Gwangjang Market

Gwangjang Market is the first permanent market established in Korea and is best known for its food. The market has a unique strip of food vendors, each with long lines of people waiting to sample the delicious food. 

Some of the most popular foods sold here include bindaetteok (mung bean pancake) and gimbap.