Traveling to South Korea can be both exciting and affordable if you plan it at the right time. Prices for flights, hotels, and attractions change throughout the year. Knowing when costs are lowest helps you make the most of your budget. Using a travel eSIM like Roamless is especially helpful in South Korea, as it allows you to manage your trip plans, book local transport, and use online tools easily while exploring the country.

When is the Cheapest Time to Travel to South Korea?

The most budget-friendly time to visit South Korea is from December to February. These winter months are the quietest period for tourism. Cold weather keeps many visitors away, so airlines and hotels lower their prices. In contrast, spring is the most expensive season because of the cherry blossoms and warm weather.

Table 1: Average Travel Costs by Season in South Korea

According to InvestKOREA (2025), tourism activity rises during spring and autumn, with prices generally peaking in spring and remaining moderate in autumn [1]. Data from the OECD’s Korea Tourism Data Lab also show that international arrivals are lowest in winter, which makes this period ideal for travelers who want to save [2].

Disclaimer: These values are estimates based on general travel trends and may vary depending on specific travel dates and demand.

How to Find Cheap Travel Deals and Save Money in South Korea

Finding cheap travel deals to South Korea depends largely on when you book your trip. Prices for flights and hotels are usually lowest between late December and February. The following tips can help you plan more efficiently and save during your visit:

• Book flights at least two to three months in advance to get lower prices.

• Compare weekday and weekend fares to find cheaper options.

• Avoid traveling during Seollal and Chuseok holidays, when demand increases.

• Use flexible-date tools to check how prices change throughout the month.

• Stay in guesthouses or hostels, which offer lower winter rates.

• Use public transportation with a T-money card instead of taxis to save on daily costs.

• Consider using a travel eSIM to access the internet easily and reduce roaming costs with affordable global data plans.

For more details, you can also read our guides on Cheap Places to Travel and Cheapest Days to Fly and Buy Tickets.

Affordable Destinations During the Cheapest Travel Season in South Korea

If you visit South Korea during winter, which is the most budget-friendly season, you can save even more by choosing destinations where daily costs are naturally lower. Cities like Daegu and Gwangju are known for affordable accommodation and food, while Daejeon offers reasonable travel expenses thanks to its central location. Busan also becomes more budget-friendly outside the summer beach season, offering great value during the winter months.

Travel Experience and Cost Overview for the Cheapest Season

Winter in South Korea offers the best savings. Research from KoreaScience (2023) shows that domestic travel activity drops sharply in January and February, which explains the lower accommodation costs [3]. You can find fewer tourists, lower hotel prices, and shorter lines at popular spots. On the other hand, days are shorter, and temperatures can be quite cold. During this low season, the average hotel price usually ranges between 40,000 and 90,000 KRW per night (around USD 30–70), depending on the city and the type of accommodation. Guesthouses and local inns are often at the lower end of this range, while mid-range hotels in major cities like Seoul and Busan remain affordable compared to spring and autumn. 

Mobile Data in South Korea with Global eSIM

Access to mobile data and internet services is especially useful for travelers visiting during the low season, as it helps with route planning, transportation updates, and checking local attractions online. Using a global eSIM like Roamless can make travel easier and more efficient. Here are some ways Roamless eSIM can make your trip to South Korea more practical and affordable:

• Roamless allows travelers to connect to local networks instantly without buying a physical SIM card.

• Offers affordable data plans, which help you use online maps and travel apps anywhere.

• Provides reliable service for messaging and calls, helping you communicate easily while abroad.

• Includes coverage not only in South Korea but also in nearby destinations if you plan to continue your journey in Asia.

For more information, you can visit our page on eSIM South Korea or read our guides on Best eSIM for South Korea and Roaming Charges in South Korea.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is based on publicly available travel and tourism data from official sources as of 2025. Prices, travel conditions, and seasonal trends may change over time. Readers are advised to verify details such as flight fares, accommodation costs, and local regulations with official tourism agencies before making travel plans.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the cheapest month to travel to South Korea?

- January is usually the cheapest month with fewer visitors and the lowest hotel prices.

When is the most expensive time to travel to South Korea?

- Spring (March to May) and early autumn (September to October) are usually the most expensive periods because of high demand during cherry blossom season and major festivals.

Are prices lower during national holidays?

- No. Prices often rise during Seollal and Chuseok because many people travel at the same time.

When should I book flights to get good deals?

- Booking two or three months before your trip usually gives the best prices, especially for winter travel.

Sources:

[1] InvestKOREA, ‘’South Korea’s Tourism Industry: From Recovery to Rebound, Sustainable Growth Strategies Amid Fierce Competition and a Rapidly Changing Environment’’. July, 2025. - https://www.investkorea.org/ik-en/bbs/i-5025/detail.do?ntt_sn=490809

[2] OECD, ‘’The Korea Tourism Data Lab’’. June, 2025. - https://www.oecd.org/en/publications/using-alternative-data-sources-and-tools-to-measure-and-monitor-tourism_2a655ab8-en/the-korea-tourism-data-lab_1b634f3f-en.html

[3] KoreaScience. Korean Meteorological Society, ‘’The Recent Climatic Characteristic and Change in the Republic of Korea based on the New Normals’’. September, 2023. - https://koreascience.or.kr/article/JAKO202333535430955.pdf