7-Day Shoestring Budget Itinerary for South Korea in July 2023

1. Day 1: Gyeongbokgung Palace
   15 minutes (4.2 km) from Incheon International Airport

   Visit the grandest palace in South Korea, Gyeongbokgung Palace, built during the Joseon Dynasty. Watch the Royal Guard Changing Ceremony at the main gate.

2. Day 2: Bukchon Hanok Village
   15 minutes (6.2 km) from Gyeongbokgung Palace

   Explore the traditional Korean houses at Bukchon Hanok Village. Wander through the narrow alleys and experience traditional culture and architecture.

3. Day 3: Seodaemun Prison History Hall
   20 minutes (6.5 km) from Bukchon Hanok Village

   Learn about the Korean independence movement at Seodaemun Prison History Hall. This former prison offers a glimpse into Korea's troubled past.

4. Day 4: Namsan Tower
   25 minutes (9.2 km) from Seodaemun Prison History Hall

   Climb to the top of Namsan Tower for stunning views of the city. Take the cable car to the tower and enjoy the panoramic view of Seoul.

5. Day 5: Jeju Island
   1 hour 10 minutes (430 km) from Seoul

   Escape the city and head to Jeju Island, a volcanic island with beaches, waterfalls and hiking trails. Visit the famous Dragon Head Rock and the Jeju Loveland sculpture park.

6. Day 6: Gwangalli Beach
   30 minutes (10 km) from Busan Station

   Relax on the beautiful Gwangalli Beach in Busan. Enjoy the stunning view of the Gwangan Bridge and explore the nearby cafes and bars.

7. Day 7: Haedong Yonggung Temple
   40 minutes (23 km) from Gwangalli Beach

   Visit Haedong Yonggung Temple, a Buddhist temple set against the beautiful backdrop of the sea. Take a stroll around the temple and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Gyeongbokgung Palace (2-3 hours, free)
• Bukchon Hanok Village (1-2 hours, free)
• Seodaemun Prison History Hall (1-2 hours, KRW 3,000)
• Namsan Tower (1-2 hours, KRW 10,000)
• Jeju Island (2-3 days, KRW 100,000 for transportation and accommodation)
• Gwangalli Beach (1-2 hours, free)
• Haedong Yonggung Temple (1-2 hours, free)
• Total Estimated Costs: KRW 113,000

Recommendations

Other must-visit places include Changdeokgung Palace, War Memorial of Korea, and Lotte World. For maximizing fun, try Korean street food and shopping at Myeongdong and Dongdaemun markets. Don't forget to indulge in Korean BBQ and traditional dishes like bibimbap and kimchi stew.