Landing in Seoul with zero Korean is entirely survivable — but a handful of phrases turn a stressful first day into a smooth one. Here’s what to have ready before you leave the airport.

Getting Around: Asking “Where Is It?”

Eodieyo (어디예요) — “where is it?” — is the single most useful phrase for a lost traveler, pointing at a map or a name will usually get you the rest of the way. Pair it with a polite annyeonghaseyo (안녕하세요) when approaching a stranger for help; a greeting first goes a long way in Korea’s more formal public interactions.

Ordering Food Like a Local

At any restaurant, juseyo (주세요) — “please give me” — attached to whatever you’re pointing at on the menu will get your order across. Follow up a good meal with masitda (맛있다), “it’s delicious” — servers light up when travelers use it unprompted.

Shopping and Asking Prices

Markets and small shops rarely have visible price tags, so eolmaeyo (얼마예요) — “how much is it?” — will be one of your most-repeated phrases, especially at Myeongdong’s street stalls.

Neighborhoods Every Traveler Should Know

Three districts anchor most first-time itineraries: Myeongdong for shopping and street food, Hongdae for nightlife and youth culture, and Insadong for a taste of traditional Korea between the antique shops and tea houses. Knowing these three names alone will get you through most taxi rides and subway announcements.