How do I travel around Korea but I am on a tight budget?

Korea is very doable on a budget with a bit of planning. For transport, intercity buses are the cheapest way between cities, often less than half the KTX price and comfortable; if you take trains, book early on the Korail app or ride the slower Mugunghwa and ITX trains to save. Within cities, a T-money card with the subway and buses is dirt cheap and transfers are discounted, and for a train-heavy trip the KORAIL Pass for tourists can pay off. On accommodation, guesthouses and hostels run roughly 20,000 to 40,000 won a night, jjimjilbang (24-hour spas) let you sleep for around 10,000 to 15,000 won, and motels are cheap, clean, and private for one or two people; book through Yanolja, Yeogi Eottae, or Agoda.

Food is where Korea shines for budget travelers: gimbap, kalguksu, and other bunsik cost just a few thousand won, convenience stores have solid cheap meals, traditional markets like Gwangjang in Seoul are cheap and delicious, and restaurants pile on free side dishes. Eateries in university areas are especially good value. For activities, many of the best experiences are nearly free: palaces cost only a few thousand won and are free if you wear hanbok, hiking Bukhansan or Seoraksan costs nothing, and temples, markets, and Han River parks are free to wander, with many museums free or offering free days. A few extras: tap water is safe so refill a bottle, get a cheap prepaid SIM or eSIM instead of roaming, and travel shoulder season for lower prices and great weather. With buses, guesthouses, market food, and free sights, you can see a lot without spending much.