South Korea

Is South Korea a worthwhile place to visit if I only have around 7 days? Could anyone recommend some places to go/things to see etc in this timeframe? I'd be flying into Seoul.

Also what are the costs of travel like – is it expensive like Japan or does it compare more with the cheaper countries in Eastern Asia?

Hiya Bex76, you certainly could see quite a bit in 7 days... depending on what you are into there's plenty to do in and around Seoul (including a DMZ tour), Seoraksan National Park (although there are heaps of NP's through-out Korea), I really loved Gyeongju and Haeinsa (you may not have time to go to the later)... transport, particularly buses are reasonable and almost always leave and arrive on-time! And your pretty much only 4-5 hours by bus/train away from Seoul... costs in Seoul are like any other big city, but in general I found it cheaper than Japan... you shouldn't get bored with the local food in 7 days (I love Korean food!) You probably need to know a little Korean outside of Seoul...

Depending on who one talks to, or what one reads, I believe S. Korea, Japan and Singapore are the most expensive Asian countries. I believe all could be considered first world, and hardly compare with Indochina or South Asia at all. In S. Korea, local transport may not be especially expensive, but hotels are rather pricey.

Seoul is good for shopping - places like Myungdong, Insadong, Namdaemun and Itaewon are always full of people looking for bargains. You can also find nice cultural artefacts at Insadong.

If you have time to venture out of Seoul, hop over to Suwon and visit the Hwaseong Fortress. Architecture and scenery definitely worth a look. Suwon is accessible by train.