South Korea first timer tips

Planning my first trip to South Korea in the next few months. I've read through a lot of the older threads but wanted to check if the info is still current.

My main questions:
- Best area to stay for easy access to the scene?
- Realistic daily budget?
- Any areas to avoid?
- How welcoming are the locals to foreign visitors?

I'm coming from the US and have experience in Europe but this would be my first time in South Korea.

Thanks for any help!

Interesting take but I think you overpaid. Try negotiating next time.

Been going for years. The scene has stayed consistent.

Did you feel safe walking around at night?

With respect, my experience was more mixed. But maybe I went at the wrong time.

Nice report. Heading there next month — exactly the intel I needed.

Excellent write-up. This is why this forum is the best resource out there.

Can confirm. Was there 2 weeks ago and everything checks out.

Good info. I'd add that going during the week is much better — less crowded, better prices.

Spot on with the prices. That matches what I paid in February.

This is outdated info IMO. Things have changed since the new laws came in. Current prices are actually lower than what's described here.

Thanks for the write-up. Very helpful for my upcoming trip.

First time there was great thanks to forum advice. Second time I knew the ropes and it was like a completely different trip. Like most places, experience makes all the difference.

Good info. I'd add that weekday evenings is the best time to go.