South Korea travel info

General information for the traveller new to South Korea.

Visas
Visitors to South Korea must possess a passport valid for 6 months, an ongoing ticket and proof of sufficient funds for the duration of their stay. Citizens of many countries are permitted a visa free stay which is issued for a set length of time (depending on nationality) upon arrival. Other visas can be applied for from a Korean Embassy or Consulate abroad, where current information regarding visas should be confirmed as details can change.

Customs
Luxury items such as jewellery, cameras, electronic goods and cash in excess of US$10,000 must be declared on arrival. Certain luxury goods, such as jewellery and electronic goods that are purchased in the country may be liable to a duty tax.

Visitors may take the following into Korea duty free:

Alcoholic beverages - 1 litre of alcohol
Tobacco - 200 cigarettes, 50 cigars or 250g of tobacco

Obscene/Pornographic material contained in any medium is prohibited and will be confiscated.

There are restrictions on items that may be exported from the country such as ginseng, antiques and items of cultural value. If planning to buy any of these goods, check with customs on arrival.

The penalties for carrying or trafficking illegal drugs can be severe, ranging from long prison sentences to the death penalty.

Time
Korean time: GMT +9

Currency
Won (W) - Check current exchange rates.
Notes issued: W10,000, W5,000, W1,000 & W500
Coins issued: W500, W100, W50, W10, W5, W1

Language
Korean is the official language. Japanese is spoken amongst the older generation and Chinese within the resident Chinese community. English is used to a very limited extent and usually only amongst young professionals and students.

Tipping
Tipping is not customary in South Korea, although many restaurants and hotels do add a service charge to the bill. As a polite form of behaviour, people give a slight bow and say thank you for services provided. Taxi drivers do not expect to be tipped unless they assist with carrying luggage.

Banking Hours
Monday to Friday 9.30 am to 4.30 pm

Telephone
The international dialling code for Korea is 82
When making international telephone calls from South Korea first dial 001 + country code + area code + telephone number.

Local Telephone Codes

Cheju 431

Kwangju 62

Pusan 51

Seoul 2

Taegu 53

Ulsan 522

Electricity
Most of Korea is 110V, although some rural areas are 220V. Visitors should check the voltage before plugging anything in. Many different types of plugs are used and a universal adapter is an important travel item.

Water
Water is considered unsafe for use directly from the tap and ice cubes should be avoided. Bottled water is widely available.

Health
Medical professionals in Korea are highly trained and facilities are good, however health insurance that also covers evacuation is still recommended. Consider inoculations against typhoid, polio, hepatitis A, Japanese encephalitis and take advice regarding anti-malarials. It is always best to check the current situation and any vaccination requirements with your doctor when planning your trip.

International Airports

Cheju-do - Cheju
Pusan - Kimhae
Seoul - Incheon

International Departure Tax
W9,000

Domestic Airports

Cheju
Chinju
Kangnung
Kunsan
Kimpo
Kwangju
Mokp'o
O'ohang
Pasan
Seoul
Sokch'o
Taegu
Ulsan
Yech'n
Ysu

Domestic Departure Tax
W3,000

Etiquette/Dress Code
Casual clothes are acceptable everywhere, although smarter clothes gain more respect. A level of politeness should be maintained in public and whenever possible, any offer of hospitality should be accepted, since turning down an invitation may cause offence. Always remove shoes before entering a Korean home and use the right hand for giving and receiving.

As with many Asian countries, situations should be avoided which would cause a loss of "face". Try to steer clear of confrontation as it is not appreciated and will only worsen rather than resolve any situation.

Pay close attention to signs stating that photography is not allowed at places such as airports, harbours and military facilities, as these laws are strictly enforced.

Diplomatic Missions
Many countries have representative offices and consulates in Korea.

Useful Sources of Information Further information onKorean culture and tourist attractions: