Know Before You Go - South Korea

1. Entry Requirements & Travel Documents

Visa Requirements

  • K-ETA (Korea Electronic Travel Authorization): Many nationalities (including the U.S., Canada, EU countries, Australia) must apply for a K-ETA before entering South Korea. Apply online at www.k-eta.go.kr at least 72 hours before departure.
  • Visa: If your country requires a visa, apply in advance through the nearest South Korean embassy.
  • Passport: Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your departure date.

COVID-19 & Health Requirements

  • As of 2025, check for any health declarations, vaccination, or quarantine rules on the Korean Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KDCA) website.
  • South Korea has high-quality healthcare but expect to pay upfront for medical services if needed (keep receipts for reimbursement).
  • Travel Insurance: Highly recommended, covering health emergencies and trip cancellations.

2. Arrival in South Korea

Incheon International Airport (ICN)

  • Immigration: Fill out the arrival card (unless exempt under K-ETA) and go through biometric verification.
  • Baggage & Customs: Declare any restricted items.
  • SIM Cards & eSIM: Buy at the airport for data and calls (available at KT, SKT, or LG U+ booths).
  • Currency Exchange & ATMs: Major banks have exchange counters at the airport. ATMs accepting foreign cards are also available.

Transportation from the Airport

  • Airport Railroad Express (AREX): The fastest way to Seoul Station (43 min) and connects to Incheon.
  • Limousine Buses: Comfortable & direct to major hotels and business districts.
  • Taxis: Official taxis are available at designated stands (cash or card accepted).
  • Kakao T App: South Korea’s Uber equivalent (download before arrival).

3. Getting Around Incheon & Seoul

Public Transportation

  • T-Money Card: Buy and top up at convenience stores for buses, subways, and taxis.
  • Subway: Easy to use with English signage (use Naver Maps or Kakao Maps for navigation, as Google Maps has limited functionality).
  • Buses: Extensive network, but cash is not accepted—use a T-Money card.
  • Taxis: Affordable and widely available. Use Kakao T app for hassle-free rides.

Essential Apps

  • Naver Map or Kakao Map (for accurate navigation, Google Maps will NOT work)
  • Kakao T (for taxis)
  • Papago (for translations)
  • Subway Korea (real-time subway routes)

4. Money & Payments

  • Currency: South Korean Won (KRW) (₩1,000 ≈ $0.75 USD as of 2025).
  • ATMs: Look for “Global ATM” signs; some machines do not accept foreign cards.
  • Credit Cards: Widely accepted, but some small vendors prefer cash.
  • Tipping: Not customary in Korea.

5. Cultural Etiquette & Local Customs

  • Bowing: A slight bow is a common greeting.
  • Shoes Off Indoors: Remove shoes when entering homes and traditional restaurants.
  • Quiet Public Spaces: Keep noise levels low on public transport.
  • Respect for Elders: Give up seats on buses and subways.
  • No Public Trash Cans: Carry a bag for your trash.

6. Food & Dietary Considerations

  • Dietary Restrictions: Many dishes contain soy, seafood, and gluten; communicate allergies clearly.
  • Korean Dishes to Try: Bibimbap, Bulgogi, Kimchi, and Samgyeopsal.
  • Vegetarian/Vegan Options: Limited but available in bigger cities; check HappyCow app.
  • Convenience Stores: Offer affordable meal options like gimbap and instant ramen.

7. Safety & Emergency Information

  • Emergency Numbers:
    • Police: 112
    • Medical Emergency: 119
    • Tourist Police (English Help): 1330

8. Packing Essentials

  • Power Adapter: South Korea uses Type C & F plugs, 220V.
  • Comfortable Walking Shoes: Expect to walk a lot.
  • Seasonal Clothing: April weather is mild (12-18°C/54-64°F), with occasional rain.
  • Portable WiFi/Sim: If you need consistent data, rent a WiFi egg or buy a local SIM.
  • Toiletries: Available at convenience stores if you forget something.

9. Additional Travel Tips

  • Time Zone: Korea Standard Time (KST) is UTC+9.
  • Language: Korean; English is spoken in tourist areas but not everywhere.
  • Smoking: Not allowed in most public spaces.
  • Drinking Water: Tap water is safe to drink, but most locals prefer bottled.
  • Shopping: Myeongdong, Insadong, and Hongdae in Seoul are great for souvenirs.
  • Day Trips: Consider visiting Gyeongbokgung Palace or Bukchon Hanok Village