Practical information
A short guide to travelling in Korea. Rules change, so please check the official sources linked below before you travel.
Entry and visas
Entry rules depend on your nationality and can change. Many visitors need either a visa or an electronic travel authorisation, and some are exempt for short stays. Check the current rules for your passport with the official services:
Money
The currency is the Korean won (KRW). Cards are widely accepted in cities. Keep some cash for markets, small restaurants and rural areas. Tipping is not expected.
Getting around
Trains and express buses connect major cities, and Seoul has a dense metro. Many guests prefer a private vehicle with a guide for day trips and rural stops, and we can arrange this. Naver Map and Kakao Map are used locally for directions and often work better than other apps in Korea.
Staying connected
Mobile data is available through eSIM, SIM cards and rental pocket Wi-Fi. Wi-Fi is common in hotels, cafes and public spaces.
Electricity
Korea uses 220 V at 60 Hz, with two-pin round plugs (Type C and F).
Seasons
- Spring (April to May): blossom, mild weather, and busy at popular sites.
- Summer (June to August): warm and humid, with a rainy spell that usually begins in late June.
- Autumn (September to November): clear skies and colour, a favourite for walking.
- Winter (December to February): cold and often bright, good for hot springs and quieter sites.
Health, safety and insurance
Korea is generally considered a safe destination for visitors. We recommend travel insurance that covers medical care. In an emergency, dial 112 for police and 119 for fire or ambulance. The Korea Travel Helpline, 1330, offers multilingual information and help for visitors.
Information on this page is general and was written in October 2026. It is not legal or medical advice.