Photo: Inkwon hwang / Unsplash

South Korea flag

South Korea Travel Guide

Asia

Seoul Capital
KRW Currency
Korean Language
+82 Calling Code
Right Drives on

Arriving in South Korea

Main airports

  • Muan International Airport (MWX)Muan (Piseo-ri)
  • Yangyang International Airport (YNY)Gonghang-ro
  • Jeju International Airport (CJU)Jeju City
  • Gimhae International Airport (PUS)Busan
  • Incheon International Airport (ICN)Seoul
  • Seoul Gimpo International Airport (GMP)Seoul

Getting online on arrival

  1. Install your South Korea eSIM at home over Wi-Fi: iPhone or Android steps.
  2. When you arrive in South Korea, turn on the eSIM line and data roaming for it.
  3. Networks listed on our South Korea plans: LG Uplus (5G) and SKTelecom (5G).
  4. South Korea plans currently start at $2.75, for 100MB over 7 days. Compare all 15 plans.

New to eSIMs? How an eSIM works · How much data you need

Landing late or with kids? Pre-book an airport transfer

Useful facts

Population
51,628,117 (2022)
Time zone
UTC+09:00
Plug types
C and F

Sources: Wikidata and OurAirports open data, checked 29 October 2026.

Entry Requirements

Visa Overview Visa-free Entry For Many Nationalities Up To 90 Days; Check Specific Requirements.
Passport Validity 6 Months
Digital Forms K-eta
Cash Declaration Limit $10000 Usd
Alcohol/Tobacco Limits 1l Alcohol, 200 Cigarettes

Safety & Security

Safety Rating High
Travel Advisory No advice against travel
Pickpocketing Risk Low
Night Safety Safe
Common Scams
  • Taxi overcharging
  • Fake goods

Health & Medical

Emergency Numbers Police 112 · Ambulance 119 · Fire 119
Response Speed Fast
English-Speaking Doctors Common
Pharmacy 24h Common
Upfront Payment Required

Getting Around

Public Transport Excellent
Ride-sharing Apps Kakaotaxi
Navigation Apps Google Maps, Naver Maps
Night Transport Safety Safe

Money & Payments

Cash vs Card Mixed
Mobile Payments Samsung Pay,naver Pay,kakao Pay
ATM Availability High
Tipping Tipping Is Not Customary But Appreciated.
Estimated Daily Budget (USD)
Backpacker: $40 Tourist: $100 Family: $250

Culture & Etiquette

Dress Code Dress Modestly In Religious Sites.
Public Affection Frowned Upon In Certain Contexts
Alcohol/Drug Policy Strict On Drugs, Relaxed On Alcohol
Topics to Avoid
PoliticsNorth korea

Essential Phrases

Basics & Politeness
Hello
안녕하세요
annyeonghaseyo
Goodbye
안녕히 가세요
annyeonghi gaseyo
Please
제발
jebal
Thank you
감사합니다
gamsahamnida
Sorry
죄송합니다
joesonghamnida
Communication & Understanding
Do you speak English?
영어 하세요?
yeongeo haseyo?
I don’t understand
이해하지 못해요
ihaehaji mothaeyo
Can you speak slowly, please?
천천히 말씀해 주세요
cheoncheonhi malsseumhae juseyo
Can you help me, please?
도와주실 수 있나요?
dowajusil su innayo?
What does this mean?
이게 무슨 뜻이에요?
ige museun tteus-ieyo?

Phrase

You Say
Common Responses

Top Attractions

Landmark

Gyeongbokgung Palace

Historic royal palace in Seoul.

~2 h ~US$3
Nature

Haeundae Beach

Popular beach known for its stunning views and activities.

~2 h Free entry
City guide Busan
Nature

Mudeungsan National Park

A beautiful national park known for its scenic hiking trails and unique rock formations.

~3 h Free entry
City guide Gwangju
District

Incheon Chinatown

A vibrant area showcasing Chinese culture and cuisine.

~2 h Free entry
City guide Incheon
Nature

Hallasan National Park

A UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and the highest mountain in South Korea, ideal for hiking.

~4 h Free entry
City guide Jeju Island
Landmark

N Seoul Tower

Iconic tower offering panoramic views of the city.

~1.5 h ~US$10
City guide Seoul

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Disclaimer

The information in this guide is intended for general travel planning purposes only and may change without notice. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, Graba SIM does not guarantee the completeness, reliability, or timeliness of the content. Travellers should verify entry requirements, local laws, health advice and services with official sources before and during their trip. Graba SIM is not responsible for any loss, injury, or inconvenience arising from reliance on the information provided. Always check with relevant government and health authorities for the most up-to-date travel requirements.

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