South KoreaThings to Know

How long can you vacation in South Korea?

Visitors from many nationalities can visit South Korea without a visit for 30 days or more. Please check with your local authorities or inquire with your travel specialist.

What currency does South Korea use?

South Korea uses the won, which trades at around 1,360 to $1 USD.

Is it better to carry cash or card in South Korea?

It’s good to carry a little cash for small transactions and street vendors, but card payments are now accepted most everywhere in South Korea.

Do I need to tip in South Korea?

No. In fact, offering to tip might embarrass your server/driver/host, etc. Tipping simply isn’t part of Korean culture.

What is the best way to travel in South Korea?

South Korea’s larger cities have excellent subway systems, and taxis are safe and affordable. The rail system connects just about all major parts of the country, making a car largely unnecessary. A flight to Jeju Island takes less than an hour, even from Seoul.

Where to go in Korea if you are a K-Pop fan?

Seoul is the centre of the K-Pop universe. A specialized K-Pop South Korea tour package is a great way to explore South Korea’s booming pop culture industry and visit locations related to K-Pop, along with Korea’s movies and television shows.

Is South Korea LGBTQ+ friendly?

There are no laws against homosexuality or changing gender in South Korea, and foreign same-sex marriages are recognized. However, Korean culture has been slow to embrace LGBTQ+ identities. Protections against discrimination vary across the country and while it’s not censored, there is little LGBTQ+ representation in South Korean media. Younger Koreans are generally far more accepting. Hongdae is one of two LGBTQ+ nightlife districts in Seoul, but some gay bars in the city restrict access to foreigners. Its sister hub, Itaewon is generally more foreigner-friendly. Both these districts are popular with locals and can get rowdy, so stay vigilant and trust your gut when meeting strangers.

Is it safe to walk around at night in the cities in South Korea?

For the most part, South Korea, including Seoul, is a safe destination for tourists. This includes public transit and walking at night. Petty crime and harassment can occur, like in most countries, so it's important to trust your instincts and be vigilant if exploring the nightlife.

Can I drink the tap water in South Korea?

Tap water is safe to drink in just about every part of South Korea, and is usually marked if there is cause of concern.

Can you go from South Korea to North Korea?

No. It is not possible to legally travel across the border between the Koreas. A visit to the Korean Demilitarized Zone, however, is a popular day trip from Seoul for those curious about South Korea’s enigmatic neighbour.