South Korea (Republic of Korea)

Armed conflict during the 1950-53 Korean War ended with the signing of the armistice agreement, but South Korea and North Korea remain technically still at war. A demilitarised zone (DMZ) separates the Korean Peninsula roughly in half between the South (Republic of Korea) and North (Democratic People's Republic of Korea).

Low-level military clashes between the South Korea and North Korea have occurred, including across the DMZ and along the Northern Limit Line in the sea to the west of the Korean Peninsula. Tensions can increase with little warning.

North Korea regularly takes provocative actions, including conducting ballistic missile launches, sending 'trash balloons', and, sometimes, undertaking nuclear weapons tests or other threatening or belligerent behaviours.

In the event of such threats:

• monitor developments
• take official warnings seriously
• follow the instructions of local authorities

The South Korean government has released a free smartphone 'Emergency Ready' app. The app provides emergency messages in English and has information on local emergency services, including:

• police
• fire
• ambulance
• hospitals
• shelter locations

The app is available for both Apple and Android devices.

More information:

• Planning for emergencies

Public Safety

Parts of Seoul, particularly Itaewon and Hongdae, and on public transport, can become very crowded. In October 2022, more than 150 people were killed in a crowd crush during Halloween festivities in Itaewon. Exercise caution in crowded areas. 

Civil Emergency Drills

Civil emergency drills and exercises are held regularly throughout the year. These can be held nationally, regionally or locally.

Depending on the drill, sirens may sound, transport may stop, and authorities may ask people to take shelter in subway stations or basements. 

Follow the advice of local authorities. The South Korean Government has released a free smartphone 'Emergency Ready' app. The app has information on civil defence drills, including shelters and safety guides.

More information:

• Civil Defence Drills

The situation in South Korea is evolving due to ongoing developments in domestic politics. Avoid protests and demonstrations which could occur in Seoul, particularly in the vicinity of the National Assembly (Yeouido), Gwanghwamun Square, Constitutional Court (Anguk), the Presidential Office (Samgakji) or on university campuses. Demonstrations could also occur in other major cities or elsewhere in the country. Transport and other essential services may be disrupted. Monitor the media for updates and follow the advice of local authorities.

Public protests, including organised strikes and events that draw large groups of people, are common, but they can sometimes turn violent and cause significant disruptions. Protests can affect public transport and access to other public services. Labour disputes have also caused disruptions to health care services, including at the larger hospitals with international clinics.

Avoid large public gatherings and areas with significant police activity if possible. Exercise caution in crowded areas.

To protect yourself:

• avoid protests and demonstrations, and exercise caution if you're caught up in large gatherings and protests
• monitor local media and other sources for news on possible unrest
• follow the instructions of local authorities

Be prepared to change your travel plans in case of disruptions.

Foreign nationals are generally not permitted to take part in domestic political activities when in South Korea.

More information:

• Demonstrations and civil unrest

For most travellers, South Korea is safe and has a relatively low crime rate. However, petty crime can occur, especially in major cities such as Seoul and Busan.

Sexual assault, drink spiking, and other violent crimes can occur, particularly around bars and nightlife areas, such as Itaewon and Hongdae in Seoul. 

To protect yourself from crime:

• keep your belongings close
• don't accept drinks, food, gum or cigarettes from strangers
• don't leave food or drinks unattended
• remain vigilant and take care when walking alone at night
• travel in groups if possible

Local authorities may not always respond adequately or consistently to reports of sexual violence and harassment. If you're sexually assaulted, you should report it immediately to the local authorities and the Australian Embassy in Seoul. 

In general, sex-related crimes are not punished as harshly in South Korea as in Australia, and the prosecution process can be challenging for victims. 

You can report crimes, including sexual assault, to the police by calling 112. This is a 24/7 service with English interpreters available. 

More information:

• Partying safely

Cyber security 

You may be at risk of cyber-based threats during overseas travel to any country. Digital identity theft is a growing concern. Your devices and personal data can be compromised, especially if you’re connecting to Wi-Fi, using or connecting to shared or public computers or to Bluetooth.

Social media can also be risky in destinations where there are social or political tensions, or laws that may seem unreasonable by Australian standards. Travellers have been arrested for things they have said on social media. Don't comment on local or political events on your social media.

More information: 

Cyber security when travelling overseas

Terrorism is a threat worldwide. Although there is no recent history of terrorism in South Korea, attacks can't be ruled out. Terrorist attacks could occur anywhere and at any time.

You should be aware of the global risk of indiscriminate terrorist attacks, which could be in tourist areas and public areas, including those visited by foreigners and where large crowds may gather. Be alert to possible threats.

Possible targets include:

• places of worship or religious holidays
• hotels, clubs, restaurants and cafes
• markets and shopping malls
• outdoor recreation events, including festivals, concerts, and sporting venues
• public transport, airports and railway hubs

To stay safe:

• report suspicious activities or items to the police
• check the media for new threats
• take official warnings seriously
• follow the instructions of local authorities

If there’s an attack, leave the area as soon as it's safe to do so.

Terrorism is a threat worldwide.

More information:

• Terrorist threats

South Korea experiences natural disasters and severe weather, including:

• flooding and landslides
• typhoons
• earthquakes
• tsunamis

Get familiar with the advice of local authorities on preparing for a natural disaster or other emergency.

If there's a natural disaster:

• know your accommodation's evacuation plans
• secure your passport in a safe, waterproof location
• take official warnings seriously
• follow the advice of local authorities
• closely monitor the media
• keep in touch with friends and family

Register with the Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System to receive alerts on major disasters.

Typhoons and severe weather

The monsoon season is usually from June to August.

Excessive rainfall during summer can cause severe flooding and landslides and damage to housing and infrastructure. Flash flooding can occur.

The typhoon season is usually from August to September. 

If a typhoon is approaching, stay inside. The direction and strength of typhoons can change with little warning.

Identify your closest local shelter if required and follow the directions of local authorities. 

Severe weather may also affect:

• access to ports
• road travel and transport
• essential services, such as water and power

If there's a typhoon or severe storm:

• exercise caution
• stay away from affected areas
• you may get stuck in the area
• flights could be delayed or suspended

Monitor weather forecasts and follow instructions of local authorities.

Check with tour operators before travelling to affected areas.

Contact your airline for the latest flight information.

More information:

• Korean Meteorological Administration (Korean)
• Severe Weather Information Centre
• Special weather report – KMA (Korean)
• Real-time disaster alert – National Disaster and Safety Portal

Earthquakes and tsunamis

Earthquakes can occur on the Korean Peninsula, although less frequently than in surrounding regions such as Japan and China.

Tsunamis are also a risk.

Large earthquakes in surrounding regions can cause destructive tsunamis that may affect the Korean Peninsula. If you're in a coastal region after a major earthquake, move to higher ground immediately.

More information:

• Pacific Warning Center
• Korea Meteorological Administration (Korean)

Get comprehensive travel insurance before you leave.

Your policy needs to cover all overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation. The Australian Government won't pay for these costs.

If you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel. This applies to everyone, no matter how healthy and fit you are.

If you're not insured, you may have to pay many thousands of dollars up-front for medical care.

Confirm:

• what activities and care your policy covers
• that your insurance covers you for the whole time you'll be away

Consider your physical and mental health before you travel, especially if you have an existing medical condition. Treatment for mental health conditions is not widely available in South Korea and is not comparable to services in Australia. Few hospitals have mental health or psychiatric wards attached, and of those available, many will not accept foreigners.

Admission to a mental health or psychiatric ward usually requires proof of a prior mental health diagnosis. For involuntary admissions, 2 family members present in South Korea will be required to sign consent.

See your doctor or travel clinic to:

• have a basic health check-up
• ask if your travel plans may affect your health
• plan any vaccinations you need

Do this at least 8 weeks before you leave.

If you have immediate concerns for your welfare, or the welfare of another Australian, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 or contact your nearest Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate to discuss counselling hotlines and services available in your location.

More information:

• General health advice
• Healthy holiday tips (Healthdirect Australia)

If you plan to travel with medication, check if it's legal in South Korea. Not all medications available over the counter or by prescription in Australia are available in Korean pharmacies. Some medications may even be considered illegal or a controlled substance in South Korea, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor. 

Before you travel:

• contact the South Korean Ministry of Food and Drug Safety or email narcotics@korea.kr to check whether your medication is a controlled or illegal substance in South Korea
• Check with the Korea Customs Service for information on restricted or prohibited items that may not be brought into the country
• ask your doctor about alternative medicines

You may need to apply for a 'bring in' permit. When applying, provide the generic name of the medication, as the brand name in South Korea may be different in Australia.

It may take authorities more than 2 weeks to process your application.

Take enough medications for your trip.

Ensure you carry your medication in its original packaging and carry a copy of your prescription or a letter from your doctor stating:

• what the medication is
• your required dosage
• that it's for personal use

More information:

• Medication

Insect-borne diseases

Malaria is a risk, particularly in the demilitarised zone between South and North Korea and in rural areas in the northern parts of Gyeonggi and Gangwon provinces.

Japanese encephalitis also occurs throughout the Korean countryside.

To protect yourself from disease:

• make sure your accommodation is insect-proof
• use insect repellent
• wear long, loose, light-coloured clothing
• get vaccinated against Japanese encephalitis before you travel
• consider taking medicine to prevent malaria

Other health risks

Waterborne, foodborne, and other infectious diseases occur, including:

• tuberculosis
• typhoid
• hepatitis
• COVID-19 

If you test positive for COVID-19 while in South Korea, you will need to follow local isolation guidelines.

Use normal hygiene precautions, including:

• careful and frequent hand washing
• boil tap water before drinking or cooking
• avoid uncooked and undercooked food
• seek medical advice if you have a fever or are suffering from diarrhoea

Hand, foot and mouth disease

Hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD) is common.

Outbreaks usually start in March and peak in May but can continue until October each year.

The disease mostly affects children aged under 10 years. Adult cases, especially in young adults, are not unusual.

When outside major cities:

• drink boiled water, filtered water or bottled water with sealed lids
• avoid ice cubes
• avoid uncooked and undercooked food, such as salads

Get medical advice if you have a fever or diarrhoea.

Yellow dust

Strong winds from Mongolia and China carry yellow dust and other pollutants to the Korean Peninsula, particularly from March to May. High levels of airborne pollution occur during this time. High levels of airborne pollution occur during this time.

The dust can:

• cause eye, nose, mouth and throat irritations
• make breathing and heart problems worse

If you're concerned about the effects of dust, speak to your doctor before leaving Australia. 

Get medical advice if you have allergies or respiratory difficulties.

The standard of medical facilities in South Korea is good, but few staff members speak English, and there can be cultural differences in how medical services are delivered.

Medical services can be expensive. Hospitals usually require an up-front deposit or confirmation of insurance before they'll treat you.

You can request ambulance and emergency medical assistance by calling 119. This is a 24/7 service with English interpreters available.

More information:

• General health advice

Medical tourism

South Korea is a popular destination for medical tourism.

To protect yourself:

• research and choose your medical service providers carefully
• avoid discounted or uncertified medical service providers

Check whether your travel insurance covers you if things go wrong with your surgery. Most insurers don't.

More information:

• Medical tourism

You're subject to all local laws and penalties, including those that may appear harsh by Australian standards. Research local laws before travelling.

Under South Korean immigration law, foreign nationals are generally not permitted to take part in domestic political activities when in South Korea.

Penalties for drink driving can be severe, and laws are strictly enforced. Drivers are presumed to be at fault for traffic incidents involving injuries to pedestrians.

Electric kickboard (electric scooter) rentals in South Korea are increasing. You must be 16 years or older to ride an electric scooter, have a driver's licence and wear a helmet. Riders should use bicycle paths where available or, if there are no bicycle paths, car lanes while adhering to road traffic rules. Fines can apply for riding while inebriated, failing to wear helmets, or exceeding passenger limits.

If you're arrested or jailed, the Australian Government will do what it can to help you under our Consular Services Charter. But we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail.

Drugs

Don't carry or consume illegal drugs.

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs include:

• long jail sentences
• heavy fines
• deportation

More information:

• Carrying or using drugs

Employment

Working in South Korea is illegal if it's not specified in your visa, whether paid or unpaid.

Authorities have fined, detained and deported Australians for breaching their visa conditions.

It's difficult to change your visa type once you're in South Korea.

If you plan to work, arrange a work visa through a South Korean embassy or consulate before you travel.

Disputes over expected working and living conditions for Australians teaching English in South Korea are common.

Some Australians planning to teach English have faced penalties after they or their employment agent provided false documents to Korean immigration authorities.

If you're employed without the right visa, your options will be limited under Korean law.

If you're considering teaching English in South Korea:

• research your employer and employment agent
• consider getting legal advice before you sign a contract
• make sure your visa application is truthful and accurate

Other laws

Serious crimes, such as murder, could attract the death penalty.

It's illegal to take photos of and around:

• military zones, assets or personnel
• official buildings

South Korea has strict anti-corruption laws for public officials. Public officials and their spouses can't accept meals, gifts or other benefits above set limits.

'Public officials' include:

• teachers
• journalists
• employees of government-owned or funded companies

Get legal advice to make sure you don't breach these laws.

If you're involved in a commercial or legal dispute, authorities can stop you from leaving until the dispute is resolved.

Same-sex relationships and homosexuality are not criminalised, but same-sex relationships are not legally recognised. There is no law preventing discrimination, including based on sexual orientation or gender identity, in South Korea.

Social norms and behaviour standards around public displays of affection and sexuality are generally conservative, often more so for LGBTQIA+ people. Discretion is advised. Harassment and violence against LGBTQIA+ people have occurred.

More information:

• Advice for LGBTQIA+ travellers

Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you're overseas. If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.

More information:

• Staying within the law

The South Korean Government recognises dual nationality only in certain circumstances.

It's possible that by applying for Australian Citizenship by Descent or by Conferral, you may lose your Korean citizenship.

There are some differences between the Australian and Korean citizenship requirements. This has caused some difficulties, including for children born in South Korea to South Korean and Australian parents. Expectant parents should make themselves aware of these differences and contact the Australian and South Korean immigration authorities in advance of giving birth.

If you've been arrested or detained and have Korean citizenship, we may only be able to provide limited consular help.

If you were born in South Korea or have Korean citizenship, you will continue to be a Korean citizen unless you:

• formally renounce it; and
• remove your name from the Korean family register

Military service is compulsory for male citizens of South Korea, including dual nationals.

The South Korean Government may require you to undertake military service if you:

• are male; and
• are listed on the Korean family register

This is the case even if you have travelled to South Korea on your Australian passport.

The South Korean Government may not allow you to renounce your Korean nationality or leave the country until you either:

• complete your military service, or
• receive a special exemption from serving

If you're an Australian-South Korean dual national, get advice from a South Korean embassy or consulate before you travel.

Contact the Korea Immigration Service for information on Korea’s law on dual citizenship.

More information:

• Dual nationals

Visas

Australian passport holders can visit South Korea as tourists for stays of up to 90 days without applying for a K-ETA (or visa waiver) until 31 December 2025. Previously approved K-ETA applications will remain valid up to the granted expiry date. Visit the official K-ETA website for more information. 

Long-term visa holders residing in South Korea must apply for a re-entry permit before leaving South Korea. If you leave South Korea without a re-entry permit, your Alien Registration Card may be cancelled and you'll need to apply for a new long-term visa to enter. If you hold an A1, A2, A3 or F4 visa, you're exempt from requiring a re-entry permit.

To apply for a re-entry permit, visit a local immigration office, including at an airport or seaport. If you intend to apply at an airport immigration office on your way out of South Korea, ensure you allow sufficient time to complete the required formalities.

Further information about re-entry permits and medical examination requirements is available from the South Korean Ministry of Justice.

Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. Contact the nearest South Korean embassy or consulate for details about visas, currency, customs and quarantine rules.

Border measures

Arriving passengers could be screened for high body temperature and as necessary might be subject to further health questions.

Contact the South Korean embassy or consulate in Australia for more information when planning your travel and to confirm requirements.  

You'll be fingerprinted when you arrive.

Passengers arriving at South Korean airports from particular countries could be screened for infectious diseases, including:

• Cholera
• Zika virus
• Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (MERS-CoV)

Extra quarantine checks are in place for flights from high-risk areas.

If you have visited countries designated as 'quarantine inspection required areas' for cholera, polio, plague, Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS), or Avian Influenza Human Infection, you may be required to register on the Korean Q-code system before arrival or complete a health questionnaire on arrival in South Korea. Countries listed as 'Quarantine Inspection Required Areas' may change without notice.

Further information on 'Quarantine Inspection Required Areas' is available on the 'Notices' page. Check with the South Korean embassy or consulate for the latest requirements for Australians.

Korean Government Agencies

• Korea Disease Control & Prevention Agency (KDCA)
• Ministry of Health and Welfare
• Ministry of Employment and Labor
• Ministry of Education
• Ministry of Gender Equality and Family
• Ministry of the Interior and Safety
• Ministry of Economy and Finance

Validity

Some countries won't let you enter unless your passport is valid for 6 months after you plan to leave that country. This can apply even if you're just transiting or stopping over.

Some foreign governments and airlines apply the rule inconsistently. Travellers can receive conflicting advice from different sources.

You can end up stranded if your passport is not valid for more than 6 months.

The Australian Government does not set these rules. Check your passport's expiry date before you travel. If you're not sure it'll be valid for long enough, consider getting a new passport.

Lost or stolen passport

Your passport is a valuable document. It's attractive to people who may try to use your identity to commit crimes.

Some people may try to trick you into giving them your passport. Always keep it in a safe place.

If your passport is lost or stolen, tell the Australian Government as soon as possible:

• In Australia, contact the Australian Passport Information Service.
• If you're overseas, contact the nearest Australian embassy or consulate.

Passport with ‘X’ gender identifier 

Although Australian passports comply with international standards for sex and gender, we can’t guarantee that a passport showing 'X' in the sex field will be accepted for entry or transit by another country. Contact the nearest embassy, high commission or consulate of your destination before you arrive at the border to confirm if authorities will accept passports with 'X' gender markers.

More information: 

• LGBTQIA+ travellers

The local currency is the Korean Won (KRW).

You can change Australian dollars for KRW at local banks and money changers.

Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, shops and taxis, particularly in cities and larger towns.

On arrival, declare all means of international payment, including KRW notes, cashier's checks, or foreign currency over $US10,000 or equivalent. 

ATMs are available in cities and larger towns, but these might not accept some foreign debit cards.

Be aware of card skimming. See Safety.

Driving permit

To drive in South Korea, you'll need either:

• a valid local licence, or
• an International Driver's Permit (IDP) and a valid Australian driver's licence (digital driver's licences may not be accepted)

Get your IDP before you leave Australia.

You need a South Korean driver's licence to drive if you intend to stay in South Korea for 90 days or more.

You will need a certified copy of your Australian licence to apply for a South Korean driver's licence. 

When issuing you with a South Korean driver's licence, the local authorities will generally ask to keep your Australian driver's licence. They will return your Australian licence in exchange for your Korean driver's licence before you depart South Korea.

Holders of South Korean driver's licences should be aware that they can be fined for not renewing their licences before the expiry date, even if they do not intend to drive. Foreigners intending to be absent for long periods beyond the expiry date should consider officially surrendering their licences or face fines on return.

More information:

• Safe Driving - KOROAD

Road travel

South Korea has a high rate of traffic deaths, especially for pedestrians.

While the South Korean police have been more strictly reinforcing traffic rules in recent years, speeding, running red lights, and other risky behaviours are still common, especially by buses, taxis, and motorcyclists. Penalties for drink driving can be severe.

If you're involved in an accident, whether or not you're at fault, you could face criminal charges. Traffic incidents involving injuries to pedestrians are presumed to be the driver's fault. You may need to pay compensation to the injured person.

The blood alcohol limit for drivers is 0.03%. Heavy penalties apply for exceeding the limit. Don't drink and drive.

If you're walking:

• look out for motorcyclists, even on footpaths and pedestrian crossings
• don't expect traffic to stop at pedestrian crossings
• check carefully before stepping onto the road

Before travelling by road, learn local road rules and practices. 

More information:

• Driving or riding

Motorcycles

Check if your travel insurance policy covers you when riding a motorbike. Most policies won't cover you if you don't follow local laws or wear a helmet.

Always wear a helmet.

There are restrictions on riding motorcycles on highways and other major roads.

Taxis

Use only authorised taxis, preferably those arranged through your hotel.

Always insist the driver uses the meter. Most taxis accept credit cards.

Rideshare apps are also available in South Korea. 

International taxi services are available and may have English-speaking drivers.

Public transport

Public transportation (including buses and metropolitan subway networks) in and between major urban areas is good.

Most major transportation systems have signs and make announcements in English.

More information:

• Visit Korea
• Transport and getting around safely

Rail travel

South Korea has an extensive high-speed rail network (KTX).

Stations are usually located in major urban areas. They have signs in English.

They're often linked to local taxi or public transport networks.

More information:

• Korail

Sea travel

Ferry services operate between most large coastal cities and other domestic and international ports.

Busan, Incheon, and Jeju Island are regular stopover locations for cruise ships.

More information:

• Going on a cruise
• Travelling by boat

Air travel

Some airlines and travel providers don't allow you to pay for flights online within South Korea with a foreign credit card.

DFAT doesn't provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.

Check South Korea's air safety profile with the Aviation Safety Network.

More information:

• Air travel

Depending on what you need, contact your:

• family and friends
• travel agent
• insurance provider
• employer
• airline

Fire and rescue services

Call 119.

Medical emergencies

Call 119 or go to the hospital. This is a 24/7 service with English interpreters available.

Police

To report a crime, call 112 or go to the nearest police station. This is a 24/7 service with English interpreters available. 

Always get a police report when you report a crime.

If you have lost any property, visit the Lost112 website for more information. 

Korean Government Agencies

• Korea Disease Control & Prevention (KDCA)
• Ministry of Health and Welfare
• Ministry of Employment and Labor
• Ministry of Education
• Ministry of Gender Equality and Family
• Ministry of the Interior and Safety
• Ministry of Economy and Finance

Read the Consular Services Charter for what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.

For consular help, contact the Australian Embassy in Seoul.

Australian Embassy, Seoul

19th Floor, Kyobo Building
1, Jong-ro
Jongno-gu
Seoul 03154, Republic of Korea
Phone: (+82 2) 2003 0100
Fax: (+82 2) 2003 0196
Website: southkorea.embassy.gov.au
Facebook: Australia in the Republic of Korea
X: @AusAmbROK
Instagram: @AusEmbKor

Check the Embassy website for details about opening hours and any temporary closures. 

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

In a consular emergency, if you can't contact an embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:

• +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
• 1300 555 135 in Australia