Visa Information

Visa

Visitors who intend to enter the Republic of Korea must have a travel visa as a basic requirement for an entry permit in principle. However, visitors of certain countries that signed a visa exemption agreement with the Republic of Korea may enter without a visa.

Visit the [link] and check whether you need a visa or not. Kindly note that policies may be subject to change. Please consult the embassy for the most up-to-date visa application process

K-ETA (Korea Electronic Travel Authorization)

K-ETA (Korea Electronic Travel Authorization) is an online electronic travel authorization that visa-free foreign visitors need to obtain before entering the Republic of Korea for the purpose of tour, visiting relatives, participating in events or meetings, or for business (excluding profit-making activities). Please [click here] to check official notice.

Those entering Korea without a visa must obtain K-ETA approval and must apply for the K-ETA at least 72 hours ~ 1 week prior to boarding the flight or ship bound to the Republic of Korea.

However, in accordance with K-ETA agreements by country, exemptions are available in some countries. Please [click here] to see the exempted countries/regions.

• Time Difference

  

  Time in Korea is 9 hours earlier than Greenwich Mean Time and there are no daylight savings. If you want to know the time in Korea now, please [click here].

• Weather

  

  The average temperature in Korea during October ranges from 11°C to 19°C, creating a pleasant early autumn atmosphere characterized by cool temperatures, clear skies, and vibrant fall foliage. Mornings and nights are be cooler than the daytime, so it’s advisable to bring a jacket or sweater. For more detailed information about weather, please [click here].

• Electricity and Voltage

  

  The standard voltage in Korea is 220 volts at 60 Hertz, and the outlet has two round holes. If you do not have a multi-voltage travel adapter, you may ask to borrow or purchase one from your hotel's front desk. You can also find them at the airport, retail stores, major duty-free shops, and even convenience stores.

• Korean Currency and Exchange

  

  • The official currency unit in Republic of Korea is Won (KRW; Korean Won). Please check updated currency exchange rates at https://www.xe.com
  • Money exchange is available at a bank or authorized exchange service center. Banks generally operate from 09:00-16:00hrs on weekdays.
  • Authorized exchange service centers are also available at the airport.

  There are 4 types of notes and coins, respectively.

  Notes
  50,000 Won (Oh Man Won)	10,000 Won (Man Won)	5,000 Won (Oh Cheon Won)	1,000 Won (Cheon Won)

  Coins
  500 Won (Oh Baek Won)	100 Won (Baek Won)	50 Won (Oh Sib Won)	10 Won (Sib Won)

• Credit Card

  

  Visa, and Master Card are accepted at almost all retail outlets, but Diners Club and American Express may only be accepted at major hotels, shops and restaurants. Check with your credit card company for details on merchant acceptance and other available services.

• VAT & Tipping

  

  • Tip: Tipping is not regularly practiced in Korea. A 10% service charge (VAT) may be pre-included to your bill at upscale restaurants and hotels. It is also not necessary to tip a taxi driver unless he assists you with luggage or provides an extra service.
  • Tax: Foreign visitors can receive the tax refunds when they buy goods including tax. Tax refunds can be received immediately when visitors buy items at certified Tax Free Stores up to 30,000 KRW. Visitors can receive also by submitting the applicable receipts at the custom clearance desk when leaving the country.

• Internet

  

  There are free public Wi-Fi services available in most public locations such as airports, subway stations, train stations and certain bus stops.

• Business Hours

  

  Banks	Weekday 09:00-16:00, Closed weekends & public holidays Exceptions: Standard Chartered Bank weekdays 09:30-16:30, Closed weekends & public holidays
  Government Offices and Organizations	Weekdays 09:00-18:00, Closed weekends & public holidays
  Post Offices	Weekdays 09:00-18:00, Closed weekends & public holidays Website: www.koreapost.go.kr (Korean, English)
  Convenience Stores	Most convenience stores are open 24 hours everyday, but some branches may close around 22-23 o’clock.

• Emergency Numbers

  

  • Fire & Rescue: 119 (interpretation service available)
  • Police: 112 (interpretation service available)
  • Lost and Found: 182
  • Medical Emergencies: 1339
  • Foreign Traveler Hotline: 1330