Essential Tips for Your Travel in Korea

To ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience during your travels in Korea, it's important to keep a few key considerations in mind. These include cultural norms, food and health information, and practical travel tips. Here’s a quick guide to help you navigate your trip:

1. Food Allergies & Dietary Restrictions

Common Allergens: Korean cuisine often contains common allergens such as soy (in soy sauce and tofu), sesame, wheat, and shellfish. It’s a good idea to inform your tour guide of any food allergies you have, so they can help you avoid dishes containing these ingredients. We also recommend bringing your own snacks as a precaution.

Spiciness: Korean food can be quite spicy, particularly dishes like kimchi, tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes), and various soups. If you're sensitive to spice, many restaurants will accommodate by adjusting the heat level upon request.

Vegetarian & Vegan Options: While Korean food is not predominantly vegetarian, there are some vegetarian and vegan options. However, be aware that certain dishes like kimchi may contain fish sauce or baby shrimp. Let your tour guide know about your dietary preferences, and they will be happy to assist in selecting suitable options.

Halal Food: Halal options are widely available in larger cities like Seoul and Busan, though they may be limited in smaller towns. Restaurants and food vendors often display signs indicating whether their food is halal. For halal grocery shopping, visit the foreign food store in Itaewon.

Cross-Contact Risks: While dishes may appear vegetarian, cross-contact can occur—particularly when the same utensils are used for meat and vegetarian dishes. If you have severe allergies, we recommend exercising caution.

2. Health Considerations

Air Quality: Air pollution can be an issue, especially in spring and autumn. If you’re sensitive to air quality or have respiratory concerns, we recommend monitoring the air quality via a weather app or checking the Namsan Tower at night. The tower changes color to indicate the air quality: blue means good, green means fair, yellow means bad, and red means hazardous.

Travel Insurance: It’s strongly recommended that all travelers have comprehensive travel insurance, including coverage for medical emergencies, to ensure peace of mind during your trip.

3. Cultural Etiquette

Respect for Elders: Korean culture places a high value on respect for elders. This is reflected in everyday interactions, including greetings and seating arrangements.

Public Behavior: Public displays of affection are less common in Korea, and people tend to be more reserved in public spaces. A gentle approach to physical interaction is appreciated.

Tipping: Tipping is neither customary nor expected in Korea. While it’s not a requirement, it’s not considered offensive if you choose to leave a tip for excellent service.

Shoes Off Indoors: In certain traditional settings, such as restaurants, homes, and temples, it’s customary to remove your shoes before entering. Be prepared to slip off your shoes when asked.

4. Communication & Language

Language Barrier: While English is widely spoken in tourist areas, it may not be understood in rural or less-traveled regions. Learning a few basic Korean phrases or using a translation app like Papago or Google Translate can be very helpful. Many locals also use these apps to assist with communication.

Signage & Directions: English signage is common in major cities but may be more limited in rural areas. Having addresses written in Korean can help if you need to navigate outside the city centers.

5. Weather & Climate

Seasons: Korea has four distinct seasons. Winters can be quite cold, with temperatures often dipping below freezing, while summers are hot and humid, particularly in July and August. Spring and autumn are generally mild and pleasant.

Clothing: Be sure to check the weather forecast and pack accordingly for the season and region of your travel. Layered clothing is a good option to adapt to temperature fluctuations.

Walking: Expect a lot of walking, particularly in areas like Myeongdong and Hongdae. Comfortable, sturdy shoes are essential for exploring the city on foot.

6. Safety & Emergency Information

Emergency Numbers: In case of an emergency, dial 112 for police and 119 for fire or medical services. These services offer assistance in English. If you’re in need of help, don’t hesitate to inform your tour guide or contact the emergency number directly.

Healthcare: Korea has excellent healthcare facilities. For health-related inquiries or assistance, you can contact the 1339 Korea Travel Hotline for guidance.

7. Money & Shopping

Currency: The local currency is the South Korean Won (KRW). While credit cards are widely accepted in larger establishments, it's advisable to carry some cash for small purchases, especially at street vendors or smaller shops.

Tax Refunds: Foreign tourists can claim VAT refunds on qualifying purchases. Look for signs at stores that participate in the tax refund program. You can claim your refund at designated kiosks at the airport.

Bargaining: Bargaining is not common in most retail shops, though it may be possible in traditional markets like Dongmyo Flea Market or with street vendors. In general, it’s polite to accept the price offered.

8. Transportation Tips

Public Transit: Korea has an efficient public transportation system, including subways and buses. The T-money card is the most convenient way to pay for transit. You can purchase a T-money card at convenience stores (7/11, CU, GS25) or at the airport. For the subway, a one-time pass is available, with the deposit refunded upon departure. Note that buses do not accept cash, so you’ll need a T-money card for bus rides.

Taxis: Taxis are readily available, though most drivers may not speak English. To flag a taxi, extend your arm with your palm facing down. Alternatively, you can use the Kakao Taxi app to request a ride, with payment charged to your credit card.

9. Wi-Fi & Connectivity

Free Wi-Fi: Korea is known for its fast and free public Wi-Fi, especially in major cities. Most cafes, restaurants, and public spaces offer Wi-Fi, and even the public transportation system provides free connectivity.

SIM Cards & Connectivity: Despite the availability of free Wi-Fi, it’s a good idea to purchase an eSIM or a local SIM card for reliable connectivity, especially if you plan to travel outside major urban areas. These can be purchased at the airport or in popular tourist districts like Myeongdong and Hongdae.

10. Laws & Regulations

Smoking: Smoking is banned in many public spaces, including restaurants, cafes, public transportation, and parks. Look for designated smoking areas, especially in tourist areas where smoking may be allowed. Many Koreans tend to smoke in alley ways off of the main streets. Please be mindful of these regulations to avoid fines.