Korea travel essentials

Apps to install before you go

• Naver Map or KakaoMap: the two most-used map apps in Korea, both with English versions, with transit, walking and bus directions. Google Maps works for subway and bus, but walking and driving directions are limited.
• Papago: translation, including photos of menus and signs.
• Kakao T: taxi hailing. Check whether your payment method works before relying on it.
• Subway Korea: subway routes in English.

Emergency and help numbers

• 112 police
• 119 fire and ambulance
• 1330 Korea Travel Hotline: tourist help in several languages, reported to run 24 hours
• 1345 immigration contact center

These are well-known numbers. Confirm on official sites if you need them.

Entry rules

Visa and K-ETA rules change often and depend on your passport. Check the official sites before you book: K-ETA and Korea Visa Portal. We do not list who needs what.

Tax refund

• Look for "Tax Free" signs at shops. Bring your passport and ask for the refund at the till or at the refund counter.
• A minimum purchase amount applies, and the rules and limits change. Ask at the shop.
• Keep your receipts and passport together for the airport counter.

Everyday tips

• Power is 220 V with two-round-pin plugs (type C and F). Bring an adapter if needed.
• Tipping is not expected in restaurants or taxis.
• Many restaurants have a call button on the table. Press it to call staff. Water and basic side dishes are mostly self-service and free. Spoons, chopsticks and paper napkins are usually in a drawer on the side of the table, so open it and look.
• Subway cars are quiet. Keep calls short and use headphones.
• Carry some cash for small markets, but cards work in most places.