Welcome to Korea

Seoul stands as Korea’s capital and serves as the nucleus of the nation’s cultural, educational, political, and economic realms. Within Seoul’s confines lie numerous historic landmarks and venues steeped in traditional heritage. The city’s shopping and entertainment sectors also magnetize a substantial annual influx of visitors. Cutting through the city’s core, the Han River presents an iconic Seoul panorama, adorned with numerous leisure spots catering to its residents and visitors.

General Information

Useful Information

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  Weather

  September sees the start of autumn in Korea. Average temperatures are between 19-25. There may be heavy rain during the month continuing of the previous month. It is ideal to wear light jackets for chiller nights. Also, it will be nice to prepare an umbrella in case of rainy summer. Please check out the weather before you leave by the link below.

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  Time difference

  Standard Time in Korea is 9 hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT+9).

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  Visa

  To check visa exemption agreement, please check your country via link below:

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  Monetary System & Currency

  There are currently 4 banknotes (1,000 / 5,000 / 10,000 / 50,000) and 4 coins (10 / 50 / 100 / 500) in circulations in Korea. The current exchange rate is approximately 1 USD= 1,341 KRW as of August 2023.
  You can check the current exchange rate by the link below:

  Go to Website
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  Credit Card

  Visa, Mastercard and American Express credit cards are accepted throughout much of South Korea. Most of the businesses widely use and accept payment by credit cards, including at major hotels, department stores, and general shops. However, check the service availability before making purchases as some stores may not provide this service.

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  Tax and Tipping

  Korea is basically a no-tip culture. Value-added tax is levied on most goods and services at a standard rate of 10% and is included in the retail price. Sometimes, expensive restaurants and luxury hotels may add a service charge of 10%. Thus, you do not necessarily have to prepare for extra charges since it will be included in the bill.

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  SIM Card & Wifi-Egg Rental

  Cellular phone and SIM card can be purchased at Gimpo and Incheon airport. More information about the fees, location of roaming centers and other details can be found on website below. (Due to Covid-19, some services may not available.)

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  Electricity

  The standard voltage in Korea is 220 volts at 60 Hertz, and the outlet has two round holes.

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  Business Hours

  Banks and Public Institutions: 09:00 - 16:00
  Tourist Information Centers: 09:30 - 22:00 (Varies by location)
  Restaurants & Cafes: Varies by location (Many open 24 hours)

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  Transportation

  Subway: 05:00 - 24:00
  Bus: 05:00 - 22:00 (Select routes operate until 25:00)
  Taxi: 24 hours (late-night surcharge from 22:00 – 28:00)

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  Emergency Call

  112 : Police Department
  119 : Emergencies for Fire / Rescue & Hospital Services