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Foreign Travel Advice South Korea

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Foreign Travel Advice South Korea

Contents

  1. Warnings and insurance
  2. Entry requirements
  3. Safety and security
  4. Health

South Korea

Travel Advisories and Insurance

Latest update: This travel advice has been rewritten to enhance readability and comprehension.

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) offers advice on travel risks to assist British nationals in making informed decisions. Explore further details about FCDO travel advice.

 

ENTER YOUR DESTINATION FOR YOUR CUSTOM TRAVEL BRIEF


Before You Travel:

Remember, no travel can be guaranteed as entirely safe. Thoroughly review all the advice provided in this guide and seek support available for British nationals abroad, including:

  • Guidance on preparing for travel abroad and minimizing risks
  • Information tailored for women, LGBT+, and disabled travelers

Stay connected with FCDO travel updates on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram, and consider signing up for email notifications for real-time updates.

Travel Insurance:

If you decide to travel, conduct thorough research on your destinations and obtain suitable travel insurance. Ensure that your insurance covers your entire itinerary, planned activities, and expenses in an emergency.

/foreign-travel-advice/south-korea
78f22c79-1f19-4ce2-ab69-2a221c770e52
FCDO travel advice for South Korea. Includes safety and security, insurance, entry requirements and legal differences.
This travel advice has been rewritten to make it easier to read and understand.
This travel advice has been reviewed in full, with updates to the Safety and security (Political situation and Road travel), Local laws and customs, Entry requirements (Passports) and Health sections
2019-07-08T09:57:00.000Z
This advice has been reviewed in full, with a factual update to the Summary and Safety and security section (Political situation)
2019-07-11T11:23:24.000Z
Summary - Korean authorities have advised citizens in Seoul to remain indoors on Saturday 7 September due to strong winds from Typhoon Ling Ling’s passage near the Korean Peninsula. You should check with local authorities or the Korean Meteorological Agency website for any further advice or updates.
2019-09-07T01:26:13.000Z
Summary - removal of information on typhoon Ling Ling; Safety and security (Crime, Road travel) - minor editorial amendments
2019-12-10T15:26:27.000Z
Health section and Summary - updated information and advice following an outbreak of coronavirus in China and elsewhere in the region
2020-01-22T15:32:16.000Z
Health section and summary - updated information and advice on the outbreak of coronavirus, including links to local advice and information on travel between South Korea and China
2020-01-31T17:56:50.000Z
Health section and summary - updated information following announcement by the South Korean government that with effect from 4 February 2020, foreign nationals who have been in Hubei province in China within the previous 14 days will not be allowed to enter South Korea
2020-02-03T12:36:54.000Z
Health section (Coronavirus) - addition of link to advice from the Department of Health and Social Care if returning to the UK from South Korea
2020-02-06T18:11:21.000Z
Health (Coronavirus) - update to information on flights between China and a number of other countries
2020-02-17T10:19:56.000Z
Health (Coronavirus COVID-19) - factual update following reports from the South Korean authorities of a number of new cases of COVID-19 in Daegu city and Gyeongbuk Province
2020-02-19T13:21:19.000Z
Health (Coronavirus - COVID-19) - update to information and advice following an outbreak of COVID-19 in Daegu and Cheongdu cities
2020-02-21T10:20:50.000Z
Health (Coronavirus - COVID-19); update to information and advice following an outbreak of COVID-19 in Daegu and Cheongdu cities
2020-02-22T22:21:05.000Z
Health (Coronavirus - COVID-19); update to information and advice following an outbreak of COVID-19 in Daegu and Cheongdo cities
2020-02-22T22:36:16.000Z
Update to information and advice on monitoring local sources of information relating to coronavirus (COVID-19)
2020-02-24T14:43:55.000Z
The Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) advises against all travel to Daegu and all but essential travel to Cheongdo. The Government of South Korea has designated the cities of Daegu and Cheongdo as “special care zones” following a high number of cases of coronavirus (COVID-19) emerging in these two areas.
2020-03-02T06:45:35.000Z
The FCO now advise against all travel to the city of Gyeongsan. Travel advice for the city of Cheongdo has also been changed from ‘all but essential travel’ to ‘all travel’. The Health and Summary pages have updated information about measures taken by the Government of South Korea
2020-03-05T18:24:07.000Z
Update of information on reduced flights to South Korea in relation to coronavirus (Covid-19). ('Summary' and 'Health' pages)
2020-03-09T10:20:01.000Z
Addition of information on additional screening and other measures for travellers arriving from european countries including the UK. ('Summary', 'Entry Requirements' and 'Health' pages)
2020-03-12T15:36:37.000Z
Update of information in relation to coronavirus (COVID-19) ('Summary', 'Entry Requirements' and 'Health' pages)
2020-03-13T15:15:42.000Z
From 19th March, all travellers will be subject to additional screening for COVID-19 ('Summary', 'Entry Requirements' and 'Health' pages)
2020-03-17T16:11:52.000Z
If you display symptoms or return a positive test result for COVID-19 you must comply with self-quarantine and treatment instructions issued by the Korean authorities. Failure to do so could result in deportation, the revocation of visas or residence permits and an entry ban (‘Health’ and ‘Entry requirement’ pages)
2020-03-19T13:13:22.000Z
From 19 March, all travellers will be subject to additional screening for COVID-19 ('Entry Requirements' and 'Health' pages)
2020-03-21T01:15:04.000Z
Travellers subject to additional screening for coronavirus (COVID-19) and may be held on arrival for 24 hours while they are being tested ('Entry Requirements' and 'Health' pages).
2020-03-23T10:08:46.000Z
Update of information on availability of flights ('Return to the UK' page)
2020-03-27T16:54:10.000Z
Update to screening and qurantine proceedures ('Coronavirus' and 'Entry requirements' pages)
2020-03-31T14:32:39.000Z
Updated advice for people wishing to return to the UK from South Korea (’Return to the UK’ pages)
2020-04-03T15:55:09.000Z
Addition of information on measures to extend the expiry date of some visas automatically due to the current situation with coronavirus. Addition of link to contact British Airways. ('Coronavirus' and 'Return to the UK' pages)
2020-04-06T10:11:16.000Z
Updated advice for people wishing to return to the UK from South Korea (’Return to the UK’ pages)
2020-04-08T15:09:14.000Z
Update to information and advice about transiting in South Korea ('Return to the UK' page)
2020-04-15T11:15:07.000Z
Update regarding entry and quarantine procedures. ('Coronavirus' and 'Entry Requirements')
2020-04-23T19:29:19.000Z
The FCO no longer advise against all travel to the cities of Daegu, Cheongdo and Gyeongsan. Advice to British nationals against all non-essential international travel remains in place.
2020-05-01T13:22:52.000Z
All foreign arrivals, regardless of their point of departure, are now required to be tested for COVID-19 in South Korea. Testing requirements for arrivals from the US and Europe have been harmonised.
2020-05-15T14:33:25.000Z
Addition of information and advice on financial support (‘Staying during coronavirus’ page)
2020-05-20T12:19:56.000Z
Addition of information and advice for long-term visa holders re-entering South Korea ('Staying during coronavirus’ and 'Entry requirements' pages). Update to information and advice on the use of face masks ('Staying during coronavirus’ and 'Return to the UK' pages)
2020-05-25T08:30:54.000Z
New information on rules for entering the UK from 8 June. ('Return to the UK' page)
2020-06-08T12:23:18.000Z
Editorial review to remove ‘Return to the UK’ section and improve ‘Coronavirus’ section
2020-07-03T09:49:35.000Z
From 4 July, South Korea is exempt from the FCO advice against all non-essential international travel. This is based on the current assessment of COVID-19 risks.
2020-07-03T14:15:33.000Z
Update to information on coronavirus (COVID-19) measures, including social distancing, introduced as a result of increased cases ('Summary' and 'Coronavirus' pages)
2020-08-17T12:30:37.000Z
Update on Typhoon BAVI and information on transiting Seoul Incheon Airport ('Summary' and 'Entry Requirements' pages)
2020-08-25T15:07:11.000Z
Update on Typhoon MAYSAK and coronavirus (COVID-19) information ("Summary" and Coronavirus" pages)
2020-08-31T16:12:24.000Z
Update on Typhoon HAISHEN ('Summary' page)
2020-09-05T12:55:50.000Z
New information on road deaths in South Korea in 2019 (‘Safety and security’ page)
2020-10-05T11:45:45.000Z
Updated information on the Korean government reducing social distancing requirements and relations between North and South Korea ('Summary', 'Coronavirus' and 'Safety and security page' )
2020-10-12T16:01:42.000Z
Updated information on the Korean government social distancing requirements ('Summary' and 'Coronavirus' page).
2020-11-02T11:21:00.000Z
Updated information on South Korea's social distancing requirements ('Summary' and 'Coronavirus' page)
2020-11-18T09:44:50.000Z
Updated information on South's Korea's social distancing requirements; information on local variations can be found on provincial websites ('Summary' and 'Coronavirus' page)
2020-11-23T09:49:52.000Z
Update to information on local variations of South's Korea's COVID-19 restrictions ('Coronavirus' page)
2020-11-27T10:45:54.000Z
Direct flights from UK to South Korea are temporarily suspended until 31 December 2020 ('Summary' page)
2020-12-23T11:48:37.000Z
Direct flights from UK to South Korea are temporarily suspended until 7 January 2021. From 1 January 2021 all arrivals entering South Korea from the UK will be required to provide a negative PCR test declaration, issued within 48 hours of departure. Updates to entry requirements, visas and testing/screening on arrival procedures.(Summary', and ‘Entry rules in response to coronavirus (COVID-19)')
2020-12-30T10:49:11.000Z
Addition of information on requirement for all foreign nationals arriving in South Korea by air and sea to provide a negative PCR test declaration, issued within 48 hours of departure, from 8 and 15 January respectively ('Summary' and ‘Entry requirements' pages)
2021-01-04T10:14:14.000Z
Addition of information on requirement for all foreign nationals arriving in South Korea by air and sea to provide a negative PCR test declaration, issued within 72 hours of departure, from 8 and 15 January respectively ('Summary' and ‘Entry requirements' pages)
2021-01-05T12:05:03.000Z
Addition of information on the announcement of the extension of the temporary suspension of direct flights from UK to South Korea until 21 January 2021 ('Summary' page)
2021-01-07T11:31:00.000Z
Updated information on entry requirements and the daily charge for foreign short-term travellers who must quarantine at a government-designated quarantine facility. ('Summary' and ‘Entry Requirements’ pages)
2021-01-13T10:18:44.000Z
If you are arriving in the UK from South Korea on or after 4am on 18 January you will need to self-isolate on your arrival, unless you have a valid exemption (‘Summary’ page)
2021-01-16T00:34:44.000Z
Updated information on temporary suspension of direct flights from UK to South Korea, it has been extended until 28 January 2021. Additional information on where you can find local information regarding COVID-19 (‘Summary’ and ‘Coronavirus’ pages)
2021-01-20T10:53:28.000Z
Updated information on temporary suspension of direct flights from UK to South Korea and on re-entry and visa issues ('Summary', 'Coronavirus' and 'Entry requirements' pages).
2021-01-28T13:09:26.000Z
Updated information on temporary suspension of direct flights from UK to South Korea ('Summary' and 'Coronavirus' pages). Update to information on long-term visas ('Entry requirements' pages).
2021-02-10T12:05:54.000Z
New information on how to get a COVID-19 vaccine if you live in South Korea (‘Coronavirus’ page)
2021-02-23T16:34:53.000Z
Addition of information on a further suspension of direct flights from the UK to South Korea until 11 March 2021 ('Summary' and ‘Coronavirus’ pages)
2021-02-24T10:10:16.000Z
Addition of information on a further suspension of direct flights from the UK to South Korea until 1 April 2021. Addition of information on pre-departure COVID-19 testing facilities in South Korea ('Summary' and ‘Coronavirus’ pages)
2021-03-12T13:16:20.000Z
Addition of information on the introduction of mandatory COVID-19 testing for foreign workers in some South Korean provinces ('Summary' and ‘Coronavirus’ pages)
2021-03-18T13:33:13.000Z
Update reflecting the extension of the direct flight suspension ('Summary' and 'Coronavirus' pages)
2021-04-02T07:47:13.000Z
Update to reflect announcement that most types of long-term visas are now being issued ('Entry requirements’ page)
2021-04-19T13:35:20.000Z
Updated information on the temporary suspension of direct flights from the UK to South Korea ('Coronavirus' page)
2021-04-20T15:40:13.000Z
Updated information on the temporary suspension of direct flights from the UK to South Korea ('Summary' and 'Coronavirus' page)
2021-04-20T15:40:47.000Z
Updated information on the limited resumption of direct flights from London to Seoul, South Korea’s announcement of limited quarantine exemptions for those vaccinated in South Korea, and foreigners over 75 years of age are eligible to register for vaccination ('Summary', 'Coronavirus' and 'Entry requirements' pages)
2021-04-30T15:32:26.000Z
Updated information for non-Koreans travelling on direct relief flights from London to Seoul, and on South Korea’s vaccination programme. ('Coronavirus' page).
2021-05-14T14:16:27.000Z
Updated information on vaccine eligibility for UK Nationals resident in Korea and on upcoming exemptions to quarantine on entry for vaccinated individuals ('Coronavirus' and 'Entry requirements' pages).
2021-06-17T15:49:43.000Z
Updated information on direct flights from the UK to Korea, updated information on how to get a COVID-19 vaccine in South Korea; detail on the Korean government’s plans for the vaccine rollout and the “leftover vaccines” booking process (‘Coronavirus’ page). Additional information on how the expanded quarantine exemption process will work from 1 July (‘Entry requirements’ page)
2021-06-25T13:41:19.000Z
Updated information on direct flights from the UK to Korea and requirements on wearing a face mask (‘Coronavirus’ page). Additional information on how the expanded quarantine exemption process will work from 1 July (‘Entry requirements’ page)
2021-07-01T09:56:43.000Z
Updated information on the quarantine exemption process (‘Entry requirements’ page)
2021-07-07T11:50:24.000Z
New information on how to get a COVID-19 vaccine if you live in South Korea (‘Coronavirus’ page)
2021-08-10T15:04:52.000Z
Updated information on South Korea’s COVID-19 regulations and on what happens if you test positive for COVID-19 while in South Korea (‘Coronavirus’ page) Clarifications to COVID-19-related arrival regulations and new information on the Korea Electronic Travel Authorization which is required from 1 September 2021 for visa-free entry (‘Entry requirements’ page)
2021-08-19T15:57:34.000Z
Clarification of the circumstances under which South Korean authorities will accept UK proof of vaccination status. (‘Entry requirements’ page)
2021-09-03T13:54:36.000Z
Updated information on COVID-19 vaccine eligibility in South Korea and demonstrating your vaccination status (‘Coronavirus’ page). Updated road death statistics for 2020 (‘Safety and security’ page)
2021-10-25T09:34:23.000Z
Updated information on restrictions for some flights from the UK to Korea, booster shots are now available to wider categories of people ('Coronavirus' page) and change in quarantine requirements for travellers without a quarantine exemption ('Entry requirements' page)
2021-11-26T15:02:39.000Z
Updated information on the requirement for those testing positive for COVID-19 to move to a quarantine centre; at-home treatment is now the default for those with mild symptoms. Updated information availability of booster vaccinations and on quarantine exemptions; mostly suspended to control the spread of the omicron variant (‘Coronavirus’ and Entry requirements’ pages)
2021-12-03T16:56:22.000Z
Updated with details of how you can register your vaccination details with the South Korean authorities if you were vaccinated overseas, so as to gain access to the COOV app and booster shots (‘Coronavirus’ and ‘Entry requirements’ pages)
2021-12-09T10:30:34.000Z
Minor clarifications to information about vaccinations and COVID-19 related entry procedures (‘Coronavirus’ and ‘Entry requirements’ pages). Added information about earthquakes in South Korea (‘Natural disasters’ page)
2021-12-17T12:43:55.000Z
Explains nationality restrictions in place on some direct flights from London to Seoul; adds information about taking a COVID-19 test in South Korea before returning the UK; explains new 6-month expiry on South Korea’s vaccination pass (‘Coronavirus’ page). Updated information on testing and quarantine; updated information on re-entry permits to reflect the establishment of a free multiple re-entry permit for fully vaccinated individuals and changes to the recommended application process (‘Entry requirements’ page). Adds information about travel health insurance and the support you may need if you enter hospital in South Korea (‘Health’ page).
2022-01-06T16:46:07.000Z
Updated information on pre-departure COVID-19 tests and COVID-19 vaccines (‘Coronavirus' and 'Entry requirements’ pages)
2022-01-19T15:09:12.000Z
Clarification of how to demonstrate your vaccination status in South Korea (‘Coronavirus' page) Updated information on COVID-19 tests that must be taken before travel, on travel when you have recently had COVID-19, and on restrictions on quarantine exemptions (‘Entry requirements’ page)
2022-01-28T16:44:49.000Z
Updated information on COVID-19 tests and on what happens if you test positive for COVID-19 while in South Korea (‘Coronavirus' page) Updated information on the COVID-19 arrivals process; added information on options for onward travel from the airport (‘Entry requirements’ page)
2022-02-04T14:28:36.000Z
Information on the security situation in the Korean Peninsula ('Summary' page)
2022-02-16T15:09:38.000Z
Updated to reflect the availability of the Novavax vaccine ('Coronavirus' page). Amended guidance on demonstrating your vaccination status when entering South Korea (‘Entry requirements’ page).
2022-02-24T15:54:20.000Z
Updated information on the vaccinations available for children and quarantine requirement if testing positive upon arrival ('Coronavirus' page). Addition of information on the Q-Code System for quarantine exemptions. Updated information on demonstrating your vaccination status when entering South Korea (‘Entry requirements’ page)
2022-03-18T13:26:02.000Z
Updated information on quarantine requirements for unvaccinated children travelling with vaccinated parents/guardians ('Entry requirements’ page). Addition of information on the Q-Code System for quarantine exemptions and testing on arrival. Updated information on quarantine exemptions for unvaccinated travellers (‘Entry requirements’ page)
2022-04-04T11:35:38.000Z
Updated information on pre-departure PCR test requirements for arrivals. Updated information on arrival test rules for short-term and long-term foreign travellers. (‘Entry requirements’ page)
2022-04-19T13:47:06.000Z
Updated information on re-entry permit exemptions and quarantine exemptions for unvaccinated children. (‘Entry requirements’ page)
2022-04-29T09:51:01.000Z
Updated information on passport validity ('Entry requirements' page)
2022-05-13T14:36:23.000Z
Changing of testing requirements prior to departure and upon arrival. Changing of definition of ‘fully vaccinated’. (‘Entry requirements’ page). Changing of quarantine policy for unvaccinated children with vaccinated family members (‘Children and young people’ page)
2022-05-20T10:21:08.000Z
Updated information on testing on arrival, quarantine requirements, and entry rules for children and young people ('Entry requirements' page)
2022-06-01T11:38:20.000Z
Changing of testing requirements prior to departure. (‘Entry requirements’ page)
2022-06-06T09:43:35.000Z
Updated information on entry requirements for unvaccinated travellers and data collection (‘Entry requirements’ page)
2022-06-10T16:11:33.000Z
Updated information on certificates of COVID-19 recovery (‘Entry requirements’ page)
2022-06-29T09:58:11.000Z
Addition of information on the requirement for travellers to log arrival PCR results on the Q-Code system from 15 July. Updated information on time-frames for applying for the K-ETA (‘Entry requirements’ page)
2022-07-15T09:26:12.000Z
Addition of information on COVID-19 testing centres at Gimhae (Busan) and Jeju airports, suspension of Korean Air and Asiana ticket sales on the Heathrow-Incheon route and requirement as of 25 July 2022 for PCR test on arrival to be completed within 24 hours ('Coronavirus' and 'Entry requirements' pages)
2022-07-22T12:29:06.000Z
Addition of information on COVID-19 testing centres at Incheon (Seoul), Gimhae (Busan) and Jeju airports and recommendation for PCR test on arrival to be completed at airport testing centres within 24 hours ('Entry requirements' pages)
2022-08-12T12:11:45.000Z
Removal of pre-departure PCR test requirement ('Entry requirements' page).
2022-09-02T09:53:45.000Z
Updated safety advice related to Typhoon HINNAMNOR ("Summary" page).
2022-09-04T07:33:40.000Z
Removal of information related to Typhoon HINNAMNOR ("Summary" page).
2022-09-06T08:41:16.000Z
Updated information on PCR tests on arrival, which are no longer required as of 1 October 2022 ('Entry requirements' page).
2022-09-30T15:59:08.000Z
Addition of information regarding the crush incident in Itaewon, Seoul ("summary")
2022-10-30T04:29:13.000Z
Removal of emergency response information regarding the crush incident in Itaewon, Seoul, and addition of information regarding contingency planning ('Summary' and 'Safety and security' pages).
2022-11-11T09:39:04.000Z
New COVID-19 entry requirements for travellers entering South Korea from China ('Entry requirements' page).
2022-12-30T15:58:49.000Z
Updated information on relaxing of COVID-19 indoor mask mandate ('Coronavirus' page).
2023-01-30T09:24:18.000Z
Updated information on lifting of testing requirements for travellers entering South Korea from China ('Entry requirements' page).
2023-03-20T09:30:22.000Z
Updated information on lifting of K-ETA requirement for visitors from the UK ('Entry requirements' page).
2023-03-30T08:20:55.000Z
Information on the removal of mask mandate, quarantine/vaccination requirements, and free COVID-19 tests ('Coronavirus' and 'Entry requirements' pages).
2023-06-16T08:23:25.000Z
Information about the global terrorism risks to British nationals abroad on all FCDO travel advice pages
2023-06-22T08:38:26.000Z
Information about the risks of heavy rainfall/flooding ('Natural Disasters Page')
2023-07-15T14:37:18.000Z
Updated safety advice related to Typhoon Khanun ('Natural disasters' page).
2023-08-09T11:26:33.000Z
Safety advice related to upcoming civil defence drill on Wednesday, 23 August ('Summary' page).
2023-08-21T12:03:33.000Z
Removal of safety advice related to civil defence drill on Wednesday, 23 August and typhoon Khunan ('Summary' and 'Natural disasters' pages).
2023-08-25T08:13:49.000Z
Removal of COVID-19 restrictions ('Coronavirus' and 'Entry requirements' pages).
2023-09-26T08:46:35.000Z
This travel advice has been rewritten to make it easier to read and understand.
2023-11-06T15:17:38.000Z
South Korea
south-korea
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The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) provides advice about risks of travel to help British nationals make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice.

Before you travel

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide as well as support for British nationals abroad which includes:

  • advice on preparing for travel abroad and reducing risks
  • information for women, LGBT+ and disabled travellers

Follow and contact FCDO travel on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram. You can also sign up to get email notifications when this advice is updated.

Travel insurance

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance. Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.

warnings-and-insurance
Warnings and insurance

This advice reflects the UK government’s understanding of current rules for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK, for the most common types of travel.

The authorities in South Korea set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the South Korean Embassy in the UK.

COVID-19 rules

There are no COVID-19 testing or vaccination requirements for travellers entering South Korea.

Passport validity requirements

If you are visiting as a tourist for up to 90 days, your passport must have an ‘expiry date’ after the date you are leaving South Korea.

If you are entering South Korea on a long-term visa, your passport should have an ‘expiry date’ at least 6 months after the date you arrive.

Check with your travel provider that your passport and other travel documents meet requirements. Renew your passport if you need to.

You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.

Visa requirements

You do not need a visa to visit South Korea as a tourist for up to 90 days. You must have an onward or return ticket. It’s illegal to work on a tourist visa, whether as a teacher or in any other capacity.

If you are travelling for any purpose other than short-term business or tourism, check visa requirements with the South Korean Embassy in the UK.

For those in South Korea on a work visa, all employment changes must be authorised by Korean Immigration.

Re-entry permits for long-term visa holders

Most foreign nationals in South Korea on long-term visas are allowed to re-enter South Korea within one year of departure without the need for a re-entry permit. Check with the Korea Immigration Service.

If you are resident and intend to spend more than a year outside of South Korea, in most cases, you must apply for a multiple re-entry permit via the Hi Korea website before departure. If you require a re-entry permit, engage early with the immigration authorities and apply for a re-entry permit at least 4 working days ahead of any planned travel. 

Visas for working as an English teacher

To get a visa to teach English in South Korea, you must have a 3-year university degree. A Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) qualification alone is not enough. If you are found to have a teaching visa by deception, you will be detained and deported.

British nationals teaching English in South Korea have sometimes found living and working conditions to be below their expectation or have had difficulties getting the correct visas and residence permits. Some also report more serious problems such as breach of contract, confiscation of passport, payment being withheld and inadequate insurance.

Check all terms and conditions of your employment carefully. If possible, speak to other teachers from the place where you plan to work before accepting any offer. If you are in South Korea and in need of assistance, you should contact British Embassy in Seoul.

Vaccination requirements

At  least 8 weeks before your trip, check the vaccinations and certificates you need in TravelHealthPro’s South Korea guide.

Customs rules

There are strict rules about goods you can take into or out of South Korea. You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.

entry-requirements
Entry requirements

Terrorism

There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.

UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe abroad and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad.

Terrorism in South Korea

Although there’s no recent history of terrorism in South Korea, attacks cannot be ruled out.

Political situation

The level of tension and the security situation on the Korean Peninsula can change with little notice. Tensions can rise after missile tests by North Korea and during the regular South Korean-US military exercises, which take place throughout the year. You should follow the advice of local authorities and keep up to date with developments, which will be reported on news broadcasts.

The demilitarised zone (DMZ) separates North Korea and South Korea. Peace has been maintained under an armistice agreement, but no formal peace treaty has ever been signed. If you’re in the area of the DMZ, you should exercise caution and follow the advice of the local authorities.

National service

If you are a British male of Korean origin whose name appears on the Korean family register, you may be liable for military service even if you are travelling on your British passport.

Demonstrations

Public demonstrations in South Korea are common. These gatherings are mostly peaceful and well-policed. Be aware that under Korean law, it is illegal for foreign nationals to take part in political activities when in the country.

Civil emergency exercises and advice

South Korean authorities sometimes hold civil emergency exercises. You’ll hear sirens to mark the start the exercise. All vehicles must stop and sometimes people will have to descend into designated metro stations or basements. You do not need to participate but do follow any instructions from officials during these exercises.

Contingency planning

The government’s Emergency Ready App, available on iOS and Android, explains the possible civil emergency alerts which would be pushed to your mobile in an emergency.

As part of your own contingency planning, make sure you have easy access to your passport and other important documents such as nationality documents and birth and marriage certificates, as well as any essential medication. Consider saving the contact details for the embassy so that you can access them quickly if needed. Make sure to share your contact details with your family and friends.

Crime

Crime against foreigners is rare but there are occasional thefts. Take extra care of passports, credit cards and money in crowded areas and in areas visited by foreigners, such as Itaewon.

While most reported crimes are thefts, there have been cases of assault, including sexual assault, particularly around bars and nightlife areas. Take care when travelling alone at night and only use legitimate taxis or public transport.

Laws and cultural differences

Personal ID

Carry some form of identification at all times and make sure you’ve written the emergency contact details in the back of your passport.

Illegal drugs and prison sentences

If you’re convicted of possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs you can face a long jail sentence and heavy fines. This applies even to personal use of small amounts of marijuana. British nationals have been detained solely on the basis of drug tests.

Transport risks

Road travel

If you are planning to drive in South Korea, see information on driving abroad and read the Korea Tourism Organization’s driving in Korea guidance. The guide lists driving regulations and other legal requirements you need to be aware of.

You’ll need to have both the 1949 international driving permit (IDP) and your UK driving licence with you in the car when you drive in South Korea. You cannot buy an IDP outside the UK, so get one before you travel.

The police take the position that car and motorbike drivers are at fault in accidents involving cyclists or pedestrians. If you injure someone in an accident, you are likely to face criminal charges and heavy penalties, even if guilt is not proved.

The legal limit for alcohol in South Korea is less than half the limit in England, and penalties for drink-driving include prison and fines.

Taxis

Taxi drivers tend to speak little or no English. It is helpful to have your destination written in Korean – if possible with a map.

Extreme weather and natural disasters

If there is a natural disaster, or the threat of one, the South Korean government will publish updates in Korean and English to the Natural Disaster Safety Portal.

The government’s Emergency Ready App, available on iOS and Android, explains the possible alerts which would be pushed to your mobile.

Find out what you can do to prepare for and respond to extreme weather and natural hazards.

Typhoons

The typhoon season normally runs from June to November. You should monitor the progress of approaching storms with the Korea Meteorological Administration or call 131 in Korea to get an accurate weather forecast in English. Always follow any advice given by the local authorities.   

Flooding and landslides

South Korea has heavy rainfall across the country during the summer rainy season, usually in June and July. Torrential rain may cause flooding near rivers and creeks, including in built-up areas. Flash floods are common in areas downstream from large reservoirs or rivers, even after relatively short periods of intense rainfall. Landslides are possible in hilly and mountainous areas.

You should monitor forecasts for heavy rainfall with the Korea Meteorological Administration and follow any advice given by the local authorities.

Earthquakes

Strong earthquakes are unusual in South Korea but do happen. Most earthquakes in South Korea are relatively weak. The Korea Meteorological Administration publishes information on earthquakes.

Read up on the any guidance from local authorities on safety procedures in an earthquake and check the safety tips from the Seoul Metropolitan Government.

safety-and-security
Safety and security

Before you travel check that:

  • your destination can provide the healthcare you may need
  • you have appropriate travel insurance for local treatment or unexpected medical evacuation

This is particularly important if you have a health condition or are pregnant.

Emergency medical number

Call 119 and ask for an ambulance.

Contact your insurance company promptly if you’re referred to a medical facility for treatment.

Vaccinations and health risks

At least 8 weeks before your trip check:

Tick bites, and tick-borne encephalitis, are a risk throughout South Korea. Read more about avoiding tick and insect bites on TravelHealthPro.

Air pollution, including yellow dust pollution, is common, especially during spring months. Follow local media reporting and check the Korean Meteorological Administration website. On days when concentrations are high, most residents will stay indoors or use face masks outside. It’s also important to drink plenty of water.

Medication

The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or bought in the UK can be different in other countries.

South Korean customs authorities allow you to bring small amounts of medication for your personal use, if it is kept in carry-on baggage. Take an English language prescription from your doctor at home for both your prescription drugs and non-prescription medicines. Consult the website of the South Korean Ministry of Food and Drug Safety before you travel to South Korea.

Read best practice when travelling with medicines on TravelHealthPro.

The NHS has information on whether you can take your medicine abroad.

Healthcare facilities in South Korea

Medical and dental care in South Korea is usually of a good standard, but can be expensive. Staff may not speak English. Make sure you have adequate travel health insurance and accessible funds to cover the cost of any medical treatment abroad and repatriation.

If you need to stay in a South Korean hospital, particularly if your condition is severe, the hospital may ask you to bring a guardian or ‘bohoja’ to assist you with basic care needs such as trips to the bathroom, washing and exercise. It is possible to find agencies who will provide a caregiver or ‘ganbyungin’ for a fee, but these caregivers generally do not speak English. If you know that you may need to enter a Korean hospital, you should try to organise a guardian such as a friend or relative in advance.

FCDO has a list of English-speaking doctors in South Korea. 

There is also guidance on healthcare if you’re living in South Korea.

Medical tourism

If you are travelling to South Korea for elective treatment, such as cosmetic surgery or a dental procedure, consider that no medical procedure is risk-free. Make sure that your travel health insurance covers complications that may arise and repatriation to the UK if required.

COVID-19 healthcare in South Korea

If you think you might have COVID-19 while in South Korea, contact the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency on 1339 (support is available in English).

You can buy antigen tests at pharmacies or get a PCR test for a fee at most hospitals .

Travel and mental health

Read FCDO guidance on travel and mental health. There is also mental health guidance on TravelHealthPro.

health
Health

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) cannot provide tailored advice for individual trips. Read this travel advice and carry out your own research before deciding whether to travel.

Emergency services in South Korea

Ambulance: 119

Fire: 119

Police: 112

Contact your travel provider and insurer

Contact your travel provider and your insurer if you are involved in a serious incident or emergency abroad. They will tell you if they can help and what you need to do.

Refunds and changes to travel

For refunds or changes to travel, contact your travel provider. You may also be able to make a claim through insurance. However, insurers usually require you to talk to your travel provider first.

Find out more about changing or cancelling travel plans, including:

  • where to get advice if you are in a dispute with a provider
  • how to access previous versions of travel advice to support a claim

Support from FCDO

FCDO has guidance on staying safe and what to do if you need help or support abroad, including:

Contacting FCDO

Follow and contact FCDO travel on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram. You can also sign up to get email notifications when this travel advice is updated.

Help abroad in an emergency

If you’re in South Korea and you need emergency help from the UK government, contact the British Embassy in Seoul.

You can also contact FCDO online.

FCDO in London

You can call FCDO in London if you need urgent help because something has happened to a friend or relative abroad.

Telephone: 020 7008 5000 (24 hours)

Find out about call charges

Risk information for British companies

The Overseas Business Risk service offers information and advice for British companies operating overseas on how to manage political, economic, and business security-related risks.

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