South Korea travel advice

Risk level

Disclaimer

The features in this map do not constitute an authoritative source of geographical information. This map is solely intended to assist Canadians by illustrating the risk levels contained in the Travel Advice and Advisories for this destination. The features in this map do not necessarily represent the views of the Canadian government on international boundaries, nomenclature or political status. The text under the Risk levels section takes precedence over this map.

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South Korea travel advice

Disclaimer

The features in this map do not constitute an authoritative source of geographical information. This map is solely intended to assist Canadians by illustrating the risk levels contained in the Travel Advice and Advisories for this destination. The features in this map do not necessarily represent the views of the Canadian government on international boundaries, nomenclature or political status. The text under the Risk levels section takes precedence over this map.

Safety and security

Tensions on the Korean Peninsula

Tensions on the Korean Peninsula could escalate with little notice and the security situation could deteriorate suddenly. Tensions may increase before, during and after North Korean nuclear and missile tests, military exercises, or as the result of incidents or military activities at or near the inter-Korean border.

Remain vigilant, monitor developments and follow the instructions of local authorities. We strongly recommend that Canadians register with the Registration of Canadians Abroad service to receive the latest updates.

Registration of Canadians Abroad

Crime

Crime against foreigners is generally low. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing, occurs in major metropolitan areas, tourist sites and public markets.

Petty crime and sexual harassment can also occur in public spaces including bars and restaurants, and in nightlife areas.

• Avoid walking alone in these areas after dark
• Ensure that your personal belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, are secure at all times
• Remain aware of your surroundings in crowded entertainment, nightlife and shopping districts

You can report crimes, including a sexual assault, to the Korean National Police Agency by dialling 112. This service operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. If you don’t speak Korean, the police will link an interpreter into the call.

Women’s safety

Women travelling alone may be subject to harassment. Sexual assault and harassment are not uncommon, particularly around bars and nightlife areas, such as Itaewon, Gangnam, and Hongdae.

If you are sexually assaulted, you should report it immediately to local authorities and to the nearest Canadian government office.

There are 41 Haebaraki (Sunflower) Centres nationwide that provide counselling service, medical and psychological support, investigation support and legal support to victims of sexual assault. They are open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, and are linked to major hospitals.

• Avoid travelling alone at night
• Always remain vigilant
• Be careful when dealing with strangers or recent acquaintances, including those met online

Useful links

• Advice for women travellers
• Sunflower Centres (Korean only)

Spiked food, drinks and other items

Never leave your food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers. Avoid accepting snacks, beverages, gum or cigarettes from new acquaintances, as these items may contain drugs that could put you at risk of sexual assault and robbery.

Demonstrations

Political, labour and student demonstrations and marches occur frequently.

South Korean law prohibits political activities by foreigners.

Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can lead to significant disruptions to traffic and public transportation.

• Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
• Follow the instructions of local authorities
• Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Strikes

Strikes and pressure tactics occur regularly, particularly in key sectors such as transport. These strikes can sometimes complicate travel and disrupt public services.

• Consult local media to be aware of strikes that may affect your stay or travel plans
• In the event of a transport strike, plan extra time to get to your destination

Civil emergency exercises

The Ministry of the Interior and Safety holds civil emergency exercises several times a year for fires, earthquakes, other disasters and civil defence drills.

Most exercises take place in March, May, August and October at the local and regional levels. The exercise in August is a nationwide exercise.

Depending on the exercise, sirens may sound, transport may stop and authorities may ask some people to take shelter in metro stations or basements. While visitor participation is not necessary, you should familiarize yourself with procedures and check local announcements for upcoming exercises.

Useful links

• Ministry of the Interior and Safety
• National Disaster and Safety Portal – Ministry of the Interior and Safety

Emergency assistance mobile application

The Ministry of the Interior and Safety offers a free emergency assistance mobile application called Emergency Ready (available on Google Play and iTunes). The app allows users to contact emergency services, locate the closest medical centre or shelter and view first aid videos.

• Emergency Ready App – Google Play
• Emergency Ready – iTunes

Roads

The number of fatal road collisions is very high. Check carefully before crossing the road. Vehicles may not stop at pedestrian crossings. Use underground or above-ground pedestrian crossings where available.

Speeding, running red lights, lane changes without signalling and other risky driving behaviours are common, particularly by bus drivers, taxi drivers and motorcyclists. Motorcyclists sometimes drive on sidewalks.

Automobile drivers are presumed to be at fault in collisions involving motorcycles or pedestrians. Criminal charges and heavy penalties are common when collisions result in injury. Even if negligence is not proven, you may face criminal charges

Public transportation

If you’re travelling alone after dark, public transportation may be safer than taxis. When subway and bus services end for the night, use officially marked taxis only. It is mandatory to fasten your seatbelt in a taxi. Drivers may speak some English, but have your destination written in Korean.

If using taxis or ride-sharing services, you should book using an application rather than flagging one on the street.

High-speed train services (KTX and SRT) connect Seoul with major cities in the south, including Busan, Daegu, Gwangju, Yeosu, and Mokpo, as well as key destinations in Gangwon province such as Gangneung and Pyeongchang.

Plan for delays and higher passenger volume on public transit, including in airports, during significant holiday periods such as Chuseok and Lunar New Year.

Air travel

We don't make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Entry and exit requirements

Some countries have imposed measures in response to the Ebola disease outbreak. These can include restrictions on entry and health screening measures for travellers having recently visited an affected country. If you are suspected of having symptoms, you may be subject to isolation, quarantine and/or travel restrictions. Contact the authorities of the country you are travelling to for more details.

The authorities of a country or territory decide who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from local authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the Foreign Representatives in Canada.

Passport

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you're travelling with.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country's entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid beyond the date of expected departure from South Korea.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, verify this information with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

You should also be aware that current systems used by some countries and travel companies may not recognize the “X” gender identifier. You may still be asked to provide your sex/gender information as either male or female when travelling.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, verify this information with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Useful links

• Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics
• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Canadian passports and other travel documents

Visas

Tourist visa: not required for stays of up to 180 days*
Business visa: not required for stays of up to 180 days*
Student visa: required (must be obtained outside South Korea)
Work visa: required (must be obtained outside South Korea)

*Canadians are exempt from the Korea Electronic Travel Authority (K-ETA) requirement until December 31, 2026.

You can't change your visa status once you're in South Korea as a tourist.

If you wish to extend the length of your visa, contact the Korea Immigration Service as soon as possible to apply for an extension. Authorities strictly enforce immigration laws and regulations.

Since regulations can change, contact the Korea Immigration Service if you have questions related to visas.

Useful links

• Korea Electronic Travel Authority (K-ETA) – Korea Immigration Service
• More information about visas – Korea Immigration Service

E-arrival cards

All travellers to Korea are required to submit an entry declaration form.

This may be done either:

• online, up to 3 days prior to your arrival
• on paper upon your arrival

Online scams related to the e‑Arrival card are occurring. This service is free of charge. Do not use any website that charges fees for arrival cards.

e-Arrival card website – Ministry of Justice, Republic of Korea

Biometrics

Foreigners must register their biometrics (fingerprints and facial scan) at their port of entry. Children younger than 17 years and diplomats are exempt from this screening.

Screening measures

When you arrive from a country designated as a "Quarantine Inspection Required Area," you are subject to symptom-based health screening measures. The Korea Immigration Service will assess your body temperature upon arrival. If you exhibit symptoms associated with infectious diseases, you must submit a health questionnaire in either electronic (Q-CODE) or paper format. Korean authorities may test you for other infectious diseases such as cholera and Zika virus. If you show flu-like symptoms or test positive for an infectious disease, authorities may quarantine you for medical observation.

You can register for a Q-CODE up to 7 days before arrival.

Q-CODE – Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency

Children and travel

Learn about travelling with children.

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Health

Routine vaccines

Make sure your routine vaccinations are up-to-date before you travel, no matter where you’re going.

These may include vaccines for measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis (whooping cough), polio, varicella (chickenpox), meningococcal disease, seasonal flu, and others.

Provincial and Territorial Immunization Information

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

When travelling in this destination, you might be at risk for diseases that can be prevented with vaccines or medications. Talk to a travel health care provider about which ones are right for you based on your travel plans.

The highlights below will also tell you if your destination may require that vaccine for entering or exiting.

Safe food and water precautions

Eating or drinking unsafe food or water, or swimming in contaminated water can make you sick while travelling. Take precautions by following these tips:

• Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it (only eat food that is prepared safely)
• Avoid, if possible, getting water in your eyes, mouth, or nose when swimming in freshwater (like streams, lakes, or canals), especially after heavy rain or flooding - the water might look clean but can still be contaminated 
• Don’t swallow water when bathing, showering, swimming in pools, or using hot tubs 

Eat and drink safely abroad

Tick and insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by bites from infected ticks and insects like mosquitoes, fleas, or flies. Before you travel, find out what types of ticks or insects are in the area, when they’re most active, and what diseases they can spread.

To protect yourself from bites:

• use an approved bug spray (insect repellent) on exposed skin
• wear light-coloured, loose clothing made of tightly woven materials like nylon or polyester
• wear socks and closed-toe shoes
• sleep under mosquito netting if you’re outdoors or staying in places that aren’t fully enclosed
• do a full body tick check on yourself, your children, your gear, and any pets you’re travelling with when you return from outdoor activities

Insect bite and pest prevention
Personal insect repellents

Animal precautions

Some infections, such as rabies, spread through direct contact with animals. Others, such as hantavirus infections and avian influenza, can also spread indirectly when people come into contact with areas contaminated by animal droppings or other animal waste.

Certain activities can increase your chances of coming into contact with animals, their droppings, or their body fluids, like:

• travelling in rural or forested areas
• camping, hiking, or visiting caves
• visiting places where live animals are sold or killed for food, like wet markets

To reduce your risk of getting sick:

• avoid contact with animals like stray dogs, livestock (such as pigs and cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats.
• stay away from places where animal waste can build up, such as caves
• avoid eating undercooked meat

Make sure to closely watch children; they are more likely to try to touch animals.

Person-to-person infections

When travelling, you can reduce your risk of getting or spreading respiratory infections, like the flu or COVID-19, by:

• staying at your accommodation and limiting contact with others if you’re sick
• wearing a well-fitting mask, especially: 
  
  • if you’re sick and need to be around others 
  • when you’re at large indoor events or in crowded settings, like sporting events, concerts, and airports
• cleaning your hands regularly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, or using hand sanitizer containing at least 60% alcohol
• covering your coughs and sneezes with a tissue or your elbow, not your hands

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)
Clean your hands to help reduce the spread of infectious diseases
Respiratory infectious diseases: How to reduce the spread with personal protective measures

To lower your risk of getting sexually transmissible infections (STIs), HIV, and mpox, you can:

• get vaccinated against mpox if you’re eligible
• practise safer sex methods
  • use barrier protection during sexual activity, like condoms and dental dams.

Mpox vaccines
Sexual health and travel
HIV and AIDS: Travel health advice

Medical services and facilities

Medical services and facilities meet Canadian standards. Private hospitals and clinics located in cities are often better staffed and equipped than public or rural facilities. Payment is expected at time of service. Korean medical institutions will not charge insurance companies directly.

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Health and safety outside Canada

Medical tourism

Canadian citizens have had serious health complications following cosmetic or other elective surgeries abroad.

Before leaving for medical travel:

• make sure you have done your research
• only use competent health-care providers

Travelling outside Canada to receive medical care

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a travel health kit, especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

Laws and culture

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad.

Police may confiscate your passport and/or detain you during an investigation.

Drugs

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect long jail sentences, heavy fines and deportation. Minor violations, including smoking small quantities of an illegal drug such as cannabis (even in a private home) can result in pre-trial detention.

Drugs, alcohol and travel

Imports and exports

Medication

It is illegal to bring narcotics and psychotropic drugs into South Korea, even with a prescription, unless you have an import permit. To import narcotic and psychotropic substances, you must apply online for approval before you arrive.

If you take prescription medications, you're responsible for verifying if they are legal in South Korea before you travel. Without proper authorization, these medications may be confiscated and you could face legal consequences.

Other items

South Korea has strict rules on the import and export of various items, including:

• poppy seeds or foods containing poppy seeds
• non-prescription supplements
• firearms and ammunition
• radio equipment

Useful links

• Apply for an import permit – Ministry of Food and Drug Safety
• Drug information search – Ministry of Food and Drug Safety
• Korea Customs Service

Support for anti-government organizations

South Korea's National Security Law prohibits statements and materials that praise anti-government organizations.

Photography

Photography of military installations and government buildings is illegal.

Driving

You must carry an International Driving Permit or a South Korean driver’s licence.

Penalties for drinking and driving are severe. The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.03%. If the police suspect you of drinking and driving, they could confiscate your driver’s licence on the spot. If you’re convicted, you can expect heavy fines and a jail sentence.

International Driving Permit

Teaching English

Carefully review any contract to teach English in South Korea before signing it, even if it was arranged by a Canadian recruiter. There have been reports that some contracts have been modified after the fact. Ensure that:

• all terms and conditions of employment are clear before accepting an offer
• you meet all the necessary requirements

The Korean government investigates the use of fraudulent documents, degrees and English as a Second Language (ESL) certificates. Penalties for using fraudulent documents include arrest, deportation and restrictions on re-entry. Be aware that written contracts may not be binding documents. Verbal agreements often take precedence over written agreements.

Some teachers have faced exploitation, including excessive working hours, and legal issues. There are organizations that can assist foreigners residing in South Korea, including teachers who are facing these issues.

Useful links

• Seoul Foreign Portal
• Busan Global City Foundation

Dual citizenship

South Korea legally recognizes dual citizenship. If you're a citizen of Canada, but also a citizen of South Korea, our ability to offer you consular services may be limited while you're there. You may also be subject to different entry and exit requirements.

The South Korean government considers children born to a Korean and a non-Korean parent to be South Korean citizens until age 18, even if they weren't born in South Korea. Former Koreans over 65 who wish to live their remaining years in South Korea may be granted citizenship.

If you’re a male dual citizen whose name appears on the Korean family relation certificate, you may be subject to compulsory military service, even when entering South Korea on a Canadian passport. If you’re a Canadian male of Korean origin, before travelling to South Korea, you may need to renounce your Korean citizenship or have your name removed from the Korean family relation certificate to avoid this requirement. The South Korean authorities may not allow you to renounce your Korean citizenship or leave the country until you either:

• complete your military service
• receive a special exemption from serving

Korean authorities will only recognize you as a dual Canadian-South Korean citizen if you meet certain criteria. If you think you may have a claim to South Korean citizenship, contact the Embassy of the Republic of Korea or one of its consulates.

Useful links

• Entry/exit requirements
• Foreign diplomatic missions and consulates in Canada
• Dual citizens

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. The convention applies between Canada and South Korea.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in South Korea, and if the applicable conditions are met, you may apply for the return of your child to the South Korean court.

If you are in this situation:

• act as quickly as you can
• contact the Central Authority for your province or territory of residence for information on starting an application under The Hague Convention
• consult a lawyer in Canada and in South Korea to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
• report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children's Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country's judicial affairs.

Useful links

• List of Canadian Central Authorities for the Hague Convention
• International Child Abductions: A guide for affected parents
• Children and travel
• The Hague Convention – Hague Conference on Private International Law
• Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
• Request emergency assistance

2SLGBTQI+ persons

Although the laws of South Korea do not prohibit sexual acts between individuals of the same sex, homosexuality is not socially tolerated. Same-sex marriages are not legally recognized in South Korea.

Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics

Money

The currency in South Korea is the won (KRW). Some major banks have ATMs that accept international debit or credit cards. The amount allowed per withdrawal may be quite low, making the service charge excessive. Most ATMs that allow withdrawal of money from Canadian bank accounts offer English instructions.

Natural disasters and climate

Monsoon and typhoon seasons

The monsoon season extends from late June until August. July is usually the wettest month. Severe rainstorms can cause flooding and landslides. Heavy rainfall can damage roads and bridges.

Typhoons occur in August and September. These severe storms can put you at risk and hamper the provision of essential services. They can also cause extensive damage to infrastructure.

If you decide to travel to South Korea during the monsoon or typhoon seasons:

• be prepared to change your travel plans on short notice, including cutting short or cancelling your trip
• stay informed of the latest regional weather forecasts
• carry emergency contact information for your airline or tour operator
• follow the advice and instructions of local authorities

Useful links

• Korea Meteorological Administration
• Severe storms outside Canada
• Large-scale emergencies outside Canada

Heatwaves

Severe heatwaves affect South Korea between June and September. High temperatures can be dangerous. Know the symptoms of dehydration and heatstroke, which can both be fatal.

If there's a heatwave:

• stay indoors or in the shade during midday hours
• stay hydrated
• carry a sufficient water supply
• monitor local media for information on heat warnings

Heatwave safety guidelines – Ministry of the Interior and Safety

Air pollution

Air pollution, including yellow dust pollution, is common throughout the year, but especially in March, April and May.

During periods of high pollution, limit your outdoor activities, especially if you suffer from respiratory ailments or have pre-existing medical conditions 

Air pollution in South Korea – World Air Quality Index

Wildfires

Wildfires are common in the spring, but they usually occur in forests in rural areas and are generally contained within inaccessible regions.

Heavy smoke may deteriorate the air quality in areas near active fires.

In case of a major fire:

• stay away from the affected area, particularly if you suffer from respiratory ailments
• monitor local media for the latest information 
• follow the instructions of local authorities, including evacuation orders

Useful links

• National Fire Agency – Ministry of the Interior and Safety
• Korea Forest Service

Earthquakes and tsunamis

Earthquakes are rare in South Korea but can occur.

A tsunami can occur within minutes of a nearby earthquake. However, the risk of a tsunami can remain for several hours following the first tremor. If you’re staying on the coast, familiarize yourself with the region’s evacuation plans in the event of a tsunami warning. 

Tsunami alerts – U.S. Tsunami Warning System