Useful Information

  • Weather and Clothing

    September marks the beginning of autumn in Korea, with pleasant weather and clear skies. The average temperature ranges from 18°C to 26°C (64°F to 79°F).
    Light long-sleeve shirts or a thin jacket are recommended, especially for cooler mornings and evenings.

    More

  • Time Difference

    Korea is in the Korea Standard Time Zone (UTC+9). There is no daylight saving time.

    More

  • 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= 1,434 KRW as of October 2025.
    Click the 'View More' button below to check the current exchange rate.

    More

  • 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.

  • 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

    Transportation
    Subway: 05:00 - 24:00
    Bus: 05:00 - 22:00 (Select routes operate until 25:00)
    Taxi: 24 hours (20% late-night surcharge from 24:00 - 28:00)

  • 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.

  • eSIM, SIM Card, and WiFi Devices

    You can pre-purchase an eSIM online before your trip. Alternatively, SIM cards are available for pickup at Gimpo or Incheon Airport, and portable WiFi devices (“WiFi eggs”) can also be rented. For detailed information on fees and the exact pickup locations within the airports, click on “More”.

    More

  • Electricity

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

  • Emergency Call

    Police: 112 / +82‑112
    Fire, Rescue, and Ambulance: 119 / +82‑119
    Lost and Found Center: 182 / +82‑2‑182
    Tourist Assistance (multiple languages): 1330 / +82‑2‑1330
    Languages supported: English, Japanese, Chinese, Russian, Vietnamese, Thai, Indonesian
    Infectious Disease Emergencies: 1339 / +82‑1339