cdc travel vaccines south korea

Get Vaccinated Before You Travel

It’s important to plan ahead to get the shots required for all countries you and your family plan to visit.

Protect your child and family when traveling in the United States or abroad by:

• Getting the shots required for all countries you and your family plan to visit during your trip
• Making sure you and your family are up-to-date on all routine U.S. vaccines
• Staying informed about travel notices and alerts and how they can affect your family’s travel plans

Avoid getting sick or coming back home and spreading the disease to others.

Vaccinate at least a month before you travel

See your doctor when you start to plan your trip abroad. It’s important to do this well in advance.

• Your body needs time to build up immunity.
• You may need several weeks to get all the doses of the vaccine.
• Your primary doctor may not stock travel vaccines. Visit a travel medical clinic .
• You’ll need time to prepare for your pre-travel appointment .
• If the country you visit requires a yellow fever vaccine , only a limited number of clinics have the vaccine and will probably be some distance from where you live. You must get it at least 10 days before travel.

Find out which vaccines are recommended or required for the countries you plan to visit .

TIP : Save time by getting routine vaccines during the same doctor visit. Use the Vaccine Self-Assessment Tool and discuss the results with your doctor. It tells you which U.S. recommended vaccines you (19 years and older) or your child (birth – 18 years) might need.

Last-minute travelers

When traveling to another country be aware your doctor may not carry a travel vaccine and you may have to visit a medical clinic.

Many travel vaccines require multiple shots or take time to become fully effective. But some multiple-dose vaccines (like hepatitis A) can still give you partial protection after just one dose. Some can also be given on an “accelerated schedule,” meaning doses are given in a shorter period of time.

• Discover and learn about specific diseases that can affect you while traveling
• What to do if you get sick after traveling
• Vaccines & Immunizations

Exit Notification / Disclaimer Policy

• The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) cannot attest to the accuracy of a non-federal website.
• Linking to a non-federal website does not constitute an endorsement by CDC or any of its employees of the sponsors or the information and products presented on the website.
• You will be subject to the destination website's privacy policy when you follow the link.
• CDC is not responsible for Section 508 compliance (accessibility) on other federal or private website.

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Newsletters
• Sweepstakes

South Korea to Welcome Vaccinated Tourists April 1 — What to Know

Travelers will not have to quarantine upon arrival.

South Korea will become the latest country to welcome international tourists next month when the country eliminates quarantine requirements for vaccinated travelers.

Starting April 1, the country will welcome international travelers who have completed their COVID-19 vaccinations, according to the Korea Tourism Organization . Travelers who received the final dose of their initial vaccine series more than 180 days ago must get a booster shot.

Travelers who qualify as vaccinated will be exempt from the previous requirement to quarantine upon arrival.

Visitors will have to fill out a Q-CODE form with their passport information, vaccine record, and travel information before arriving in South Korea and will receive a QR code to scan.

While South Korea has remained closed to much of the world, the country previously opened Vaccinated Travel Lanes with Singapore for quarantine-free travel. In that case, vaccinated travelers had to arrive with a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within 48 hours of their departure, take another PCR test six to seven days after arrival, and purchase travel insurance, according to the tourism organization .

South Korea may be preparing to open its borders to the world, however the country is experiencing its worst coronavirus surge with record pandemic-related deaths recorded due to the omicron variant. On Tuesday, the country saw more than 290 deaths from the virus and had more than 1,190 patients in serious or critical conditions, The Associated Press reported .

Currently, South Korea leads the rest of the world in average daily new infections, Reuters reported , "accounting for one in every 5 infections reported worldwide each day."

But the country has an extremely high vaccination rate and more than 62% of people have received a booster shot, according to the AP.

South Korea joins countries all around the world in easing border restrictions. Last month, Australia began welcoming international tourists and New Zealand plans to open its borders to the world in May. And several other countries have done away with pandemic-related border restrictions completely like Ireland and Iceland .

Alison Fox is a contributing writer for Travel + Leisure. When she's not in New York City, she likes to spend her time at the beach or exploring new destinations and hopes to visit every country in the world. Follow her adventures on Instagram .

Related Articles

South Korea to allow fully vaccinated travelers to visit without a quarantine period

More than two years after the onset of the pandemic, South Korea is getting ready to make travel easier for international tourists. 

Starting April 1 , travelers who have been fully vaccinated overseas and registered their vaccination history with South Korea's  Q-Code website will be able to enter the country without a  seven-day quarantine period. 

Travelers who have completed a two-dose vaccine series at least 14 days before their trip will be considered fully vaccinated. A one-dose Johnson & Johnson vaccine will also be accepted. If more than 180 days have passed since a traveler completed their initial vaccination series, they will need a booster shot to be considered fully vaccinated. 

Overseas travelers will receive a QR code through the Q-Code system, which can be scanned at immigration, according to the Korea Tourism Organization's website. The Q-Code system will ask for information such as a passport number, departure country, airline, phone number and vaccine records. 

CDC TRAVEL WARNING: CDC warns travelers to avoid New Zealand, Thailand and Hong Kong due to 'very high' COVID levels

Learn more: Best travel insurance

LEVEL 4 TRAVEL WARNING: The CDC warns US travelers to avoid more than 135 destinations. Do people care?

Travelers arriving by plane will need to show proof of a negative PCR coronavirus test taken no more than 48 hours before departure. Children under the age of 6 do not need a coronavirus test to enter. 

The U.S. Embassy and Consulate in the Republic of Korea  says passengers may also face "temperature screening, health questionnaires, quarantines, and/or COVID-tests, depending on points of departure, visa status, and nationality" upon arrival. 

Unvaccinated travelers and as well as all travelers from Pakistan, Uzbekistan, Ukraine, and Myanmar – regardless of vaccination status – are still required to quarantine.

Delta Air Lines offers flights between the U.S. and Seoul and airline President Glen Hauenstein cited the country's new travel measures as another positive sign of the travel rebound during an investor conference in New York on Tuesday.

The easing of restrictions comes as South Korea faces its largest COVID-19 surge yet. The country reported a record-high 383,651 cases on Friday, according to Johns Hopkins University data. There were 293 deaths reported Monday, also a record high. 

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says South Korea has "very high" COVID levels, and says U.S. travelers should avoid the country.

"If you must travel to South Korea, make sure you are vaccinated and up to date with your COVID-19 vaccines before travel," the CDC says on its website. 

Contributing: Dawn Gilbertson, USA TODAY. Follow USA TODAY reporter Bailey Schulz on Twitter: @bailey_schulz . 

Update April 12, 2024

Information for u.s. citizens in the middle east.

• Travel Advisories |
• Contact Us |
• MyTravelGov |

Find U.S. Embassies & Consulates

Travel.state.gov, congressional liaison, special issuance agency, u.s. passports, international travel, intercountry adoption, international parental child abduction, records and authentications, popular links, travel advisories, mytravelgov, stay connected, legal resources, legal information, info for u.s. law enforcement, replace or certify documents.

Before You Go

Learn About Your Destination

While Abroad

Emergencies

Share this page:

South Korea

Travel Advisory July 24, 2023

South korea - level 1: exercise normal precautions.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.

Exercise normal precautions in South Korea.

Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to South Korea.

If you decide to travel to South Korea:

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.   
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter .   
• Review the  Country Security Report  for South Korea.   
• Visit the CDC page for the latest  Travel Health Information  related to your travel.   
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .    

Embassy Messages

View Alerts and Messages Archive

Quick Facts

Must be valid at time of entry

One page per stamp

No – From April 1, 2023, to December 31, 2024, the Korean Electronic Travel Authorization (K-ETA) is not required for US citizens traveling for short-term business or tourism purposes.

Embassies and Consulates

U.s. embassy seoul.

188 Sejong-daero, Jongno-gu, Seoul 03141, Korea Telephone: +(82) (2) 397-4114 (from within Korea, dial 02-397-4114)  DSN:721-4114 Fax: +(82) (2) 397-4101 Email:  [email protected]

U.S. Consulate in Busan

Lotte Gold Rose Building #612, Jungang-daero 993, Jin-gu Busan 47209, Korea Telephone: (+82) 51-863-0731 Email:  [email protected]

The Embassy and Consulate are closed on weekends and on  American and Korean holidays .  Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +82 (2) 397-4114.

Destination Description

Learn about the U.S. relationship to countries around the world.

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

• You must have a valid U.S. passport to enter Korea. From April 1, 2023, to December 31, 2024, the  Korean Electronic Travel Authorization (K-ETA)  is not required for US citizens for stays of 90 days or less that are for tourism or business purposes.
• Visa required for all other purposes, including employment, teaching English, and for stays longer than 90 days.

Exceeding your authorized stay or not possessing a valid visa may result in detention and fines.

• In the event of an overstay, apply for a visa extension from the  Korea Immigration Service (KIS)  before attempting to leave the country. Also consult with KIS regarding changes in visa category.

Military Personnel/DOD and their families on orders:

• Consult  DOD Foreign Clearance Guide , and follow all instructions.
• Enter Korea with DOD identification and travel orders.
• Do not transit other countries such as China without a passport and appropriate visas.
• Family Members/Dependents of Military Personnel/DOD on orders must present upon arrival passports valid for at least six months .

U.S. Government Executive Branch personnel on official business and DOD personnel assigned to the U.S. Embassy  (Including family members/dependents):

• Employes assigned to Mission Korea should enter Korea with a diplomatic or official passport and a diplomatic or official Korean visa obtained through their sponsoring agency.  Check with your sponsoring agency about other requirements. 
• TDY visitors traveling to Korea for up to 90 days on diplomatic or official passports do  not  require Korean visas and do  not  require a K-ETA. TDY visitors must obtain country clearance using  Department of State's eCC system  or  DOD APACS system .

HIV/AIDS Restriction:  The Department of State is unaware of any such entry restrictions for visitors or foreign residents in Korea.

• Visit the  Embassy of Korea  website for current visa information. Please read our  Customs Information page .

COVID-19 Requirements :

• There are no COVID-related entry requirements for U.S. citizens.
• Travel regulations and restrictions are subject to change, sometimes with little notice. You should review the information available on your nearest Korean Embassy or Consulate’s webpage before traveling.

Safety and Security

Public Demonstrations:  Demonstrations and rallies are common in South Korea, particularly near the U.S. Embassy, Seoul City Hall, and areas surrounding military installations. You should avoid areas where demonstrations are taking place and exercise caution in the vicinity of any large gatherings, protests, or rallies. Even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and escalate into violence.

North Korea (The Democratic People’s Republic of Korea, DPRK):  An armistice agreement, monitored by the United Nations, has maintained general peace on the Korean peninsula since 1953. Tensions occasionally flare up because of provocative acts by North Korea, including ballistic missile and nuclear tests and limited armed incursions into ROK-held territory. Some provocations have escalated into geographically limited skirmishes. South Korea routinely conducts military training exercises and civil defense drills. North Korea often issues strongly-worded and threatening messages, frequently in connection with these exercises. Please see our  Fact Sheet on North Korea .

Weather-related Events:  Heavy rains and flooding may occur during the June - August monsoon season or the May - November typhoon season. See general information about natural disaster preparedness at the U.S.  Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)  website.

Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  ( STEP ):  To receive security messages by email and make it easier to locate you in an emergency, register in STEP. 

If the Embassy becomes aware of any specific and credible threat to the safety and security of U.S. citizens, we will inform you through our website, social media, and email.

Crime:  For most visitors, South Korea remains a very safe country. Common crimes occur more frequently in major metropolitan areas, tourist sites, and crowded markets.

• Take routine safety precautions.
• Pay attention to your surroundings.
• Report any concerns to local police.

Violent crime is not common; however, remain vigilant:

• Exercise caution in crowded entertainment, nightlife, and shopping districts.
• If traveling at night, consider traveling in groups.
• Use legitimate taxis or public transportation only.

Victims of Crime:  Call 112 for emergency assistance or to report a crime to local authorities. Call 02-397-4114 to contact the U.S. Embassy. We can:

• Help you find appropriate medical care;
• Assist you in reporting a crime to police;
• Contact relatives or friends on your behalf;
• Explain Korean judicial procedures in general terms;
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution;
• Help you find accommodations and flight arrangements to the United States;
• Replace a lost or stolen passport.

Sexual Assault:   The Embassy regularly receives reports of sexual assault from U.S. citizens. Most cases involved young women assaulted by acquaintances they met on social media, dating, or messaging apps. Alcohol is often involved, and Korea’s low overall crime can create a false sense of security.  Specialized hospital units and police are available in South Korea to assist victims, however services in English and responsiveness to the crime are not always consistent. In general, sex crimes are not punished as harshly in South Korea as in the United States and the road to prosecution is a challenging one for victims.

Domestic Violence:  Victim’s assistance resources or battered women’s shelters exist in Seoul and other urban areas but may be limited in rural areas. Most are government administered and require a police referral. Call 112 for emergency assistance or 1366 to reach Korea’s 24-hour domestic violence hotline. Victims may also contact the Embassy, tel. (+82) 2-397-4114.

Lost or Stolen Passports:  If your passport is stolen, file a report at the nearest police station.

Don't buy counterfeit and pirated goods, even if widely available.  It is against South Korean law to purchase these goods and against U.S. law to bring them into the United States. The  Computer Crime and Intellectual Property Division in the U.S. Department of Justice  has more information.

Avoid fraud and scams:  See  Department of State  and  FBI  websites for more information.

Tourism:  The tourism industry is generally regulated and rules with regard to best practices and safety inspections are regularly enforced. Hazardous areas/activities are identified with appropriate signage and professional staff is typically on hand in support of organized activities. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is widely available throughout the country. Outside of a major metropolitan center, it may take more time for first responders and medical professionals to stabilize a patient and provide life-saving assistance. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance. See our webpage for more information on  insurance providers for overseas coverage .

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties:  While in Korea, you are subject to local laws. If you violate Korean laws, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. Be aware that:

• Immigration violations can lead to arrest, fines, and deportation.
• There is little tolerance for illegal drugs.
• If you mail illegal drugs to/ from Korea, you will be prosecuted.
• Commercial disputes may lead to criminal charges being filed under local laws.

Be aware that some crimes are prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on  crimes against minors abroad  and the  Department of Justice  website.

Arrest Notification:  If you are arrested or detained, ask officials to notify the Embassy. See our  webpage  for further information.

SPECIAL CIRCUMSTANCES

Dual Nationality and Military Conscription:  Dual national males (including U.S. service members) may be subject to compulsory military service. If you have family ties to South Korea, consult the nearest Korean Embassy or Consulate or the  Korean Military Manpower Administration  regarding potential citizenship obligations  before entering South Korea .

Passport Seizures and Exit Bans:  If you are involved in a criminal investigation or commercial dispute, authorities may seize your passport and/or block your departure. While we may reissue a passport, we cannot lift an exit ban.

Exit Permits:  Exit permits are not generally required. However, if a parent requests a travel restriction on his/her child, Korean authorities may prevent that child from departing even when traveling with the other parent. As of June 1, 2020, foreigners who are long-term residents of the ROK are required to obtain a re-entry permit four business days prior to departure from Korea. The permits are available online through an e-application at the  www.hikorea.go.kr  website.

International Child Abduction:  See our website for information related to the  prevention of international child abduction . 

Working in South Korea:  If working, including teaching or modeling, you must enter with the appropriate work visa. It is not possible to change your visa status without leaving the country. If you begin work without the appropriate visa, you may be arrested, fined, and/or deported. If you are working without a valid work permit and get into a contractual dispute with your employer, you have little legal recourse.

Students:  See our  Students Abroad  page and  FBI travel tips .

Women Travelers:  See our travel tips for  Women Travelers .

ROK National Security Law:  Authorities may detain, arrest, and imprison persons believed to have committed acts intended to endanger the “security of the state,” including statements deemed to praise the political system and/or officials of the DPRK. 

Customs Regulations: There is strict enforcement of regulations on importing and exporting items such as firearms, narcotics and prescription drugs, non-prescription health supplements, radio equipment, and gold. Importation of materials deemed to be obscene, subversive, or harmful to the public peace is also restricted.

• Amphetamines are illegal in Korea. Do not bring amphetamines or other prescription narcotics into the country without obtaining advance permission in writing from the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety. See the  U.S. Embassy Seoul, Health Information page .
• Traveling with Pets: See  Korea’s Animal and Plant Quarantine Agency  website.

See the  Korean Customs Regulations website for complete information.

LGBTI Travelers:  Consensual same-sex sexual activity is not criminalized. Korea is a conservative country in regards to LGBTI issues. However, there are an increasing number of LGBTI-oriented clubs, festivals and NGOs advocating for LGBTI issues. The ROK National Human Rights Commission Act prohibits discrimination against individuals because of their sexual orientation, but there are no laws specifying punishment for persons found to have discriminated on this basis. Same-sex marriages are not recognized. Korean citizens can legally change their gender identity.

See   our  LGBTI Travel Information  page and section 6 of the  Department of State's Human Rights report  for further details.

Mobility Issues:  Korean law mandates access to transportation, communication, and public buildings. Cross walks typically have audio and visual signals. Older buildings and streets are generally less accessible than modern ones. Metro cars and buses in Seoul offer priority seating for the disabled and most metro stations have elevators. Metro platforms include Korean Braille information. Contact individual bus companies and subway associations for specific information. Foreign residents are eligible for disability assistance from local ward offices; assistance varies by ward.

Quality of Care : Western-style medical facilities are available in most large cities. However, not all doctors and staff, are proficient in English. A  list of hospitals  and medical specialists who speak English is available on our website. For emergency ambulance service dial 119. Ambulance services are widely available. For information on medical evacuation from South Korea, please see the State Department’s brochure on  Air Ambulance/MedEvac/Medical Escort Providers . 

We do not pay medical bills.  Be aware that U.S. Medicare does not apply overseas. Verify your health insurance coverage before traveling overseas. See our webpage for information on  insurance providers for overseas coverage . In most cases, health care providers will require payment in advance of treatment or will not release a patient until hospital bills are paid. We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to include coverage for medical evacuation.

Medication:  Carry prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription. Most prescription medications, except psychotropic types, can be obtained at Korean pharmacies (brand names often differ). Local pharmacies will require a prescription from a Korean doctor.

Update  vaccinations  recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. 

For further health information go to:

• World Health Organization
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  (CDC)

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety:  Roads are well-paved, traffic signals functional, and most drivers comply with basic traffic laws. South Korea has a significantly higher traffic fatality rate than the United States. Causes of accidents include excessive speed, frequent lane changes without signaling, running red lights, aggressive bus drivers, and weaving motorcyclists. It is recommended that you photo document any traffic accidents.

Be aware that motorcyclists may drive on sidewalks, and drivers do not always yield to pedestrians in marked crosswalks.

Traffic Laws include:

• International driving permit (or ROK license) is required for all drivers.
• Left-hand turns prohibited except with green arrow.
• Seat belts and car seats are mandatory.
• Motorcycle passengers must wear helmets.
• Automobile drivers are presumed to have some fault in accidents involving pedestrians.
• Expect long waits at police stations while police investigate any incidents.
• Police may take your passport or detain you during an investigation.
• Even if negligence is not proven, criminal charges may be filed.
• Blood-alcohol content of 0.03% or higher is considered legally intoxicated.
• Police regularly set up DUI checkpoints. Drivers are required to submit to breathalyzer tests; refusal can result in cancellation of your license.

For information about driver's permits, vehicle inspection, road tax, and mandatory insurance, refer to our  Road Safety page . You may also visit the  Korea Tourism Organization (KTO) website.

AVIATION SAFETY OVERSIGHT:  The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the Government of the Republic of Korea's Civil Aviation Authority as being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of the ROK's air carrier operations. Further information may be found on the  FAA's Safety Assessment Page .

Maritime Travel:  Mariners planning travel to South Korea should check for U.S. maritime advisories and alerts at the U.S. Department of Transportation’s  Maritime Security Communications with Industry Web Portal . Information may also be posted to the  U.S. Coast Guard homeport website  and as a broadcast warning on the  National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency’s website .

For additional travel information

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on  Twitter  and  Facebook .
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

South Korea was cited in the State Department’s 2022 Annual Report to Congress on International Child Abduction for demonstrating a pattern of non-compliance with respect to international parental child abduction. Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in  South Korea.  For additional IPCA-related information, please see the  International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA )  report.

Travel Advisory Levels

Assistance for u.s. citizens, south korea map, learn about your destination, enroll in step.

Subscribe to get up-to-date safety and security information and help us reach you in an emergency abroad.

Recommended Web Browsers: Microsoft Edge or Google Chrome.

Check passport expiration dates carefully for all travelers! Children’s passports are issued for 5 years, adult passports for 10 years.

Afghanistan

Antigua and Barbuda

Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba

Bosnia and Herzegovina

British Virgin Islands

Burkina Faso

Burma (Myanmar)

Cayman Islands

Central African Republic

Cote d Ivoire

Curaçao

Czech Republic

Democratic Republic of the Congo

Dominican Republic

El Salvador

Equatorial Guinea

Eswatini (Swaziland)

Falkland Islands

France (includes Monaco)

French Guiana

French Polynesia

French West Indies

Guadeloupe, Martinique, Saint Martin, and Saint Barthélemy (French West Indies)

Guinea-Bissau

Isle of Man

Israel, The West Bank and Gaza

Liechtenstein

Marshall Islands

Netherlands

New Caledonia

New Zealand

North Korea (Democratic People's Republic of Korea)

Papua New Guinea

Philippines

Republic of North Macedonia

Republic of the Congo

Saint Kitts and Nevis

Saint Lucia

Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

Sao Tome and Principe

Saudi Arabia

Sierra Leone

Sint Maarten

Solomon Islands

South Africa

South Sudan

Switzerland

The Bahamas

Timor-Leste

Trinidad and Tobago

Turkmenistan

Turks and Caicos Islands

United Arab Emirates

United Kingdom

Vatican City (Holy See)

External Link

You are about to leave travel.state.gov for an external website that is not maintained by the U.S. Department of State.

Links to external websites are provided as a convenience and should not be construed as an endorsement by the U.S. Department of State of the views or products contained therein. If you wish to remain on travel.state.gov, click the "cancel" message.

You are about to visit:

The Straits Times

• International
• Print Edition
• news with benefits
• SPH Rewards
• STClassifieds
• Berita Harian
• Hardwarezone
• Shin Min Daily News
• Tamil Murasu
• The Business Times
• The New Paper
• Lianhe Zaobao
• Advertise with us

Vaccinated travel lane to South Korea: 10 things you need to know

Masks? Checked. Hand sanitizer? Checked. Vaccination certificate? Checked.

Singaporeans yearning to travel to South Korea on the Vaccinated Travel Lane (VTL) can do so from Nov 15 when the bilateral agreement goes into effect.

Under the arrangement, those fully vaccinated can travel to either country without having to quarantine and will enjoy the same privileges granted to fully vaccinated citizens.

Travellers must be prepared to take at least four Covid-19 polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests before flying out, in Korea, and when they land back in Singapore. The tests must be undertaken at a clinic or a registered provider and not self administered.

Here's a Q&A for those planning to visit the land of kimchi and K-pop, including advice from the South Korean embassy in Singapore, the Seoul Metropolitan government, as well as Singaporeans residing in South Korea.

1. Who is eligible to fly under the VTL to South Korea?

To qualify for VTL, you must be fully vaccinated against Covid-19 with any vaccine in the World Health Organisation emergency-use list. You must have stayed in Singapore for the past 14 days, and your vaccination certificate (in English) must be issued by either Singapore or South Korea.

Unvaccinated children below the age of six (as at the date of arrival) will also be exempted from quarantine if they are accompanied by an eligible adult traveller.

Unvaccinated travellers can also board VTL flights but will be subject to 10 days quarantine upon entry. However, those who have recovered from Covid-19, even if fully vaccinated, are not eligible for the VTL.

2. What must you do before flying?

Within 72 hours of departure, you must take a Covid-19 polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test and get a physical copy of a negative result.

You must also apply for visa-free entry via the Korea Electronic Travel Authorisation (K-ETA) website, at least 24 hours before your flight. It will cost 10,000 won (S$11.50) per person.

Travellers will also need to buy travel insurance with a minimum coverage of 30 million won for Covid-19 related medical expenses, and carry a hard copy of the insurance policy. You must also prepare an electronic vaccination certificate with a QR code. You can apply for it via Notarise.gov.sg, and print a hard copy as well.

You must also book a PCR test to be done when you land at Incheon Airport. Log on to Safe2gopass.com and carry a copy of the confirmed booking. The test will cost 174,000 won on weekdays and 180,000 won on weekends. You should also activate auto-roaming for your cellphone so you can make calls whenever necessary.

3. What should you expect when you check in at Changi Airport?

You will receive your air ticket as well as a VTL pass that comes with a lanyard which you are required to wear upon landing at Incheon Airport so immigration officials can recognise you immediately. You should also make sure you have all the paper documents indicated in question 2.

4. What should you expect when you land at Incheon Airport?

Upon landing, you will proceed to the quarantine section where you will submit your vaccine certificate, negative PCR test result and a health condition report (to be issued by your airline and filled on board the flight).

You will then move to the Immigration section to submit a travel record declaration form (also done during flight), get your passport stamped, and get your vaccination certificate QR code scanned for verification. After that, you will go to the Covid-19 test centre where you will submit your VTL pass with lanyard, take a PCR test, and install a quarantine app for self-monitoring of Covid-19 symptoms.

You will also receive a notice with instructions for business owners on how to check your vaccination status. Businesses use a COOV app to verify a traveller's vaccination credentials.

Finally, taking a taxi or personal transportation to your accommodation is recommended, although using public transportation is allowed. Stay at your accommodation until you receive a negative test result the next day, either via cellphone text message or e-mail.

After that, you will be able to roam freely. If you are staying more than eight days, you will be required to go for PCR testing again on the sixth or seventh day.

5. What happens if you test positive?

You will be moved to a designated medical facility for treatment and undergo epidemiological investigations. You will also be quarantined until you recover.

6. What are the main Covid-19 related rules to follow and are there any restrictions on business operations?

Mask wearing is mandatory wherever you go. If caught without a mask, you can be fined up to 100,000 won.

Restrictions on operating for all facilities have been lifted since Nov 1, except for a 12am curfew for night entertainment venues. However, high-risk facilities including clubs, karaoke rooms, gyms and saunas are only for fully-vaccinated people and you will need to show the notice you received at Incheon Airport to the staff. They will use the COOV app to scan your vaccination certificate QR code.

All facilities including malls, marts, restaurants, cafes and shops will need to record visitor entries for contact tracing purposes. You can do so by writing down your phone number on a visitor record sheet.

In the capital area (Seoul, the surrounding Gyeonggi province and Incheon), including in restaurants and cafes, people are allowed to gather in groups of up to 10. Vaccinated people are allowed to eat and drink in movie theatres too.

A Transport Ministry official told ST that there can be teething problems as not all businesses are aware of how to check the vaccination status of VTL travellers. "Restaurants in Myeongdong and Gangnam are aware of the VTL but small local restaurants may not be familiar with this," the official said. "There could be some trouble initially but it will all work out eventually."

7. What do Singaporeans living in Seoul advise?

Ms Chua Pei Chi, president of the Singapore Club Seoul, urged travellers to never remove their face masks in public areas and to refrain from talking loudly, especially on public transport. "Also comply with South Korea's gathering guidelines and do not be surprised if you get turned away by some restaurants, because they may not want to entertain big groups of foreigners," Ms Chua told ST.

"Don't expect a pre-Covid Korea, because everything has changed. Myeongdong is filled with empty shops and most of the street food stalls are not operating. But there are lots of Squid Game merchandise and sugar candies on sale."

Mr Justin Yong, who chairs the Singapore Chamber of Commerce in Korea, said travellers should learn some basic Korean to make communication with locals easier, and to dress warmly because temperatures are dropping as winter approaches.

8. What are some new travel attractions in Seoul city?

Travellers can "experience the beauty of Korean crafts such as embroidery, ceramics and traditional accessories" at the Seoul Museum of Craft Art, opened in July, according to a spokesman from Seoul Metropolitan Government.

Fans of the hit drama Squid Game can visit filming locations in north-eastern Ssangmun-dong, such as a convenience store where two main characters had a conversation, while fans of the Joseon-era zombie series Kingdom can visit royal palaces such as Changdeokgung to experience how it feels like to live in the last imperial dynasty (1392-1910) of South Korea.

9. What should you do if you develop Covid-19 related symptoms during your stay?

If you are in Seoul, you can get tested for free at any of the screening clinics in this list. You can also call the 24-hour Korea Travel Helpline at 1330 for assistance in English. You can also purchase an antigen rapid test kit from convenience stores and do a self-swab test.

10. What should you do before leaving South Korea?

Within 48 hours of your departure, you must take a PCR test at a medical institution recognised by Singapore's Ministry of Health and get a physical copy of a negative result. The list includes 179 hospitals, such as Samsung Medical Centre, Seoul National University Hospital and Soonchunhyang University Hospital, which are all located in Seoul. For details, log on to this page on the MOH website.

Join ST's Telegram channel and get the latest breaking news delivered to you.

• South Korea
• Aviation/Aerospace sector
• Vaccinated Travel Lane/VTL
• Coronavirus

Read 3 articles and stand to win rewards

Spin the wheel now

Travel Vaccines and Advice for South Korea

South Korea is a bustling country of history. The country boasts over 50 million people, beautiful mountain regions and even yellow dust winds from the Gobi Desert in the spring and autumn.

Its capital, Seoul, has five grand palaces which include museums, ponds, scenic overlooks, carved bridges and gates, and beautiful courtyards in their grounds. The country is a can’t miss for any world traveler.

On This Page: Do I Need Vaccines for South Korea? Other Ways to Stay Healthy in South Korea Do I Need a Visa to Travel to South Korea? What Is the Climate Like in South Korea? Is It Safe to Travel to South Korea? The Five Palaces of Seoul What Should I Pack for South Korea? U.S. Embassy in South Korea

Do I Need Vaccines for South Korea?

Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for South Korea. The CDC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for South Korea: typhoid , hepatitis A , polio , Japanese encephalitis , rabies , hepatitis B , influenza , COVID-19 , pneumonia , meningitis , chickenpox , shingles , Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis) and measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) .

See the bullets below to learn more about some of these key immunizations:

• Typhoid – Food & Water – Shot lasts 2 years. Oral vaccine lasts 5 years, must be able to swallow pills. Oral doses must be kept in refrigerator.
• Hepatitis A – Food & Water – Recommended for most travelers.
• Polio – Food & Water – Due to an increase in cases globally, an additional adult booster is recommended for most travelers to any destination.
• Japanese Encephalitis – Mosquito – Recommended depending on itinerary and activities. May be given to short- and extended-stay travelers, recurrent travelers and travel to rural areas. Present throughout country. Most cases from May to October.
• Rabies – Saliva of Infected Animals – Moderate risk country. Vaccine recommended for certain travelers based on destination, activities and length of stay.
• Hepatitis B – Blood & Body Fluids – Recommended for travelers to most regions.
• Influenza – Airborne – Vaccine components change annually.
• COVID-19 – Airborne – Recommended for travel to all regions, both foreign and domestic.
• Pneumonia – Airborne – Two vaccines given separately. All 65+ or immunocompromised should receive both.
• Meningitis – Direct Contact & Airborne – Given to anyone unvaccinated or at an increased risk, especially students.
• Chickenpox – Direct Contact & Airborne – Given to those unvaccinated that did not have chickenpox.
• Shingles – Direct Contact – Vaccine can still be given if you have had shingles.
• Polio – Food & Water – Considered a routine vaccination for most travel itineraries. Single adult booster recommended.
• TDAP (Tetanus, Diphtheria & Pertussis) – Wounds & Airborne – Only one adult booster of pertussis required.
• Measles Mumps Rubella (MMR) – Various Vectors – Given to anyone unvaccinated and/or born after 1957. One time adult booster recommended.

See the table below for more information:

Specific Vaccine Information

• Typhoid – Salmonella Typhi causes typhoid, a severe infection transmitted via contaminated food and water. Vaccination is recommended for travelers and those with elevated infection risks. Practicing proper hygiene and safe food handling can also reduce the likelihood of contracting typhoid.
• Hepatitis A – Hepatitis A, caused by the hepatitis A virus (HAV), is a contagious liver infection. It spreads through contaminated food, water, and close contact. Preventive measures include vaccination, good hygiene, and avoiding raw shellfish. The hepatitis A vaccine is highly effective, requiring two doses for long-term protection.
• Japanese Encephalitis – Japanese encephalitis, transmitted by mosquitoes, can impact the central nervous system. Prevention strategies include mosquito management, protective clothing, and vaccination, offering two choices: inactivated and live attenuated vaccines. The Japanese encephalitis vaccine is the best form of protection against the virus.
• Tick-borne Encephalitis – Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) is a neurological viral infection transmitted by ticks. Combating TBE involves tick bite prevention and, critically, vaccination if visiting areas with the disease.
• Rabies – Rabies, a deadly viral disease, spreads via bites or scratches from infected animals. Vaccination is the cornerstone of prevention, including post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) for suspected exposures and pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for individuals with regular animal contact or travelers.
• Hepatitis B – Hepatitis B, caused by the hepatitis B virus, spreads through infected bodily fluids. While safe practices can reduce the risk, vaccination is the most reliable defense. The hepatitis B vaccine stimulates the immune system to produce antibodies, ensuring robust and long-lasting protection against this liver disease.
• Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) – Measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) are viral infections with distinct symptoms. They spread through respiratory droplets and close contact. Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent MMR infections, with the MMR vaccine offering protection against all three diseases.

Malaria in South Korea

Malaria is present in the northern regions of South Korea from March to December, this includes in and around the DMZ. Malaria parasite are resistant to chloroquine in the region. Be sure to consult with a travel health specialist on which antimalarials are best for your itinerary and health situation.

The CDC also recommends travelers be up-to-date on all routine vaccines before any travel, including: measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) , Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis) , chickenpox , polio and a flu shot .

Traveler’s diarrhea is a common issue among travelers. While some infections that cause the symptom can are vaccine-preventable, it can be hard to avoid. Be sure to bring a traveler’s diarrhea kit.

Visit our vaccinations page to learn more. Travel safely with Passport Health and schedule your appointment today by calling or book online now .

Other Ways to Stay Healthy in South Korea

Prevent bug bites in south korea.

Bug bite prevention strategies involve wearing appropriate clothing and utilizing EPA-approved repellents such as DEET or picaridin, as suggested by the CDC. Stay cautious during peak bug activity periods, clean the affected area, refrain from scratching, and consider over-the-counter remedies while promptly consulting a healthcare professional for severe reactions.

Food and Water Safety in South Korea

When traveling, ensure food safety by adhering to CDC recommendations, which include eating fully cooked foods, avoiding raw seafood, and selecting reputable dining places. Safely drink bottled beverages, avoiding ice in uncertain water sources, and consume alcohol in moderation. Prevent travelers’ diarrhea through hand hygiene and avoiding street food in unsanitary areas.

Infections To Be Aware of in South Korea

• Avian/Bird Flu – Avian flu, a virus that affects birds and can transmit to humans, can be prevented through vaccination of poultry, strict biosecurity, safe poultry handling and cooking, outbreak surveillance, and public awareness campaigns highlighting preventive measures.

Do I Need a Visa to Travel to South Korea?

You do not need a visa to travel to South Korea for stays under 90 days. You do need a passport valid at the time of entry, as well as one blank page in that passport for the stamp.

Military and U.S. government personnel do have some limitations on travel. Be sure to check with your specific branch as part of your travel preparations.

Sources: Embassy of South Korea and U.S. State Department

What Is the Climate Like in South Korea?

South Korea’s climate is temperate with varying seasons. The country has long, cold winters, short hot summers, and short spring and autumn seasons.

Winters bring regular snowfall, with average temperatures in the mid 20’s. Rainfall is common in the summer and temperatures tend to stay in the 70’s. Spring and fall usually stay in the mid-60’s.

The late summer brings the wet season, called “changma”, from July to August. Severe storms and flooding can occur during this time. Mosquitoes and other insects are more common as well. Typhoon season is from May to November.

While rain storms are not common in spring and fall, yellow dust winds are common. This dust originates from the Gobi Desert and hangs around in the air causing limited visibility for those caught in it. Protection from the dust is recommended.

Is It Safe to Travel to South Korea?

Avoid an embarrassing stop, over 70% of travelers will have diarrhea., get protected with passport health’s travelers’ diarrhea kit .

As a developed nation, South Korea is generally safe. But, there are some items to consider before going there.

Tensions with North Korea are usually high. Incidents have been known to occur along the DMZ. But, these are generally isolated to the region.

If you plan on driving in South Korea, be sure to research traffic laws. The traffic fatality rate is higher than some other countries. Drivers are automatically presumed to be at fault in accidents involving pedestrians.

Typhoon season is from May to November and monsoon season from June to August. While these rarely pose threats to travelers, it is good to be prepared.

Petty crime does occur in South Korea. When traveling, be sure to take normal precautions like not walking alone at night and keeping an eye on your surroundings.

Pirated and counterfeit goods may be available in South Korea. But, these items are not legal there or in the United States. It may seem normal to buy them if they are well circulated but purchasing or selling them is still illegal.

The Five Palaces of Seoul

If you want to get an impressive sense of South Korea and Seoul’s history and culture, checking out each of the five palaces. Three out of the five are larger and more well-known than the other two. But, each has its merits, and all share a distinct beauty.

• Gyeongbokgung – Built in 1395, Gyeongbokgung is the oldest and the largest palace. Visitors can enjoy changing of the guard ceremonies, visit ornamental gardens, museums, a lake and island overlook and more. Gyeongbokgung was once burnt down in 1592 and left in ruins for 300 years. It has been restored to much of its former glory through reconstruction. Its name means “Palace Greatly Blessed by Heaven”.
• Changdeokgung – Built in 1405, the it’s name translates to “Palace of Virtue”. This castle has been destroyed and repaired many times over its long history. It can only be seen through a guided tour. Changdeokgung has a grand entrance with a large gate followed by a stone bridge with carved guardian animals. Inside you will find a many buildings made for a variety of purposes. There are also pavilions, ponds, brooks and gardens. Special monthly Moonlight Tours are available from April to June.
• Changgyeonggung – Built in 1483, Changgyeonggung is the “Palace of Flourishing Gladness”. At one point the grounds were changed to be a zoo with a botanical garden. But, that was done under Japanese rule, and since then those elements have been removed. Changgyeonggung now features two ponds in the back and its original style. It is also a short walk away from Changdeokgung.
• Deoksugung – Though it is called the “Palace of Virtuous Longevity”, Deoksugung wasn’t a palace until 1592 after palaces were destroyed during Japanese invasion. Deoksugung has the most Western-style buildings including an art museum and forested gardens. Though it is three times smaller than it once was, its unique mix of architectural styles make it worth a visit.
• Gyeonghuigung – This palace is small in comparison to the others, but still worthwhile. It is the “Palace of Serene Harmony” and was built in 1623 as a “secondary palace”. The palace was actually leveled for a middle school during Japanese occupation. Gyeonghuigung contains the Seoul Museum of History making it a must-see.

What Should I Pack for South Korea?

Think ahead on what to pack by perusing these suggestions:

• Appropriate items for the weather – South Korea can be warm, wet, or very cold. Be sure to pack for the time of year and the activities you wish to do. Consider items such as sunscreen, dehumidifiers, and clothing that can easily be layered.
• Protection for more hazardous weather – South Korea has its wet/monsoon season (changma) from July to August, typhoon season from May to November, and yellow dust winds during the Spring and Autumn seasons. Many Koreans wear surgical masks or similar attire to protect their lungs from the potentially damaging yellow dust. Water-protective gear is good to consider during the heavy rain of the Summer.
• First aid kit/Traveler’s diarrhea kit – It is always useful to have important first aid kit items while traveling, such as bandages and antibacterial wipes. The CDC also advises to bring a traveler’s diarrhea kit to help deal with the effects of the illness should it be necessary.
• Bug repellent – With the possibility of malaria and tick-borne encephalitis it is especially important to ward against mosquitoes and ticks.
• Copies of your passport and travel documents – In case of lost luggage or theft, bring copies of important documents.
• Adapters for Electronics – South Korea uses a standard voltage of 220 V while 12V is used in America. Many of your electrical devices (hair dryers, chargers, etc) may not be compatible. Bringing adapters for these items is a must.

U.S. Embassy in South Korea

The U.S. Department of State recommends all travelers register with the free STEP (Smart Traveler Enrollment Program for important automatic notifications about in-country security and for help in case of an emergency while in South Korea.

The U.S. embassy in South Korea offers many helpful services to American travelers. They can help with things like getting a passport and helping in an emergency. The embassy can also assist in emergencies, like natural disasters, medical emergencies, or legal issues. They can provide information on travel safety and cultural events in South Korea.

U.S. Embassy Seoul Seoul, Korea 188 Sejong-daero, Jongno-gu, Seoul, Korea 03141 Phone: 82-2-397-4114

It’s best to check the embassy’s website or contact them directly for more detailed information about the services offered and how to access them.

Stay safe abroad with Passport Health. Call or book online now and start traveling safely today!

Customer Reviews

Passport health – travel vaccines for south korea.

• Records Requests
• Passport Health App
• Privacy Center
• Online Store

clock This article was published more than  2 years ago

South Korea reopens to fully vaccinated foreigners without quarantine

SEOUL — South Korea is allowing fully vaccinated travelers from all countries to enter without quarantine starting Friday, as the country relaxes coronavirus restrictions.

International travelers who have been fully vaccinated and registered their vaccination status can now enter the country without a quarantine period of seven days. A negative coronavirus test is still required for entry.

South Korea partially eased the quarantine mandate for vaccinated arrivals in 2021 but tightened it back in December, citing concerns about the highly contagious omicron variant.

Incheon International Airport, the main gateway to Seoul and the rest of South Korea, said its passenger traffic on Friday is set to surpass 20,000 for the first time in nearly two years. Daily traffic at the airport, one of the busiest in Asia, used to be 200,000 a day on average but sunk to as low as 3,000 after the pandemic restrictions were imposed.

On Friday morning, airport workers tore down quarantine facilities for international travelers, including a designated bus station, as passengers from overseas are now allowed to take regular public transportation.

South Korea coronavirus infection rate soars with omicron surge

South Korean health authorities said the quarantine mandate can be brought back depending on the coronavirus situation. “We will continue to monitor virus risks of each country in case of situations like emergence of a new variant of concern, and we will designate and manage the range of country-based quarantine exemption in a flexible manner,” said Jeong Eun Kyeong, commissioner of the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency.

South Korea started imposing border restrictions in March 2020 to curb the spread of the coronavirus. The measures contributed to the success of the country in responding to the virus but faced criticism from citizens returning home and foreign visitors coming for business and other purposes.

With the start of the quarantine waiver, a surge in demand has been reported by South Korean airlines and travel agencies. However, experts said international travel is not expected to immediately bounce back, given remaining coronavirus risks and a recent surge in jet fuel prices. For most of the pandemic, the Asian nation managed to keep the virus at bay without a major lockdown through widespread testing and aggressive contact tracing.

Such public health measures were partially rolled back earlier this year amid the strong vaccination rate in South Korea. There was then a surge in the highly contagious and less fatal omicron variant that drove infections to a record level. Citing the burden on health and administrative workers, Seoul health authorities changed their virus strategy to focus resources on vulnerable patients.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention places South Korea in its highest coronavirus risk category of Level 4, used for destinations that have an incidence rate of more than 500 cases per 100,000 residents in the past 28 days.

In recent weeks, South Korea has been reporting one of the highest caseloads per capita in the world but keeping death rates relatively low. Starting next week, South Korea will loosen its social distancing measures, raising the cap on social gatherings from eight to 10 people and easing the curfew on restaurants and other indoor spaces to until midnight, health authorities said Friday.

Coronavirus: What you need to know

Covid isolation guidelines: Americans who test positive for the coronavirus no longer need to routinely stay home from work and school for five days under new guidance planned by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The change has raised concerns among medically vulnerable people .

New coronavirus variant: The United States is in the throes of another covid-19 uptick and coronavirus samples detected in wastewater suggests infections could be as rampant as they were last winter. JN.1, the new dominant variant , appears to be especially adept at infecting those who have been vaccinated or previously infected. Here’s how this covid surge compares with earlier spikes .

Latest coronavirus booster: The CDC recommends that anyone 6 months or older gets an updated coronavirus shot , but the vaccine rollout has seen some hiccups , especially for children . Here’s what you need to know about the latest coronavirus vaccines , including when you should get it.

• Share full article

Advertisement

South Korea will start giving vaccine boosters amid a surge in Covid cases.

The country has seen a spike in infections after Chuseok, a three-day holiday celebrating the fall harvest.

By Choe Sang-Hun

• Sept. 26, 2021

The Prime Minister of South Korea said on Sunday that the nation would soon start administering booster shots to medical workers and people in their 60s and older, as the country battled a new wave of infections after a national holiday.

South Korea has seen a spike in infections in recent days as millions of people returned home after Chuseok, a three-day holiday celebrating the fall harvest. On Sunday, Prime Minister Kim Boo-kyum said the vaccination campaign would speed up. More than 85 percent of new cases in the past couple of weeks were people who had not been fully vaccinated, he said. Details of the new plan will be announced on Monday.

“We feel the sharp repercussions from the mass migration during the Chuseok holiday,” Mr. Kim said. “We had anticipated this to a degree, but we face a serious situation, given the scale and speed of the increase in new cases.”

South Korea warned earlier this month that its surge in cases tied to the Delta variant jeopardized plans to return to a more normal way of life in November. The nation has already started relaxing some restrictions, including allowing restaurants and bars to stay open until 10 p.m., as vaccinations have picked up. But more than 18 months into the pandemic, there is growing fatigue, and the government is unsure how strictly South Koreans are following the measures.

South Korea will also start to administer shots to teenagers and pregnant women, Mr. Kim said. Currently, anyone 18 or older is eligible to be vaccinated. Starting in October, the interval between the first and second shots will also be shortened, he said. So far, about 45 percent of the total population is fully vaccinated, and about 74 percent is partially inoculated, according to the government’s latest data.

South Korea reported a record 3,273 new cases on Saturday, after hovering near 2,000 cases before the holiday.

Choe Sang-Hun is the Seoul bureau chief for The New York Times, focusing on news on North and South Korea. More about Choe Sang-Hun

You are using an outdated browser. Upgrade your browser today or install Google Chrome Frame to better experience this site.

• Section 2 - Perspectives : Travelers' Perception of Risk
• Section 2 - Interactions Between Travel Vaccines & Drugs

Vaccination & Immunoprophylaxis— General Principles

Cdc yellow book 2024.

Author(s): Andrew Kroger, Mark Freedman

Spacing of Vaccines & Immunobiologics

Vaccinating people with acute illnesses, vaccination scheduling for selected travel vaccines, allergies to vaccine components, injection route & injection site, post-immunization adverse event reporting.

The pretravel health consultation is an opportunity to administer routine vaccines that are recommended based on age and other individual characteristics, and travel medicine practitioners should therefore be familiar with the general principles of vaccination and immunoprophylaxis. Routine vaccinations that are usually administered during childhood and adolescence in the United States include diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis (DTaP); Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib); hepatitis A (HepA), hepatitis B (HepB); human papillomavirus (HPV); measles-mumps-rubella (MMR); meningococcal vaccine (MenACWY); pneumococcal disease, including pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV13) and pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine (PPSV23); poliomyelitis (IPV); rotavirus; and varicella. Influenza vaccine routinely is recommended for all people aged ≥6 months each year. Herpes zoster (shingles) vaccine is recommended for adults aged ≥50 years old. PPSV23 is recommended for all adults ≥65 years old.

Some routine vaccinations are administered at earlier ages for international travelers. For example, measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine is indicated for infants aged 6–11 months who travel abroad, and hepatitis A vaccine is indicated for some infants aged 6–11 months who travel abroad, whereas these vaccines are not routinely given before age 12 months in the United States.

The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) website outlines recommendations, background, adverse reactions, precautions, and contraindications for vaccines and toxoids. For information on vaccinating travelers with altered immune function, see Sec. 3, Ch. 1, Immunocompromised Travelers .

In general, most common vaccines can be given at the same visit, at separate injection sites, without impairing antibody responses or increasing rates of adverse reactions, except as outlined below. Simultaneous administration of indicated vaccines is particularly advantageous for international travelers for whom exposure to several infectious diseases might be imminent. Injectable live vaccines should be administered at intervals of ≥28 days, if not administered simultaneously.

Coronavirus Disease 2019 Vaccines

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccines can be administered concomitantly with any other vaccines. See COVID-19 vaccine and immunization information , including interim clinical considerations.

Live-Virus Vaccines

The immune response to an injected or intranasal live-virus vaccine (e.g., MMR, varicella, live attenuated influenza vaccines [LAIV]), might be impaired if administered within 28 days of another live-virus vaccine. Typically, the immune response is impaired only for the second live-virus vaccine administered. Whenever possible, providers should administer injected or intranasal live-virus vaccines on different days ≥28 days apart. If 2 injected or intranasal live-virus vaccines are administered on separate days, but administered <28 days apart, the second vaccine is invalid and should be readministered ≥28 days after the invalid dose.

Measles and other live-virus vaccines can interfere with the response to tuberculin skin testing and the interferon-γ release assay. Tuberculin testing, if otherwise indicated, can be done either on the same day that live-virus vaccines are administered or ≥4 weeks later.

Yellow Fever Vaccine

There is no evidence that inactivated vaccines interfere with the immune response to yellow fever vaccine. Therefore, inactivated vaccines can be administered at any time around yellow fever vaccination, including simultaneously. ACIP recommends that yellow fever vaccine be given at the same time as most other live-virus vaccines.

Notwithstanding ACIP’s recommendation, limited data suggest that coadministration of yellow fever vaccine with measles-rubella or MMR vaccines might decrease the immune response. One study involving the simultaneous administration of yellow fever and MMR vaccines and a second involving simultaneous administration of yellow fever and measles-rubella vaccines in children demonstrated a decreased immune response against all antigens (except measles) when the vaccines were given on the same day versus 30 days apart. Additional studies are needed to confirm these findings, but the findings suggest that, if possible, yellow fever and MMR vaccines should be given ≥30 days apart.

No data are available on immune response to nasally administered LAIV given simultaneously with yellow fever vaccine. Data from LAIV and MMR vaccines found no evidence of interference, however. If yellow fever vaccine and another injectable live-virus vaccine are not administered simultaneously or ≥30 days apart, providers might consider measuring the patient’s neutralizing antibody response to vaccination before travel. Contact the state health department or the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Arboviral Disease Branch (970-221-6400) to discuss serologic testing.

Meningococcal & Pneumococcal Vaccines

In people with conditions that increase the risk for invasive pneumococcal disease (e.g., HIV infection, anatomic or functional asplenia [including sickle-cell disease]), the quadrivalent meningococcal vaccine Menactra (MenACWY-D), should be administered at least 4 weeks after completion of the pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV13) series. Menactra should not be used in children <2 years of age with these risk conditions; MenACWY-CRM (Menveo) can be used instead (see Sec. 5, Part 1, Ch. 13, Meningococcal Disease , for meningococcal vaccine schedules).

Menactra can be administered before or concomitantly with DTaP. If this is not possible, Menactra should be administered 6 months after DTaP in people with HIV infection, anatomic or functional asplenia (including sickle-cell disease), or persistent complement component deficiency, conditions that increase the risk for invasive meningococcal disease.

PCV13 and the pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine (PPSV23) should be administered at least 8 weeks apart. The minimum interval might be longer than 8 weeks depending on risk-condition and the order in which the vaccines are administered.

Missed Doses & Boosters

In some cases, a scheduled dose of vaccine might not be given on time. Travelers might forget to return to complete a series or receive a booster at a specified time. If this occurs, the dose should be given at the next visit. Available data indicate that intervals longer than those routinely recommended between doses do not affect seroconversion rates or titer when the vaccine schedule is completed. Consequently, an extended interval between doses does not necessitate restarting the series or adding doses of any vaccine. One exception is the preexposure rabies vaccine series. If an extended interval passes between doses of the preexposure rabies vaccine series, clinicians should assess the patient’s immune status by serologic testing 7–14 days after the final dose in the series.

Antibody-Containing Blood Products

Antibody-containing blood products from the United States (e.g., immune globulin [IG] products) do not interfere with the immune response to yellow fever vaccine and are not believed to interfere with the response to LAIV or rotavirus vaccines. When MMR and varicella vaccines are given shortly before, simultaneously with, or after an antibody-containing blood product, response to the vaccine can be diminished. The duration of inhibition of MMR and varicella vaccines is related to the dose of IG in the product. MMR and varicella vaccines should either be administered ≥2 weeks before receipt of a blood product or should be delayed 3–11 months after receipt of the blood product, depending on the dose and type of blood product (see Timing and Spacing of Immunobiologics, General Best Practice Guidelines for Immunization: Best Practices Guidance of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices;  Table 3-6. Recommended intervals between administration of antibody-containing products and measles- or varicella-containing vaccine , by product and indication for vaccination).

If IG administration becomes necessary for another indication after MMR or varicella vaccines have been given, the IG might interfere with the immune response to the MMR or varicella vaccines. Vaccine virus replication and stimulation of immunity usually occur 2–3 weeks after vaccination. If the interval between administration of one of these live vaccines and the subsequent administration of an IG preparation is ≥14 days, the vaccine need not be readministered. If the interval is <14 days, the vaccine should be readministered after the interval shown in  Table 3-5  (referenced in the previous paragraph), unless serologic testing indicates that antibodies have been produced. Such testing should be performed after the interval shown in Table 3-5 to avoid detecting antibodies from the IG preparation.

In some circumstances, MMR or varicella vaccine might be indicated for a patient for preexposure (travel) or postexposure prophylaxis. The patient might have received an antibody-containing blood product unrelated to prophylaxis; nevertheless, a potential for vaccine interference exists. Providers can administer MMR or varicella vaccines because the increased risk for disease and the protection afforded by the vaccine outweigh the concern that the vaccine might be less effective because of interference. If the dose is administered, it does not count toward the routine vaccination series and an additional dose of MMR or varicella vaccine should be administered no earlier than the minimum interval for the antibody-containing blood product (highlighted in ACIP’s General Best Practice Guidelines for Immunization) applied to the invalid dose of vaccine.

When IG is given with the first dose of hepatitis A vaccine, the proportion of recipients who develop a protective level of antibody is not affected, but antibody concentrations are lower. Because the final concentrations of antibody are still many times higher than those considered protective, the reduced immunogenicity is not expected to be clinically relevant. However, the effect of reduced antibody concentrations on long-term protection is unknown.

IG preparations interact minimally with other inactivated vaccines and toxoids. Other inactivated vaccines can be given simultaneously or at any time interval before or after an antibody-containing blood product is used. However, such vaccines should be administered at different injection sites from the IG.

Clinicians should take every opportunity to provide needed vaccinations. The decision to delay vaccination because of a current or recent acute illness depends on the severity of the symptoms and their cause. Although a moderate or severe acute illness is sufficient reason to postpone vaccination, minor illnesses (e.g., diarrhea, mild upper respiratory infection with or without low-grade fever, other low-grade febrile illness) are not contraindications to vaccination.

Antimicrobial therapy is not a contraindication to vaccination, except for antiviral agents active against influenza virus (e.g., baloxavir, oseltamivir, peramivir, zanamivir), since these antivirals can interfere with the replication of the live vaccine. If LAIV is administered first, any of these 4 antiviral drugs should be delayed ≥2 weeks, if feasible. Conversely, clinicians should delay LAIV for 48 hours after oseltamivir or zanamivir; for 5 days after peramivir; and for 17 days after baloxavir. Alternatively, clinicians can substitute inactivated influenza vaccine (IIV) for LAIV. Use of antiviral agents active against herpes viruses (e.g., acyclovir), are a precaution against administration of varicella-containing vaccines (varicella, MMRV) because the antiviral agent will interfere with the live vaccine.

Antimicrobial agents can prevent adequate immune response to live attenuated oral typhoid and cholera vaccines.

Table 2-04 lists the minimum ages and minimum intervals between doses for available travel vaccines recommended in the United States. Available travel vaccines, including Japanese encephalitis vaccine, rabies vaccine, inactivated typhoid vaccine, and yellow fever vaccine, do not have routine non-travel recommendations.

Table 2-04 Recommended & minimum ages, minimum intervals for travel vaccine doses 1

Abbreviations: N/A, not applicable; ViCPS, Vi capsular polysaccharide

1 Adapted from Table 1, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. General recommendations on immunization: recommendations of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP). MMWR Recomm Rep. 2011;60(RR-2):1–61.

2 IXIARO is approved by the US Food and Drug Administration for people aged ≥2 months.

3 Preexposure immunization for rabies has no minimum age. Reference: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Human rabies prevention—United States, 2008: recommendations of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices. MMWR Recomm Rep. 2008;57(RR-3):1–28.

4 Consider administering a third dose of preexposure rabies vaccine to people expecting long-term rabies exposure risks.

5 Oral typhoid vaccine is recommended to be administered 1 hour before a meal with a cold or lukewarm drink (temperature not to exceed body temperature—98.6°F [37°C]) on alternate days, for a total of 4 doses.

6 Yellow fever vaccine may be administered to children aged >9 months in certain situations. Reference: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Yellow fever vaccine: recommendations of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP). MMWR Recomm Rep. 2010;59(RR-7):1–27.

7 Subsequent doses of yellow fever vaccine are recommended for people who previously received vaccine while pregnant, with HIV, or prior to a hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT). Subsequent doses of yellow fever vaccine also are recommended for people at increased risk of contracting yellow fever due to the specific location or duration of travel, or due to virulent virus exposure (e.g., yellow fever laboratory workers). For others, only 1 lifetime dose is recommended.

Vaccine components can cause allergic reactions in some recipients. Reactions can be local or systemic and can include anaphylaxis or anaphylactic-like responses. A previous severe allergic reaction to any vaccine, regardless of the component suspected of being responsible for the reaction, is a contraindication to future receipt of the vaccine. Vaccine components responsible for reactions can include adjuvants, animal proteins, antibiotics, the vaccine antigen, preservatives (e.g., thimerosal), stabilizers (e.g., gelatin), or yeast.

Antibiotics & Preservatives

Some vaccines contain trace amounts of antibiotics or preservatives to which people might be allergic. Antibiotics used during vaccine manufacture include gentamicin, neomycin, polymyxin B, and streptomycin. The antibiotics most likely to cause severe allergic reactions (e.g., penicillin, cephalosporins, and sulfa drugs) are not contained in vaccines. Providers administering vaccines should carefully review the prescribing information before deciding if a person with antibiotic allergy should receive the vaccine.

Hepatitis A vaccine, some hepatitis B vaccines, some influenza vaccines, MMR vaccine, IPV, rabies vaccine, smallpox vaccine, and varicella vaccine contain trace amounts of neomycin or other antibiotics; the amount is less than would normally be used for the skin test to determine hypersensitivity. However, people who have experienced anaphylactic reactions to neomycin generally should not receive these vaccines. Most often, neomycin allergic response is a contact dermatitis—a manifestation of a delayed-type (cell-mediated) immune response—rather than anaphylaxis. A history of delayed-type reactions to neomycin is not a contraindication to receiving these vaccines.

Egg Protein

The most common animal protein allergen is egg protein in vaccines prepared by using embryonated chicken eggs (e.g., yellow fever vaccine, some influenza vaccines). People who can eat lightly cooked eggs (e.g., scrambled eggs) without a reaction are unlikely to be egg allergic. Egg-allergic people might tolerate egg in baked products (e.g., bread or cake). Tolerance to egg-containing foods does not exclude the possibility of egg allergy. Egg allergy can be confirmed by a consistent medical history of adverse reactions to eggs and egg-containing foods, plus skin or blood testing for immunoglobulin E directed against egg proteins.

People with a history of egg allergy who have experienced only hives after exposure to egg may receive influenza vaccine. Any licensed and recommended influenza vaccine that is otherwise appropriate for the recipient’s age and health status may be used.

Those who report having had reactions to egg involving symptoms other than hives (e.g., angioedema, recurrent emesis, lightheadedness, or respiratory distress), or who required epinephrine or another emergency medical intervention, may similarly receive any licensed and recommended influenza vaccine that is otherwise appropriate for the recipient’s age and health status. The selected vaccine should be administered in an inpatient or outpatient medical setting, and vaccine administration should be supervised by a health care provider who is able to recognize and manage severe allergic conditions. Cell-culture influenza vaccine (ccIIV4) and recombinant influenza vaccine do not require administration in a supervised setting, since neither vaccine is isolated or grown in eggs nor contains egg protein.

If a person has an egg allergy or a positive skin test to yellow fever vaccine but the vaccination is recommended because of their travel destination–specific risk, desensitization can be performed under direct supervision of a physician experienced in the management of anaphylaxis.

Thimerosal, an organic mercurial compound in use since the 1930s, has been added to certain immunobiologic products as a preservative for multidose vials. Receiving thimerosal-containing vaccines has been postulated to lead to allergy induction. However, limited scientific evidence is available for this assertion. Allergy to thimerosal usually consists of local delayed-type hypersensitivity reactions. Thimerosal elicits positive delayed-type hypersensitivity to patch tests in 1%–18% of people tested, but these tests have limited or no clinical relevance. Most people do not experience reactions to thimerosal administered as a component of vaccines, even when patch or intradermal tests for thimerosal indicate hypersensitivity. A localized or delayed-type hypersensitivity reaction to thimerosal is not a contraindication to receipt of a vaccine that contains thimerosal.

Since mid-2001, non-influenza vaccines routinely recommended for infants have been manufactured without thimerosal. Vaccines that still contain thimerosal as a preservative include some influenza vaccines,  one DT vaccine [PDF], and one Td vaccine.  Additional information about thimerosal and the thimerosal content of vaccines is available on the US Food and Drug Administration website.

Injectable vaccines are administered by intramuscular and subcutaneous routes. The injection method depends in part on the presence of an adjuvant in some vaccines. Adjuvant refers to a vaccine component, distinct from the antigen, which enhances the immune response to the antigen. Providers should inject vaccines containing an adjuvant (DTaP, DT, HepA, HepB, Hib, HPV, PCV13, Td, Tdap, recombinant zoster vaccine [RZV]) into a muscle mass because subcutaneous or intradermal administration can cause local induration, inflammation, irritation, skin discoloration, and granuloma formation.

Detailed discussion and recommendations about  vaccination for people with bleeding disorders or receiving anticoagulant therapy are available in the ACIP’s General Best Practices Guidelines for Immunization.

Immunobiologic manufacturers recommend the routes of administration for each product. Deviation from the recommended route of administration can reduce vaccine efficacy or increase local adverse reactions. ACIP publishes detailed recommendations on the route and site for all vaccines. CDC compiled a  list of these publications .

Modern vaccines are safe and effective. Benefits and risks are associated with the use of all immunobiologics. Adverse events after immunization have been reported with all vaccines, ranging from frequent, minor, local reactions (e.g., pain at the injection site), to extremely rare, severe, systemic illness, such as that associated with yellow fever vaccine. Adverse events following specific vaccines and toxoids are discussed in detail in each ACIP statement.

In the United States, clinicians are required by law to report selected adverse events occurring after vaccination with any vaccine in the recommended childhood series. In addition, CDC strongly recommends that all vaccine adverse events be reported to the Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System (VAERS), even if a causal relation to vaccination is not certain.  VAERS reporting forms and information are available electronically or can be requested by telephone at 800-822-7967 (toll-free). Clinicians are encouraged to report electronically .

The following authors contributed to the previous version of this chapter: Andrew T. Kroger, Candice L. Robinson

Bibliography

File formats help:.

• Adobe PDF file
• Microsoft PowerPoint file
• Microsoft Word file
• Microsoft Excel file
• Audio/Video file
• Apple Quicktime file
• RealPlayer file
• Zip Archive file

Exit Notification / Disclaimer Policy

• The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) cannot attest to the accuracy of a non-federal website.
• Linking to a non-federal website does not constitute an endorsement by CDC or any of its employees of the sponsors or the information and products presented on the website.
• You will be subject to the destination website's privacy policy when you follow the link.
• CDC is not responsible for Section 508 compliance (accessibility) on other federal or private website.

• Company History
• Mission Statement
• Philippines
• South Africa
• Afghanistan
• American Samoa
• Antigua and Barbuda
• British Virgin Islands
• Burkina Faso
• Canary Islands
• Cayman Islands
• Central African Republic
• Christmas Island
• Cocos (Keeling) Islands
• Cook Islands
• Cote d'Ivoire
• Democratic Republic of the Congo
• Dominican Republic
• Easter Island
• El Salvador
• Equatorial Guinea
• Falkland Islands
• Faroe Islands
• French Guiana
• French Polynesia
• Guinea-Bissau
• Liechtenstein
• Madeira Islands
• Marshall Islands
• Netherlands
• New Caledonia
• New Zealand
• Norfolk Island
• North Korea
• North Macedonia
• Northern Mariana Islands
• Palestinian Territories
• Papua New Guinea
• Pitcairn Islands
• Puerto Rico
• Republic of the Congo
• Saint Barthelemy
• Saint Helena
• Saint Kitts and Nevis
• Saint Lucia
• Saint Martin
• Saint Pierre-et-Miquelon
• Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
• Sao Tome and Principe
• Saudi Arabia
• Sierra Leone
• Sint Eustatius
• Solomon Islands
• South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands
• South Korea
• South Sudan
• Switzerland
• Trinidad and Tobago
• Turkmenistan
• Turks and Caicos Islands
• U.S. Virgin Islands
• United Arab Emirates
• United Kingdom
• United States
• Wake Island
• Western Sahara
• Travel Vaccines
• Travel Health Consultations
• Travellers’ Diarrhea Kits
• Dengue Fever Prevention
• Malaria Prevention
• Chikungunya Prevention
• Zika Prevention
• Ebola Virus
• Yellow Fever
• Hepatitis A
• Japanese Encephalitis
• Hepatitis B
• Tickborne Encephalitis (TBE)
• Tetanus-Diphtheria-Pertussis
• Measles-Mumps-Rubella
• Influenza (Flu)
• Blood Tests
• Vitamin Injections
• Physician Referral Program
• London – Euston Travel Clinic

Travel Vaccines and Advice for South Korea

South Korea is a bustling country of history. The country boasts over 50 million people, beautiful mountain regions and even yellow dust winds from the Gobi Desert in the spring and autumn.

Its capital, Seoul, has five grand palaces which include museums, ponds, scenic overlooks, carved bridges and gates, and beautiful courtyards in their grounds. The country is a can’t miss for any world traveller.

Do I Need Vaccines for South Korea?

Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for South Korea. The National Travel Health Network and Centre and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for South Korea: COVID-19 , hepatitis B , Japanese encephalitis , rabies and tetanus .

See the bullets below to learn more about some of these key immunisations:

• COVID-19 – Airborne – Recommended for all travellers
• Hepatitis B – Blood & Body Fluids – Recommended for travellers to most regions.
• Tetanus – Wounds or Breaks in Skin – Recommended for travelers to most regions, especially if not previously vaccinated.
• Japanese Encephalitis – Mosquito – Recommended depending on itinerary and activities. Recommended for extended travel, recurrent travellers and travel to rural areas. Present throughout country. Most cases from May to October.
• Rabies – Saliva of Infected Animals – High risk country. Vaccine recommended for long-stay travellers and those who may come in contact with animals.

See the tables below for more information:

The NaTHNaC also recommends travellers be up-to-date on all routine vaccines before any travel, including: measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) , Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis) , chickenpox , polio and a flu jab .

Traveller’s diarrhoea is a common issue among travellers. While some infections that cause the symptom can are vaccine-preventable, it can be hard to avoid. Be sure to bring a traveller’s diarrhoea kit.

Visit our vaccinations page to learn more. Travel safely with Passport Health and schedule your appointment today by calling or book online now .

What Other Diseases are in South Korea?

As a developed country, South Korea does not have many diseases that cannot be prevented through vaccination. Be sure to consider the following before your next trip:

• Malaria – Antimalarial medication may be required for your trip. These pills do not protect against mosquito bites, but do prevent malaria. Talk to a Passport Health travel specialist to learn more and see if this option is right for you.
• Tickborne Encephalitis – Spread through tick bites or unpasteurized dairy products, this disease can ruin a trip. Travellers doing outdoor activities are at higher risk of catching the virus. Take extra precautions from April to November. The peak number of reported cases in early and late summer.
• H5N1 Avian Influenza (Bird Flu) – Bird flu is a respiratory disease often spread by infected birds to humans. There have been no human cases of avian influenza reported in South Korea, but there is some risk in the region. The effect of the bird flu on humans can range from flu-like symptoms to death.

Do I Need a Visa to Travel to South Korea?

UK citizens do not need a visa for travel to South Korea that lasts less than 90 days. Visas may be required for other types of travel. Passports must be valid for at least three months.

Sources: Embassy of South Korea and GOV.UK

What is the Climate Like in South Korea?

South Korea’s climate is temperate with varying seasons. The country has long, cold winters, short hot summers, and short spring and autumn seasons.

Winters bring regular snowfall, with average temperatures around -6 degrees Celsius. Rainfall is common in the summer and temperatures tend to stay around 21-24 degrees. Spring and fall usually stay around 15 degrees.

The late summer brings the wet season, called “changma”, from July to August. Severe storms and flooding can occur during this time. Mosquitoes and other insects are more common as well. Typhoon season is from May to November.

While rain storms are not common in spring and fall, yellow dust winds are common. This dust originates from the Gobi Desert and hangs around in the air causing limited visibility for those caught in it. Protection from the dust is recommended.

How Safe is South Korea?

As a developed nation, South Korea is generally safe. But, there are some items to consider before going there.

Tensions with North Korea are usually high. Incidents have been known to occur along the DMZ. But, these are generally isolated to the region.

If you plan on motoring in South Korea, be sure to research traffic laws. The traffic fatality rate is higher than some other countries. Motorists are automatically presumed to be at fault in accidents involving pedestrians.

Typhoon season is from May to November and monsoon season from June to August. While these rarely pose threats to travellers, it is good to be prepared.

Petty crime does occur in South Korea. When travelling, be sure to take normal precautions like not walking alone at night and keeping an eye on your surroundings.

Pirated and forged goods may be available in South Korea. But, these items are not legal there or in the United Kingdom. It may seem normal to buy them if they are well circulated but purchasing or selling them is still illegal.

The Five Palaces of Seoul

If you want to get an impressive sense of South Korea and Seoul’s history and culture, checking out each of the five palaces. Three out of the five are larger and more well-known than the other two. But, each has its merits, and all share a distinct beauty.

• Gyeongbokgung – Built in 1395, Gyeongbokgung is the oldest and the largest palace. Visitors can enjoy changing of the guard ceremonies, visit ornamental gardens, museums, a lake and island overlook and more. Gyeongbokgung was once burnt down in 1592 and left in ruins for 300 years. It has been restored to much of its former glory through reconstruction. Its name means “Palace Greatly Blessed by Heaven”.
• Changdeokgung – Built in 1405, the it’s name translates to “Palace of Virtue”. This castle has been destroyed and repaired many times over its long history. It can only be seen through a guided tour. Changdeokgung has a grand entrance with a large gate followed by a stone bridge with carved guardian animals. Inside you will find a many buildings made for a variety of purposes. There are also pavilions, ponds, brooks and gardens. Special monthly Moonlight Tours are available from April to June.
• Changgyeonggung – Built in 1483, Changgyeonggung is the “Palace of Flourishing Gladness”. At one point the grounds were changed to be a zoo with a botanical garden. But, that was done under Japanese rule, and since then those elements have been removed. Changgyeonggung now features two ponds in the back and its original style. It is also a short walk away from Changdeokgung.
• Deoksugung – Though it is called the “Palace of Virtuous Longevity”, Deoksugung wasn’t a palace until 1592 after palaces were destroyed during Japanese invasion. Deoksugung has the most Western-style buildings including an art museum and forested gardens. Though it is three times smaller than it once was, its peculiar mix of architectural styles make it worth a visit.
• Gyeonghuigung – This palace is small in comparison to the others, but still worthwhile. It is the “Palace of Serene Harmony” and was built in 1623 as a “secondary palace”. The palace was actually leveled for a primary school during Japanese occupation. Gyeonghuigung contains the Seoul Museum of History making it a must-see.

What Should I Pack for South Korea?

Think ahead on what to pack by perusing these suggestions:

• Appropriate items for the weather – South Korea can be warm, wet, or very cold. Be sure to pack for the time of year and the activities you wish to do. Consider items such as sun cream, dehumidifiers, and clothing that can easily be layered.
• Protection for more hazardous weather – South Korea has its wet/monsoon season (changma) from July to August, typhoon season from May to November, and yellow dust winds during the Spring and Autumn seasons. Many Koreans wear surgical masks or similar attire to protect their lungs from the potentially damaging yellow dust. Water-protective gear is good to consider during the heavy rain of the Summer.
• First aid kit/traveller’s diarrhoea kit – It is always useful to have important first aid kit items whilst travelling, such as bandages and antibacterial wipes. the NaTHNaC also advises to bring a traveller’s diarrhoea kit to help deal with the effects of the illness should it be necessary.
• Insect repellent – With the possibility of malaria and tickborne encephalitis it is especially important to ward against mosquitoes and ticks.
• Copies of your passport and travel documents – In case of lost luggage or theft, bring copies of important documents.
• Adapters for Electronics – South Korea uses a standard voltage of 220 V whilst 12V is used in America. Many of your electrical devices (hair dryers, chargers, etc) may not be compatible. Bringing adapters for these items is a must.

Embassy of the United Kingdom in South Korea

If you are in South Korea and have an emergency (for example, been attacked, arrested or someone has died) contact the nearest consular services. Contact the embassy before arrival if you have additional questions on entry requirements, safety concerns or are in need of assistance.

British Embassy Seoul Sejong-daero 19-gil 24 Seoul Jung-gu 04519 South Korea Telephone: +82 (0)2 3210 5500 Emergency Phone: +82 (0)2 3210 5500 Fax: +82 (0)2 725 1738 Contact Form: Click Here

Stay safe abroad with Passport Health. Ring or book online now and start travelling safely today!

On This Page: Do I Need Vaccines for South Korea? What Other Diseases are in South Korea? Do I Need a Visa to Travel to South Korea? What is the Climate Like in South Korea? How Safe is South Korea? The Five Palaces of Seoul What Should I Pack for South Korea? Embassy of the United Kingdom in South Korea

• Privacy Policy
• Automatic Data Collection Statement

We’re sorry, this site is currently experiencing technical difficulties. Please try again in a few moments. Exception: request blocked