seoul south korea travel advisory

Update April 12, 2024

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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

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

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C A C (Cities Against COVID-19)

Covid-19 & vaccines in seoul.

The Seoul Metropolitan Government operates a 24-hour quarantine countermeasure from the early stages of covid-19 under the principle of " excessive surplus is better than late response " and discloses all information transparently.

Pageviews As of 07/19/2020 : 10,713,060

Countermeasures

Information for Foreign Visitors

Covid-19 special entry procedure (as of april 1).

Information

Reinforced quarantine of international arrivals.

Seoul Metropolitan Disaster and Safety Countermeasure Headquarters Reinforced Disease Control and Prevention for International Arrivals! Instructions on Testing and Self-Quarantine All international arrivals residing in Seoul Get tested on the day of arrival at your local designated screening clinic! (Including Korean nationals, non-Korean residents, and all tourists/visitors) ※ Bring your passport and airline ticket when you get tested at the designated screening clinic!

Plans for Protection and Management of International Students for the Second Semester

Although the number of recently confirmed patients through local spreading has become stable, the number of confirmed patients coming from abroad continues to rise. Accordingly, this has called for control of preventative measures regarding international students who are awaiting the second semester of university in terms of revitalization of online classes and management of entrance times into the country.

Precautions for International Travelers

All individuals traveling to the Republic of Korea should follow these guidelines before boarding, on board, and after landing.

Mandatory quarantine instructions for all incoming travelers to Republic of Korea

Every individual who is scheduled to enter the Republic of Korea is subject to mandatory 14-day quarantine beginning on the date of entry and ending at 12:00 of the 15th day. Please check the instructions and follow the quarantine guidelines.

Seoul Provides Masks with Replaceable Filters to Foreigners in Blind Spots

Seoul Provides Masks with Replaceable Filters to Foreigners in Blind Spots Seoul announced it will distribute 100,000 masks with replaceable filters to international students who find it difficult to obtain masks and foreigners without health insurance. With the “5-day rotation system for mask distribution” in place, foreigners are required to present their alien registration card and certificate of health insurance when purchasing masks

Mask Purchase Procedures : How Can Foreigners Purchase Masks?

To resolve a shortage of masks, the Korean government has come up with a new measure called “5-day rotation system for mask distribution.” It is a policy that allows people to purchase masks on designated days based on their birth years.

Information on prevention of COVID-19 for people arriving in the Republic of Korea

Every individual who is scheduled to enter the Republic of Korea must learn the major COVID-19 symptoms checklist, guidelines on personal hygiene, and the manual to use the mobile self-diagnosis application.

TBS eFM Broadcasts Special COVID-19 Live Updates Program for Foreigners

As the number of confirmed cases of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has exceeded 5,000 in South Korea, TBS eFM will be broadcasting a special program titled COVID-19 Live Updates for foreigners starting March 4, 2020 from 9 to 10 AM every day.

Measures to support foreign residents

The Seoul Metropolitan Government will be operating COVID-19 counseling centers as a channel to offer customized supports for foreign residents from Vietnam, Mongolia, and more. Counseling in eight languages including Chinese, Vietnamese, Filipino and Pakistani will be available from the Southwest Global Center and services in other languages will be provided in association with the […]

Measures for students from country where COVID-19 originated

In partnership with its 25 autonomous districts and 49 universities that are scheduled to admit students from China, Seoul has organized the “Joint Response Group for Students from China in Seoul” to offer omnidirectional support for students from China who are slated to enter South Korea from the point of their entrance. Eligible beneficiaries include […]

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South Korea Traveler View

Travel health notices, vaccines and medicines, non-vaccine-preventable diseases, stay healthy and safe.

Packing List

After Your Trip

There are no notices currently in effect for South Korea.

⇧ Top

Check the vaccines and medicines list and visit your doctor at least a month before your trip to get vaccines or medicines you may need. If you or your doctor need help finding a location that provides certain vaccines or medicines, visit the Find a Clinic page.

Routine vaccines

Recommendations.

Make sure you are up-to-date on all routine vaccines before every trip. Some of these vaccines include

Chickenpox (Varicella)
Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis
Flu (influenza)
Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR)

Immunization schedules

All eligible travelers should be up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines. Please see Your COVID-19 Vaccination for more information.

COVID-19 vaccine

Hepatitis A

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers one year old or older going to South Korea.

Infants 6 to 11 months old should also be vaccinated against Hepatitis A. The dose does not count toward the routine 2-dose series.

Travelers allergic to a vaccine component or who are younger than 6 months should receive a single dose of immune globulin, which provides effective protection for up to 2 months depending on dosage given.

Unvaccinated travelers who are over 40 years old, immunocompromised, or have chronic medical conditions planning to depart to a risk area in less than 2 weeks should get the initial dose of vaccine and at the same appointment receive immune globulin.

Hepatitis A - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep A

Hepatitis B

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers younger than 60 years old traveling to South Korea. Unvaccinated travelers 60 years and older may get vaccinated before traveling to South Korea.

Hepatitis B - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep B

Japanese Encephalitis

Recommended for travelers who

Are moving to an area with Japanese encephalitis to live
Spend long periods of time, such as a month or more, in areas with Japanese encephalitis
Frequently travel to areas with Japanese encephalitis

Consider vaccination for travelers

Spending less than a month in areas with Japanese encephalitis but will be doing activities that increase risk of infection, such as visiting rural areas, hiking or camping, or staying in places without air conditioning, screens, or bed nets
Going to areas with Japanese encephalitis who are uncertain of their activities or how long they will be there

Not recommended for travelers planning short-term travel to urban areas or travel to areas with no clear Japanese encephalitis season.

Japanese encephalitis - CDC Yellow Book

Japanese Encephalitis Vaccine for US Children

CDC recommends that travelers going to certain areas of South Korea take prescription medicine to prevent malaria. Depending on the medicine you take, you will need to start taking this medicine multiple days before your trip, as well as during and after your trip. Talk to your doctor about which malaria medication you should take.

Find country-specific information about malaria.

Malaria - CDC Yellow Book

Considerations when choosing a drug for malaria prophylaxis (CDC Yellow Book)

Malaria information for South Korea.

Cases of measles are on the rise worldwide. Travelers are at risk of measles if they have not been fully vaccinated at least two weeks prior to departure, or have not had measles in the past, and travel internationally to areas where measles is spreading.

All international travelers should be fully vaccinated against measles with the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, including an early dose for infants 6–11 months, according to CDC’s measles vaccination recommendations for international travel .

Measles (Rubeola) - CDC Yellow Book

South Korea is free of dog rabies. However, rabies may still be present in wildlife species, particularly bats. CDC recommends rabies vaccination before travel only for people working directly with wildlife. These people may include veterinarians, animal handlers, field biologists, or laboratory workers working with specimens from mammalian species.

Rabies - CDC Yellow Book

Tick-borne Encephalitis

Avoid bug bites

Learn more about tick-borne encephalitis at your destination .

Tick-borne Encephalitis - CDC Yellow Book

Recommended for most travelers, especially those staying with friends or relatives or visiting smaller cities or rural areas.

Typhoid - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Typhoid

Yellow Fever

Required if traveling from a country with risk of YF virus transmission and ≥1 year of age. 1

Yellow Fever - CDC Yellow Book

Avoid contaminated water

Leptospirosis

How most people get sick (most common modes of transmission)

Touching urine or other body fluids from an animal infected with leptospirosis
Swimming or wading in urine-contaminated fresh water, or contact with urine-contaminated mud
Drinking water or eating food contaminated with animal urine
Avoid contaminated water and soil

Clinical Guidance

Airborne & droplet, avian/bird flu.

Being around, touching, or working with infected poultry, such as visiting poultry farms or live-animal markets
Avoid domestic and wild poultry
Breathing in air or accidentally eating food contaminated with the urine, droppings, or saliva of infected rodents
Bite from an infected rodent
Less commonly, being around someone sick with hantavirus (only occurs with Andes virus)
Avoid rodents and areas where they live
Avoid sick people

Tuberculosis (TB)

Breathe in TB bacteria that is in the air from an infected and contagious person coughing, speaking, or singing.

Learn actions you can take to stay healthy and safe on your trip. Vaccines cannot protect you from many diseases in South Korea, so your behaviors are important.

Eat and drink safely

Food and water standards around the world vary based on the destination. Standards may also differ within a country and risk may change depending on activity type (e.g., hiking versus business trip). You can learn more about safe food and drink choices when traveling by accessing the resources below.

Choose Safe Food and Drinks When Traveling
Water Treatment Options When Hiking, Camping or Traveling
Global Water, Sanitation and Hygiene | Healthy Water
Avoid Contaminated Water During Travel

You can also visit the Department of State Country Information Pages for additional information about food and water safety.

Prevent bug bites

Although South Korea is an industrialized country, bug bites here can still spread diseases. Just as you would in the United States, try to avoid bug bites while spending time outside or in wooded areas.

What can I do to prevent bug bites?

Cover exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats.
Use an appropriate insect repellent (see below).
Consider using permethrin-treated clothing and gear if spending a lot of time outside. Do not use permethrin directly on skin.

What type of insect repellent should I use?

FOR PROTECTION AGAINST TICKS AND MOSQUITOES: Use a repellent that contains 20% or more DEET for protection that lasts up to several hours.
Picaridin (also known as KBR 3023, Bayrepel, and icaridin)
Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) or para-menthane-diol (PMD)
2-undecanone
Always use insect repellent as directed.

What should I do if I am bitten by bugs?

Avoid scratching bug bites, and apply hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion to reduce the itching.
Check your entire body for ticks after outdoor activity. Be sure to remove ticks properly.

What can I do to avoid bed bugs?

Although bed bugs do not carry disease, they are an annoyance. See our information page about avoiding bug bites for some easy tips to avoid them. For more information on bed bugs, see Bed Bugs .

For more detailed information on avoiding bug bites, see Avoid Bug Bites .

Stay safe outdoors

If your travel plans in South Korea include outdoor activities, take these steps to stay safe and healthy during your trip:

Stay alert to changing weather conditions and adjust your plans if conditions become unsafe.
Prepare for activities by wearing the right clothes and packing protective items, such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit.
Consider learning basic first aid and CPR before travel. Bring a travel health kit with items appropriate for your activities.
If you are outside for many hours in the heat, eat salty snacks and drink water to stay hydrated and replace salt lost through sweating.
Protect yourself from UV radiation : use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during the hottest time of day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
Be especially careful during summer months and at high elevation. Because sunlight reflects off snow, sand, and water, sun exposure may be increased during activities like skiing, swimming, and sailing.
Very cold temperatures can be dangerous. Dress in layers and cover heads, hands, and feet properly if you are visiting a cold location.

Stay safe around water

Swim only in designated swimming areas. Obey lifeguards and warning flags on beaches.
Do not dive into shallow water.
Avoid swallowing water when swimming. Untreated water can carry germs that make you sick.
Practice safe boating—follow all boating safety laws, do not drink alcohol if you are driving a boat, and always wear a life jacket.

Keep away from animals

Most animals avoid people, but they may attack if they feel threatened, are protecting their young or territory, or if they are injured or ill. Animal bites and scratches can lead to serious diseases such as rabies.

Follow these tips to protect yourself:

Do not touch or feed any animals you do not know.
Do not allow animals to lick open wounds, and do not get animal saliva in your eyes or mouth.
Avoid rodents and their urine and feces.
Traveling pets should be supervised closely and not allowed to come in contact with local animals.
If you wake in a room with a bat, seek medical care immediately. Bat bites may be hard to see.

All animals can pose a threat, but be extra careful around dogs, bats, monkeys, sea animals such as jellyfish, and snakes. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, immediately:

Wash the wound with soap and clean water.
Go to a doctor right away.
Tell your doctor about your injury when you get back to the United States.

Reduce your exposure to germs

Follow these tips to avoid getting sick or spreading illness to others while traveling:

Wash your hands often, especially before eating.
If soap and water aren’t available, clean hands with hand sanitizer (containing at least 60% alcohol).
Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. If you need to touch your face, make sure your hands are clean.
Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
Try to avoid contact with people who are sick.
If you are sick, stay home or in your hotel room, unless you need medical care.

Avoid sharing body fluids

Diseases can be spread through body fluids, such as saliva, blood, vomit, and semen.

Protect yourself:

Use latex condoms correctly.
Do not inject drugs.
Limit alcohol consumption. People take more risks when intoxicated.
Do not share needles or any devices that can break the skin. That includes needles for tattoos, piercings, and acupuncture.
If you receive medical or dental care, make sure the equipment is disinfected or sanitized.

Know how to get medical care while traveling

Plan for how you will get health care during your trip, should the need arise:

Carry a list of local doctors and hospitals at your destination.
Review your health insurance plan to determine what medical services it would cover during your trip. Consider purchasing travel health and medical evacuation insurance for things your regular insurance will not cover.
Carry a card that identifies, in the local language, your blood type, chronic conditions or serious allergies, and the generic names of any medicines you take.
Bring copies of your prescriptions for medicine and for eye glasses and contact lenses.
Some prescription drugs may be illegal in other countries. Call South Korea’s embassy to verify that all of your prescription(s) are legal to bring with you.
Bring all the medicines (including over-the-counter medicines) you think you might need during your trip, including extra in case of travel delays. Ask your doctor to help you get prescriptions filled early if you need to.

Many foreign hospitals and clinics are accredited by the Joint Commission International. A list of accredited facilities is available at their website ( www.jointcommissioninternational.org ).

Malaria is a risk in some parts of South Korea. If you are going to a risk area, fill your malaria prescription before you leave, and take enough with you for the entire length of your trip. Follow your doctor’s instructions for taking the pills; some need to be started before you leave.

Select safe transportation

Motor vehicle crashes are the #1 killer of healthy US citizens in foreign countries.

Be smart when you are traveling on foot.

Use sidewalks and marked crosswalks.
Pay attention to the traffic around you, especially in crowded areas.
Remember, people on foot do not always have the right of way in other countries.

Riding/Driving

Choose a safe vehicle.

Choose official taxis or public transportation, such as trains and buses.
Make sure there are seatbelts.
Avoid overcrowded, overloaded, top-heavy buses and minivans.
Avoid riding on motorcycles or motorbikes, especially motorbike taxis. (Many crashes are caused by inexperienced motorbike drivers.)
Choose newer vehicles—they may have more safety features, such as airbags, and be more reliable.
Choose larger vehicles, which may provide more protection in crashes.

Think about the driver.

Do not drive after drinking alcohol or ride with someone who has been drinking.
Consider hiring a licensed, trained driver familiar with the area.
Arrange payment before departing.

Follow basic safety tips.

Wear a seatbelt at all times.
Sit in the back seat of cars and taxis.
When on motorbikes or bicycles, always wear a helmet. (Bring a helmet from home, if needed.)
Do not use a cell phone or text while driving (illegal in many countries).
Travel during daylight hours only, especially in rural areas.
If you choose to drive a vehicle in South Korea, learn the local traffic laws and have the proper paperwork.
Get any driving permits and insurance you may need. Get an International Driving Permit (IDP). Carry the IDP and a US-issued driver's license at all times.
Check with your auto insurance policy's international coverage, and get more coverage if needed. Make sure you have liability insurance.
Avoid using local, unscheduled aircraft.
If possible, fly on larger planes (more than 30 seats); larger airplanes are more likely to have regular safety inspections.
Try to schedule flights during daylight hours and in good weather.

Helpful Resources

Road Safety Overseas (Information from the US Department of State): Includes tips on driving in other countries, International Driving Permits, auto insurance, and other resources.

The Association for International Road Travel has country-specific Road Travel Reports available for most countries for a minimal fee.

Maintain personal security

Use the same common sense traveling overseas that you would at home, and always stay alert and aware of your surroundings.

Before you leave

Research your destination(s), including local laws, customs, and culture.
Monitor travel advisories and alerts and read travel tips from the US Department of State.
Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) .
Leave a copy of your itinerary, contact information, credit cards, and passport with someone at home.
Pack as light as possible, and leave at home any item you could not replace.

While at your destination(s)

Carry contact information for the nearest US embassy or consulate .
Carry a photocopy of your passport and entry stamp; leave the actual passport securely in your hotel.
Follow all local laws and social customs.
Do not wear expensive clothing or jewelry.
Always keep hotel doors locked, and store valuables in secure areas.
If possible, choose hotel rooms between the 2nd and 6th floors.

Healthy Travel Packing List

Use the Healthy Travel Packing List for South Korea for a list of health-related items to consider packing for your trip. Talk to your doctor about which items are most important for you.

Why does CDC recommend packing these health-related items?

It’s best to be prepared to prevent and treat common illnesses and injuries. Some supplies and medicines may be difficult to find at your destination, may have different names, or may have different ingredients than what you normally use.

If you are not feeling well after your trip, you may need to see a doctor. If you need help finding a travel medicine specialist, see Find a Clinic . Be sure to tell your doctor about your travel, including where you went and what you did on your trip. Also tell your doctor if you were bitten or scratched by an animal while traveling.

If your doctor prescribed antimalarial medicine for your trip, keep taking the rest of your pills after you return home. If you stop taking your medicine too soon, you could still get sick.

Malaria is always a serious disease and may be a deadly illness. If you become ill with a fever either while traveling in a malaria-risk area or after you return home (for up to 1 year), you should seek immediate medical attention and should tell the doctor about your travel history.

For more information on what to do if you are sick after your trip, see Getting Sick after Travel .

Map Disclaimer - The boundaries and names shown and the designations used on maps do not imply the expression of any opinion whatsoever on the part of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention concerning the legal status of any country, territory, city or area or of its authorities, or concerning the delimitation of its frontiers or boundaries. Approximate border lines for which there may not yet be full agreement are generally marked.

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The novel coronavirus, first detected at the end of 2019, has caused a global pandemic.

Coronavirus Updates

Officials tighten restrictions in seoul amid another wave of covid-19 infections.

Anthony Kuhn

A medical staffer wearing protective gear gestures after collecting a swab from a visitor to test for the coronavirus at a temporary testing station in Seoul in December 2020. South Korea on Friday announced it would raise restrictions in the capital region to the highest level as a fourth wave of infections is gaining speed. Jung Yeon-Je /AFP via Getty Images hide caption

SEOUL, South Korea — Despite early successes last year in controlling the pandemic, South Korea on Friday announced it would raise restrictions in the capital region to the highest level as a fourth wave of infections is gaining speed.

The country recorded 1,316 cases Friday, breaking records for a second straight day. That's not high by international standards, but health authorities say the peak of this fourth wave of infections is likely yet to come, and barring effective countermeasures, could see case numbers nearly double.

Driving the surge are residents of the greater Seoul region, accounting for four-fifths of cases, and people in their 20s and 30s, who made up 43% of confirmed cases on Thursday. Many of them frequent the capital's eateries and night spots, and most are unvaccinated.

But to some extent, the young consumers were just taking their cues from the government's muddled messaging, authorities say.

The government was trying to "strike a balance between recovery of everyday life and prevention of outbreaks," Sohn Young-rae, a spokesperson for the health ministry, told reporters on Wednesday.

In a bid to give the impression of normalcy, authorities planned to relax restrictions this month and encourage people to get vaccinated by allowing inoculated citizens to go mask-free outdoors, even as case numbers remained steady or edged upward.

The government tried to remind citizens to remain vigilant toward the virus, "but faced with the current outbreak," Sohn conceded, "we do have some regrets that these messages should have been delivered more effectively."

The current restrictions send a sterner message.

For the next two weeks in the capital region, gatherings after 6 p.m. of more than two people are banned, as are protests and rallies. Bars and nightclubs are to close. Attendance at weddings and funerals is limited to family members. Even private gatherings are discouraged.

Following instructions from President Moon Jae-in, the government is adding more COVID-19 testing stations and mobilizing soldiers, police and civil servants to help out with contact tracing.

Vaccinations in South Korea still lag behind other developed economies with only about 11% of the population fully vaccinated.

South Korea

Is Seoul safe to visit? A comprehensive safety guide

Have you ever wanted to travel to South Korea ? What better place to go than its bright and lively capital, Seoul? This vibrant city boasts the third largest economy in all of East Asia and is home to gorgeous palaces, bustling night markets with food stalls and modern technological attractions. This is a city that never sleeps, ready to entertain you and anyone else who travels here.

It is easy to see why nearly 15 million people come here each year. Most travelers choose to visit South Korea between March and May or September and October because that is when the weather is best. On top of all of those foreign visitors, Seoul is home to almost 10 million citizens of its own. The city is always busy!

When traveling to a foreign place, especially Seoul since it is so big, you'll have to take certain precautions to protect yourself and your belongings. Your personal items will be safest stored away in a Seoul luggage locker and Bounce is your best option. Take your pick from many locations throughout the city, and feel confident knowing that each storage partner is carefully inspected to meet high standards of quality.

Love discounts and traveling?

Is Seoul safe to visit right now?

By doing just a bit of research you can help yourself have a safe trip in South Korea. Experienced vacationers will already know the basics of visiting a foreign locale, but no matter how much you have traveled, adequate research from various sources is always advised to get the full picture.

You are probably wondering, is South Korea safe? South Korea does not have any active travel advisories right now, but you should check to see what your own government recommends as well. According to the 2021 Global Peace Index , this country ranks 57th out of 163 countries. You can feel confident visiting South Korea and also Seoul since it is a very safe city with low crime rates.

Top petty crimes and scams in Seoul affecting tourists

The key to avoiding danger in a new city is to know what to look out for. In Seoul, these will be your biggest threats. Stay aware and informed, and you'll be certain to have a terrific time in Seoul.

Pickpocketing

Those who vacation often will know that pickpocketing is a common problem in most big cities. Unfortunately, South Korea's capital is no different and you'll have to be aware of pickpockets when you're traveling. To keep your belongings from being stolen the easiest thing to do is to leave them in a Bounce suitcase locker.

Having a secure bag is also a must, and buying one that can be worn cross-body is a good idea since you can keep a closer eye on it.

As a foreign visitor, you'll need to be aware of con artists and scammers. Luckily, they are pretty easy to avoid if you know what to look out for. One of the most common scams in Seoul is the Teahouse scam , where young girls will approach tourists and ask to practice speaking English with them. They will then bring you to a teahouse where you'll be left with a huge bill at the end of the conversation.

Generally, tourists should always be wary of expensive bills in other cafes and restaurants since sometimes they give a separate and more expensive menu to tourists who will unknowingly pay the exaggerated prices.

Is Seoul safe to travel alone

Although there is petty crime here it will very rarely turn violent. Seoul is constantly praised as being a very safe city, making it a great place for solo travelers to visit. There are plenty of things to do here like tasting Korean food, spending an afternoon at the sandy beaches, or learning about the city's rich history involving the Korean war between North and South Korea. One thing is for sure, people traveling alone will never get bored.

If you're a woman who likes to travel abroad by yourself then you can definitely visit South Korea. This is a developed country that places 19th on the Bounce Women Travel Safety Index and solo female travelers will not be in more danger here than men.

Safest neighborhoods in Seoul

In general, you'll find that South Koreans, are friendly and welcoming in most of the areas that you visit. The majority of the city center is safe to explore. Below are some neighborhoods that are known to be safe for foreigners entering South Korea.

Seongbuk-Dong

Seongbuk-Dong is not a very popular place among tourists but not because it is dangerous or boring. This beautiful neighborhood is a hidden gem with fantastic cafes and lovely natural attractions, and it is safe, too.

Pyeongchang-Dong

This wealthy area has some pretty impressive houses, parks with good air quality, and lots of art galleries. It is a great spot for art enthusiasts to check out, and is nice and quiet as well.

The Hongdae neighborhood sees lots of foreigners because it is home to several great universities. It is also a festive area with a lively personality and is a fantastic place for tourists to explore.

Is Seoul public transportation safe?

It is said one should be careful when using public transport in Seoul. There are instances of petty theft like pickpocketing so you'll need to keep a close eye on your items while using the subway, overnight trains or buses.

Make sure the taxi driver you hire starts the meter as soon as you begin your drive because they might try to overcharge you. Also, because of the language barrier, it is a good idea to have your destination written down to prevent any destination miscommunications.

You'll need to be cautious when crossing the street or when driving yourself around, as there is a tremendous amount of traffic. It is definitely worth it to take an extra moment at the pedestrian crossings to ensure that no cars are coming your way.

Important emergency numbers in Seoul

Seoul does have some good local laws that make it a safe place, but you never know when you might need help from essential services or other local authorities. Keep these emergency numbers, as well as your embassy number, handy during your entire vacation.

Emergency Fire and Ambulance: 119
Police: 112
Emergency Medical Services: 1339
Foreign Traveler Hotline: 1330
Missing Persons or Property: 182

A safe vacation in Seoul

Seoul is a marvelous place to visit and is just as safe if not safer than the other cities found nearby. From wonderful palaces to terrific shopping to food adventures, Seoul will not disappoint.

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Home > national > social affairs.

State Department says Korea is totally safe to visit

A sign advertises round-the-clock service in Hongdae, western Seoul, on Tuesday night after social distancing measures were lifted in Korea. [NEWS1]

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S. Korea to lift overall special travel advisory over COVID-19

SEOUL, April 13 (Yonhap) -- The South Korean government on Wednesday said it has decided to lift a special travel advisory affecting all overseas travel as a measure against the COVID-19 pandemic.

The across-the-board special advisory, introduced in March 2020 and extended on a monthly basis, will be lifted, effective Thursday, in consideration of the country's new virus control strategy and COVID-19 situations abroad, according to the foreign ministry.

But it plans to maintain a special travel advisory in place for China, Russia and two dozen other nations, as well as a traditional four-tier travel alert system for designated foreign areas.

[email protected] (END)

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COVID-19: travel health notice for all travellers

South Korea travel advice

Latest updates: The Health section was updated - travel health information (Public Health Agency of Canada)

Last updated: April 16, 2024 10:38 ET

Tensions on the Korean Peninsula

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

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

Registration of Canadians Abroad

Crime against foreigners is generally low. Petty crime occurs in major metropolitan areas, tourist sites and public markets. Remain aware of your surroundings in crowded entertainment, nightlife and shopping districts.

Petty crime and sexual harassment can occur in public spaces including bars and restaurants, and on buses.

Avoid walking alone, especially after dark.
Ensure that your personal belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, are secure at all times.

You can report crimes, including a sexual assault, to the Korean National Police Agency by dialling 112. This is a 24-hour, 7-day-a-week service. For non-Korean speakers, the police will link an interpreter into the call.

Women’s safety

Women travelling alone may be subject to certain forms of harassment. Sexual assault and harassment do occur, particularly around bars and nightlife areas, such as Itaewon and Hongdae-Ipgu.

Local authorities may not always respond adequately to reports of sexual violence and harassment. If you are sexually assaulted, you should report it immediately to local authorities and to the nearest Canadian government office.

Avoid travelling alone, especially at night
Remain vigilant
Be careful when dealing with strangers or recent acquaintances

Advice for women travellers

Demonstrations

Political, labour and student demonstrations and marches may occur. Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can lead to significant disruptions to traffic and public transportation.

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

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Civil emergency exercises

Civil emergency exercises are held for fires, earthquakes, other disasters and civil defence drills by the Ministry of the Interior and Safety.

In 2024, four exercises will take place in March, May, August and October. The exercise on August 21, 2024, will be a nationwide exercise. Depending on the exercise, sirens may sound, transport may stop and authorities may ask some people to take shelter in metro stations or basements. While visitor participation is not necessary, familiarize yourself with procedures and check local announcements for further exercises.

Useful links

Ministry of the Interior and Safety
National Disaster and Safety Portal

Emergency assistance mobile application

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

Emergency Ready App - Google Play
Emergency Ready - iTunes

Road safety

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

Speeding, running red lights, lane changes without signalling and other risky driving behaviours are common, particularly by buses, taxis and motorcyclists. Motorcycles are sometimes driven on sidewalks.

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

Public transportation

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

High-speed train services (KTX and SRT) link Seoul and major southern cities such as Busan, Gwangju and Mokpo.

Book high-speed train tickets – Korail
Book high-speed train tickets – SRT

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

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

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

Verify this information with the Foreign Representatives in Canada .

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

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

Regular Canadian passport

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

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

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

Screening measures

The Korea Immigration Service will screen your body temperature upon your arrival at the airport. They may test you for infectious diseases including cholera and Zika virus. In some cases, authorities may quarantine you for medical observation if you show flu-like symptoms or test positive for an infectious disease.

Children and travel

Learn more about travelling with children .

Yellow fever

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

Relevant Travel Health Notices

Global Measles Notice - 13 March, 2024
COVID-19 and International Travel - 13 March, 2024

This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not all risks are listed below.

Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health advice and recommendations.

Routine vaccines

Be sure that your routine vaccinations , as per your province or territory , are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.

Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary.

Yellow fever is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.

Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.

There is no risk of yellow fever in this country.

Country Entry Requirement*

Proof of vaccination is not required to enter this country.

Recommendation

Vaccination is not recommended.

* It is important to note that country entry requirements may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.

About Yellow Fever

Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada

There is a risk of hepatitis A in this destination. It is a disease of the liver. People can get hepatitis A if they ingest contaminated food or water, eat foods prepared by an infectious person, or if they have close physical contact (such as oral-anal sex) with an infectious person, although casual contact among people does not spread the virus.

Practise safe food and water precautions and wash your hands often. Vaccination is recommended for all travellers to areas where hepatitis A is present.

Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) is a risk in some areas of this destination. It is a viral disease that affects the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord). It is spread to humans by the bite of infected ticks or occasionally when unpasteurized milk products are consumed.

Travellers to areas where TBE is found may be at higher risk during April to November, and the risk is highest for people who hike or camp in forested areas.

Protect yourself from tick bites . The vaccine is not available in Canada. It may be available in the destination you are travelling to.

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.

Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.

Japanese encephalitis is a viral infection that can cause swelling of the brain. It is spread to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito. Risk is very low for most travellers. Travellers at relatively higher risk may want to consider vaccination for JE prior to travelling.

Travellers are at higher risk if they will be:

travelling long term (e.g. more than 30 days)
making multiple trips to endemic areas
staying for extended periods in rural areas
visiting an area suffering a JE outbreak
engaging in activities involving high contact with mosquitos (e.g., entomologists)

Hepatitis B is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus. Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B.

Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers. Prevent hepatitis B infection by practicing safe sex, only using new and sterile drug equipment, and only getting tattoos and piercings in settings that follow public health regulations and standards.

The best way to protect yourself from seasonal influenza (flu) is to get vaccinated every year. Get the flu shot at least 2 weeks before travelling.

The flu occurs worldwide.

In the Northern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs from November to April.
In the Southern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs between April and October.
In the tropics, there is flu activity year round.

The flu vaccine available in one hemisphere may only offer partial protection against the flu in the other hemisphere.

The flu virus spreads from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Clean your hands often and wear a mask if you have a fever or respiratory symptoms.

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally.

Before travelling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.

Malaria is a serious and sometimes fatal disease that is caused by parasites spread through the bites of mosquitoes. Limited malaria transmission may occur in this destination, but risk to travellers is very low. Antimalarial medication is not recommended for most travellers. Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic before travelling to discuss your options. It is recommended to do this 6 weeks before travel, however, it is still a good idea any time before leaving. Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times:

Cover your skin and use an approved insect repellent on uncovered skin.
Exclude mosquitoes from your living area with screening and/or closed, well-sealed doors and windows.
Use insecticide-treated bed nets if mosquitoes cannot be excluded from your living area.
Wear permethrin-treated clothing.

If you develop symptoms similar to malaria when you are travelling or up to a year after you return home, see a health care professional immediately. Tell them where you have been travelling or living.

In this destination, rabies may be present in some wildlife species, including bats. Rabies is a deadly disease that spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from an infected animal.

If you are bitten or scratched by an animal while travelling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional.

Before travel, discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional. It may be recommended for travellers who will be working directly with wildlife.

Safe food and water precautions

Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.

Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs.

Typhoid is a bacterial infection spread by contaminated food or water. Risk is higher among children, travellers going to rural areas, travellers visiting friends and relatives or those travelling for a long period of time.

Travellers visiting regions with a risk of typhoid, especially those exposed to places with poor sanitation, should speak to a health care professional about vaccination.

Insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:

Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
Minimize exposure to insects
Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed

To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.

Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.

There is a risk of chikungunya in this country. The risk may vary between regions of a country. Chikungunya is a virus spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. Chikungunya can cause a viral disease that typically causes fever and pain in the joints. In some cases, the joint pain can be severe and last for months or years.

Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times. There is no vaccine available for chikungunya.

Animal precautions

Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.

Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.

Person-to-person infections

Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette , which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:

washing your hands often
avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) , HIV , and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.

Tuberculosis is an infection caused by bacteria and usually affects the lungs.

For most travellers the risk of tuberculosis is low.

Travellers who may be at high risk while travelling in regions with risk of tuberculosis should discuss pre- and post-travel options with a health care professional.

High-risk travellers include those visiting or working in prisons, refugee camps, homeless shelters, or hospitals, or travellers visiting friends and relatives.

Medical services and facilities

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

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

Travel health and safety

Keep in Mind...

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

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

You must abide by local laws.

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

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

Overview of the criminal law system in South Korea

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

Drugs, alcohol and travel

Support for anti-government organizations

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

Photography

Photography of military installations and government buildings is illegal.

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

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

International Driving Permit

Teaching English

Carefully review any contract to teach English in South Korea before signing it, even when arranged by a Canadian recruiter. There have been reports that some contracts have been modified after the fact. Ensure that all terms and conditions of employment are clear before accepting an offer. Ensure that you meet all the necessary requirements.

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

Guide for teaching English in Korea

Dual citizenship

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

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

A male dual citizen whose name appears on the Korean family relation certificate may be subject to compulsory military service, even when entering South Korea on a Canadian passport. Before travelling to South Korea, Canadian males of Korean origin may need to renounce their Korean citizenship or have their names removed from the Korean family relation certificate to avoid this requirement.

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

Entry/exit requirements
Foreign diplomatic missions and consulates in Canada
General information for travellers with dual citizenship

International Child Abduction

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

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

If you are in this situation:

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

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

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

List of Canadian Central Authorities for the Hague Convention
International Child Abduction: A Guidebook for Left-Behind Parents
Travelling with children
The Hague Convention - Hague Conference on Private International Law
Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
Emergency Watch and Response Centre

2SLGBTQI+ travellers

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

2SLGBTQI+ travellers should carefully consider the risks of travelling to South Korea.

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

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

Rainy and typhoon seasons

The rainy season extends from late June until August. July is usually the wettest month. Severe rainstorms can cause flooding and landslides.

Typhoons occur in August and September. These severe storms can cause significant loss of life and extensive damage to infrastructure. They can hamper the provision of essential services.

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

know that you expose yourself to serious safety risks
be prepared to change your travel plans on short notice, including cutting short or cancelling your trip
stay informed of the latest regional weather forecasts
carry emergency contact information for your airline or tour operator
follow the advice and instructions of local authorities
Korea Meteorological Administration
Tornadoes, cyclones, hurricanes, typhoons and monsoons
Large-scale emergencies abroad

Air pollution

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

Air pollution in South Korea - World Air Quality Index

Wildfires are common in the spring months, but are generally contained within inaccessible areas. The air quality in areas near active fires may deteriorate due to heavy smoke. In case of a major fire:

stay away from the affected area, particularly if you suffer from respiratory ailments
follow the instructions of local emergency services personnel
monitor local media for up-to-date information on the situation
National Fire Agency - Korean Ministry of the Interior and Safety
Korea Forest Service - Ministry for Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs

Local services

In case of emergency, dial:

police: 112
medical assistance: 119
firefighters: 119

An English interpretation service is available.

Consular assistance

For emergency consular assistance, call the Embassy of Canada to South Korea and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.

The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.

The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.

If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.

Learn more about consular services .

Risk Levels

take normal security precautions.

Take similar precautions to those you would take in Canada.

Exercise a high degree of caution

There are certain safety and security concerns or the situation could change quickly. Be very cautious at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.

IMPORTANT: The two levels below are official Government of Canada Travel Advisories and are issued when the safety and security of Canadians travelling or living in the country or region may be at risk.

Avoid non-essential travel

Your safety and security could be at risk. You should think about your need to travel to this country, territory or region based on family or business requirements, knowledge of or familiarity with the region, and other factors. If you are already there, think about whether you really need to be there. If you do not need to be there, you should think about leaving.

Avoid all travel

You should not travel to this country, territory or region. Your personal safety and security are at great risk. If you are already there, you should think about leaving if it is safe to do so.

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Warnings and insurance.

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO ) provides advice about risks of travel to help British nationals make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice .

Before you travel

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

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

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

Travel insurance

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South Korea to lift quarantine mandate for COVID-19 and end testing recommendation for travelers

South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol, center, speaks during a meeting of the Central Disaster and Safety Countermeasures Headquarters about measures to deal with the coronavirus pandemic at the presidential office in Seoul, South Korea, Thursday, May 11, 2023. South Korea will drop its COVID-19 quarantine requirements and end testing recommendations for international arrivals starting next month after the World Health Organization declared the end of the global health emergency. (Yonhap via AP)

South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol, center, applauds to encourage medical workers during a meeting of the Central Disaster and Safety Countermeasures Headquarters about measures to deal with the coronavirus pandemic at the presidential office in Seoul, South Korea, Thursday, May 11, 2023. South Korea will drop its COVID-19 quarantine requirements and end testing recommendations for international arrivals starting next month after the World Health Organization declared the end of the global health emergency. (Yonhap via AP)

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SEOUL, South Korea (AP) — South Korea will drop its COVID-19 quarantine requirements and end testing recommendations for international arrivals starting next month after the World Health Organization declared the end of the global health emergency.

In lowering the coronavirus alert level from “critical” to plainly “alert” starting June 1, health authorities will also lift mask mandates in pharmacies and small clinics but will continue require mask wearing in large hospitals and long-term care facilities and other medical venues with high infection risks.

The decision was announced during a meeting attended by President Yoon Suk Yeol, where he thanked the country’s medical workers and said it was “delightful that people are getting their normal lives back after three and a half years.”

He said his government will take steps to improve the country’s capacity to deal with future pandemics, including providing stronger support for vaccine developments and expanding international cooperation.

South Korea has been requiring seven-day quarantines for virus carriers. While the mandate will be lifted from June 1, health officials will continue to recommend people to isolate for five days if they test positive for the virus, the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency said. Travelers had been advised to take PCR tests within three days after arriving in the country, but that recommendation will also be lifted.

Youngmee Jee, KDCA’s commissioner, downplayed worries that virus measures were being loosened too quickly, saying that the country’s COVID-19 situation was stabilizing, partially because of high vaccination rates and immunity gained through infections during previous waves of the virus.

The fatality rate of COVID-19 after a steady decline is now at a similar level with influenza and there are enough medical resources to deal with a modest rise in infections, with about half of the country’s 700 hospital beds designated to treat serious cases currently vacant, Jee said.

She said officials will maintain preventive measures to protect vulnerable groups, including senior citizens and people with medical conditions, and continue financial support to lower the costs of tests and hospitalizations for virus carriers.

“The risk of COVID-19 is not yet over, but considering the decline in cases, improved medical response capacities and high levels of immunity, we have reached a point where we need to step out of an international emergency state and transition toward a long-term management phase,” Jee said during a briefing.

The announcement came as health workers reported 20,574 new COVID-19 cases on Thursday, which represented a slight increase from last week’s level. Lee Sang-won, KDCA’s chief of epidemiological investigations, said the pace of the country’s COVID-19 infections has moderately increased in recent weeks because of the spread of XBB, a new omicron variant. He said it was unlikely that the spread would develop into another huge wave of the virus.

There are concerns that the lifting of the quarantine mandate will result in people showing up to work when sick, considering the country’s notoriously harsh work culture.

Lim Sook-young, another KDCA official, said the government, for the time being, will continue to provide subsidies to COVID-19 patients in low-income brackets and to small companies when they offer paid leave to sick employees, so that infected people could be encouraged to isolate and recover.

She said government agencies were debating further plans to “institutionalize a culture of resting when sick,” including pushing employers to establish consistent guidelines over paid and sick leave and provide employees expanded options for working at home.

South Korea had maintained a stringent COVID-19 response based on aggressive testing, contact tracing and quarantines during the earlier part of the pandemic, but has eased most of its virus controls since last year as the omicron variant’s surge rendered those containment strategies irrelevant.

WHO had declared an end to the COVID-19 emergency last week , though Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus noted the viral disease remained a global health threat.

International

February 22 coronavirus news

By Helen Regan , Adam Renton and Tara John, CNN

US State Department raises travel advisory for South Korea

From Gregory Clary

The US State Department raised the travel alert for Americans to Level 2 on Saturday for travel to South Korea due to the coronavirus outbreak, according to a release from the department .

The alert advises travelers to “exercise increased caution” and follow Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s guidelines in preventing illness such as avoiding sick people and frequent hand washing.

Italy sees spike in coronavirus cases, as 10 villages shut down

From CNN's Livia Borghese in Rome

Personnel move new beds into a hospital in Codogno, Italy, on Friday, February 21.

The total number of confirmed cases in Italy has risen to 55, a spike that is attributed to a rise in cases in the country's north.

This includes 39 confirmed cases in the northern region of Lombardy and 12 in the Veneto region, the head of the Lombardy health department, Giulio Gallera, said at a press conference Saturday.

A 77-year-old female patient with coronavirus was found dead in her Lombardy home, he confirmed.

“We can say she is the second victim of coronavirus in Italy,” Gallera said. But he added that authorities still had to "investigate the relation between the death and the virus."

Infections spike: In Lombardy, 35 people tested positive in the town of Codogno, two in the city of Cremona, and two near the city of Pavia, Gallera added.

All public activities have also been suspended in 10 villages south of Milan, Gallera added.

According to the Lombardy region website, train stations in three places affected by the outbreak -- Codogno, Maleo, Casalpusterlengo -- will be closed from Saturday.

“All the people (who) tested positive have been in contact, directly or indirectly with the hospital of Codogno,” the governor of Lombardy region, Attilio Fontana, said.

Gallera said “patient one” was a 38-year-old man at Codogno hospital, who did not travel to China but met a friend who had.

Authorities have been testing colleagues, heath workers, and other people who had close contact with the first patient.

Japanese health minister admits 23 passengers were released from cruise ship without being retested for coronavirus

From CNN’s Yoko Wakatsuki in Tokyo

The Japanese Ministry of Health has discovered that 23 passengers from the Diamond Princess cruise ship were released after their quarantine without being retested, a condition of their release.

“I (feel deep) remorse that an operational mistake invited such a situation and we would like to make sure that such a situation will never occur again,” health minister Katsunobu Kato said during a press conference Saturday.

The ministry also confirmed that one of the ship’s passengers, a woman in her 60s from Tochigi Prefecture in Japan, tested positive for coronavirus after disembarking the Diamond Princess on February 19.

She was among the 443 passengers cleared to leave the ship on the first day of disembarkation after a 14-day quarantine.

She is the first known case of infection after the end of the passenger quarantine period.

"We are clearly at the brink" of pandemic, says top infectious disease doctor

From CNN's Chandelis Duster

Dr. Anthony Fauci, director of the US National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, told CNN he thinks "we are clearly at the brink" of a coronavirus pandemic.

In an interview with CNN's Michael Smerconish on Saturday, the nation's top infectious disease doctor said: "Our fate is going to be determined by the ability of countries outside of China that have travel-related cases. And now they're starting to develop sustained transmission from person to person to person."

"So when you get countries like Japan and South Korea that have these cases that are person to person to person without any real ability to point to where it came from, that's the makings of a pandemic," Fauci said.

"And if you have multiple countries like that, then the horse is out the barn. And it's going to be very difficult to prevent more cases from coming here to our own country."

Fauci said, however, that the risk to the US is still "very low," but warned that could "change rapidly." He also said evacuating Americans off the Diamond Princess cruise ship was a "difficult decision," but he believed it was "without a doubt the correct decision."

Israel releases warning on 9 South Korean tourists who tested positive for coronavirus on returning home

From CNN's Amir Tal and Oren Liebermann

In a strong statement, Israel's health ministry warned that nine South Korean tourists who visited the country recently have tested positive for coronavirus upon returning home.

The ministry called on anyone who may have come into close contact with the tour group for an extended period of time to self-quarantine.

The tourists visited some of the most popular sites in Israel and the West Bank from February 8 to 16, increasing the chance of a large-scale exposure in the region, the ministry said Saturday.

Providing a list of dates and locations, the ministry warned that anyone who came within two meters of the group for more than 15 minutes should self-quarantine for 14 days.

The group visited Masada in southern Israel, the Cave of the Patriarchs in Hebron, and the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem.

The potential for a large-scale exposure appears to be high given the number of tourists who regularly visit these sites and others.

The release of the statement on a Saturday is an indication of how seriously authorities are taking the threat of coronavirus spreading in Israel. Government statements are rarely released on Saturday in Israel since it is the Sabbath.

This comes after Israel announced its first case of the coronavirus on Friday. The victim is an Israeli woman who returned from the Diamond Princess cruise ship in Japan.

She was one of 11 passengers flown back from the Diamond Princess. The other 10 tested negative for the virus. All of the passengers remain quarantined in hospital.

Number of global cases now stands at more than 77,000

The scene inside an exhibition centre converted into a hospital in Wuhan, China, on February 17.

There are 77,809 confirmed cases of novel coronavirus and 2,372 deaths worldwide, according to the latest figures. The vast majority of these infections are in mainland China but outside its borders there are 1,521 cases in 31 different places. Here's the tally:

Japan: 738 cases, 3 deaths

South Korea: 433 cases, 2 deaths

Singapore: 86 cases

Hong Kong: 68 cases, 2 deaths

Thailand and United States: 35 cases each

Iran: 28 cases, 5 deaths

Taiwan: 26 cases, 1 death

Malaysia: 22 cases

Australia: 21 cases

Italy: 17 cases, 2 deaths

Vietnam and Germany: 16 cases each

France: 12 cases, 1 death

Macao: 10 cases

Canada, UAE and UK: 9 cases each

Philippines: 3 cases, 1 death

India: 3 cases

Russia and Spain: 2 cases each

Belgium, Cambodia, Finland, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Sweden, Egypt, Lebanon and Israel: 1 case each

WHO-led team working on the virus arrives in Wuhan

From CNN’s Jamie Gumbrecht and Hande Atay Alam in Atlanta

A joint mission working on the novel coronavirus arrived in Wuhan -- the city at the epicenter of the outbreak -- on Saturday, World Health Organization (WHO) spokesperson Dr. Margaret Harris told CNN.

The WHO-led team has previously worked in Beijing, Sichuan and Guangdong, WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said during a Friday press briefing.

Ghebreyesus said the team on the ground in China includes experts from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the US National Institutes of Health, as well as experts from Singapore, South Korea, Japan, Nigeria, Germany and Russia.

The team includes experts in epidemiology, virology, clinical management, outbreak control and public health.

Coronavirus fears have pushed the US dollar to a three-year high

From CNN's Anneken Tappe

The US dollar index reached a three-year high as investors worried about the global coronavirus outbreak are moving their money into the safe-haven greenback.

Investments considered safe in times of market turmoil have been rallying since the outbreak became Wall Street's number one worry in January. Cases continue to rise globally. The full financial and economic cost of the outbreak is incalculable.

But the United States, as well as dollar-denominated assets, are considered to be somewhat shielded from the outbreak's impact.

America's economy is less reliant on trade and exports than its peers, for example. That means the expected slowing of China's economic growth in the first quarter will hurt the United States less than it will other countries.

And the US economy has been going strong and is in its longest expansion in history.

The Atlanta Federal Reserve's GDPNow model forecasts US growth will accelerate to 2.6% in the first quarter. With a tight labor market and modestly rising wages, the American consumer, who is the backbone of the US economy, is in a good place.

Amid all this, the dollar has been rallying. No other currency stands a chance against the greenback's attractiveness, said Francesco Pesole, FX strategist at ING.

Read the rest of the article here

South Korea entering "grave situation" with virus spread, says PM

From CNN's Sophie Jeong in Seoul

An official in protective clothing sprays disinfectant in a subway station in Seoul.

South Korea's coronavirus outbreak is entering a “grave situation," the country's Prime Minister Chung Sye-kyun said during a press briefing, adding the government is "doing its best to prevent the spread."

He urged people to refrain from attending events where many people gather, such as religious events, or to consider other ways such as online meetings.

Chung also said that the government will “sternly deal” with acts that interfere with the country’s quarantine efforts, such as illegal hoarding of hygiene products and mass rallies.

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Travel advisory, travel advisory during covid-19.

Royal Brunei Airlines (RB) makes its best effort to update the information reflected in all Travel Advisory pages regularly, however entry or exit requirements and other travel requirements may change at very short notice. We advise our guests to check the latest advisory issued by relevant governments or authorities and be well-informed on all the travel requirements before their trip. Visit here to check the visa requirement and it is encouraged for you to check with your local embassy to confirm your visa and immigration requirements.

Please note it is our guests’ responsibility to ensure they meet the travel criteria and have all appropriate approvals and documents for travel. Without this RB is not permitted to allow guests to travel in-line with international air transport regulations. RB shall not be held responsible for any guests being denied boarding for not meeting the travel requirements.

Brunei Darussalam

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This section gives a summary applicable to foreign nationals entering or exiting Brunei Darussalam. Full entry/exit requirements can be found on the PMO Press Releases and announcements . Please note it is our guests’ responsibility to ensure they meet the travel criteria and have all appropriate approvals and documents for travel. Without this RB is not permitted to allow guests to travel in-line with international air transport regulations. RB shall not be held responsible for any guests being denied boarding for not meeting the travel requirements.

Failure to comply to any of the requirements is an offense under the Infectious Diseases Act (Chapter 204) and if found guilty, will be liable to a fine for up to $10,000 or imprisonment for a period of up to 6 months or both.

Exiting Brunei on and after 15 September 2022

Destination country requirements.

It is travellers’ responsibility to check and fulfill other requirements as required by the destination country to visit.
Should destination countries to visit require travellers to undergo RT-PCT test or ART before departure, travellers may undergo RT-PCR test at health center or private health clinic that provides services for RT-PCR test or ART at certified ART centres .
Travellers are advised to check Visa requirement of the country to visit before exiting Brunei. Travellers need to check with foreign embassies or refer destination country’s website for latest Visa requirement.

Travel Medical Insurance

Brunei Citizens and Permanent Residents travellers who are travelling for a short trip before 1 December 2022 , must obtain Travel Medical Insurance with COVID-19 coverage of a minimum coverage of BND 20,000 from Brunei-based or overseas insurer. The insurance must be valid for the duration of their stay in the destination country.

The following travellers are exempted from being required to obtain Travel Medical insurance with COVID-19 coverage:

Brunei Citizens and Permanent Residents travelling overseas for employment, for studies, as eligible dependents or hold a long-term visa/immigration pass in the destination country.
Permanent Residents who are travelling to their country of nationality.
Civil servants who are travelling overseas for official travel sponsored by Government of Brunei Darussalam.

Starting 1 December 2022 , Brunei Citizens and Permanent Residents travellers are no longer required to obtain Travel Medical insurance with COVID-19 coverage. Travellers wishing to obtain such insurance for their own peace of mind are welcome to do so.

Form and application

Brunei Citizens and Permanent Residents travellers are required to complete registration through the e-Register system at Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) website . This is ease communication in the event that assistance is required during emergency or crisis.
Citizens and Permanent Residents of Brunei exiting Brunei for education (Private Student) who will begin their studies overseas or returning to the country of studies must complete Ministry of Education’s Registration Form for private student .

Vaccination status

Starting 15 September 2022, COVID-19 vaccination is no longer be an entry or exit requirement for Brunei Darussalam.

Mask policy on RB Flights

As per the updated regulations by Brunei government, effective 15 September 2022, use of face mask onboard RB flights is no longer mandatory with the following exception:

for guests travelling to a country/destination where face mask is required, and/or
for guests exhibiting symptoms of an infection.

As Brunei travel requirements may change at short notice, please refer to the latest travel advisory issued by the Brunei government and Prime Minister’s Office before your departure. If the information differs from our travel advisory, it is recommended that you follow the official guidance from Prime Minister’s Office, as we may still be processing the latest regulatory changes.

Entering into Brunei on and after 15 September 2022

E-arrival card effective 9 february 2023.

Starting 9 February 2023, it is a mandatory for foreign nationals arriving Brunei Darussalam to register the electronic e-Arrival Card. This is to replace the previous Form 19, the physical registration paper for arrival/departure.

Mandatory to register at least 3 days before arriving and entering Brunei Darussalam. No fee will be charged for registration.
Foreign nationals who travel to Brunei for the purpose of transit/stopover and not going through the immigration control post (LTAB) are not required to register e-Arrival Card.
Passport/Valid Individual Travel Document
Information on residence in Brunei Darussalam
Flight or Vehicle information used

Visa requirement for Foreign travellers

Foreign travellers are advised to check Visa requirements before entering Brunei Darussalam in accordance with regulations that are currently enforced. Visa requirements can be referred from Ministry of Foreign Affairs website .

Foreign travellers who are on short-term visit into Brunei Darussalam before 1 December 2022 , must obtain Travel Medical Insurance with COVID-19 coverage of a minimum coverage of BND 20,000 from Brunei-based or overseas insurer. The insurance must be valid for the duration of their stay in Brunei Darussalam.

Brunei Citizens and Permanent Residents returning to Brunei Darussalam.
Foreign nationals entering Brunei Darussalam for the purpose of long-term visit such as employment, studying or as eligible dependent.

Starting 1 December 2022 , foreign travellers are no longer required to obtain Travel Medical insurance with COVID-19 coverage. Travellers wishing to obtain such insurance for their own peace of mind are welcome to do so.

With the above, non-fully vaccinated travellers are not required to undergo post-arrival COVID-19 tests.

Starting 15 September 2022, travellers are not required to complete Arrival Declaration Form (ADF) before travelling into Brunei Darussalam.

All guests arriving into Australia are reminded to comply with all other requirements set-forth by the Australian government and state/territories. Please check the latest requirements to confirm your eligibility before booking.

All guests arriving into Australia who do not meet these criteria will be subjected to Australia’s travel restrictions as well as state or territory quarantine requirements of the jurisdiction where they arrive into Australia. If you do not meet these criteria and wish to travel to Australia, please contact Royal Brunei Airlines to make arrangements.

International guests arriving in New South Wales, Victoria or the Australian Capital Territory are not automatically permitted to transit to another state or territory. Guests are advised to check interstate travel requirements.

Masks are mandatory for the duration of the flight and while in Australian airports, and should also be worn in airports in other countries.

Travelling to Australia on or after 18 April 2022

For more information on the travel requirements to/from Australia, you may visit the following links.

Australia’s Official COVID-19 Travel Requirements Homepage

From 6 July 2022, the followings are no longer needed:

Travellers travelling to and departing Australia are no longer required to provide evidence of their vaccination status
Unvaccinated visa holders will not require a travel exemption
Travellers are no longer required to complete the Digital Passenger Declaration

Effective 00:01 AEDT on 5 January 2023, t ravellers entering Australia by air from China, including Hong Kong and Macau, either on a direct flight, or on a flight that has a stopover in another country before landing in Australia are subjected to a new requirement. It is travellers’ responsibility to check the latest requirement or here and be well-informed on the requirements before their trip.

For travellers, including Australian citizens and permanent residents who are listed below, COVID-19 test is mandatory to be taken within 48 hours prior to departure Australia .

Travellers entering Australia from the People’s Republic of China and the Special Administrative Regions of Hong Kong and Macau.
Travellers boarding flights from China, including Hong Kong and Macau and ending in Australia. This includes indirect flights transiting through a third country.
Travellers who are from China and intend to spend several days in Australia before travelling to another country.
Travellers who are transiting through China, including Hong Kong and Macau and spending several days prior to travelling to Australia.
In the case of flight has been re-scheduled or cancelled, travellers are required to present negative COVID-19 RAT, NAAT or PCR test result taken not more than 48 hours before the day of new departure time.

With the above, travellers are required to provide evidence of a negative test result prior to boarding and upon arrival and may need to provide the evidence of negative result again upon arrival in Australia.

Accepted test for COVID-19 are as follows:

COVID-19 test is not required for:

Travellers who travel from China, including Hong Kong or Macau to another country and spend several days there prior to travelling to Australia.
Travellers who are transiting through China, including Hong Kong or Macau originating in other countries.
Travellers who are transiting in Australia and directly travelling to and onwards destination.
Airline crew.
Children under age of 12 years on the day of scheduled departure.
Travellers with evidence from medical practitioner of a COVID-19 infection in the last 30 days, and must present confirmation they are no longer infectious or symptomatic. Travellers’ first of positive result must be at least days before the date of the medical certificate.
Travellers with evidence from medical practitioner in the last 30 days with medical condition that prevents them from undertaking a COVID-19 test.
Emergency medical evacuation flights and those who are accompanying people of these flights.
In the case of flight delay and travellers have met the pre-departure testing requirements, new RAT, PCR test or other NAAT is not required.

All travellers entering Singapore on/after 1 April 2022 are subjected to Singapore’s new Vaccinated Travel Framework. Travel requirements via the Vaccinated Travel Framework is dependent on the traveller’s vaccination status.

Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) of Singapore has provided detailed travel requirement checklist for the following traveller’s profile:

Entering Singapore
Transiting in Singapore
Departing Singapore

Malaysia has reopened its borders to international travellers. All travellers are to comply with the travel requirements by the Malaysian government. We advise our guests to check the latest advisory issued by relevant governments or authorities and be well-informed on all the travel requirements before their trip. Malaysia’s travel requirement can be checked from safetravel.gov.my .

Take note that requirements may change last minute and it is travellers’ responsibility to have all necessary approvals and/or documentation for travel.

In accordance with the Philippines Department of Transport, guests entering and departing from Manila (Ninoy Aquino International Airport) are required to wear a face mask onboard the aircraft and at the airport (face shields are optional). All passengers are no longer required to download and register an account in the TRAZE CONTACT TRACING mobile app prior to entering The Philippines.

In compliance with Philippines regulations, the Inter-Agency Task Force on the management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF-EID), guests are required to follow the arrival and quarantine protocols for non-OFWs and returning Overseas Filipinos & Foreign Nationals when travelling to The Philippines. Guests are reminded that it is their responsibility to follow, meet all entry/exit guidelines of The Philippines.

Effective 1 May 2023, paper-based Arrival/Departure Cards will be discontinued by The Philippine Bureau of Immigration. All passengers are required to fill in the eTravel declaration before their arrival into Manila. It is recommended for travellers complete their registration within 72 hours/3 days prior departure at the country of origin to avoid inconvenience upon arrival.

Philippine additional travel requirement

Guests carrying foreign or Philippine currency or monetary instrument exceeding USD 10,000 or PHP 50,000 pesos are required to fill out the Customs Baggage Declaration Form and Currencies ( here ) Declaration Form. This form is then to be submitted by guests to Duty Customs Officer at the arrival area of the airport

More information on infomercial on cross-border transport of local and foreign currency and monetary instrument can be found here .

Philippine's Fully vaccinated criteria

Fully vaccinated against COVID-19 is considered:

If travellers has received the second dose in a 2-dose of COVID-19 vaccines series OR
If travellers has received a single dose of COVID-19 vaccine more than fourteen (14) days before the departure date of country of origin

Travel Requirement-For Vaccinated Travellers

Fully vaccinated Filipinos and Foreign Nationals are no longer required to do pre-departure test.
With primary vaccine are allowed to enter the Philippines provided that the last dose is received 14 days before date of departure. Booster is no longer required.
World Health Organization International Certificate of Vaccination and Prophylaxis;
National or state manual/digital vaccination certificate of the country/foreign government;
Other proof of vaccination.

Travel Requirement-For Unvaccinated Travellers, Partially Vaccinated

Filipinos and Foreign Nationals travellers who are unvaccinated, partially vaccinated or those with vaccinations which cannot be verified are allowed to enter the Philippines provided that travellers take antigen test for COVID-19 24 hours before travel.
Antigen test is available upon arrival for purchase, however, passenger is encouraged to take the COVID-19 test before travelling into the Philippines. This is to avoid the inconvenience of queuing in order to be tested upon arrival and waiting for the result to be released.
Filipinos and Foreign Nationals of age fifteen (15) years or older shall present a remotely supervised, or a laboratory-based rapid antigen negative test result administered and certified by a healthcare professional in a healthcare facility, laboratory, clinic, pharmacy, or other similar establishment taken within twenty-four (24) hours, prior to the date and time of departure from the country of origin/first port of embarkation in a continuous travel to the Philippines, excluding lay-overs; provided, that he/she has not left the airport premises or has not been admitted into another country during such lay-over.
Filipinos and Foreign nationals of age fifteen (15) years or older who fail to present negative pre-departure testing with conditions set forth above, shall be required to undergo a laboratory-based rapid antigen negative test administered and certified by a healthcare professional in a healthcare facility, laboratory, clinic, pharmacy, or other similar establishment taken upon arrival at the airport.
Accompanied minors of age below fifteen (15) years who are not vaccinated for any reason whatsoever shall follow the quarantine protocols of their parent/s or an accompanying adult/guardian traveling with them.
Unaccompanied minors of age below 15 years who are not vaccinated for any reason whatsoever shall follow the protocols set forth in #3 and #4 above.

Additional requirements for Foreign Nationals

Foreign Nationals must:

Hold passport with a validity of at least 6 months at the time of entry into the Philippines.
Have a valid visa (if applicable) for those who are not entitled to a visa-free entry in the Philippines, as well those with immigrant and non-immigrant status.
Foreign spouses and/or children of Filipino citizens who are travelling with them.
Former Filipino citizens with Balikbayan privileges under Republic Act No. 9174, including their spouse and/or children, who are travelling with them.

Isolation and Quarantine

In the event that travelers tested positive for COVID-19, they will be subjected to undergo further testing validation, mandatory facility quarantine and recovery as implemented by the Philippines Bureau of Quarantine and Department of Health (DOH).

As of 4am on 18 March 2022, all travellers, regardless of vaccination status, are not required to take any COVID-19 tests or fill in a passenger locator form when travelling to the United Kingdom from abroad.

We advise our guests to check the latest advisory issued by relevant governments or authorities and be well-informed on all the travel requirements before their trip. Please note it is our guests’ responsibility to ensure they meet the travel criteria and have all appropriate approvals and documents for travel. Without this, RB is not permitted to allow guests to travel in-line with international air transport regulations. RB shall not be responsible for any guests being denied boarding for not meeting the travel requirements.

Effective 04:00 UTC on 5 January 2023, travellers entering United Kingdom by air from China (not including Hong Kong and Macau), either on a direct flight , or on indirect flight . It is travellers’ responsibility to check the latest requirement and be well-informed on the requirements before their trip.

It is mandatory for travellers stated below to obtain pre-departure COVID-19 test and a negative result from Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) or Lateral Flow Device (LFD)/RAPID Antigen Test (RAT) taken within 2 days of departure . Please note that pre-departure tests are not accepted if they are provided or administered by the UK National Health Service.

Travellers arriving United Kingdom by air, either on direct or indirect flight from China (not including Hong Kong and Macau). Indirect flight is referred to booking either via single airline operator or with more than one airline operator as a single itinerary journey where travellers are ‘ticketed through’. Indirect flights are only in scope if the traveller transits airside through any connecting airports, i.e. without passing through immigration control. The requirement applies where travellers’ final destination is in England or where they are transiting through England.
Indirect flights via any third country or territory, Hong Kong or Macao are included.
Traveller’s flight departing mainland China is delayed and previous pre-departure test sample is taken more than 2 days of departure.
In the case of indirect flight, pre-departure must be taken within 2 days of departure of the first flight that departs mainland China. Delays to subsequent sectors does not require travellers to undertake new pre-departure test.

As of 8 January 2023, some passengers will be invited to participate in a voluntary test upon arrival in order to monitor for potential new variants.

Proof of negative result must be:

An original copy of certificate either paper or digital form.
In English, French or Spanish.
Containing name of the person from whom the sample was taken (Name should matches with traveller’s travel document).
Containing date of birth or age from whom the sample was taken (Date of birth should matches with traveller’s travel document).
Stating the result of the test.
Stating the date when the sample was collected or received by test provider (which must be within 2 days of departure).
Stating the name of test provider and their contact details.
Stating the name of test device or type of test used.

This requirement is not mandatory for those mentioned below. Please refer here for latest exemption.

Children of age 11 years or below.
Aircraft crew.
Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) inspectors.
Crown Civil servants on diplomatic duty or carrying out essential government work.
Defence workers.
Essential or emergency workers.
Travellers travelling to the UK to conduct official business.
Travellers who have travelled to the United Kingdom for the purpose of transporting material which is to be used for the provision of healthcare by a healthcare provider.
Travellers with medical condition or disability and unable to take COVID-19 test and must provide supporting evidence. Evidence can be obtained from medical practitioner in English or certified English translation should be provided by traveller.
Travellers travelling for urgent medical treatment where it is not reasonably practicable to obtain negative COVID-19 test within 2 days before departure.
Travellers accompanying another traveller travelling for urgent medical treatment where it is not reasonably practicable to obtain negative COVID-19 test within 2 days before departure.
Extradited travellers.

Effective 1 December 2020, All China-bound guests, regardless of nationalities, are required to present a green HS code (Chinese nationals) or HDC code (Foreign nationals) on their mobile devices or in print in order to board the flight. Guests are advised to upload copies of their negative COVID-19 Nucleic Acid Test (NAT) result and a negative IgM anti-body test from an authorized testing institution; within 2 days before boarding via Wechat (Chinese nationals) or website https://hrhk.cs.mfa.gov.cn/H5 (Foreign nationals) and fill in the required information. The Chinese Embassy will issue a green HS code (Chinese nationals) or HDC code (Foreign nationals) as soon as it verifies the results. Guests who fail to present all required documents will be denied boarding.

Only travellers with Umrah Visa is entitled to carry Zamzam bottles. Please note that Zamzam bottles will not accepted for travellers holding tourist visa.

All guests arriving Saudi Arabia must hold a passport and no other type of identification. Online eVisa is only eligible for Brunei Citizenship passport holders and not Brunei ICI (International Certificate of Identity) passport holders.

Immune travellers must fill out the Registration Immunization Information Form before traveling to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to allow them to register their immunization data which will enable them to use TAWAKKALNA APP. This does not apply to Saudi Citizens and exempted categories.

For more information, you may contact the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA)’s Passenger Care Center with toll free number 8001168888 or enquire through social media (@GacaCare), e-mail ( [email protected] ), or the Authority’s website: ( gaca.gov.sa ).

Please click here for details of the temporary suspension on travelling to and from countries within the Indian subcontinent.

The Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region announced in a press release on 28 December 2021 that in view of the latest global developments of the COVID-19 pandemic situation, Brunei Darussalam will be specified as Group A specified places from 00:00hrs on 31 December 2021 to tighten the boarding and quarantine requirements for relevant inbound travellers.

Non-Hong Kong residents are not allowed to enter Hong Kong.
If they have stayed in the same country in the previous 14 days
Have been fully vaccinated and hold a recognised vaccination record
Hold a negative COVID-19 polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-based nucleic acid test collected within 48 hours before departure
They will have to undergo compulsory quarantine in a designated quarantine hotel for 7 nights or 14 nights upon returning to Hong Kong. Refer to the official Hong Kong Government website for full quarantine requirements.
Details on the relevant boarding and compulsory quarantine requirements for respective specified places can be found here .

Brunei-issued vaccination booklet (yellow booklet) is not recognised as a valid proof of vaccination status. Using your BruHealth app, download a digital copy of your vaccination certificate to be used as a valid proof of vaccination status.

Travellers arriving into Indonesia are reminded to comply with the requirements set by the destination’s government and may change last minute. It is travellers’ responsibility to check the latest requirements and have all necessary approvals and/or documentation for travel.

Electronic Custom Declaration (e-CD) - Jakarta & Surabaya

Travellers arriving Jakarta are required to complete Electronic Custom Declaration (e-CD) three (3) days before arriving to Jakarta & Surabaya.

QR code will then be generated for travellers and to be shown custom officer.

Vaccination

All travellers (fully vaccinated and not fully vaccinated) are allowed to enter Indonesia.
Showing card or certificate as a proof of vaccination is no longer needed.

Mobile Application

Travellers are no longer required to download and use SatuSehat/Peduli Lindungi mobile application .

Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport reminds passengers to arrive at the airport at least 3 hours prior to departure for international flights. With longer waiting times and queues reported at the airport within the last month, RB advises our guests to immediately proceed to immigration and security check after check-in/baggage drop. We would also like to advise you to utilise online check-in for faster check-in process. Please be reminded that RB Check-in counter at Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport opens 3 hours prior to scheduled departure and closes 45 mins before scheduled departure time.

Starting 9 January 2023, entry measures into Thailand are as below. We advise our guests to check the latest advisory issued by relevant government or authorities and be well-informed on all travel requirements before their trip.

Foreigners are longer required to show proof of COVID-19 insurance coverage. However, purchasing travel insurance is highly recommended.
Travel insurance is mandatory for travellers from and to India and China. Insurance validity must be +7 days for the duration of stay in Thailand.
Foreigners are no longer required to register Thailand pass or Certificate of Entry (COE) before departure.
Mandatory Quarantine requirement has been removed.
Proof of vaccination to Thai authorities before arriving are no longer needed.

All United Arab Emirates (UAE) residents, visitors and tourist can enter Dubai. However, visitor and tourists have to meet the visa requirements (if needed) before travelling into Dubai. Refer here for visa requirements to enter UAE.

It is travellers’ responsibility to check the latest requirements and have all necessary approvals and/or documentation for travel.

Be fully vaccinated with a vaccine approved by the World Health Organisation (WHO) or the UAE .
All travellers arriving into the UAE are no longer required to present a COVID‑19 vaccination certificate or perform PCR tests.
Recovered COVID-19 traveller must present a valid medical certificate from the relevant authorities issued within one month before the date of arrival. The certificate must contain a QR code.

The following people are exempt from presenting a COVID-19 test or a vaccination certificate at the departure airport:

all UAE nationals returning to Dubai from any country
non‑UAE nationals accompanying a first‑degree UAE national family member
domestic workers accompanying a UAE national sponsor.

The following people are exempt from being tested for COVID-19:

children below 12 years of age
passengers with moderate to severe disabilities.

Moderate or severe disability includes neurological disorders and intellectual or developmental disabilities. For example: Acute spinal cord injury, Alzheimer’s disease, Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), Ataxia, Autism spectrum, Bell’s palsy, Brain tumours, Cerebral aneurysm, Cerebral palsy, Down Syndrome, Epilepsy and seizures. All other passengers, including those who are visually impaired, have a hearing impairment or are physically challenged, must hold a negative COVID‑19 RT‑PCR test certificate as per the requirements.

Guest arriving into Korea are reminded to comply with the requirements set by the destination’s government and may change last minute. It is guests’ responsibility to check the latest requirements and have all necessary approvals and/or documentation for travel.

Pre-departure COVID-19 test or PCR is no longer required upon arrival to South Korea.
From 18th December 2023 to 31st December 2024, Korea Electronic Travel Authorization (K-ETA) will be temporarily exempted for guests coming from Brunei. For guests who still wants to apply K-ETA to receive benefits such as not having to submit an arrival card upon entry, guest may apply for K-ETA and pay for the fee. Previously approved K-ETA will remain valid until its expiry date.

Japan has reopened its border to international travellers. All travellers are to comply with the travel requirements by their government. We advise our guests to check the latest advisory issued by relevant government or authorities and be well-informed on all travel requirements before their trip.

Vaccinated travellers

Certificate must be issued government or public institution.
Items in the certificate must be indicated in Japanese or English
It must be clearly stated on the certificate that the applicant has received three (3) doses of any of the vaccines listed on the WHO’s Emergency Use List.
Travellers are not required for pre-departure COVID-19 test.
Travellers are encouraged to fill up the questionnaire from FAST TRACK
To wear face mask indoors.
To sanitize hand thoroughly and wash hand frequently.
Avoid the three C’s (closed spaces, crowded places and close-contact settings).

Unvaccinated travellers

Travellers who does not have a valid vaccination certificate must obtain a certificate of test for COVID-19 (confirming negative) within 72 hours of departure. Without the certificate, travellers are not permitted to land in Japan.
Children under the age of 18 years without a valid vaccination certificate but travelling with guardian with a valid vaccination certificate, will adhere to same protocol as valid vaccination certificates.

All travellers travelling into Taiwan are to comply with the travel requirements by their government. We advise our guests to check the latest advisory issued by relevant government or authorities and be well-informed on all travel requirements before their trip.

Travellers arriving into Taiwan are no longer required to submit a health declaration via Quarantine System for Entry.
Travellers arriving into Taiwan are no longer required to have a mobile phone with a Taiwanese number.
Arriving travellers are no longer issued COVID-19 Health Declarations and home quarantine notices.
Covid-19 positive travellers must postpone their flights to Taiwan within five days after the specimen was collected.
Travellers arriving in the country with any suspected COVID-19 symptoms within 14 days of arrival should be assessed by a quarantine officer upon arrival and undergo a saliva PCR test.
Arriving travellers are no longer required to undergo quarantine, but rather undergo a seven-day period of self-initiated prevention.

Upon arrival,

Four rapid test kits will be provided to all travellers aged 2 and older. The rapid test kits should be stored properly and tested on the designated dates. Rapid test kit will not be provided to passengers who are under the age of 2, and they will not be required to perform rapid tests during the period of self-initiated prevention.
Passengers without symptoms may use public transportation, picked up by friends, relatives, companies or organizations.
Passengers with symptoms should take the quarantine vehicles.

During Self-initiated prevention measure period,

Travellers are required to stay at their primary home, a friend or relative’s residence, or a hotel that meets the requirement of one person per room (with a private bathroom) during the whole 7 days Self-initiated prevention measure period. However, if a shared bathroom can be cleaned and disinfected after each use, travellers can undergo self-initiated prevention in a room without a private bathroom. Cohabitants must take appropriate protective measures, including wearing face masks, practicing respiratory hygiene, washing hands frequently, and maintaining good hygiene and social distancing. They must avoid sharing food. Note: If all the people living with you or traveled with you need to undergo self-initiated prevention, the one person per room principle does not have to be followed.
Perform one rapid test on the date of entry or 1st day of self-initiated prevention (D0/D1).
A negative result from rapid test taken within the past 2 days is required before going out during the Self-initiated prevention period.
If travellers developed symptoms during the Self-initiated prevention period, rapid tests should be performed by travellers themselves.
Instructions for rapid test can be found here .
For children aged below 2 years and developed COVID-19 symptoms during the Self-initiated prevention period, caregivers can take symptomatic children to a doctor by driving, riding, walking or getting a ride from friends or family members. Caregivers can also contact their local health bureau to arrange medical treatment. In case of emergency medical needs, please call 119. Calling 119 for an ambulance is the advised mode of transportation. If an ambulance is not available, the caregiver should take a quarantine vehicle as instructed, get a ride from an individual residing in the same household to seek medical help, or seek medical care by themselves (e.g., walking or driving/riding). Note: Masks must be worn at all times, and no public transportation is allowed.

Please be informed transit at Brunei International Airport is currently not permitted. Guests are advised not to make bookings through a multiple city search that require a transit. Guests will not be permitted to board if travel restriction criteria and government approvals are not met. For further information please click here .

Requests for a full refund into a RB credit voucher or rebooking to a new travel date is applicable for all existing or new flights booked for travel until 31 October 2022 . This only applies to guests on affected flights. Please contact your nearest RB Customer Service Centre for assistance.

Please note that during this time, print-at-home boarding passes are temporarily unavailable. Kindly proceed to check-in counters for entry/exit approval verification and boarding pass collection. Check-in counters at the airport open three (3) hours prior to scheduled departure. It is our guests' responsibility to ensure they meet the strict travel criteria and have all appropriate approvals and documentations to enter/depart any country. Without these, RB is not permitted to allow guests to travel inline with international air transport regulations. Visit our dedicated COVID-19 page for more information.

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North korea fires suspected short-range missiles into the sea in its latest weapons test.

Associated Press

A TV screen shows a file image of North Korea's missiles launch during a news program at the Seoul Railway Station in Seoul, South Korea, Monday, April 22, 2024. North Korea fired multiple suspected short-range ballistic missiles toward its eastern waters on Monday, South Korea's military said, the latest in a recent series of weapons launches by the North. (AP Photo/Ahn Young-joon)

SEOUL – North Korea on Monday test-fired suspected short-range ballistic missiles into the sea, the country’s neighbors said, as speculation swirled that it could soon launch a banned satellite into orbit.

South Korea’s Joint Chiefs of Staff said the weapons launched from the North’s capital region flew about 300 kilometers (185 miles) before crashing in the waters between the Korean Peninsula and Japan. The ranges suggest the weapons could likely target sites in South Korea.

GBN expat secrets - South Korea: 'I got here and felt free - but there's a sinister aspect'

An expat in South Korea told Britons all about her new life

By Anna Barry

Published: 22/04/2024

Updated: 22/04/2024

GB News is talking to expats across Europe and the world who have exclusively revealed the best places to live, tips and tricks for moving abroad, and the potential pitfalls to avoid. This week, an expat in South Korea divulged all about her experience so far

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Ellie Walker, 26, moved to South Korea after a three-month study programme and completely fell in love with the country.

She now lives just outside of Seoul - the capital - and works as an English teacher in a primary school.

The expat spoke exclusively to GB News about her experience in South Korea and why she loves her new life, but she issued a stark warning to visitors about hidden cameras in public places.

Ellie told GB News: "South Korea is so different from England and moving here just felt freeing."

For the expat, finding friends and settling in was relatively easy. She reassured potential expats that foreigners are treated very well by the locals, whom she described as friendly and welcoming.

Ellie celebrating the Lunar New Year at work

Ellie Walker

She warned that Britons might be startled by the work culture though, issuing a warning to expats heading to South Korea before retiring age. She said: "The work culture is really tough. Work is so hard here."

She admitted: "You're expected to overwork. They say you aren't but you are."

As for holidays, workers aren't given the same amount of annual leave as they may be used to in the UK. Indeed, employees are granted 15 days of paid leave in their first year of work, to be increased with time spent at the place of work.

"You don't really get sick days either," Ellie added, "at least that's what I've experienced". She said: "When you're sick, you go to the doctor during your working day, then you go back to work."

But despite working hard, Ellie manages to enjoy herself thoroughly. She said: "Outside of work is fun. I wouldn't say people are friendlier - because British people are really friendly - but they're very helpful here. And they're warm.

"Koreans are good at English, especially in the capital, Seoul. They'll speak Korean first, but if you don't understand, they'll speak English."

But despite the friendliness of the locals, Ellie has found that most of her new friends in South Korea are expats like herself.

She said: "It's really easy to meet people, and there's a big expat community here."

There are plenty of ways expats can go about making friends. She said: "Seoul pub crawl is a weekly event where you can meet new people."

You can also look online. Ellie sought out fellow expats on Bumble BFF.

According to Ellie, Itaewon is a melting pot of expats. The trendy, lively Seoul neighbourhood "doesn't even really feel like Korea" because so many residents are foreigners. Ellie was even able to celebrate St Patrick's Day there back in March.

But while Ellie has not struggled to be social, she warned that not everyone has the same experience as her. "There's a big loneliness problem here," she revealed. "I saw on Reddit that people struggle to make friends because they don't always get on with the people they work with.

"And I understand that, because the work environment - in the schools anyway - is quite tough and high pressure. So I've been lucky."

She had a word of warning for tee-total expats though, claiming that it may be "harder" for them to make friends.

She explained: "Drinking is so huge here, and so casual - you drink with everything. It's more than in England, people get drunk on weekdays and then go to work the next day, it's a big thing.

"The liquor we have here - Soju - people just drink it straight and it's so strong. It tastes nice but it's dangerous because you get drunk so quickly."

The food culture matches the drinking culture in South Korea and makes up a big part of the social life.

Ellie said: "The food culture here is really big. When people hang out they go and eat, and everyone shares. There's lots of meat grilling and big soups for the table."

She gave an honorary mention to Korean BBQ, the communal dining experience that involves grilling marinated meat over a charcoal grill or gas grill. Think thinly sliced meat, fermented and pickled vegetables.

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Itaewon is a very multi-cultural expat hub

GETTY IMAGES

The expat feels very safe walking around the city, much more so than she ever did in London.

She said: "I don't feel like I'm going to get attacked walking around by myself at 4am.

"Seoul is one of those places that is always open. There are always convenience stores and drinking places open. There are always people about so it feels very safe."

But while Ellie loves South Korea, and Seoul in particular, she alerted potential expats to a very sinister reality in the country.

She said: "There's a big issue with hidden camera filming. If you go to a public bathroom, a lot of the time there are holes in the door and they're filled with toilet paper because there used to be a camera there. The violence against women is very sneaky and underground.

"I do get worried about using public bathrooms because I know it is common and it freaks me out. I wouldn't even know if it had happened to me before."

But when asked whether she would recommend living in South Korea, Ellie said yes. The young expat said that it's great for the youth. She said: "The nightlife is so good, people are very friendly, and the younger generation is entering a new world of globalisation.

"The shopping is great, there's an old-style palace in the middle of Seoul where you can wear traditional Korean clothes, and the restaurants and bars are amazing too. I'd recommend going out in Hongdae and Itaewon."

Moving to South Korea

What you need to know

For expats considering moving abroad, the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) shared the essential information they need to know, from taxes to welfare, to health to driving. The FCDO also encouraged Britons to extensively research their destination.

The latest information provided by the FCDO was that around 100,000 British nationals travel to South Korea each year and approximately 8,000 British nationals live and work there.

Britons thinking of relocating should consult the FCDO's guidance on living in South Korea as a British National.

According to the experts at Expat Arrivals, there is "absolutely no need" for a car in Seoul. They said: "The public transport system in Seoul is fast, efficient, affordable, safe and clean. The roads are full of cheap taxis that make personal cars even less necessary." The whole country is known for its gold-standard public transportation system.

English is widely understood in South Korea, along with Japanese and Mandarin. However, Britons can learn Korean through language-learning apps, or attending Korean language classes in person or online.

Recommended places for retirees

Geoje Island

Why Britons choose to live in South Korea

Excellent healthcare
Creature comforts - apartments often come with a washing machine, floor heating and air conditioning
Friendly locals
Large expat community
Low crime rates
TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) is a huge industry, and there are plenty of job opportunities

Possible pitfalls

Extreme weather (winters and summers)
Language barrier
Hierarchical culture
High-pressure working environment
Being vegetarian/vegan can be difficult when eating out

A river flood warning and a rip current statement in effect for 4 regions in the area

North korean leader kim leads rocket drills that simulate a nuclear counterattack against enemies.

Kim Tong-Hyung

Associated Press

SEOUL – North Korean leader Kim Jong Un supervised salvo launches of the country’s “super-large” multiple rocket launchers that simulated a nuclear counterattack against enemy targets, state media said Tuesday, adding to tests and threats that have raised tensions in the region.

The report by North Korea’s official Korean Central News Agency came a day after the South Korean and Japanese militaries detected the North firing what they suspected were multiple short-range ballistic missiles from a region near its capital, Pyongyang, toward its eastern seas.

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South Korea Travel Advisory
Travel.State.Gov > Travel Advisories > South Korea Travel Advisory. Congressional Liaison; Special Issuance Agency; Legal Resources ... 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 ... Seoul 03141, Korea. Telephone. Korea: +(82) (2) 6009-9170 ...
South Korea International Travel Information
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 ... Seoul 03141, Korea Telephone: +(82) (2) 397-4114 (from within Korea, dial 02-397-4114) ... Travel Advisory Levels. Assistance for U.S. Citizens. U.S. Embassy Seoul ...
South Korea Travel Advisory: Level 3: Reconsider Travel
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a Level 3 Travel Health Notice for South Korea due to COVID-19. South Korea has resumed most transportation options, (including airport operations and re-opening of borders) and business operations (including day cares and schools).
South Korea
Current Travel Advisories. Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions. Learn More. ... 2021 the United States has donated 1,412,800 safe and effective COVID-19 vaccine doses with the people of South Korea. This includes 1,412,800 J&J, doses. ... Secretary Blinken's Travel to Vienna, Seoul, Manila, Jeddah, Cairo, and Tel Aviv. VIEW ALL NEWS
Information for Foreign Visitors
TBS eFM Broadcasts Special COVID-19 Live Updates Program for Foreigners. As the number of confirmed cases of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has exceeded 5,000 in South Korea, TBS eFM will be broadcasting a special program titled COVID-19 Live Updates for foreigners starting March 4, 2020 from 9 to 10 AM every day.
S. Korea extends overseas travel advisory through Jan. 13
SEOUL, Dec. 14 (Yonhap) -- South Korea has extended its special advisory against overseas travel for another month due to the global spread of the new omicron variant of COVID-19, the foreign ministry said Tuesday.
South Korea
Hepatitis B. Recommended for unvaccinated travelers younger than 60 years old traveling to South Korea. Unvaccinated travelers 60 years and older may get vaccinated before traveling to South Korea. Hepatitis B - CDC Yellow Book. Dosing info - Hep B. Japanese Encephalitis. Recommended for travelers who.
Officials Tighten Restrictions In Seoul Amid Another Wave Of ...
Officials Tighten Restrictions In Seoul Amid Another Wave Of COVID-19 Infections : Coronavirus Updates On Friday, South Korea registered more than 1,300 coronavirus cases — breaking records for ...
Is Seoul safe to visit? A comprehensive safety guide
South Korea does not have any active travel advisories right now, but you should check to see what your own government recommends as well. According to the 2021 Global Peace Index, this country ranks 57th out of 163 countries. You can feel confident visiting South Korea and also Seoul since it is a very safe city with low crime rates.
State Department says Korea is totally safe to visit
Korea has been under the highest Level 4 travel advisory since Feb. 15, which has dramatically dropped to the lowest level. This contrasts with the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)'s own travel recommendation for Korea. It lowered Korea by a single notch to the second-highest level of warning. On Monday, the CDC moved 90 ...
S. Korea eases travel advisories for 24 nations to lowest level
All News 16:09 November 29, 2022. SEOUL, Nov. 29 (Yonhap) -- South Korea has eased travel advisories for 24 countries, including the United States, Britain and Germany, to the lowest level in line with the government's latest COVID-19 guidelines, Seoul's foreign ministry said Tuesday. The level 2 alert, which was placed on the countries, also ...
S. Korea to lift overall special travel advisory over COVID-19
All News 16:24 April 13, 2022. SEOUL, April 13 (Yonhap) -- The South Korean government on Wednesday said it has decided to lift a special travel advisory affecting all overseas travel as a measure against the COVID-19 pandemic. The across-the-board special advisory, introduced in March 2020 and extended on a monthly basis, will be lifted ...
Travel advice and advisories for South Korea
Travel Advice and Advisories from the Government of Canada for South Korea. ... If you decide to travel to South Korea during the rainy or typhoon seasons: ... Seoul (04518), Republic of Korea Postal Address 21 Jeongdong-gil (Jeong-dong), Jung-gu, Seoul (04518), ...
South Korea travel advice
FCDO travel advice for South Korea. Includes safety and security, insurance, entry requirements and legal differences. ... Warnings and insurance Still current at: 23 April 2024
South Korea to lift quarantine mandate for COVID-19 and end testing
South Korea will drop its COVID-19 quarantine requirements and end testing recommendations for international arrivals starting June 1. In lowering the coronavirus alert level from "critical" to plainly "alert" starting June 1, health authorities will also lift mask mandates in pharmacies and small clinics. Wearing masks will still be required in large hospitals and long-term care ...
US State Department raises travel advisory for South Korea
3:08 p.m. ET, February 22, 2020 US State Department raises travel advisory for South Korea. From Gregory Clary
Health and Travel Alert
Visit the Department of Homeland Security's website on the latest travel restrictions to the United States. Assistance: U.S. Embassy Seoul 188 Sejong Daero, Jongno-gu, Seoul +82-2-397-4114 [email protected]; State Department - Consular Affairs: 1-888-407-4747 or 1-202-501-4444; Korea Country Information
Travel Advisory in South Korea
Travel Advisory during COVID-19. Royal Brunei Airlines (RB) makes its best effort to update the information reflected in all Travel Advisory pages regularly, however entry or exit requirements and other travel requirements may change at very short notice. We advise our guests to check the latest advisory issued by relevant governments or ...
Explore the Best of Korea With Klook's 2024 Travel Guide
Last updated 22 Apr 2024. South Korea is more than just its cosmetics, dramas, music, and food. It's also the destination for fun attractions like Lotte World and Everland, and relaxing activities like spa and facial treatments and massage sessions. If you want to explore more things to do in Korea, then this travel guide is perfect for you!
North Korea fires suspected short-range missiles into the sea in its
A TV screen shows a file image of North Korea's missiles launch during a news program at the Seoul Railway Station in Seoul, South Korea, Monday, April 22, 2024. North Korea fired multiple ...
Health Alert: Increase in Travel Advisory to Level 4 (Do Not Travel)
U.S. Embassy Seoul, Republic of Korea 188 Sejong Daero, Jongno-gu, Seoul +82-2-397-4114 [email protected] State Department—Consular Affairs 888-407-4747 or 202-501-4444 Korea Country Information Enroll in Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts Follow us on Facebook and Twitter
GBN expat secrets
This week, an expat in South Korea divulged all about her experience so far. Ellie Walker, 26, moved to South Korea after a three-month study programme and completely fell in love with the country. She now lives just outside of Seoul - the capital - and works as an English teacher in a primary school. The expat spoke exclusively to GB News ...
Health and Travel Alert
Health and Travel Alert - U.S. Embassy Seoul, Republic of Korea. By U.S. Mission Korea. 10 MINUTE READ. February 4, 2020 ... (out of four) travel warning to travelers to all of China, including Hong Kong and Macau (but not Taiwan), on January 28. Hubei province is level three as of January 25. ... South Korea Country Specific Information;
COVID-19 in Korea
Travel Advisory Level 1: ... COVID-19 in Korea. Currently, the Republic of Korea has no COVID-19 testing, proof of vaccination, or quarantine requirements for entry to Korea. You should check the ... Outside of South Korea: +82-2-397-4114. Emergency Contact ...
Health and Travel Alert
Travel Advisory South Korea - Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution. Exercise Increased Caution due to an outbreak of COVID-19 (also known as the disease caused by SARS-CoV-2). A novel (new) coronavirus disease, recently designated as COVID-19, is causing an outbreak of respiratory illness.
North Korean leader Kim leads rocket drills that simulate a ...
A TV screen shows a file image of North Korea's missiles launch during a news program at the Seoul Railway Station in Seoul, South Korea, Monday, April 22, 2024.
Security Alert
Outside of South Korea: +82-2-397-4114 Emergency Contact - All Locations Get Travel Alerts International Parental Child Abduction Arrest of a U.S. Citizen Death of a U.S. Citizen Victims of Crime Emergency Financial Assistance