travel to south korea need quarantine

South Korea Travel Restrictions

Traveler's COVID-19 vaccination status

Traveling from the United States to South Korea

Open for vaccinated visitors

COVID-19 testing

Not required

Not required for vaccinated visitors

Restaurants

Not required in public spaces and public transportation.

South Korea entry details and exceptions

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Can I travel to South Korea from the United States?

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter South Korea.

Can I travel to South Korea if I am vaccinated?

Fully vaccinated visitors from the United States can enter South Korea without restrictions.

Can I travel to South Korea without being vaccinated?

Unvaccinated visitors from the United States can enter South Korea without restrictions.

Do I need a COVID test to enter South Korea?

Visitors from the United States are not required to present a negative COVID-19 PCR test or antigen result upon entering South Korea.

Can I travel to South Korea without quarantine?

Travelers from the United States are not required to quarantine.

Do I need to wear a mask in South Korea?

Mask usage in South Korea is not required in public spaces and public transportation.

Are the restaurants and bars open in South Korea?

Restaurants in South Korea are open. Bars in South Korea are .

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South Korea travel guide: quarantine-free visits for vaccinated tourists from April 1

Coronavirus restrictions for fully inoculated travellers are easing next month with no more isolation on arrival.

Last year, South Korea recorded a huge drop in visitor numbers with less than a million tourists, according to the Korea Tourism Organisation. Unsplash

Despite experiencing its worst coronavirus surge, South Korea is getting set to ease border restrictions for travellers.

From April 1, fully vaccinated tourists will be able to fly to the country quarantine-free.

South Korea will also recognise more vaccinations, including those administered outside of the country, said the Ministry of the Interior and Safety. This will allow more people to apply for quarantine-free travel.

The easing of restrictions is set to increase the number of incoming tourists. Last year, the country recorded a huge drop in arriving visitor numbers with less than a million tourists, according to the Korea Tourism Organisation.

Exemptions to quarantine rules still apply to visitors from Pakistan, Uzbekistan, Ukraine and Myanmar, who are required to isolate for seven days on arrival, regardless of vaccination status.

If you’re planning a trip to South Korea as it eases restrictions, here’s what you need to know.

Who can travel to South Korea?

Travel to South Korea will be quarantine free for most fully vaccinated tourists

To be considered fully vaccinated, travellers must have had their second dose of a Covid-19 jab more than 14 days ago but fewer than 180 days ago — or have taken a booster shot within the same time frame.

The view from this point is stunning!🤩 We can't wait for warmer weather! 📍Wando-gun, Cheongsando Island: https://t.co/ixFbpgFhQB pic.twitter.com/bqDFWJIIRl — VisitKorea (@KoreanTravel) March 17, 2022

Travellers who fit this criteria can travel to the country without quarantine from April 1, but must complete all their travel details on the Q-Code website before departure.

Passengers from Pakistan, Uzbekistan, Ukraine and Myanmar cannot apply for entry under this exemption category, even if they are fully vaccinated and must continue to isolate on arrival.

Unvaccinated tourists can still travel to the country, but will have to quarantine in a government appointed isolation facility for seven days.

Do I need a PCR test to travel to South Korea?

All travellers need a PCR test result taken no more than 48 hours before departure.

Children aged 5 and under do not need to have a negative test result to enter, but all passengers regardless of nationality, vaccination status and length of stay will be tested on arrival, or within the first 24 hours of entering South Korea.

Tourists will be tested at the airport upon arrival and must remain there until they receive their negative test results.

Do I need to quarantine?

If you’re fully vaccinated and not coming from one of the countries banned from quarantine exemption then you won’t need to isolate when you arrive in South Korea.

Once an on-arrival negative test result has been issued at the airport testing facility, travellers are free to travel around the country.

What restrictions are in place in South Korea

Face masks remain compulsory in South Korea in all public places and on public transport, with fines for people who do not comply.

There are also local variations in Covid-19 restrictions in different parts of the country, so you should check the website of the relevant local authorities to find out more about social distancing and restrictions on groups and gatherings.

What’s the best time to visit South Korea?

Spring is almost here!🌸 Cherry blossoms are expected to bloom in April this year. 📍Geochang-gun, Gyeongsangnam-do pic.twitter.com/WD1HYXqYY9 — VisitKorea (@KoreanTravel) March 15, 2022

Spring is the best time to visit South Korea if you want to get a glimpse of the country’s blooming cherry blossoms . Autumn is another popular time — with September to November typically having dry days and giving tourists a chance to see changing shades of orange and red throughout the country's National Parks such as Songnisan, Jirisan and Seoraksan.

August is the hottest and most humid month while winter is cold and snowy — and when winter sports enthusiasts flock to the Gyeonggi-do Province and Gangwon-do.

Which airlines are flying to South Korea?

Emirates flies direct to Seoul from Dubai and Etihad Airways operates the same route from Abu Dhabi. Flight times are a little more than eight hours to South Korea, and around 10 hours on the return trip. Korean Air also flies between South Korea and the UAE, with flights to both Abu Dhabi and Dubai.

What can you see and do in South Korea?

South Korea fascinates with something for everyone including an intriguing history, fantastic food, a wonderful culture and first-rate tourism attractions. Visit grand palaces such as Seoul’s Changdeokgung Palace built by the Joseon Dynasty, explore ancient history in Jeonju or soak up the culture in the country’s Hanok villages,

Tourists can also hit the beach at Busan, South Korea’s second largest city or climb to the top of N Seoul Tower, the capital’s iconic observation tower. For those interested in history, a visit to no-mans land allows you to see part of a military border between two opposed countries.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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South Korea reopens to fully vaccinated foreigners without quarantine

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

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

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

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

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

South Korea coronavirus infection rate soars with omicron surge

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

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

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

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

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

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

Coronavirus: What you need to know

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

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

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

South Korea to lift quarantine requirement for non-vaccinated foreign arrivals

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South Korea Traveler View

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

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After Your Trip

There are no notices currently in effect for South Korea.

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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 .

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

2. What must you do before flying?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

5. What happens if you test positive?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

7. What do Singaporeans living in Seoul advise?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

10. What should you do before leaving South Korea?

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

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South Korea Travel Advisory

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 .    

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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.

Visitors to South Korea don't need to quarantine anymore

This week, travel to South Korea is one step closer to "normal," as the country has dropped a major portion of its COVID-19 restrictions. As of April 1, South Korea no longer requires vaccinated visitors to quarantine upon arrival. This marks the end of a major COVID-19 requirement and, perhaps, just the change travelers were hoping to see when considering travel to the country.

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South Korean officials announced the move last month, even as health officials there continue to track high levels of COVID-19 spread. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's travel health notice for South Korea currently is at "Level 4: Very High Level of COVID-19," and the agency urges U.S. citizens to avoid travel to the country. Likewise, South Korean government data shows the country is seeing hundreds of thousands of new cases of the virus each day. With high levels of vaccination there, though, The New York Times recently reported leaders have felt comfortable continuing forward with plans to loosen travel restrictions.

What the changes mean

According to the memo posted on Visit Korea, under the new protocol, fully vaccinated travelers can now enter the country without needing to go through quarantine procedures previously in place. Again, these changes are already in effect, as of April 1.

Vaccinated international visitors must register their vaccination status with the country's Q-code website , where they will be provided with a QR code that will be scanned while going through immigration upon arrival.

The Q-code site requires travelers to enter personal information, their passport number and travel information, as well as vaccination records.

One important note is that there are still testing requirements in place, even for fully vaccinated visitors. South Korea requires a PCR test that must be taken within 48 hours of departure.

Another important procedure to know before traveling to South Korea relates to the Electronic Travel Authorization form required for all U.S. citizens visiting the country. South Korea's K-ETA program launched in 2021 as a way to provide visa-free entry for international visitors. The electronic form allows visitors 90 days in the country, visa-free. Visitors can complete the application up to 24 hours before boarding a flight to South Korea, and the form is valid for two years once approved.

Getting to South Korea

Visit Korea reports airlines are seeing a "surge" in travelers booking trips to South Korea this year, and certainly the loosening of requirements will only lead to more travel to the country.

Whether you're looking to find the cheapest fare to South Korea or you've been saving up miles in the hope of redeeming them for a prime seat on a long-haul flight to Asia, there are a number of options over the coming months.

Departing from the New York area for the next few months, one of the cheapest options I found was in early May, on a round trip out of John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) to Incheon International Airport (ICN) in Seoul aboard Star Alliance carrier Turkish Airlines. The $953 economy round trip is all on Boeing 777s. There's a sizable layover in Istanbul -- 20-plus hours. However, if you're able to carefully plan your sleep, this gives you a day in Istanbul without having to pay for a hotel. So, it could be a way to explore an extra city without an extra charge.

Departing from the West Coast, I found round trips from Los Angeles to Seoul for 73,500 miles (plus $81.77) on United Airlines. According to TPG's latest valuations , 73,500 MileagePlus miles are worth about $889. Compare that to the cash fare for the same itinerary on United, which is $1,606 for the economy ticket.

Meanwhile, you can get a cost-saving redemption if you decide this trip is the one when you want to cash in a larger sum of miles for a great seat. The same itinerary in business class goes for 350,000 miles -- worth about $4,235 according to TPG's valuations . The cash fare for that business-class round trip goes for $4,915.

Related: How to get to South Korea on points and miles

Where to stay

Checking a few different U.S.-based hotel chains, one trend I found is that you might be better off booking in cash while staying in Seoul -- mostly because there are some pretty inexpensive nightly rates.

Among the best options I saw was the Aloft Seoul Myeondong. The Marriott Bonvoy property is available for just $68 per night.

Related: 9 things to do on your next trip to Seoul

Bottom line

If you want to travel to South Korea, you're still going to have to go through COVID-19 testing. South Korea requires a negative test to get there, and the U.S. government still requires a negative test for your return trip.

At the same time, if you've been waiting the last two years for the right opportunity to travel there, you'll face fewer COVID-19 restrictions than at any point in the pandemic.

South Korea Travel Restrictions

Traveller's COVID-19 vaccination status

Travelling from Canada to South Korea

Open for vaccinated visitors

COVID-19 testing

Not required

Not required for vaccinated visitors

Restaurants

Not required in public spaces and public transportation.

Documents & Additional resources

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Can I travel to South Korea from Canada?

Most visitors from Canada, regardless of vaccination status, can enter South Korea.

Can I travel to South Korea if I am vaccinated?

Fully vaccinated visitors from Canada can enter South Korea without restrictions.

Can I travel to South Korea without being vaccinated?

Unvaccinated visitors from Canada can enter South Korea without restrictions.

Do I need a COVID test to enter South Korea?

Visitors from Canada are not required to present a negative COVID-19 PCR test or antigen result upon entering South Korea.

Can I travel to South Korea without quarantine?

Travellers from Canada are not required to quarantine.

Do I need to wear a mask in South Korea?

Mask usage in South Korea is not required in public spaces and public transportation.

Are the restaurants and bars open in South Korea?

Restaurants in South Korea are open. Bars in South Korea are .

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South Korea (Republic of Korea)

Latest update.

Exercise normal safety precautions in South Korea.

South Korea (PDF 255.07 KB)

Asia (PDF 2.21 MB)

Local emergency contacts

Fire and rescue services, medical emergencies.

Call 119 or go to the hospital.

Call 112 or go to the nearest police station.

Advice levels

• South Korea and North Korea are technically still at war, and tensions on the Peninsula can increase with little warning. North Korea regularly conducts missile launches and other provocations. Monitor developments. Consider downloading the South Korean Government's 'Emergency Ready' app.
• Civil emergency drills are held a few times a year for fire, earthquakes, other disasters and civil defence training. Nationwide exercises take place at least twice a year. Regional drills may also be run a few times a year. 
• Large-scale public gatherings and protests are common, particularly in Seoul. Protests are generally peaceful and policed but can sometimes turn violent. 
• Avoid large public gatherings if possible, and exercise caution in crowded areas. South Korea remains safe for most travellers, with a relatively low crime rate. However, petty crimes happen, especially in major cities such as Seoul and Busan. Watch your belongings.
• Sexual assault and harassment, drink spiking and other violent crimes occur, particularly around bars and nightlife areas, such as Itaewon and Hongdae. Don't accept food, drink, gum or cigarettes from strangers. Remain vigilant, take care when walking at night, and travel in groups if possible.
• The rainy season is from late June to late August. Typhoons can happen in August and September. Heavy rainfall during summer can cause flooding, landslides, and damage to housing and infrastructure. Identify your local shelter (identified by the word 대피소). Follow the advice of local officials.
• Tsunamis caused by earthquakes in the surrounding region are a risk. Know the tsunami warning signs and move to high ground straight away. Don't wait for official alerts, warnings or sirens.

Full travel advice:  Safety

• There are high levels of pollution, particularly between March to May. During this time, strong winds from Mongolia and China also carry yellow dust to the Korean Peninsula. This can cause eye, nose, mouth, and throat irritations. Get medical advice if you have heart or breathing problems.
• The standard of medical facilities in South Korea is usually good, but few staff speak English. You'll probably have to pay up-front. Ensure your travel insurance covers all medical costs.
• South Korea is popular for medical tourism. If you're travelling for a procedure, research and choose your medical service providers carefully. Don’t use discount or uncertified providers. Ensure your travel insurance covers complications from surgery.

Full travel advice:  Health

• You're required to wear a mask  in hospitals. Fines of KRW100,000 apply. Exceptions for mask-wearing are made for minors under 14 years of age, people with disabilities, or those who have difficulty wearing a face mask for medical reasons.
• Using shared electric kickboards (electric scooters) in South Korea is increasing. A driver's licence is required, and you must wear a helmet while riding. Make sure you have adequate health and liability insurance before riding. 
• It's illegal to work or volunteer in South Korea if it's not specified in your visa. If you plan to work, arrange a work visa through a  South Korean embassy or consulate  before you travel.
• Disputes over working and living conditions for Australians teaching English in South Korea are common. Research your employer and employment agency. Get legal advice before you sign a contract.
• Be careful when taking photos and videos. It's illegal to photograph military zones, assets, personnel, and official buildings.
• South Korea recognises dual nationality only in certain circumstances. If you're a male Australian-South Korean dual national, you may have to do military service before you're permitted to depart. This could happen even if you travel to South Korea on your Australian passport. Get advice through a  South Korean embassy or consulate  before travelling.

Full travel advice:  Local laws

Australian passport holders can visit South Korea as tourists for stays of up to 90 days without applying for a K-ETA (or visa waiver). Previously approved K-ETA applications will remain valid up to the granted expiry date. Visit the official  K-ETA website  for more information.

• You may be required to register on the  Korean Q-code system  prior to arrival or to complete a health questionnaire on arrival. Further information on 'Quarantine Inspection Required Areas' is available on the ' Notices ' page. Check with the South Korean embassy or consulate for the latest requirements for Australians. 
• Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. You should contact the nearest South Korean embassy or consulate for the latest details.

Full travel advice:  Travel

Local contacts

• The  Consular Services Charter  details what we can and can't do to help you overseas.
• For consular help, contact the  Australian Embassy in Seoul .
• To stay up to date with local information, follow the Embassy’s social media accounts.

Full travel advice:  Local contacts

Full advice

Regional threats.

South Korea and North Korea are technically still at war, and peace is maintained under a truce agreed at the practical end of the Korean War in 1953. Tensions have on the Korean Peninsula can increase with little warning.

The Korean Peninsula is divided by a demilitarised zone (DMZ) separating:

• North Korea or the Democratic People's Republic of Korea
• South Korea or the Republic of Korea

North Korea regularly takes provocative actions, including conducting ballistic missile launches and underground nuclear tests. Low-level military clashes have occurred. 

In the event of such threats in the region:

• monitor developments
• take official warnings seriously
• follow the instructions of local authorities

The South Korean Government has also released a free smartphone ' Emergency Ready ' app. The app has information on local emergency services, including:

• shelter locations

The app is available for both Apple and Android devices.

Authorities control access to Yeonpyeong Island and other islands near the Northern Limit Line. This is due to their proximity to a sea boundary disputed by North Korea.

More information:

• Planning for emergencies

Public Safety

Parts of Seoul, particularly Itaewon and Hongdae, and on public transport, can become extremely crowded. In October 2022, more than 150 people were killed in a crowd crush during Halloween festivities in Itaewon. Exercise caution in crowded areas. 

Civil Emergency Drills

Nationwide civil emergency drills are held regularly throughout the year, with regional or local drills also undertaken. 

Depending on the drill, sirens may sound, transport may stop, and authorities may ask people to take shelter in subway stations or basements. 

Follow the advice of local authorities. The South Korean Government has released a free smartphone 'Emergency Ready' app. The app has information on civil defence drills, including shelters and safety guides.

• Civil Defence Drills

Civil unrest and political tension

Public protests and events that draw large groups of people are common and can sometimes turn violent. Avoid large public gatherings, if possible, and exercise caution in crowded areas.

To protect yourself:

• avoid protests and demonstrations
• monitor the media for information

Be prepared to change your travel plans in case of disruptions.

• Demonstrations and civil unrest

For most travellers, South Korea is safe and has a relatively low crime rate. However, petty crime happens, especially in major cities such as Seoul and Busan.

Sexual assault, drink spiking, and other violent crimes occur, particularly around bars and nightlife areas, such as Itaewon and Hongdae. 

To protect yourself from crime:

• keep your belongings close
• don't accept drinks, food, gum or cigarettes from strangers
• don't leave food or drinks unattended
• remain vigilant and take care when walking at night
• travel in groups if possible

Local authorities may not always respond adequately or consistently to reports of sexual violence and harassment. If you're sexually assaulted, you should report it immediately to the local authorities and the Australian Embassy in Seoul. 

In general, sex-related crimes are not punished as harshly in South Korea as in Australia, and the prosecution process can be challenging for victims. 

You can report crimes, including sexual assault, to the police by calling 112. This is a 24/7 service with English interpreters available. 

• Partying safely

Cyber security 

You may be at risk of cyber-based threats during overseas travel to any country. Digital identity theft is a growing concern. Your devices and personal data can be compromised, especially if you’re connecting to Wi-Fi, using or connecting to shared or public computers or to Bluetooth.

Social media can also be risky in destinations where there are social or political tensions, or laws that may seem unreasonable by Australian standards. Travellers have been arrested for things they have said on social media. Don't comment on local or political events on your social media.

More information: 

Cyber security when travelling overseas

Terrorism is a threat worldwide. Although there is no recent history of terrorism in South Korea, attacks can't be ruled out. 

You should be aware of the global risk of indiscriminate terrorist attacks, which could be in public areas, including those visited by foreigners.  

• Terrorist threats

Climate and natural disasters

South Korea experiences  natural disasters  and  severe weather , including:

• flooding and landslides
• earthquakes

Get familiar with the advice of local authorities on preparing for a natural disaster or other emergency.

If there's a natural disaster:

• know your accommodation's evacuation plans
• secure your passport in a safe, waterproof location
• follow the advice of local authorities
• closely monitor the media
• keep in touch with friends and family

Register with the  Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System  to receive alerts on major disasters.

Typhoons and severe weather

The monsoon season is usually from late June to late August.

Excessive rainfall during summer can cause severe flooding and landslides and damage to housing and infrastructure. Flash flooding can occur.

The typhoon season is usually during the period August to September. 

If there's a typhoon approaching, stay inside. The direction and strength of typhoons can change with little warning.

Identify your closest local shelter if required and follow the directions of local authorities. 

Severe weather may also affect:

• access to ports
• road travel and transport
• essential services, such as water and power

If there's a typhoon or severe storm:

• exercise caution
• stay away from affected areas
• you may get stuck in the area
• flights could be delayed or suspended

Monitor weather forecasts and follow instructions of local authorities.

Check with tour operators before travelling to affected areas.

Contact your airline for the latest flight information.

• Korean Meteorological Administration
• Severe Weather Information Centre
• Special weather report – KMA
• Real-time disaster alert – National Disaster and Safety Portal

Earthquakes and tsunamis

Earthquake activity happens on the Korean Peninsula, though less than in Japan and other countries in the region.

Tsunamis are also a risk.

Large earthquakes, which predominantly tend to occur in neighbouring countries, can cause destructive tsunamis that may affect the Korean Peninsula. If you are in a coastal region after a major earthquake, move to higher ground immediately.

• Pacific Warning Center
• Korea Meteorological Administration

Travel insurance

Get comprehensive  travel insurance  before you leave.

Your policy needs to cover all overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation. The Australian Government won't pay for these costs.

If you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel. This applies to everyone, no matter how healthy and fit you are.

If you're not insured, you may have to pay many thousands of dollars up-front for medical care.

• what activities and care your policy covers
• that your insurance covers you for the whole time you'll be away

Physical and mental health

Consider your physical and mental health before you travel, especially if you have an existing medical condition. Treatment for mental health is not widely available in South Korea and is not comparable to services in Australia. There are very few hospitals that have mental health or psychiatric wards attached, and of those available, many will not accept foreigners. 

Admission to a mental health or psychiatric ward usually requires proof of a prior mental health diagnosis. Many facilities are reluctant to admit foreigners. For involuntary admissions, 2 family members present in Korea will be required to sign consent. 

See your doctor or travel clinic to:

• have a basic health check-up
• ask if your travel plans may affect your health
• plan any vaccinations you need

Do this at least 8 weeks before you leave.

If you have immediate concerns for your welfare, or the welfare of another Australian, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 or contact your  nearest Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate  to discuss counselling hotlines and services available in your location.

• General health advice
• Healthy holiday tips  (Healthdirect Australia)

Medications

If you plan to travel with medication, check if it's legal in  South Korea . Not all medications available over the counter or by prescription in Australia are available in Korean pharmacies. Some medications may even be considered illegal or a controlled substance in South Korea, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor. 

Before you travel:

• contact the South Korean  Ministry of Food and Drug Safety  or email  [email protected]  to check whether your medication is a controlled or illegal substance in South Korea
• Check with the  Korea Customs Service  for information on restricted or prohibited items that may not be brought into the country
• ask your doctor about alternative medicines

You may need to apply for a 'bring in' permit. When applying, provide the generic name of the medication, as the brand name in South Korea may be different in Australia.

It may take authorities more than 2 weeks to process your application.

Take enough medications for your trip.

Carry a copy of your prescription or a letter from your doctor stating:

• what the medication is
• your required dosage
• that it's for personal use

Health risks

Insect-borne diseases.

Malaria  is a risk in:

• the demilitarised zone at the border between South and North Korea
• rural areas in the northern parts of Gyeonggi and Gangwon provinces

Japanese encephalitis  also occurs throughout the Korean countryside.

To protect yourself from disease:

• make sure your accommodation is insect-proof
• use insect repellent
• wear long, loose, light-coloured clothing
• get vaccinated against Japanese encephalitis before you travel
• consider taking medicine to prevent malaria

Other health risks

Waterborne, foodborne, and other  infectious diseases  occur, including:

• tuberculosis

If you test positive for COVID-19 while in South Korea, you may need to follow local isolation guidelines.

Use normal hygiene precautions, including:

• careful and frequent hand washing
• boil tap water before drinking or cooking
• avoid uncooked and undercooked food
• seek medical advice if you have a fever or are suffering from diarrhoea

Hand, foot and mouth disease

Hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD)  is common.

Serious outbreaks sometimes occur.

Outbreaks usually start in March and peak in May but can continue until October each year.

The disease mostly affects children aged under 10 years. Adult cases, especially in young adults, are not unusual.

When outside major cities:

• drink boiled water, filtered water or bottled water with sealed lids
• avoid ice cubes
• avoid uncooked and undercooked food, such as salads

Get medical advice if you have a fever or diarrhoea.

Yellow dust

Yellow dust is carried to the Korean Peninsula by strong winds from Mongolia and China from March to May. High levels of airborne pollution occur during this time.

The dust can:

• cause eye, nose, mouth and throat irritations
• make breathing and heart problems worse

If you're concerned about the effects of dust, speak to your doctor before leaving Australia. 

Get medical advice if you have allergies or respiratory difficulties.

Medical facilities

The standard of medical facilities in South Korea is usually good, but few staff speak English.

Medical services can be expensive. Hospitals usually require an up-front deposit or confirmation of insurance before they'll treat you.

You can request ambulance and emergency medical assistance by calling 119. This is a 24/7 service with English interpreters available.

• Medical tourism

South Korea is a popular destination for medical tourism.

• research and choose your medical service providers carefully
• avoid discounted or uncertified medical service providers

Check whether your travel insurance covers you if things go wrong with your surgery. Most insurers don't.

You're subject to all local laws and penalties, including those that may appear harsh by Australian standards. Research local laws before travelling.

You're required to wear a mask  in hospitals. Fines of KRW100,000 apply. Exceptions for mask-wearing are made for minors under 14 years of age, people with disabilities, or those who may have difficulty wearing a face mask for medical reasons.

The use of electric kickboard (electric scooter) rentals in South Korea is increasing. You must be 16 years or older to ride an electric scooter. Riders must have a driver's licence, wear a helmet, and use bicycle paths or, if there are no bicycle paths, car lanes while adhering to road traffic rules. Fines can apply for riding while inebriated, failing to wear helmets, or exceeding passenger limits. 

If you're arrested or jailed, the Australian Government will do what it can to help you under our  Consular Services Charter . But we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail.

Don't carry or consume illegal drugs.

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs include:

• long jail sentences
• heavy fines
• deportation
• Carrying or using drugs

It's illegal to work in South Korea if it's not specified in your visa. This includes paid and unpaid work.

Authorities have fined, detained and deported Australians for breaching their visa conditions.

It's difficult to change your visa type once you're in South Korea.

If you plan to work, arrange a work visa through a South Korean embassy or consulate before you travel.

Disputes over expected working and living conditions for Australians teaching English in South Korea are common.

Some Australians planning to teach English have faced penalties after they or their employment agent gave false documents to Korean immigration authorities.

If you're employed without the right visa, your options will be limited under Korean law.

If you're considering teaching English in South Korea:

• research your employer and employment agent
• consider getting legal advice before you sign a contract
• make sure your visa application is truthful and accurate

Serious crimes, such as murder, may attract the death penalty.

It's illegal to take photos of and around:

• military zones, assets or personnel
• official buildings

South Korea has strict anti-corruption laws for public officials. Public officials and their spouses can't accept meals, gifts or other benefits above set limits.

'Public officials' include:

• journalists
• employees of government-owned or funded companies

Get legal advice to make sure you don't breach these laws.

If you're involved in a commercial or legal dispute, authorities can stop you from leaving until the dispute is resolved.

Australian laws

Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you're overseas. If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.

• Staying within the law

Dual citizenship

South Korea  recognises dual nationality only in certain circumstances.

It's possible that by applying for Australian Citizenship by Descent or by Conferral, you may lose your Korean citizenship.

There are some differences between the Australian and Korean citizenship requirements. This has caused some difficulties, particularly for children born in South Korea to South Korean and Australian parents. Expectant parents should make themselves aware of these differences and contact the Australian and South Korean immigration authorities in advance of giving birth.

If you've been arrested or detained and have Korean citizenship, we may only be able to provide limited consular help.

If you were born in South Korea or have Korean citizenship, you will continue to be a Korean citizen unless you:

• formally renounce it; and
• remove your name from the Korean family register

Military service is compulsory for male citizens of South Korea, including dual nationals.

The South Korean Government may require you to undertake military service if you:

• are male; and
• are listed on the Korean family register

This is the case even if you have travelled to South Korea on your Australian passport.

The Government may not allow you to renounce your Korean nationality or leave the country until you either:

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

If you're an Australian-South Korean dual national, get advice from a  South Korean embassy or consulate  before you travel.

Contact the Korean Immigration Service for information on Korea’s law on dual citizenship.

• Dual nationals

Visas and border measures

Every country or territory decides who can enter or leave through its borders. For specific information about the evidence you'll need to enter a foreign destination, check with the nearest embassy, consulate or immigration department of the destination you're entering. 

Long-term visa holders residing in South Korea must apply for a re-entry permit before leaving South Korea. If you leave South Korea without a re-entry permit, your Alien Registration Card may be cancelled and you'll need to apply for a new long-term visa to enter. If you hold an A1, A2, A3 or F4 visa, you're exempt from requiring a re-entry permit.

To apply for a re-entry permit, visit a local immigration office, including at an airport or seaport. If you intend to apply at an airport immigration office on your way out of South Korea, ensure you allow sufficient time to complete the required formalities.

Further information about re-entry permits and medical examination requirements is available from the Korean Ministry of Justice .

Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. Contact the nearest  South Korean embassy or consulate  for details about visas, currency, customs and quarantine rules.

Border measures

If you're travelling to South Korea, you may be required to register your information on the  Korean Q-code registration system  to receive a generated QR code for your arrival or complete a health questionnaire on arrival if you haven't registered online. 

You should also check the  Korean Q-code registration system  prior to travelling to South Korea, as countries listed as 'Quarantine Inspection Required Areas' may change without notice. Further information on 'Quarantine Inspection Required Areas' is available on the ' Notices ' page.

Arriving passengers could be screened for high body temperature and as necessary might be subject to further health questions.

Contact the  South Korean embassy or consulate  in Australia for more information when planning your travel and to confirm requirements.  

Other formalities

You'll be fingerprinted when you arrive.

Passengers arriving at South Korean airports from particular countries could be screened for infectious diseases, including:

• Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV)

Extra quarantine checks are in place for flights from high-risk areas.

Korean Government Agencies

• Korea Disease Control & Prevention Agency (KDCA)
• Ministry of Health and Welfare
• Ministry of Employment and Labor
• Ministry of Education
• Ministry of Gender Equality and Family
• Ministry of the Interior and Safety
• Ministry of Economy and Finance

Some countries won't let you enter unless your passport is valid for 6 months after you plan to leave that country. This can apply even if you're just transiting or stopping over.

Some foreign governments and airlines apply the rule inconsistently. Travellers can receive conflicting advice from different sources.

You can end up stranded if your passport is not valid for more than 6 months.

The Australian Government does not set these rules. Check your passport's expiry date before you travel. If you're not sure it'll be valid for long enough, consider getting  a new passport .

Lost or stolen passport

Your passport is a valuable document. It's attractive to people who may try to use your identity to commit crimes.

Some people may try to trick you into giving them your passport. Always keep it in a safe place.

If your passport is lost or stolen, tell the Australian Government as soon as possible:

• In Australia, contact the  Australian Passport Information Service .
• If you're overseas, contact the nearest  Australian embassy or consulate.

Passport with ‘X’ gender identifier 

Although Australian passports comply with international standards for sex and gender, we can’t guarantee that a passport showing 'X' in the sex field will be accepted for entry or transit by another country. Contact the nearest  embassy, high commission or consulate of your destination  before you arrive at the border to confirm if authorities will accept passports with 'X' gender markers.

• LGBTQIA+ travellers

The local currency is the Korean Won (KRW).

You can change Australian dollars for KRW at local banks and money changers.

On arrival, declare all means of  international payment , including KRW notes, cashier's checks, or foreign currency over $US10,000 or equivalent. 

ATMs are available in cities and larger towns, but these might not accept some foreign debit cards.

Credit cards are usually accepted in hotels, restaurants, shops, and taxis, particularly in cities and larger towns.

Be aware of card skimming. See  Safety

Local travel

Driving permit.

To drive, you'll need either:

• a valid local licence, or
• an International Driver's Permit (IDP) and a valid Australian driver's licence

Get your IDP before your leave Australia.

You need a Korean driver's licence to drive if you intend to stay in South Korea for 90 days or more.

You will need a certified copy of your Australian licence to apply for a Korean driver's licence. 

When issuing you with a Korean driver's licence, the local authorities will normally keep your Australian driver's licence. They will return your Australian licence to you in exchange for your Korean driver's licence before you depart Korea.  

• Safe Driving - KOROAD

Road travel

South Korea has a high rate of traffic deaths, especially for pedestrians.

While the South Korean police have been more strictly reinforcing traffic rules, in recent years, speeding, running red lights, and other risky behaviour are still common, especially by buses, taxis, and motorcyclists.

If you're involved in an accident, whether or not you're at fault, you could face criminal charges. You may need to pay compensation to the injured person.

The blood alcohol limit for drivers is 0.03%. Heavy penalties apply for exceeding the limit. Don't drink and drive.

If you're walking:

• look out for motorcyclists, even on footpaths and pedestrian crossings
• don't expect traffic to stop at pedestrian crossings
• check carefully before stepping onto the road

Before travelling by road, learn local road rules and practices. 

• Driving or riding

Motorcycles

Check if your travel insurance policy covers you when riding a motorbike. Most policies won't cover you if you don't follow local laws or wear a helmet.

Always wear a helmet.

There are restrictions on riding motorcycles on highways and other major roads.

Use only authorised taxis, preferably those arranged through your hotel.

Always insist the driver uses the meter. Most taxis accept credit cards.

Rideshare apps are also available in South Korea. 

International taxi services are available and may have English-speaking drivers.

Public transport

Public transportation (including buses and metropolitan subway networks) in and between major urban areas is good.

Most major transportation systems have signs and make announcements in English.

• Visit Korea
• Transport and getting around safely

Rail travel

South Korea has a large high-speed rail network (KTX).

Stations are usually located in major urban areas. They have signs in English.

They're often linked to local taxi or public transport networks.

Ferry services operate between most large coastal cities and other domestic and international ports.

Busan, Incheon, and Jeju Island are regular stopover locations for cruise ships.

• Going on a cruise
• Travelling by boat

Some airlines and travel providers don't allow you to pay for flights online within South Korea with a foreign credit card.

DFAT doesn't provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.

Check  South Korea's air safety profile  with the Aviation Safety Network.

Emergencies

Depending on what you need, contact your:

• family and friends
• travel agent
• insurance provider

To report a crime, call 112 or go to the nearest police station. This is a 24/7 service with English interpreters available. 

Always get a police report when you report a crime.

If you have lost any property, visit the  Lost112 website  for more information. 

• Korea Disease Control & Prevention (KDCA)

Consular contacts

Read the  Consular Services Charter  for what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.

For consular help, contact the Australian Embassy in Seoul.

Australian Embassy, Seoul

19th Floor, Kyobo Building 1, Jong-ro Jongno-gu Seoul 03154, Republic of Korea Phone: (+82 2) 2003 0100 Fax: (+82 2) 2003 0196 Website:  southkorea.embassy.gov.au Facebook:  Australia in the Republic of Korea Instagram:  @AusEmbKor

Check the Embassy website for details about opening hours and any temporary closures. 

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

In a consular emergency, if you can't contact an embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:

• +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
• 1300 555 135 in Australia

Travelling to South Korea?

Sign up to get the latest travel advice updates..

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• Passports, travel and living abroad
• Travel abroad
• Foreign travel advice

South Korea

Entry requirements.

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

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

COVID-19 rules

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

Passport validity requirements

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

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

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

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

Visa requirements

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

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

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

Re-entry permits for long-term visa holders

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

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

Visas for working as an English teacher

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

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

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

Vaccination requirements

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

Customs rules

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

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South Korea to lift quarantine mandate and COVID test recommendation for travelers

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South Korea will drop its COVID-19 quarantine requirements and end coronavirus 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 just “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, 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, at which he thanked the country’s medical workers and said it was “delightful that people are getting their normal lives back after 3½ years.”

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

South Korea has been requiring seven-day quarantines for coronavirus carriers. While the mandate will be lifted starting June 1, health officials will continue to recommend that people 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, the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency’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 .

Editorial: The COVID-19 pandemic emergency is over, but virus is still here

It’s appropriate for the government to move out of the emergency response phase. But we must continue to be vigilant because the coronavirus that has killed millions over the last three years is still with us.

May 11, 2023

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 would maintain preventive measures to protect vulnerable groups, including older people 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 in South Korea on Thursday, which represented a slight increase from last week’s level. Lee Sang-won, the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency’s chief of epidemiological investigations, said the pace of the country’s coronavirus 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.

World & Nation

South Korea drops vaccination proof for indoor spaces despite Omicron surge

The elimination of proof of vaccination for entry to indoor spaces comes as South Korea sets a new one-day record for COVID-19 deaths.

Feb. 28, 2022

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 the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency official, said the government, for the time being, would 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 can 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.

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

More to Read

US to lift most federal COVID-19 vaccine mandates next week

May 1, 2023

China to scrap PCR test requirement for inbound travelers starting Saturday

April 26, 2023

U.S. to relax COVID testing rules for travelers from China as early as Friday

March 8, 2023

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Explore ideas, tips guide and info Joly Melonie

Travel Requirements To South Korea From Philippines 2024

Travel Requirements To South Korea From Philippines 2024 . The korea visa application center (kvac) opened in manila on thursday, aug. Ensure that you have a valid:

This article covers the south korea visa requirements for filipino tourists in. Prior to your travels to.

In An Advisory Posted January 30, The Embassy Of The Republic Of Korea In The Philippines Said The New Guidelines Are Effective Beginning Feb 1, 2024, And Will.

This information is only for reference and does not guarantee passenger's entry or exit.

If You’re Not A Citizen Of Any Of South Korea’s Exempted Countries, You Are Then Required To Avail Of A Visa Beforehand.

Week 1 in south korea:

31, To Address The Growing Demand For Travel Between South Korea And The.

Images references :, although you won’t be required to quarantine upon arrival in south korea, you will still need to..

The embassy of the republic of korea in the philippines announced on tuesday, january 30, that from february 1 to december 31 of this year, it will be.

For Further Details, Please Refer To The Latest Safety Updates On The Ministry Of Foreign Affairs.

Workation visa for foreigners in 2024.

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