visit south korea covid restrictions

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 .

C A C (Cities Against COVID-19)

Covid-19 & vaccines in seoul.

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

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• Countermeasures

Information for Foreign Visitors

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

Information

Reinforced quarantine of international arrivals.

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

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

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

Precautions for International Travelers

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

Mandatory quarantine instructions for all incoming travelers to Republic of Korea

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

Seoul Provides Masks with Replaceable Filters to Foreigners in Blind Spots

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

Mask Purchase Procedures : How Can Foreigners Purchase Masks?

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

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

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

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

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

Measures to support foreign residents

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

Measures for students from country where COVID-19 originated

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

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South Korea Travel and Entry Restrictions 2022: COVID-19 Update

The South Korea entry restrictions determine who can enter the country and under what conditions.

Normally, foreigners must meet the  South Korea visa requirements  for their nationality and obtain the relevant permit before traveling.

Additionally, several South Korea  COVID restrictions   are now in place  to prevent the spread of coronavirus.

As a result, the Republic of Korea has temporarily revised its  visa policy  to suspended visa exemptions for some countries.

Continue reading to learn about  current   South Korean travel restrictions  and travel bans in place during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Can I Travel to South Korea Visa-Free During Coronavirus?

South Korea has approved  96 countries  to enter the country visa-free during coronavirus.

Under normal circumstances, passport holders from over 100 countries can  stay in South Korea without a visa  for  between 30 and 180 days , depending on their nationality.

Once the coronavirus suspension ends, all visa-exempt travelers will need to  apply for the K-ETA  for South Korea.

Citizens of 96 approved countries can apply.

Temporary Health Measures for South Korea

Anyone wishing to travel to the East Asian nation during the current restrictions needs to be aware of the  health entry requirements for South Korea  now in place.

These temporary measures are designed to protect residents and visitors in South Korea.

Unless exempt, travelers are subject to the following entry rules:

• PCR test : Travelers aged 6 and older must present a medical certificate showing a negative PCR COVID-19 test result taken within 2 days of departure. The tests accepted are LAMP, NAAT, NEAR, PCR, SDA, or TMA.
• Health Declaration Form : This contact form must be completed and presented on arrival
• Self-quarantine safety protection mobile app : All passengers traveling to South Korea must install this on their mobile device.

Health requirements are  subject to change at short notice . Travelers should ensure they have all the latest information before arranging a trip to South Korea.

Do I Need a Coronavirus Vaccine to Travel to South Korea?

At the moment,  a coronavirus vaccine is not required  to travel to South Korea. However, vaccinated passengers are able to travel to South Korea with fewer restrictions.

Travelers should  stay updated with the latest developments  and ensure they have all the  vaccinations needed to travel to South Korea  before departure.

Is It Mandatory to Quarantine on Arrival in South Korea?

From April 1, 2022, vaccinated travelers who register with the Q-code system are eligible for  quarantine exemption .

Most other passengers are subject to  quarantine for 7 days  on arrival. Visitors must take a PCR test on day 7.

Passengers who are required to quarantine must install the “self-quarantine safety protection mobile app” on their device before departure or upon arrival.

Vaccinated Travel Lane With Singapore

Passengers arriving from Singapore under the Vaccinated Travel Lane must present:

• a COVID-19 vaccination certificate complete with a QR code
• a confirmation of their arrival COVID-19 test
• a printed copy of medical insurance with coverage of USD 25,100 for COVID-19 related medical expenses.

Can I Transit through South Korea During COVID-19?

South Korea entry restrictions during the coronavirus pandemic also inlcude some limitations for transit passengers.

Travelers are currently only allowed to transit through South Korea for a  maximum of 24 hours . They must have a confirmed connecting ticket.

Nationals of Egypt, Sudan, Syria, and Yemen are not allowed to transit.

All Passengers in transit must  complete a health questionnaire  on arrival.

Internal and Movement Restrictions within South Korea

Intercity transportation in South Korea is fully operational in most areas.   Use of a facemask is mandatory,  and eating and drinking are not permitted.

• Domestic flights : most routes have resumed with full capacity
• Trains : operational with some changes to timetables. Hygiene measures in place at stations and onboard
• Buses : inter-regional bus journeys are now permitted
• Local transport : taxis, metro, tram, and bus operational

Travelers should check the restrictions in place in the specific area of South Korea that they plan to visit. Visitors cannot board a domestic flight until completing the 7-day quarantine.

Korean Flights Affected by Coronavirus

Some airlines have canceled flights to and from South Korea, largely due to a decline in demand.

International and national routes are affected, although South Korea remains well-served by some services. Passengers with plane tickets in the coming days should  check with the airline  to ensure that the flight is to go ahead as scheduled.

Is It Safe to Travel to South Korea during COVID-19?

Some passengers are questioning whether it is safe to go to South Korea now. Most lockdown measures in South Korea have been lifted.

Most stores, educational facilities, stores, and other  businesses are now open and operating as normal . Provided travelers take the necessary precautions and maintain a social distance, such facilities can be used safely.

There are some  regional differences in the safety measures  being implemented. Travelers should check the specific rules and regulations for their destination.

Health advice for travelers in South Korea

Foreigners currently in South Korea are asked to follow health advice that is being issued internationally.

• Do not travel if experiencing any symptoms
• Regularly wash hands with soap and water and use alcohol-based hand sanitizer when soap and water are unavailable.
• Cover the mouth and nose when coughing and sneezing
• Stay at least 6 feet away from other people
• Wear a mask when taking public transportation

Foreigners in South Korea who show any COVID-19 can call 1339 for 24-hour advice.

As always, foreigners should consult the latest health information for South Korea well ahead of departure.

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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.

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Coronavirus Updates

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

Anthony Kuhn

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The current restrictions send a sterner message.

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

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

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

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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 .    

Travel Advisory Levels

Assistance for u.s. citizens, south korea map, search for travel advisories, external link.

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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 .

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

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Multilingual Guide

Mobile Passport

Autonomous-driving Shuttle

Restaurant Reservation and Waiting Service

CATCH TABLE

From the hottest places within Seoul to Michelin resetaurants, it's a must for reservations! For restaurants that require wait times, hold a spot line with our remote waitlist and visit when convenient.

Food Delivery Service

A delivery service for travelers. It supports 8 foreign language services!

Multilingual Taxi APP

Navigate Seoul effortlessly with TABA, a taxi ride app in Korea that seamlessly connects you to local taxi drivers, ensuring low fares and a safe, hassle-free taxi-hailing experience. TABA officially works with Seoul Metropolitan Government and T-Money.

Key Features:

• Multilingual Support: No need to type in Korean; our app allows address searches in all languages.

• Retain Your Number: Register with your original mobile number without complicated authentication.

• Explore Seoul’s Destinations: Discover popular attractions and easily hail a taxi to get there.

Real-time Multilingual Solution

Flitto Chat Translation

Flitto Chat Translation is the fastest and most accurate "real-time translation solution" available for use at all places where foreign guests are welcomed, such as info desks, tourist information centers, ticket offices, and many others. This real-time multilingual translation solution enables streamlined communication in each user's native language. It supports 11 languages. Service use: Gwanghwamun Tourist Information Center, Tourist Cafe on the first floor of Seoul Tourism Plaza

Trip.PASS is an innovative tourism-finance app that provides payment, transportation, immediate tax refund, and mobile passport services based on the mobile passport technology. With Trip.PASS 2in1 card and mobile app, you can conveniently and delightfully travel to every corner of Korea! ※How to purchase the Trip.PASS 2in1 card: Please check out https://trippass.net/!

Autonomous-driving vehicle calling APP

Seoul's Autonomous-driving platform, TAP!, is leading the popularization of autonomous-driving mobility services by making it easy for anyone to call and board autonomous-driving cars.

Emergency Medical Services

• In the event of an accident or emergency, call 112 (Police) or 119 (Emergency.) If an ambulance is requested in English, the caller's location is identified, and an ambulance is dispatched.
• Essential medicines, such as Tylenol and Aspirin, are available at pharmacies in Korea and can be purchased at convenience stores.

Tourist Complaint Center

• If you are in a difficult situation and need help during your trip, you can contact the Tourist Complaint Center operated by the Seoul Tourism Organization.

Safety Information

• Visit Seoul with peace of mind. There are police stations all over downtown Seoul. We can connect you to a free interpreter service in case of an emergency. In case of emergency, go to the nearest police station and report it or call 112.

Lost & Found

• You can contact the Lost and Found or the Tourist Information Center for assistance if you have lost anything during your trip. Moreover, you can report your lost item and search for found items on the National Police Agency's Lost and Found Integrated Portal (LOST112).

Seoul Ansimi App

• The Seoul Ansimi app allows you to walk home alone at late hours with peace of mind, as the CCTV control center in each district monitors through CCTV and responds if needed. It offers emergency reporting, surveillance during commutes, secure taxi services for safe homecomings, and safety escort reservations, accessible to everyone at any time and place without any cost.

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Foreign travelers can apply for a 90-day visa for group or individual tours

SEOUL -- South Korea opened up to foreign tourists on Wednesday, issuing short-term travel visas for the first time in two years now that it has lifted most COVID-related restrictions for residents.

Foreign tourists can apply for C-3 visas, which will allow them to enter the country on group or individual tours, to visit relatives, or to do business. Tourists with the visa can stay in the country for up to 90 days.

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As borders reopen, is japan ready for tourism's pitfalls, japan to reopen to tour groups from 98 nations and regions, south korea charges ahead to break covid-19 shackles, latest on coronavirus, malaysia and singapore put guard up as covid cases surge, china's delayed funeral data clouds extent of december covid surge, japan to shorten quarantine for covid infections to five days, sponsored content, about sponsored content this content was commissioned by nikkei's global business bureau..

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South Korea

Warnings and insurance.

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

Before you travel

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

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

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

Travel insurance

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance . Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.

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South Korea temporarily reverses course in exiting Covid restrictions.

The country also confirmed its first cluster of the Omicron variant, in a church where two locally transmitted cases were found and 800 were being tested.

By John Yoon

South Korean officials said on Friday that they would temporarily reverse the phased reopening they began last month , lowering the cap on group sizes for social gatherings and requiring proof of vaccination or a negative coronavirus test for entry to restaurants, cafes and other facilities starting next week.

The announcement by Prime Minister Kim Boo-kyum came as nearly 80 percent of the country’s hospital beds for patients with severe illness were in use, and days after six cases of the Omicron variant were confirmed among inbound travelers.

On Friday, officials said that they had confirmed South Korea’s first Omicron cluster, one associated with a church.

At least two members of a church in the city of Incheon were confirmed to have the variant. They had worshiped alongside two travelers who tested positive after a trip to Nigeria, the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency said in a statement. Another 800 people who were potentially exposed are being tested.

Churches have been the site of previous major coronavirus outbreaks in South Korea, including one identified last month at a religious facility with 500 members in the city of Cheonan in which 445 cases have now been confirmed, more than 400 of them among unvaccinated people, the local authorities said.

In his announcement on Friday, Mr. Kim said that the government would limit private gatherings for four weeks. In and around Seoul, where gatherings have had a 10-person cap, the limit will be six; other areas had a limit of 12, which will be cut to eight.

Officials said they would also require everyone entering restaurants, cafes, cram schools, movie theaters, sports stadiums, museums and libraries to be fully vaccinated.

New daily cases in South Korea have surged steadily for the past two months, jumping from around 1,500 in mid-October to 5,266 on Thursday, the country’s highest level since the pandemic began.

“Our gradual recovery of daily life is now facing its most serious threat yet,” Mr. Kim said. “All pandemic indicators across the country are sending danger signals.”

Most of those hospitalized were unvaccinated, over the age of 60 or had pre-existing conditions, health officials have said. While 80 percent of the population has been fully vaccinated, rates for children have remained low, with only about 20 percent of those ages 12 to 17 fully inoculated, according to official statistics.

To encourage vaccinations among children, Mr. Kim said, South Korean officials will begin requiring vaccine passes for them starting in February.

South Korean officials have also tightened curbs at the border since they confirmed the first cases of the Omicron variant on Wednesday. On Friday, the government began halting quarantine exemptions for inbound travelers from all countries, and started requiring visitors to observe a 10-day quarantine period and take three rounds of P.C.R. tests after arrival.

John Yoon reports from the Seoul newsroom of The New York Times. He joined The Times in 2020. More about John Yoon

South Korea Travel Restrictions

Traveller's COVID-19 vaccination status

Travelling from the United Kingdom 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.

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Can I travel to South Korea from the United Kingdom?

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

Can I travel to South Korea if I am vaccinated?

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

Can I travel to South Korea without being vaccinated?

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

Do I need a COVID test to enter South Korea?

Visitors from the United Kingdom 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 the United Kingdom 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 .

Search Smartraveller

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?

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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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Science & Medicine

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May 17, 2024

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May 14, 2024

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COVID-19: travel health notice for all travellers

South Korea travel advice

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

Last updated: May 6, 2024 10:24 ET

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Safety and security, entry and exit requirements, laws and culture, natural disasters and climate, south korea - take normal security precautions.

Take normal security precautions in South Korea

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Tensions on the Korean Peninsula

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

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

Registration of Canadians Abroad

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

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

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

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

Women’s safety

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

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

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

Advice for women travellers

Demonstrations

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

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

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Civil emergency exercises

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

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

Useful links

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

Emergency assistance mobile application

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

• Emergency Ready App  - Google Play
• Emergency Ready  - iTunes

Road safety

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

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

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

Public transportation

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

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

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

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

Information about foreign domestic airlines

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

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

Verify this information with the  Foreign Representatives in Canada .

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

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

Regular Canadian passport

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

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

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

Other travel documents

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

• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Canadian passports

Tourist visa: not required* Business visa: not required* Student visa: required (must be obtained outside South Korea) Working visa: required (must be obtained outside South Korea)

*Canadians are exempt from the Korea Electronic Travel Authority (K-ETA) requirement to visit South Korea until December 31, 2024.

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

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

• Korea Electronic Travel Authority (K-ETA) – Ministry of Justice, Republic of Korea
• More information about visas – Korea Immigration Service

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

Screening measures

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

Children and travel

Learn more about travelling with children .

Yellow fever

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

Relevant Travel Health Notices

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

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

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

Routine vaccines

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

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

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

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

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

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

• There is no risk of yellow fever in this country.

Country Entry Requirement*

• Proof of vaccination is not required to enter this country.

Recommendation

• Vaccination is not recommended.

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

About Yellow Fever

Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Travellers are at higher risk if they will be:

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

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

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

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

 The flu occurs worldwide. 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Safe food and water precautions

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

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

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

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

Insect bite prevention

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

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

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

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

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

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

Animal precautions

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

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

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

Person-to-person infections

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

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

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

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

For most travellers the risk of tuberculosis is low.

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

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

Medical services and facilities

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

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

Travel health and safety

Keep in Mind...

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

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

You must abide by local laws.

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

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

Overview of the criminal law system in South Korea

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

Drugs, alcohol and travel

Support for anti-government organizations

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

Photography

Photography of military installations and government buildings is illegal.

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

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

International Driving Permit

Teaching English

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

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

Guide for teaching English in Korea

Dual citizenship

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

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

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

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

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

International Child Abduction

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

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

If you are in this situation:

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

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

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

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

2SLGBTQI+ travellers

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

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

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

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

Rainy and typhoon seasons

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

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

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

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

Air pollution

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

Air pollution in South Korea - World Air Quality Index

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

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

Local services

In case of emergency, dial:

• police: 112
• medical assistance: 119
• firefighters: 119

An English interpretation service is available.

Consular assistance

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

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

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

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

Learn more about consular services .

Risk Levels

  take normal security precautions.

Take similar precautions to those you would take in Canada.

  Exercise a high degree of caution

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

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

  Avoid non-essential travel

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

  Avoid all travel

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

What to know about KP.2 — the new COVID 'FLiRT' variant in Australia

A subvariant that quickly became the leading covid-19 strain in the united states was recently detected in australia..

Experts are continuing to urge Australians to ensure they're properly vaccinated against COVID-19. Source: AAP / Jason O'Brien

• Highly transmissible COVID subvariant KP.2, which quickly spread through the US, was recently detected in Australia.
• Experts said that, while most Australians don't face much risk, vulnerable populations should remain cautious.
• The public health advice remains the same: get vaccinated, be vigilant and stay home if symptoms appear.

What is the new COVID-19 variant?

Are the flirt variants cause for concern.

• What was thought to be a 'significant' COVID-19 milestone wasn't at all

Why a popular COVID-19 vaccine has been withdrawn worldwide

• The push for a new COVID vaccine — and when Australians could get it

What should the general population do?

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COVID-19 Your Health

COVID-19 information and resources for the public on precautions to avoid illness, vaccines, symptoms, treatments, and therapeutics.

• View Respiratory Virus Guidance

COVID-19 vaccine recommendations have been updated as of February 28, 2024 , to recommend adults ages 65 years and over receive an additional updated 2023-2024 COVID-19 vaccine dose.

• Vaccines for COVID-19  (CDC)
• Stay Up to Date with COVID-19 Vaccines  (CDC)
• COVID-19 Vaccines for People Who Are Moderately or Severely Immunocompromised  (CDC)
• Frequently Asked Questions about COVID-19 Vaccination  (CDC)

Learn About COVID-19 Treatment Options

• COVID-19 Treatments and Therapeutics  (HHS)
• COVID-19 Treatments and Medications  (CDC)
• Are  moderately or severely immunocompromised  and may not mount an adequate immune response to COVID-19 vaccination OR have a history of severe allergic reactions to COVID-19 vaccines, and
• Do not currently have COVID-19 and have not recently had close contact with someone with COVID-19, and
• Are an adult or adolescent ages 12 years and older weighing at least 88 pounds (40 kg).
• Know Your Treatment Options for COVID-19  (FDA)

Monoclonal Antibody Treatments

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration issued an Emergency Use Authorization to allow the use of monoclonal antibodies for the treatment of mild to moderate symptoms of COVID-19 in adults and pediatric patients.

View the South Dakota Monoclonal Antibody Treatment flyer

What are monoclonal antibodies? Monoclonal antibodies are laboratory-made proteins that mimic the antibodies created by your immune system to fight off harmful viruses. Bamlanivimab + etesevimab and casirivimab + imdevimab are monoclonal antibodies that are specifically designed to protect against severe COVID-19 infection. The antibodies bind to the spike protein of the COVID-19 virus to stop the virus from entering your cells and continuing the infection.

• Test positive for SARS-CoV-2;
• Are within 10 days of the start of their symptoms;
• Are age 12 or older and weigh at least 88 pounds; and
• Chronic kidney disease
• Immunosuppressive disease
• Currently receiving immunosuppressive treatment
• Having a body mass index (BMI) greater than 25 (overweight or obese)
• Aged 65 years and older
• Cardiovascular disease (including congenital heart disease) or hypertension
• Chronic lung diseases (e.g., chronic obstructive pulmonary disease [COPD], asthma [moderate-to-severe], interstitial lung disease, cystic fibrosis, and pulmonary hypertension)
• Sickle cell disease
• Neurodevelopmental disorders (e.g., cerebral palsy) or other complex conditions (e.g., genetic or metabolic syndromes and severe congenital abnormalities)
• Having a medical-related technological dependence (e.g, tracheostomy, gastrostomy, or positive pressure ventilation [not related to COVID-19])

Individuals who meet high-risk criteria and test positive should contact their primary care physician about a referral for antibody treatment within three days of a positive test result and no later than 10 days after symptom onset.

Treatment for COVID-19 is available in many parts of the state. Check with your healthcare provider about the use of monoclonal antibodies or an antiviral.

China calls for stable ties with South Korea despite 'difficulties'

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The Bank of Korea will keep its key policy rate unchanged for an 11th straight meeting on Thursday and through next quarter, followed by a half point cut in Q4 after the likely start of policy easing from many global peers, a Reuters poll found.

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Protecting yourself from COVID-19

How to help protect yourself and your community from COVID-19 infection.

COVID-19 update – 16 May 2024

COVID-19 has increased to moderate levels.

Read the latest  data from NSW Health .

Continue to protect other people. Please stay home if you have any cold or flu symptoms. Wear a mask if you need to leave home.

Steps to keep yourself safe

Stay home if you have cold or flu symptoms. Wear a mask if you need to leave home.

You may be required to wear a mask in high risk settings.  

Stay up to date with your recommended COVID-19 vaccinations .

Don't visit people who are at higher risk if you have COVID-19 or symptoms.

Talk with your doctor now if you're at higher risk . You may need a PCR test and be eligible for antivirals.

Gather outdoors or in well-ventilated  indoor spaces.

Guidance on protecting other people

Advice for parents of children in childcare and schools.

Find out what COVID-safe measures are in place at NSW early childhood education centres and schools.

Visiting people in high-risk settings

If you're visiting someone in aged care or disability care, find out what you can do to keep them safe.

Advice for workers

Guidance for workers affected by COVID-19.

Advice for people at higher risk of severe illness

Find the full list of people who are considered at higher risk .

People over 70

People with disability, pregnant women and new parents, aboriginal communities, easy read and translated resources, easy read information on covid-19, in-language and translated covid-19 support, contact us and find translation help.

• Service NSW – information and advice for NSW residents and businesses. Phone  13 77 88
• Healthdirect – government-funded 24-hour health advice. Phone 1800 022 222
• Disability Gateway – information for people with disability. Phone 1800 643 787
• Mental health support, services and programs
• Service NSW Savings Finder – find rebates and vouchers relevant to you
• Business Concierge – tailored advice from Business Connect advisors. Phone 13 77 88
• Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS National) – free service provided by the Australian Government. Phone 13 14 50