Korea is a modern, convenient, and generally safe country for travelers. However, there are a few things that may be different from what you are used to at home.
Knowing these simple tips before you arrive will make your trip much easier and more enjoyable.
Cash & Payments
Korea is increasingly a cashless society. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted at hotels, department stores, restaurants, cafés, convenience stores, and most other businesses. Visa and Mastercard issued outside Korea are generally accepted, although a few smaller businesses may accept only Korean-issued cards or cash.
Cash can be useful at traditional markets, small local businesses, street food stalls, and in situations where a foreign card does not work.
For public transportation, a transportation card such as Tmoney is highly recommended. Korea’s public transportation systems are designed around transportation cards, although cash and other payment options are still available but limited.
Good to know
- The Korean currency is the won (₩ / KRW).
- Credit cards are widely accepted.
- Carrying a little cash is still a good idea.
- WOWPASS can be used for both payments and Tmoney.
- Foreign mobile payment services may not work everywhere.
Tipping Is Not Normally Expected
Korea does not have a traditional tipping culture.
At most restaurants, cafés, taxis, hotels, and other everyday services, you are not expected to leave a tip. The price shown is normally the price you pay.
At some high-end restaurants or hotels, you may occasionally see a service charge or have the option to leave a gratuity, but this is not something visitors are generally expected to do.
In short: you don’t need to worry about tipping in Korea.
English & Translation
English is widely taught in Korea, and many younger Koreans can communicate in basic English, particularly in large cities and tourist areas.
However, don’t expect everyone to speak English fluently. Outside major tourist areas, you may encounter people who speak little or no English.
A translation app can be extremely helpful.
Google Translate and Papago is particularly useful for Korean-English translation, including text, speech, and photos of signs or menus.
A useful tip
Save the Korean name and address of your hotel on your phone. If you need to ask a taxi driver or someone on the street for directions, showing the Korean address can be much easier than trying to pronounce it in English.
Be Careful When Taking Photos of People
Koreans generally enjoy taking photos, and photography is common in public places. However, do not deliberately photograph or record people without their consent when the situation could reasonably be considered intrusive, private, or sexual.
In particular, taking inappropriate or sexualized photographs of someone without their consent can have serious legal consequences in Korea.
As a simple rule:
When photographing people, use common sense and respect their privacy. If someone notices you taking their picture and asks you to stop, stop immediately.
Also remember that some museums, palaces, exhibitions, and private establishments may have their own photography restrictions.
Korea Is Generally Very Safe
Korea is generally considered a safe destination with relatively low levels of violent crime.
It is common to see people, including women, walking alone in busy urban areas at night. Convenience stores, cafés, restaurants, and public transportation also operate late into the night in many areas.
However, safe does not mean risk-free. Use the same common-sense precautions you would use anywhere:
- Keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places.
- Take care of your passport and valuables.
- Be careful when drinking alcohol.
- Avoid isolated areas late at night if you are unfamiliar with the neighborhood.
- If something feels wrong, move to a busy public place and ask for help.
For emergencies, call 112 for the police or 119 for fire, rescue, and medical emergencies. The 1330 Korea Travel Helpline can also provide travel information and multilingual assistance.
Public Transportation Is Excellent
Korea has an extensive public transportation network.
Seoul and other major cities have convenient subway and bus systems, while high-speed KTX trains connect major cities such as Seoul, Busan, and Daejeon.
For everyday travel, a transportation card such as Tmoney is one of the easiest ways to pay for buses and subways all over the country.
One thing to remember
When using a bus, remember to tap your transportation card when you get on and when you get off. Tapping when you get off is important for receiving transfer benefits and calculating the correct fare.
Walking in Korea
Korean cities can be very pedestrian-friendly, but traffic can be busy.
Cars and motorcycles may approach pedestrians unexpectedly, particularly on narrow streets and at intersections.
Always check both directions before crossing a street, even when you have the right of way.
Also, sidewalks can sometimes be shared with bicycles, scooters, delivery motorcycles, and other vehicles.
Restaurant Etiquette
At many Korean restaurants, you may notice that service is more self-service than you are used to.
For example, you may be expected to:
- Get water from a water dispenser.
- Take side dishes from a self-service area.
- Press a button on the table to call a server.
- Return trays or dishes at some casual restaurants.
This does not mean that the restaurant is providing poor service. It is simply part of the dining culture.
In traditional Korean restaurants, sharing food and side dishes is also very common.
Shoes & Indoor Etiquette
Some traditional restaurants, homes, guesthouses, temples, and other establishments require you to remove your shoes before entering.
If you see shoes left outside an entrance or a raised floor area, that is usually a sign that you should remove yours as well.
When visiting a Korean home or traditional accommodation, always follow the host’s instructions.
Smoking
Smoking is restricted in many indoor public places and designated non-smoking areas.
In cities, you will often see designated smoking areas. Avoid smoking near entrances, crowded sidewalks, public transportation stops, and other places where smoking is prohibited.
Trash & Recycling
Korea has relatively strict waste-sorting and recycling practices.
You may not always find a public trash can when walking around. Do not be surprised if you have to carry your trash for a while before finding an appropriate place to dispose of it.
At some locations, different types of waste must be separated.
Please do not leave trash on the street.
Internet, SIM Cards & Wi-Fi
Internet access is generally excellent in Korea.
Free Wi-Fi is available in many cafés, hotels, airports, subway stations, and public facilities. However, having your own mobile data is highly recommended because you will likely use navigation, translation, transportation, and reservation apps throughout your trip.
Consider getting a Korean SIM card or eSIM before or immediately after arrival.
Opening Hours Can Vary
Don’t assume that every business is open every day.
Small restaurants and independent shops may have one or more regular closing days, and some businesses may close between lunch and dinner.
Popular restaurants may also stop accepting customers before their official closing time.
Always check the latest opening hours before making a special trip.
Priority Seats on Public Transportation
On Korean buses and subways, you will often see seats specifically designated for:
- Elderly passengers
- Pregnant women
- Passengers with disabilities
Even when these seats are empty, it is generally considered polite to leave them available for those who need them.
Korean Dining Culture
Korean meals often come with several small side dishes called banchan.
These may be placed in the middle of the table and shared by everyone.
Korean food can also be spicy, although there are plenty of non-spicy dishes available.
If you cannot eat spicy food, don’t hesitate to say:
“Not spicy, please.”
You can also use a translation app to communicate your dietary restrictions clearly.
Know Where to Get Help
If you need help during your trip:
112 — Police
119 — Fire, Rescue & Medical Emergency
1330 — Korea Travel Helpline
The 1330 Korea Travel Helpline, operated by the Korea Tourism Organization, provides travel information, interpretation, and assistance for international visitors.
It is a good idea to save these numbers in your phone before you start your trip.
Finally, Be Curious and Respectful
Korea is a modern country, but it also has its own customs, social rules, and ways of doing things.
You may occasionally encounter something that seems unusual or unfamiliar. Instead of assuming that it is wrong or inconvenient, remember that you are experiencing a different culture.
A little patience, curiosity, and respect will go a long way.
Enjoy Korea, explore freely, and don’t be afraid to try something new. 🇰🇷