Frequently Asked Questions about South Korea

The visa requirements for entry into South Korea vary depending on nationality. For more detailed information, please visit our website on the "Visa" page.

If you are an EU citizen or a national of a country on the visa-free list, you do not need a visa to travel to South Korea for tourism purposes if you plan to stay no longer than 60 days per visit and no longer than 90 days within a six-month period. However, you will need an electronic travel authorization called K-ETA (Korea Electronic Travel Authorisation).

To enter South Korea, you need the following documents:

• A valid passport with a remaining validity of at least 6 months.
• Visa or K-ETA (Korean Electronic Travel Authorisation) - electronic travel authorization.
• Round-trip tickets and hotel reservation.

It is also recommended to have health insurance that covers the entire period of your stay in South Korea.

As of October 1, 2022, a mandatory PCR test is no longer required for entry from Germany to South Korea. An electronic K-ETA authorization is now sufficient for entry.

A valid passport is required for entry into South Korea. A provisional passport cannot be accepted, as it is generally required that the passport be valid for at least 6 months at the time of entry.

No special vaccinations are required for entry into South Korea. PCR tests or vaccination certificates are also not required.

The following goods are not allowed to be brought into South Korea:

• Narcotics and certain medications.
• Weapons, chemical and toxic substances as well as radioactive material.
• Materials that violate intellectual property rights.
• Counterfeit money and forged documents.
• Fresh fruits, vegetables, nuts, and plants along with soil.
• Products from rare animal and plant species.

When entering South Korea, you must observe the customs and duty-free regulations. The importation of goods up to a value of 400 USD is duty-free. If the value of the goods exceeds this amount, duties are only levied on the excess amount.
Certain goods have their own restrictions. For example, you may not bring more than 200 cigarettes, 50 cigars or 250 grams of tobacco and no more than 1 liter of alcoholic beverages. If you bring cash worth more than $10,000, you must declare it.

Yes, you can bring your pet to South Korea, but there are a few important requirements that must be met:

• Your pet must have a microchip for identification.
• You must present a health certificate from a veterinarian confirming that your pet is healthy and vaccinated.
• If your pet is older than 90 days, the results of a rabies antibody test must be submitted.
• In some cases, your pet may be quarantined if the papers are insufficient.

Useful information on entry can also be found in our section on Entry requirements for South Korea.

German citizens can stay in South Korea without a visa for 90 days.

Yes, you can extend your tourist visa for South Korea. To do so, you must apply for an extension of stay via the official website of the South Korean Immigration Center. Please note that the application for an extension can only be made online on weekdays from 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM.

There are many interesting places to visit in South Korea. Here are some of the main attractions you should see:

• The Gyeongbokgung Palace in Seoul is one of the most famous palaces, built in the 14th century. Here you can attend the changing of the guard and enjoy the architecture of ancient Korea.
• Jeju Island - known for its natural beauty, including waterfalls, volcanic craters, and beaches.
• Everland Amusement Park - the largest amusement park in South Korea, offering many rides and shows.
• The Bulguksa Temple is one of the most famous Buddhist temples in the city of Gyeongju.
• The Myeongdong shopping district in Seoul is a great place to shop and enjoy Korean cuisine.

Useful information for entering can also be found in our section Country Profile South Korea

The best time to visit South Korea is spring (March to May) and fall (September to November). During these periods, the weather is mild and pleasant, and nature delights with cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant autumn foliage in fall.
In the spring, temperatures range from 8 to 16 °C, making it ideal for hiking and sightseeing. In the fall, temperatures are also pleasant, between 10 and 18 °C, and it's a great time to hike and enjoy the colorful nature.

South Korea uses the South Korean Won (KRW), whose symbol is ₩. Currency exchange in South Korea is quite straightforward. You can exchange foreign currencies for Won at banks, exchange offices, and even in some hotels. There are also 24-hour exchange counters at Incheon Airport. Using bank cards in South Korea is also no problem.

Yes, traveling in South Korea is generally safe. The country has a low crime rate, but it is still advisable to take the usual precautions, such as avoiding large crowds and being careful with your belongings in crowded places.

The Korean language is spoken in South Korea. Korean is the official language of the country and is used in everyday life, education, government, and the media. In communication with foreigners, English is widely used, but Koreans' language skills vary. In big cities like Seoul, many young people and employees in the tourism and service industries have basic English skills. In more remote areas, however, English skills may be limited. If you are planning a trip to South Korea, it is advisable to learn a few basic phrases in Korean to facilitate communication. It will be useful for you and pleasant for the locals.

Yes, you can easily pay with your credit card in South Korea. Visa, Mastercard, and American Express are accepted in most stores, restaurants, and hotels. In more remote areas or with smaller retailers, however, there may be problems using foreign credit cards, so it is advisable to carry some cash just in case.

South Korea is famous for its diverse and delicious cuisine. Here are a few dishes you should definitely try:

• Kimchi - fermented vegetables, mostly cabbage, with spicy seasonings. It is one of the most famous Korean dishes.
• Bibimbap - rice with various vegetables, meat, and egg, served with a spicy sauce.
• Bulgogi - marinated meat, usually beef, grilled.
• Ttokpokki - rice cakes in a spicy chili sauce.
• Samgyeopsal - pork belly that is eaten wrapped in lettuce leaves with various sauces.

South Korea offers many convenient and affordable ways to get around:

• High-speed trains: The KTX system (Korea Train Express) connects major cities like Seoul, Busan, and Daegu. It is a fast and convenient way to cover long distances.
• Buses: Intercity buses go to all corners of the country. They are often cheaper than trains and offer a variety of comfort classes.
• Subways and city buses: In large cities like Seoul and Busan, subways and buses are the main means of transportation. They are convenient and easily accessible.
• Taxis: Taxis are relatively inexpensive in South Korea and can be a convenient way to get around, especially if you are traveling with luggage or in a group.
• Car rental: If you prefer more freedom, you can rent a car. The roads in South Korea are well maintained but can be congested during peak times.
• Ferries: There are ferries to visit islands like Jeju.

It is recommended to purchase a transportation card like Tmoney or Cashbee to easily pay in public transport.

In South Korea, type C and F sockets are used with 220 V and 60 Hz. If you are coming from Europe, you do not need an adapter, as most European devices are compatible with these sockets.

South Korea is a country rich in culture and traditions, and knowing a few things about it will make you feel comfortable and respected. Here are a few important points:

• In Korea, it is customary to bow when greeting someone. It is also important to use both hands when giving or receiving something to show respect.
• Be sure to take off your shoes before entering a house or restaurant.
• Age is important in Korea. Respectful treatment of the elderly, including the use of formal addresses, is very important.
• Koreans take recycling very seriously. Make sure you sort your trash correctly.
• Knowing a few basic Korean phrases like "Thank you" (감사합니다, "kamsahamnida") and "Hello" (안녕하세요, "annyonhaseyo") is very helpful.
• Avoid loud talking and loud behavior in public places, as this can be perceived as disrespectful.

South Korea is located in East Asia, on the southern part of the Korean Peninsula. It borders North Korea to the north and is surrounded by seas: the Yellow Sea to the west, the Sea of Japan to the east, and the Korea Strait to the south.

South Korea has several major cities, each unique in its own way:

• Seoul is the capital and largest city of South Korea with over 10 million residents.
• Busan is the second largest city and the country's main port, located on the southeastern coast.
• Incheon is a major city and port on the west coast, near Seoul.
• Daegu - an industrial city in the central part of the country.
• Daejeon - known for its medical clinics and technological innovations.
• Gwangju - a major city in the southwest of the country.
• Ulsan is an important industrial center.
• Suwon is a city rich in history and culture.

The climate in South Korea varies greatly depending on the season and the region. It is primarily a temperate monsoon climate with four distinct seasons.

• Spring (April-May): Mild and sunny weather, with temperatures between +10 and +20 °C. This is the time when cherry blossoms and other plants bloom.
• Summer (June-August): Hot and humid, with temperatures between +25 and +30 °C. The rainy season starts in June and lasts until August.
• Autumn (September-November): Mild and dry weather, temperatures between +15 and +25 °C. Autumn is famous for its beautiful autumn foliage.
• Winter (December-February): Cold and dry with temperatures between -5 and +5°C. Snowfall is possible in some regions.

The island of Jeju is characterized by its subtropical climate.

There are many rivers in South Korea, several of which are major rivers:

• The Nakdonggang is the longest river in South Korea, with a length of 521 kilometers.
• The Hangang is the river on which the capital Seoul is located. It has a length of 514 kilometers.
• The Geumgang has a length of 401 kilometers.
• The Imjingang is a river that flows through both South and North Korea.
• The Bukhangang is a tributary of the Hangang.
• The Seomjingang is another major river in South Korea.

South Korea has many beautiful mountains. Here are some of them:

• Hallasan is the highest mountain in South Korea and is located on Jeju Island with a height of 1,950 meters.
• Jirisan is the highest mountain on the South Korean mainland at 1,915 meters.
• Seoraksan - known for its scenic views and 1,708 meters high.
• Taebaeksan - 1,567 meters high and a popular destination for winter hiking.
• Odaesan - 1563 meters high, known for its Buddhist temples.

South Korea has several significant islands that play an important role in the country's culture, tourism, and economy:

• Jeju Island is the largest and most famous island in South Korea. It is a popular tourist destination due to its scenic landscape, volcanic terrain, and unique culture.
• Ulleungdo is an island in the Sea of Japan, known for its beautiful nature and seafood.
• Ganghwado is an island at the mouth of the Hangang River, an important historical and cultural center with many ancient temples and fortresses.
• Yeonpyeongdo is an island in the Yellow Sea, known for its naval battles and strategic importance.
• Jindo is an island known for its unique natural phenomenon of the "parting of the sea," where the tide creates a path between the islands.

Yes, there are several nature reserves and national parks in South Korea. Here are some of them:

• The Seoraksan National Park is one of the most famous parks in Gangwondo Province. It is famous for its scenic mountains, waterfalls, and diverse flora and fauna.
• Bukhansan National Park - located near Seoul and known for its granite peaks and historical temples.
• Gyeongju National Park - located in the city of Gyeongju and encompasses many historical and cultural monuments.
• Odaesan National Park - Famous for its ancient temples and ski resorts.

In South Korea, the time zone is KST (Korea Standard Time), which corresponds to UTC+09:00. The country does not observe daylight saving time.

North and South Korea share a common history and culture, but since their separation into two countries in 1948, their developmental paths have diverged significantly. Here are the main differences between the two countries:

1. The political system:
   - North Korea: The Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) is a socialist state with a single-party system, governed by the Workers' Party of Korea.
   - South Korea: The Republic of Korea (ROK) is a democratic state with a multi-party system and a market economy.
2. Economy:
   - North Korea: The economy is centralized and planned, focusing on heavy industry and military production.
   - South Korea: The economy is market-oriented and highly developed, focusing on technology, electronics, automobiles, and exports.
3. Standard of living:
   - North Korea: The standard of living is low, with restricted access to goods and services and frequent food issues.
   - South Korea: The standard of living is high, with developed infrastructure, healthcare, and education.
4. Culture and society:
   - North Korea: The culture is heavily controlled by the state, and access to foreign culture and information is limited.
   - South Korea: The culture is open and diverse, with a strong influence of Western culture, popular music, film, and television.
5. International relations:
   - North Korea: The country is isolated from most of the global community.
   - South Korea: The country is active in international organizations and maintains extensive diplomatic relations.