Information

Useful Information

Essential resources for your visit to Korea

Practical information to help you make the most of your visit to Korea — including time zone, weather, currency, business hours, electricity, taxes, visa, and emergency contacts.

Time Difference

Time in Korea is 9 hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT+9), and there is no daylight saving time.

To check the current local time in Seoul, click here.

Weather

The average temperature in September is between 20.5℃ and 21.1℃ — a comfortable fall month with cool breezes and mostly clear or partly cloudy skies.

For detailed weather information, click here.

Business Hours

  • Government Office09:00 – 18:00 (Weekdays only)
  • Banks09:00 – 16:00 (Weekdays only)
  • Department Stores10:30 – 20:00, daily
  • Convenience Stores24 hours, daily

Credit Card

Visa and MasterCard are accepted at almost all retail outlets. Diners Club and American Express may only be accepted at major hotels, shops, and restaurants.

Please check with your credit card company for merchant acceptance and available services.

Currency & Exchange

The South Korean Won (KRW) is the official currency of South Korea.

KRW notes KRW coins
  • Currency ExchangeBanks, hotels, and airport counters
  • Bank Hours09:00 – 16:00, Monday to Friday

Electricity

Korea uses 220V / 60Hz as the standard voltage and frequency. The plug uses two round pins (Type C/F), the same shape used in many European, South American, and Asian countries.

If you don't have a compatible adapter, you can purchase one at duty-free shops or convenience stores at Incheon International Airport.

VAT & Tipping

  • Tipping Not regularly practiced in Korea. Upscale restaurants and hotels often include a 10% service charge.
  • Tax Refund Foreign visitors can receive tax refunds by submitting receipts at the customs desk when leaving the country. More details.

Visa

In principle, foreign visitors must hold a valid visa to enter Korea. However, nationals of countries with a visa exemption agreement may enter without a visa.

For more information, please visit the Korea Visa Portal.

Emergency & Useful Numbers

Fire & Rescue 119
Police 112
Disease Control 1339
Tourism Hotline 1330
Immigration Office 1345

※ No area code required.