USEFUL INFO SOUTH KOREA
Practical information to organize the trip with details about the best period to go, necessary documents, how to get around and much more.
WHEN TO GO TO SOUTH KOREA
South Korea offers different experiences in each season. Spring (April-May) is ideal for cherry blossoms, with mild temperatures. Summer (June-August) is hot and humid, perfect for beaches, but includes the rainy season. Autumn (September-November) offers breathtaking landscapes with colorful leaves and cool weather. Winter (December-February) is cold, but ideal for those who love snow and Christmas markets.
DOCUMENTS REQUIRED for SOUTH KOREA
To visit South Korea, you need a passport valid for at least 6 months. For tourist stays of up to 90 days, Italian citizens do not need a visa, but must register online for the K-ETA (Korea Electronic Travel Authorization) system before traveling. In addition, a vaccination certificate or COVID test may be required, depending on current regulations. For more information on this, we recommend consulting the Farnesina website.
WHAT TO BRING TO SOUTH KOREA
South Korea is a fantastic country with lots of wonders to discover. To better enjoy your adventure to discover South Korea, here is a reminder of what to pack (indeed, we recommend a backpack if you are about to leave for an On The Road. It is more practical, more convenient when you have to reach the dispersed hotels. in the narrow alleys of the medinas and takes up less space in the car, especially if you are traveling in a group). So don't forget the essential:
Comfortable and resistant shoes
Mosquito repellent and hand sanitizer
Sunscreen and after-sun cream (especially in the summer months)
Credit card just in case (remember to notify the bank that you will make withdrawals and payments abroad)
Photocopy of your passport in case of loss
Kit of basic medicines (Paracetamol, Anti-inflammatory, Intestinal antibiotic and broad spectrum antibiotic, Antidiarrheal, Lactic ferments and Patches)
Dress longer to visit religious sites
Warm clothes for cool evenings
Light clothes to withstand the heat
If you travel with a lot of medicines, remember to enclose your medical prescriptions
SOUTH KOREA'S CULTURE
Korean culture is a mix of tradition and modernity. Values such as respect for elders and the importance of family are central. Confucianism still influences society, while technology and entertainment, such as K-pop and K-dramas, represent modernity. Meals are convivial moments, with shared dishes at the center of the table. The official language is Korean, and etiquette is important: bowing is a sign of respect. Traditional festivals, such as Chuseok, also celebrate the rich cultural heritage.
GAY FRIENDLY SOUTH KOREA?
South Korea is gradually becoming more tolerant of the LGBTQ+ community, but there is still a long way to go to achieve equality. Same-sex relationships are not illegal, but there is no legal recognition of same-sex unions or marriages. Seoul and other major cities have active LGBTQ+ scenes, with venues and festivals such as the Seoul Queer Culture Festival. However, social stigmas remain, especially in more conservative areas, where traditional and religious culture can negatively impact acceptance.
LOCAL CURRENCY in SOUTH KOREA
The official currency of South Korea is the South Korean won (KRW). The most common banknotes are 1,000, 5,000, 10,000, and 50,000 won, while coins include 10, 50, 100, and 500 won. Credit cards are widely accepted in cities, but it is useful to have cash for small purchases or in rural areas. Exchange rates can be good at banks, airports, or authorized exchange offices.
CREDIT CARDS in SOUTH KOREA
In South Korea, credit cards are accepted in most shops, restaurants and hotels, especially in the larger cities. However, in traditional markets or rural areas, it is best to have cash. Visa and Mastercard are most widely used, while American Express and others may have less coverage. Withdrawal fees vary depending on your bank and ATM network, so check the rates before you travel.
LOCAL TIPS in SOUTH KOREA
In South Korea, tipping is not common practice, as service is usually included in the bill. In restaurants, hotels and taxis, it is not necessary to leave extra money, and may be refused. However, in more international tourist spots or for exceptional services, such as private guides or drivers, a small tip may be appreciated. However, it is never mandatory and do not expect it to be required.
BARGAIN in SOUTH KOREA
In South Korea, bargaining is not common in traditional or modern stores, where prices are fixed. However, in local markets, such as Namdaemun or Gwangjang in Seoul, you can negotiate on some products, especially if you buy in large quantities. Maintain a respectful and friendly tone when bargaining. Remember that getting small discounts is possible, but not always guaranteed.
ELECTRICITY AND TIME ZONE in SOUTH KOREA
South Korea uses an electric current of 220V with a frequency of 60 Hz. The plugs are type C and F, the same as those used in many European countries. If your device does not support 220V, you will need a voltage converter, as well as an adapter for the plugs.
The time zone in South Korea is KST (Korea Standard Time), or UTC+9. There is no daylight saving time, so the time zone remains the same all year round. Compared to Italy, during the winter time there is an 8 hour difference, 7 hours in the summer.
GETTING AROUND in SOUTH KOREA
Transportation in South Korea is modern and efficient. The Seoul subway is one of the most advanced and covers large areas of the city. Stops and announcements are available in English, and T-money cards make it easy to pay for subways, buses and taxis. Buses are also widely used, with well-marked routes. Taxis are cheap and safe, but it is advisable to have the address written in Korean, as not all taxi drivers speak English. For longer trips, KTX trains offer a high-speed network connecting major cities. Bike-sharing is also popular for short trips.
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