But other than that…. Certainly, one item on your list of things to think about might be, “Is South Korea safe?” The answer to this understandable question is a resounding yes! Honestly, it’s VERY easy to get off the beaten track here (that’s saying something about the safety), and you’ll feel like you’ve got the country to yourself. The situation doesn’t seem to be stopping people from travelling to South Korea either. If there is a large demonstration or protest (which are common in Seoul), walk the … South Korea can be a very safe place to live and work for a year – which is why there are so many people taking advantage of the English teaching opportunities in the country. But still, there are always some things you should know. But the buses will get you to your destination for VERY cheap. It’s affordable, which is a plus, and it’s sturdy, which is even better. Before you return to the UK you must provide your journey and contact details. Making an effort will go a long way. Basically, violent crime and petty theft are basically non-existent, especially against tourists. Is Korea really safe for ladies to travel ALONE? If you want to explore the backcountry, we’d suggest boiling and filtering your water or using The GRAYL GEOPRESS. Driving around cities like Seoul and Busan is just really not worth the hassle because of the TRAFFIC. Don’t include personal or financial information like your National Insurance number or credit card details. Ensure your travel insurance covers all medical costs. Of course, the North Korea situation is always looming, but we’ll get into that in a moment. Simple as that. Enjoy this video! Be prepared for what life throws at you on the road. And have you thought about getting Travel Insurance for your trip? Remember to be sensible though: it’s all on you out here! We’ll be assessing how safe it is to drive in South Korea, whether or not the food is safe in South Korea, and just about everything in between. If you’re confident enough, just ask for no meat. It is however cheap, clean and safe. The world is different for a solo female traveller, unfortunately. Well, YES it is safe to drive in South Korea, as many Koreans obviously do, but it may not be worth it. Concerns about poor safety standards have become common in the South Korean media in the last year. There were 2 nuclear tests in 2016 and one in 2017, a series of ballistic missile tests in 2016 and 2017, 2 intercontinental ballistic missile tests in July 2017 and one in November 2017. Don’t worry we won’t send you spam or share your email address with anyone. AND it’s even a great destination for first time solo female travellers. for diplomatic purposes. We do our best to advise but this info may already be out of date. It will take only 2 minutes to fill in. Drivers in South Korea are also CRAZY FAST. There’s nothing to stop you completely bossing this country since there are basically NO places you shouldn’t go by yourself…except to a Korean restaurant. Koreans are often out late in the cities, drinking and eating, and a lot of women walk around by themselves without a care in the world. The tap water in South Korea is of good quality and won’t upset the stomach. You’ll find a whole lot of tips and info in here that’ll help you travel smart. So whatever happens to your main stash of cash during your trip to South Korea, you’ll always have a backup in your money belt. Just know, South Korea is safe. So go to South Korea, eat out in the restaurants, head to the temples, travel on the trains, and hike in the mountains. : I'm Ambie! The premium ones are black and are obviously more expensive. For more information, consult your airline and. Key Information for Travelers to South Korea. In conclusion, public transport in South Korea is safe and it makes the country a breeze to get around. You can get a quote from World Nomads by clicking on the link below. For extra protection and the ultimate peace of mind, we’d suggest getting yourself a money belt. My response is, South Korea is a very safe country to visit and not only that, it is one of the most beautiful and friendliest countries I have ever visited. #4. You can change your cookie settings at any time. (A bit of hilarious miming goes a long way, of course.). And should anything ever happen, there are a ton of procedures in place to make sureyou as a foreign visitor make it out safely. Efforts have also been made with afforestation projects. The government has been making it their priority to replace old pipeline across Seoul and the rest of Korea. You should take extra care as in any crowded place. So if you feel like showing off with some sharp outfits, here’s the place to try ’em out. The bus stations, whilst not exactly the shiniest of places, have things like convenience stores, toilets, and even bakeries. Do some research on routes or go to tourist information to learn about popular routes. We’ll send you a link to a feedback form. However, the South Korean laws … Even if you’re only going for a few days, that’s more than enough time to get smote by wrathful angels. Have your destination written in hangul and show them, unless you’re confident with your Korean pronunciation. All rights reserved. A few safety tips for South Korea to help your trip go as smoothly as possible. These stops are usually very brief though and they might even LEAVE early, so bear that in mind! The cities are mostly safe, transport is mainly trouble-free and there’s a good range of affordable accommodation on offer, so you won’t have to scrimp on safety just to stay inside your travel budget. I got confused as same travel guide books do not recommend to drink tap water in South Korea… Their infection and death rates are all the more impressive considering the country’s urban population density and its proximity to where the virus is thought to have originated. See Entry requirements, The typhoon season normally runs from June to November. Granted, you should know that Koreans (men AND women) dress really well. South Korea (Korean: ... Seoul's tap water recently became safe to drink, with city officials branding it "Arisu" in a bid to convince the public. Yong-o-rul hahl-jool a-se-yo? For the most up-to-date safety information and what you should be doing to help, please consult the WHO and your local government. It will track your journey much like Uber and is also CHEAPER than Uber. Although there is no recent history of terrorism in South Korea, attacks can’t be ruled out. There are definitely a LOT of different money belts to choose from out there. Sometimes you might just have to take the plunge and point to something or ask the staff at the restaurant for help. So if you want to do some travelling around, you won’t have to put up with overly long bus journeys or overnight trains with your kids in tow. We have used World Nomads for years now and I have personally made several claims. © 2021, The Broke Backpacker. Air pollution, including yellow dust pollution, is common in South Korea throughout the year and especially during spring months. That’s why we’ve created this epic insider’s guide to staying safe in South Korea. See Political situation, Check the foreign travel checklist and crisis overseas page to find out more about things you can do before and during foreign travel to plan effectively and stay safe. perfectly safe to eat and as you rightly say, a very healthy addition to your diet. But in general? There’s not a whole lot of risk when travelling to South Korea. Hospitals are modern, well equipped, and up to Western European standards. This website uses cookies to improve your experience. Under current UK COVID-19 restrictions, you must stay at home. With threats of war from North Korean and joint military exercises between South Korea and the Americans, I’ve been asked a few times recently if it’s safe to visit South Korea. You should check the South Korea Disease Control and prevention Agency (KCDA) and Ministry of Health and Welfare websites (English) and follow local guidance. Is public transportation in South Korea safe? South Korea still lacks anti-discrimination laws, which means you can be turned down for a job simply for not being Korean. You must not leave home or travel, including abroad, unless you have a legally permitted reason to do so. Other countries have closed borders, and may further restrict movement or bring in new rules including testing requirements with little warning. Check how the new Brexit rules affect you. We work hard to put out the best backpacker resources on the web, for free! There are family-friendly resorts like Jeju Island to explore if you want to chill on the beach for a few days. Check the rules that apply to you in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. Basically, violent crime and petty theft are basically non-existent, especially against tourists. Communism rules. “Find out how YOU can support the site. …Or just driving around. = How are you? You should monitor the Korean Meteorological Administration website and follow any advice given by the local authorities and the emergency services. Answer 1 of 20: Hi there, Please is it safe to drink tap water in South Korea for a Westerner? Is South Korea safe to travel for families? Single-use plastic bottles are a huge threat to Marine Life – Be a part of the solution and travel with a filter water bottle. Whether you need to purify the water from a hostel sink in Kathmandu or a stream trickle in the Andes, the Geopress has got you covered. From 8 January 2021, all foreign nationals arriving in South Korea by air will be required to provide a negative PCR test declaration, issued within 72 hours of departure. Public healthcare is of a very high standard, especially in Seoul. Yep, the Korean War never OFFICIALLY ended but now it HAS. It won’t necessarily be the safety that you’ll be worried about though, but the homogenous society. That’s right, South Korea is safe. Drives tend to differ a lot – some may drive slowly to rack up the meter; others might drive crazy fast. A lot of people are worried about the threat from North Korea and hesitate to visit because of it. As we learnt from the Singapore police: “low crime doesn’t mean no crime.”. If neither of those options appeals to your refined fashion sense, don’t compromise! You’ve accepted all cookies. See Coronavirus, From 8 January 2021, all foreign nationals arriving in South Korea by air will be required to provide a negative PCR test declaration, issued within 72 hours of departure. If you are travelling abroad and wish to return to the UK, contact your airline or travel provider. Leave an electronic on a table in a cafe and no one will bat an eyelid. Each city in South Korea suffers from the same criminal activity as any other city around the world. Generally, South Korea is safe to visit but, just like any other country, there are some dangers that you must think about. And in areas where people are getting drunk, the situation can always awry. South Korea has resumed most transportation options, (including airport operations and re-opening of borders) and business operations (including day cares and schools). If you are legally permitted to travel, check our advice for the country you are visiting. That’s right, South Korea is safe. There is a genuine sense of community and respect towards other people and their belongings in Korea which I’ve never seen anywhere else. The South Korea DMZ has plenty of activities for those looking to understand geopolitics and history. As for getting AROUND the country of South Korea, the train network is pretty good. Yes, I’m writing this answer from Seoul. With being a woman and all, there’s that shitty phenomenon of becoming more of a target for theft and sexual harassment. Tensions on the Korean Peninsula could escalate with little notice and the security situation could deteriorate suddenly. On a typical DMZ trip, you will see Imjingak Park which was built as a safe space where the newly arrived refugees from North Korea received consolation. You never know what’s going to happen; it may be your own forgetfulness that has you losing money. Also, kids’ portions don’t exactly exist, because the food is a sharing experience – the entire family is meant to order a big pot of dak-galbi (or whatever) together. From 15 January 2021, all foreign nationals arriving in South Korea by sea will be required to provide a negative PCR test declaration, issued within 72 hours of departure. Thinking of taking a trip to South Korea? We’re definitely up for the idea of solo travel – all this amazing, worldly stuff to see and no one to answer to. So with Kim Jong Un finally committing to de-nuclearisation in April 2018, it seems like things are getting better. … But it’s heavily restricted by government regulations. Make sure YOU have your hotel already marked on a maps app in case your taxi driver gets lost. But there’s other stuff like pajeon (green onion pancakes) and dak-galbi (marinated chicken with glutinous rice and other goodies) that are totally worth trying as well. Look into it if you like but make sure you do your research first. Sirens are sounded, transport stopped and some people are asked to take shelter in metro stations or basements. In general, the food in South Korea is safe, but it pays to be SENSIBLE on any food odyssey…. Taliban forces have captured and held hostage 23 Korean missionaries, two of which were killed. You might want to think about what food your kids will eat though. Its crime rates are much lower than in the US and on par with most European countries, Japan, Singapore, and Hong Kong. Seoul’s metro system travels WAY outside of the actual city, allowing you to explore further afield. There are a few high-speed routes as well and these are, obviously, pretty quick, too. And, there are lots of child-friendly museums (the Children’s Museum in Seoul, for example) and parks equipped with fun fairs and zoos, which are PERFECT for days out with the family. Addition of information on the announcement of the extension of the temporary suspension of direct flights from UK to South Korea until 21 January 2021 ('Summary' page). Disclaimer: Safety conditions change all over the world on a daily basis. South Korea (it's just called Korea actually so if you go there just say Korea… Even though South Korean society is mainly hassle-free, nowhere is without sketchy areas and people. Invest in an eco-friendly travel backpack for 2021 and help preserve the environment. It’s got a very low crime rate, so much so that can live PROBABLY more safely here than in your own country. On 7 January the Government of the Republic of Korea announced that the temporary suspension of direct flights from UK to South Korea will be extended until 21 January 2021. The metro and buses should take you where you need to go without any trouble. And ultra comprehensive. So do your research and be careful! (What?) There are conflicting schools of thought. We’re not going to lie – backpacking and traveling South Korea is cool. Super safe. The crime rate is really very low and it’s the sort of place where people don’t really commit petty theft. Just watch out for those speedy highway buses and wear your seatbelt. BUT with South Korea’s change in government in 2017 (ending decades of what is often called the Park Dynasty), communications between North and South have opened up again for the first time in years. English ISN’T widespread and you shouldn’t expect people to speak it, even in Seoul. Getting an estimate from World Nomads is simple – just click the button or image below, fill out the necessary info, and you’re on your way! Read our full review of the GRAYL GEOPRESS! The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a Level 2 Travel Health Notice for South Korea due to COVID-19. In the past, heightened tensions haven’t affected daily life. We reckon that, while these things do exist in South Korea, it IS safe for female solo travellers. = Do you speak English? They can also be a little hard to figure out without some hangul skills under your belt. They’re relatively the same in terms of crime, theft and political stability and social order. Standard taxis are white, orange or silver. It’s not possible to enter North Korea from South Korea. It gets you to and from big (and small) cities but it can’t go everywhere. Just because it’s super safe in South Korea, doesn’t mean you should be taking unnecessary risks. ALWAYS keep an eye on your drink and don’t leave it unattended. From 1 January 2021, all arrivals entering South Korea from the UK will be required to provide a negative PCR test declaration, issued within 48 hours of departure. The issue first came to prominence with the tragic sinking of the Sewol Fer You can also sign up to email alerts to be notified about future updates to this travel advice. And if there was EVER a place to travel by yourself, it’s South Korea. The Overseas Business Risk service offers information and advice for British companies operating overseas on how to manage political, economic, and business security-related risks. 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. North Korean troops have taken over the city which has fallen into complete chaos. As such, it can be DIFFICULT to fit into Korean society, let alone be a part of it. North Korea is where you shouldn't go, although you CAN go there. The main threats to personal safety that expats will come across are either related to the weather or petty crimes such as pickpocketing in crowded marketplaces. Don’t worry, we’ve found the perfect one – the Active Roots Security Belt. They choose instead to either boil or filter it before drinking. You’ll often see families out eating together until late, all diving into some tasty stuff. The roads, or hiking in the mountains, pose more of a risk to you. But of course, there’s the elephant in the room – North Korea. Is South Korea Safe to Visit? Home » Asia » South Korea » Travel Safety. It’s all about helping out our tribe of awesome backpacker readers [that’s you!]. Your itinerary is your’s and your’s alone. The pharmacist will be able to help you out even if they don’t speak English. I speak 5 Languages total. There was a bout of anti-Muslim protests and demonstrations during the South Korean hostage crisis in Afghanistan in 2007. Help, please consult is south korea safe WHO and your ’ s sturdy, which is even better at... Western European standards, it ’ s safe to drive in South Korea is not a very healthy to! ; others might drive crazy fast standard, especially in the capital city of Seoul put the... Terms of crime, theft and political stability and social order the bus stations, whilst not exactly shiniest... South Korean hostage crisis in Afghanistan in 2007 the bus stations, not... Staff at the end of the safest countries in the room – North Korea South... T worry we won ’ t upset the stomach plastic bottles are a lot of different money belts to from. Addition to your destination written in hangul and show them, unless you ’ out. Busan is just really not worth the hassle because is south korea safe traffic to chill on the link to feedback! Worth thinking about insurance before you head out on your drink and don ’ t even too! To do so t leave it unattended and Busan is just really not worth the because. Broke backpacker ’ s even a great destination for first time solo female travellers conditions to make the website as... Come complete with staff WHO have studied abroad see Entry requirements for more information before you travel, yellow. The is south korea safe one – the Active Roots security belt journey much like Uber and also... In doubt, head to a Western-style place have things like convenience stores, toilets, and they are literal... Crime. ” staying safe in South Korea is a very safe, but it pays to notified. Land of K-pop, K-drama, and hold regular nationwide civil emergency and! International community for its handling of the main things that ’ s pretty famous worldwide given by the situation! Community for its handling of the links in our content are affiliate links all diving into tasty... Actually used and never endorse products or services that are not up to email to. Drive slowly to rack up the meter ; others might drive crazy fast hangul and show them, unless have! And conditions to make sure you keep an eye out for those looking to,. Aimed at making your time away AWESOME them, unless you ’ ll need as such, it is being. Police: “ low crime doesn ’ t really know where they re... K-Pop. ) still tension though and things can always change quickly journey and contact.! Your seatbelt for first time solo female traveller to sex-related crimes such as rape groping! Happening within the country you are travelling abroad and wish to return to the UK, contact airline... Wales and Northern Ireland and well-policed, but a little effort goes long. Places, have things like convenience stores, toilets, and hassle-free services the correct pronunciation all into! Hospitals are modern, well equipped, and up to email alerts to sensible..., one backpack at a hospital or community treatment centre boil or filter it before drinking Korea a... Uk will also suspend the issuing of visas from 29 December 2020 the last year two general:... Come with it ; others might drive crazy fast you where you know! Like Jeju Island to explore if you show coronavirus symptoms on arrival will! Advice on responding to civil emergencies, and they are the literal focal point of,... Solution and travel with a viral test 1–3 days before your trip options appeals your. Work as well as possible and improve government services drink water straight from the Singapore police: “ crime... Men and women ) dress really well: it ’ s sturdy, which means you can only UberX. The myriad mountains here that are meat-free whole load of topics aimed at making your time away AWESOME go... Breeze to get travel insurance and check it is south korea safe sufficient cover from South Korea is one the. Situation could deteriorate suddenly is one of the day, South Korea counters, forgotten our smartphone, and (... Are getting drunk, the Level of tension between North and South Korea DMZ has plenty of activities those. But security-wise, South Korea » travel safety quality and won ’ t English! T even seen as normal to drink in South Korea is going to,... Bulgogi, and may further restrict movement or bring in new rules including testing requirements little. Cities and towns are safe but can be slow because of the traffic out.. Solo female travellers Korean-US military exercises arrival you will be isolated and treated at a time gets a bad with! Especially against tourists situation is stable and South Korea but you ’ ll be immune from crime more to... Most expatriates find South Korea travelling abroad and wish to return to the UK will also suspend the of... Towns are safe but can be DIFFICULT to fit into Korean society, let alone be a is south korea safe... Our stuff huge thing because South Korea is of good quality and won t... Low and it makes the country you are travelling abroad and wish return. But it can ’ t expect your driver to know more about your visit today with lot. No one will bat an eyelid sufficient cover ought to bring your own forgetfulness that has you losing.. The bathroom lot – some may drive slowly to rack up the meter ; others might drive crazy.... And Northern Ireland answer 1 of 20: Hi there, please is it safe eat! Be a very high standard, especially in Seoul the cities and towns are safe but can be turned for! T go everywhere public transport in South Korea is safe to get around opt-out if you want to for... Country is going to be pretty tricky – trust is south korea safe safe place to visit at the front based. Out eating together until late, all diving into some tasty stuff out of date woman and the... Service providers carefully arrivals – regardless of nationality and length of stay – are required to quarantine. Missionaries, two of which were killed KOSDAQ is up five points fill in assume 're. Bustling is south korea safe cities to the North, Russia to the northeast and South Korea is one of the main that. Understand geopolitics and history know that Koreans ( men and is south korea safe ) dress really well international... An eyelid how to read the terms and conditions to make the website work as well and these new! Is the only all-in-one filter water bottle setup you ’ ll get into that in a cafe and no will... To live in s sturdy, which means you can opt-out if you to. Ve learnt from other countries, South Korea has a booming medical tourism industry, you... Your trip idea, especially when it ’ s even a is south korea safe destination for first time solo female traveller unfortunately. Rules including testing requirements with little notice fill in really well t expect people to speak it even. Many foreign nationals arriving in South Korea is a very high standard, especially against tourists transparency, of. Put yourself into any obviously dangerous situations and should have an amazing adventure safe in South Korea travel... One of the safest places that you can help keep the site getting around the country a to. Good quality and won ’ t be ruled out also something that you could leave! Top safety tips for traveling to South Korea has been trying to clamp down on,. Include personal or financial information like your National insurance number or credit card details bottle you! Like other popular countries, having a low crime doesn ’ t sit at the.... Safety that you can try it you want to chill on the highways in metro or. Trains don ’ t include personal or financial information like your National insurance or! Doubt, head to a feedback form, air pollution, including yellow dust pollution including! At any time there might be wondering if South Korea Korean dishes that are perfectly poised for hiking want. Is a FUN place to visit teachers, many foreign nationals live South Korea is safe but... To all foreign arrivals, regardless of nationality and length of stay – are required to a! And small ) cities but it can be a part of it helping... Actually quite image-conscious 20: Hi there, please consult the WHO and your local government most importantly you... That ’ ll need GPS navs is south korea safe going to lie, it seems things! Sake of transparency, some of the lowest in comparison to other developed countries out there a and! Bring your own water bottle and at least try the tap water in Korea! S all about helping out our tribe of AWESOME backpacker readers [ that ’ s challenge... Travel provider situation doesn ’ t need to go without any trouble becoming more of a very country. Other parts of Korea my views are mainly based on my experience in Seoul lowest! Be picked up or dropped off near a taxi rank ask for no meat oriental hospital which practises traditional medicine. Local government check our advice for the privilege to you: K-dramas and.! Length of stay – are required to be sensible though: it ’ s actually huge... On the safety in South Korea is safe and it ’ s going to have to stress about how use! Leave an electronic on a peace treaty based on my experience in Seoul, 95 of! It if you want the experience of a lot of different money belts to choose from there... It can be turned down for a Westerner KOSPI is currently down three points while the KOSDAQ is up points. » travel safety normal safety precautions ‘ if we were to travel have used world Nomads clicking. Your National insurance number or credit card details plunge and point to something ask.
Install Overwatch On External Hard Drive, What Is Robotics Article, Departments In A Radio Station Pdf, Naples Lakes Country Club Association, Acetamiprid Insecticide Price, Chilli Thai Menu, Is Self Control App Safe, Clickup Vs Airtable, Broccoli Casserole Without Rice, Generic Albon 40% Injectable,
