South Korea
Summary
Before you travel, check the ‘Entry requirements’ section for South Korea’s current entry restrictions and requirements. These may change with little warning. Monitor this advice for the latest updates and stay in contact with your travel provider.
If you plan to pass through another country to return to the UK, check the travel advice for the country you’re transiting.
It is more important than ever to get travel insurance and check it provides sufficient cover. See the FCDO’s guidance on foreign travel insurance.
South Korea’s social distancing requirements are regularly reviewed and updated. You should check the South Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KDCA) and Ministry of Health and Welfare websites (English) and follow local guidance. See Coronavirus
YouFrom April 1, 2023 to December 31, 2024, visitors from the UK and several other countries no longer need to obtain a K-ETA to enter South Korea visa-free. See Entry requirements
The typhoon season normally runs from June to November. You should monitor the Korean Meteorological Administration website and follow any advice given by the local authorities and the emergency services. See Natural disasters
The level of tension and the security situation on the Korean Peninsula can change with little notice. Tensions can rise following missile tests by North Korea and during the regular South Korean-US military exercises, which take place throughout the year. 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. You can also sign up to email alerts to be notified about future updates to this travel advice. See Contingency planning
The South Korean authorities provide advice on responding to civil emergencies, and hold regular nationwide civil emergency exercises. Sirens are sounded, transport stopped and some people are asked to take shelter in metro stations or basements. See Civil emergency exercises and advice
Public demonstrations are mostly peaceful and well-policed, but the risk of violence remains. You should take extra care as in any crowded place. See Demonstrations
Air pollution, including yellow dust pollution, is common in South Korea throughout the year and especially during spring months. See Health
It’s not possible to enter North Korea from South Korea.
Although there is no recent history of terrorism in South Korea, attacks can’t be ruled out. See Terrorism
If you’re abroad and you need emergency help from the UK government, contact the nearest British embassy, consulate or high commission.
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.