About Seoul
General Information of Seoul, Korea
Seoul, the vibrant capital city of South Korea, is a bustling metropolis with a rich cultural heritage and a modern, tech-savvy edge. With a population of over 10 million, it is one of the largest cities in the world.
Seoul is a city of contrasts, where ancient palaces and temples coexist alongside sleek skyscrapers and high-tech gadgets. It is a city that cherishes its traditions and values its history, but also embraces innovation and progress.
As a global hub for business, culture, and technology, Seoul offers visitors a wide range of experiences. The city is home to some of the world's most innovative companies and start-ups, as well as a thriving arts and cultural scene.
From the ancient palaces of Gyeongbokgung and Changdeokgung to the modern marvels of the Namsan Tower and Lotte World Tower, Seoul is a city of impressive architecture and engineering. The city's vibrant neighborhoods, such as Gangnam, Hongdae, and Myeong-dong, offer a diverse array of shopping, dining, and entertainment options.
Seoul is also known for its delicious cuisine, which ranges from traditional Korean dishes like bulgogi and bibimbap to international cuisine from around the world. Visitors can also indulge in the city's famous street food, such as tteokbokki, mandu, and hotteok.
With its rich history, modern amenities, and vibrant culture, Seoul is a city that offers something for everyone. Whether you're interested in business, technology, culture, or just exploring a new city, Seoul is a destination that is worth visit.
The standard voltage in Korea is 220 volts at 60 Hertz, and the outlets have two round holes. If you don’t have a multi-voltage travel adapter, you can rent or purchase one at the hotel front desk. Additionally, you can easily find multi-plugs at the airport, retail stores, major duty-free shops, and convenience stores.
The Republic of Korea is on Korea Standard Time (UTC +9:00) and does not observe daylight savings.
AUTUMN (Sep.-Nov.)
Average temperatures : 13 to 14°C(55 to 57°F).
October in Korea is autumn, with temperatures ranging from 10-20°C.
It's chilly at night, so bring layers like a sweater or thin jacket.
Currency
The currency of South Korea is the Korean won (￦ , won, KRW).
There are banknotes in denominations of 1,000, 5,000, 10,000, and 50,000 won, while coins come in 10, 50, 100, and 500 won.
The South Korean won widely accepted in the country, can be exchanged for foreign currencies at banks and exchange offices.
Credit cards are also widely used in Korea, and ATMs are readily available. However, it is advisable to always have cash on hand for small purchases for emergencies.
-
Bank
Weekday: 09:00-16:00 / Closed weekends & public holidays.
* Exceptions: Standard Chartered Bank weekdays 09:30-16:30, Bank weekdays 09:00-16:30 / Closed weekends & public holidays. -
Card
Diners Club, Visa, American Express, and Master Card are widely accepted at major hotels, shops, and restaurants in larger cities.
Check with your credit card company for details of merchant acceptability and other services which may be available. -
Check
Traveler's checks can be exchanged for cash at banks or exchange booths. Some stores still accept checks instead of cash. Nonetheless, the forms of credit cards and debit cards have become more preferred means of payment by travelers.
Thus trading checks are not recognized much nowadays as there is a decreasing number of stores that offer this service. -
Exchange and Exchange Tip
Currency exchange is available at official foreign exchange offices, banks, airports, department stores, and hotels, where the exchange rates will be based on the current rates.
Please note that the exchange fees may vary depending on the exchange office.
Tax
Value-added tax (VAT) is levied on most goods and services at a standard rate of 10% and is included in the retail price. In tourist hotels, this 10% tax applies to meals and other services and is added to the bill.
Gratuities (Tipping)
Tipping is not a common practice in Korean culture. It is also not necessary to tip a taxi driver unless he assists you with luggage or provides an extra service. Please note that a 10% service charge will be added to your bill at all tourist restaurants and hotels.
Travel Information Sites & Apps
The official tourism information website provides real-time tourist information on points of interest, such as tourist attractions and gourmet restaurants,
as well as providing reservation services for walking tours and the Seoul Citizens’ Hall “Tong-Tong” tour.
You can access the website through your PC, tablet, or smartphone-
anytime, anywhere.
You can search for all of Seoul's attractions, shopping, restaurants, recommended tourist routes, events, tourist information, tour guide/interpreter phone service, tour guides, maps, etc. on this app.
The official tourism information website provides real-time tourist information on points of interest, such as tourist attractions and gourmet restaurants, as well as providing reservation services for walking tours and the Seoul Citizens’ Hall “Tong-Tong” tour. You can access the website through your PC, tablet, or smartphone- anytime, anywhere.
Visa Details
Any foreign visitors wishing to enter Korea must have a valid passport and obtain a Korean visa. However, visitors from 103 countries who want to visit Korea temporarily are permitted to enter without a visa according to visa-exemption agreements, or following principles of reciprocity or national interest. Please refer to the following website and contact the Embassy of the Republic of Korea in your country to receive further information on visa regulations.
Emergency Contacts
119
For medical or fire emergencies
119
For police emergencies
These contact centers are available 24/7 and will provide you with the necessary emergency services within Korea.
Contact information:
Provincial Police Agency Lost
and Found Information
www.lost112.go.kr
24hrs Free phone
interpretation service
82-1588-5644 (bbb Korea)
Tourist Interpretation Guide
82-2-1330
Tourist Complaint Center
1800-9008
Immigration Contact Center
1345
Inquiries about Seoul
DASAN Call Center
02-120
Tourist Interpretation Call Center 1330
1 Korean / 2 English / 3 Japanese / 4 Chinese / 5 Russian / 6 Vietnamese / 7 Thai / 8 Malay · Indonesian Tourist I nformation Center interpretation service, tourist police, and complaint center accessible.
Open 24x7 all year round (Services in some languages only available from 08:00 19:00) In Korea 1330 / From Overseas +82 2 1330