South Korea

Visa requirements for South Korea depend on which passport you hold. Check the Traveller visa tool to see whether your passport needs a visa and, if so, how long you can stay.

Cherry blossom: late March to mid-April. Autumn foliage: October–November. Avoid July–August (hot, humid, rainy season)

• Fashionable culture — Koreans dress very stylishly; putting effort into your appearance is appreciated
• Modest dress at temples and palaces
• Traditional restaurants with floor seating: remove shoes

• Bow when greeting — depth depends on the level of respect (15° casual; 30° respectful; 45° deep apology)
• Use both hands when giving or receiving items, especially to elders
• Elders eat and drink first at the table
• Pour drinks for others before pouring for yourself
• Age matters significantly in Korean culture — elders are shown great deference

• Photography of military areas, installations, and personnel is strictly prohibited
• Drug offences carry severe penalties — even cannabis consumed legally abroad
• Blood alcohol limit for driving is 0.03% — very strict
• Spreading malicious rumours (even on social media) can result in criminal defamation charges