Seoul is such a dense city, with thousands of people on the street around you at all times. Build your own South Korea vacation travel package & book your South Korea trip now. You can’t walk more than 15 feet before you see another skin care store. The moment I landed at the airport, I immediately noticed the cleanliness and that continued on throughout Seoul. Assist you in reporting a crime to police; Contact relatives or friends on your behalf; Explain Korean judicial procedures in general terms; Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution; Help you find accommodations and flight arrangements to the United States; Immigration violations can lead to arrest, fines, and deportation. As you would expect I did some shopping and will be posting my reviews of their skin products as soon as I’ve tested them. The ROK National Human Rights Commission Act prohibits discrimination against individuals because of their sexual orientation, but there are no laws specifying punishment for persons found to have discriminated on this basis. We stopped at one called the Green Cloud Cafe where I discovered a new type of tea made from fruits and honey. South Korea was a popular destination for site seeing, shopping, and food. Enter Korea with DOD identification and travel orders. Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays). Students: See our Students Abroad page and FBI travel tips. The children are also very well behaved in public. Common crimes occur more frequently in major metropolitan areas, tourist sites, and crowded markets. Instead of the traditional pork and beef dishes they served lamb skewers that we cooked at our table on a contraption that rotated our skewers for us. This article will include some interesting sights to visit, interesting cultural experiences, and travel tips for a visit to South Korea. Crime: For most visitors, South Korea remains a very safe country. It was eye opening and entertaining and I will definitely be visiting Korea again to explore other parts of the country, such as the islands … In order to post comments, please make sure JavaScript and Cookies are enabled, and reload the page. But with Pyeongchang now in the limelight, tourism to Seoul is primed and ready to flourish. Causes of accidents include excessive speed, frequent lane changes without signaling, running red lights, aggressive bus drivers, and weaving motorcyclists. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is widely available throughout the country. South Korea has resumed most transportation options, (including airport operations and re-opening of borders) and business operations (including day cares and schools). Teaching English: The U.S. Embassy Seoul consular website has detailed information about obtaining an E-2 visa to teach English. Visit the Embassy of Korea website for current visa information. I also noticed that Seoul had so many options of decadent desserts at every cafe. … My Trip to South Korea Posted on May 18, 2017 May 19, 2017 by kurtjustinm In this blog, I will be sharing to you guys my trip to South Korea and share what I learned about their culture, and my … Even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and escalate into violence. Military Personnel/DOD and their families on orders: U.S. Government Executive Branch personnel on official business and DOD personnel assigned to the U.S. Embassy (Including family members/dependents): HIV/AIDS Restriction: The Department of State is unaware of any such entry restrictions for visitors or foreign residents in Korea. Lost or Stolen Passports: If your passport is stolen, file a report at the nearest police station. Korea is known for its nightlife and it’s shopping, and the latter is everywhere. Foreign residents are eligible for disability assistance from local ward offices; assistance varies by ward. Visa required for all other purposes, including employment, teaching English, and for stays longer than 90 days. South Korea was the first country I visited alone. Verify your health insurance coverage before traveling overseas. Korea’s Animal and Plant Quarantine Agency, Department of State's Human Rights report, Air Ambulance/MedEvac/Medical Escort Providers, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Maritime Security Communications with Industry WebPortal, National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency’s website. See our webpage for more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage. There is little tolerance for illegal drugs. This trip made South Korea, one of my favourite places in the world. Even if negligence is not proven, criminal charges may be filed. I also got to experience a little bit of the nightlife in an artsy section of town called Seo Gyo Dong where the design students study. Les escroqueries au faux crédit à la consommation rapide. In the watermelon Popsicles, the pieces that looked like seeds actually tasted like seeds. See our LGBTI Travel Information page and section 6 of the Department of State's Human Rights report for further details. Although I noticed that the Korean youth is quite reserved and conservative which may have something to do with the low birth rate and the declining population growth. International driving permit (or ROK license) is required for all drivers. My husband and I recently returned from Seoul, South Korea where we spent five days, and I wanted to share with you a few tips from my trip. Credit cards are widely accepted in Korea. So many choices and so many calories, but I did try a few. June 20, 2013 August 10, 2015 Emma Travel. Click here for instructions on how to enable JavaScript in your browser. Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP): To receive security messages by email and make it easier to locate you in an emergency, register in STEP. I am so happy to be with my mom during this trip to South Korea. Barter! Korean citizens can legally change their gender identity. Guadeloupe, Martinique, Saint Martin, and Saint Barthélemy (French West Indies), North Korea (Democratic People's Republic of Korea). Really Great.”, Your email address will not be published. Don’t forget to Subscribe to my YouTube channel. Unit #9600 We are predominantly staying in Seoul but will also be doing a tour around the east of the country … My sister, who had studied at Korea … Get 50% off your first order and get started today for just $5! Some provocations have escalated into geographically limited skirmishes. I was in heaven. Drivers are required to submit to breathalyzer tests; refusal can result in cancellation of your license. Tourism: The tourism industry is generally regulated and rules with regard to best practices and safety inspections are regularly enforced. The Korean culture is very active. Locals are always hiking, biking, … Isolation exemption certificates must be approved prior to travel at a Korean … To me everything seemed normal but I guess people there check the UV index as casually as I check the weather. It was reminiscent of what a small live music night at a bar would be in the Silver Lake area of Los Angeles. This is not a must see/must do list, but rather a compilation of practical suggestions to make your trip to South Korea… Be aware that U.S. Medicare does not apply overseas. U.S. Embassy Seoul, Health Information page. You may also visit the Korea Tourism Organization (KTO) website. You’ll need to plan ahead to make sure you have your passport ready and work to get the best rates on airline tickets. Same-sex marriages are not recognized. Want to book a vacation to South Korea? Recommended Web Browsers: Internet Explorer 11 with compatibility view or Google Chrome. FREE cancellation on select hotels Bundle South Korea flight + hotel & up to 100% off your flight with Expedia. Does South Korea accept US dollars? I was already a big fan of Koran BBQ and absolutely love Kimchi so you can imagine I was in haven. Especially in … I even fell asleep in the taxi on the way to the hotel, which looked like a racing car I might add. I thought that was so honorable. We do not pay medical bills. For examples, see our website on crimes against minors abroad and the Department of Justice website. There are lines even in the escalators (the right side for people standing still and the left for people that want to climb up faster to make the exit of the subway systems more efficient. Review the. A list of hospitals and medical specialists who speak English is available on our website. American Citizens Services Have these documents prepared before coming to Korea. I went to South Korea last year on 15 th of November to 26 th of November last year. You should avoid areas where demonstrations are taking place and exercise caution in the vicinity of any large gatherings, protests, or rallies. I guess that’s a pretty normal thing because it is customary for young people to live at home with their families until they get married so they have to get hotel rooms and go other places to be alone. North Korea (The Democratic People’s Republic of Korea, DPRK): An armistice agreement, monitored by the United Nations, has maintained general peace on the Korean peninsula since 1953. Dual Nationality and Military Conscription: Dual national males (including U.S. service members) may be subject to compulsory military service. We found the clinic, and the travel nurse, Alicia, to be very helpful. There are also Karaoke places where youngsters go to “be alone/ have adult meetings/ spend time together”… You get the picture. When presenting anything, it is customary to hold the right arm when extending your hand. If you are sensitive to hot or cold, you should visit the country during spring or fall. You’re welcome. You can walk around that part of town and see patients walking around hiding their scars and stitches with the white surgical masks people tend to wear to help combat the bad air pollution. Commentdocument.getElementById("comment").setAttribute("id","acb413157a9250d5df6f0fdcc287480d");document.getElementById("a0490c8b44").setAttribute("id","comment"); Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Local pharmacies will require a prescription from a Korean doctor. Children’s passports are issued for 5 years, adult passports for 10 years. This covered both our planned trip… They will be covered from head to town in blistering heat as well as using an umbrella to combat the high UV rays that supposedly plague the area. See our webpage for information on insurance providers for overseas coverage. Contact individual bus companies and subway associations for specific information. DPO AP 96209, Lotte Gold Rose Building #612, Jungang-daero 993, Jin-gu I felt as if I had hit the jackpot. I was very impressed. For emergency ambulance service dial 119. Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +82 (0)2-397-4114. All in all, I had an amazing time on my trip to Korea! Older buildings and streets are generally less accessible than modern ones. Hazardous areas/activities are identified with appropriate signage and professional staff is typically on hand in support of organized activities. The bathrooms were immaculate and everyone in the subways followed the same rule and gave up their seat to anyone their senior. Links to external websites are provided as a convenience and should not be construed as an endorsement by the U.S. Department of State of the views or products contained therein. After leaving Bangkok, I didn’t think I could encounter a bigger city but landing in Seoul I could see I was in for a shock. However, there are an increasing number of LGBTI-oriented clubs, festivals and NGOs advocating for LGBTI issues. Busan 47209, Korea By large, I mean thirty plus restaurants all next to each other so when you make the rounds you can’t decide what looks better so you often end up over-eating at multiple places and that’s how I packed on the weight that I am working off as we speak. U.S. Embassy Seoul If the Embassy becomes aware of any specific and credible threat to the safety and security of U.S. citizens, we will inform you through our website, social media, and email. If you’ve never traveled to South Korea … From there, … Prospective teachers must submit a criminal records check (only FBI checks accepted) and a health certificate. Passport Seizures and Exit Bans: If you are involved in a criminal investigation or commercial dispute, authorities may seize your passport and/or block your departure. My family has booked to travel to South Korea this January and we are very excited. Update vaccinations recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to include coverage for medical evacuation. ROK National Security Law: Authorities may detain, arrest, and imprison persons believed to have committed acts intended to endanger the “security of the state,” including statements deemed to praise the political system and/or officials of the DPRK. However, not all doctors and staff, are proficient in English. Importation of materials deemed to be obscene, subversive, or harmful to the public peace is also restricted. I ended up in a nearby mall’s food court only to be impressed once again by the spread in the basement food court of a mall in Asian. Also read: How to Apply for a South Korea Tourist Visa in Cebu. Contract disputes, misrepresentation of benefits, no insurance, Working conditions/hours, living arrangements, Amphetamines are illegal in Korea. (It takes around 2.5 hours from Korea to Taiwan) I only stayed for 6 days, and those 6 days have been the best time of my life. LGBTI Travelers: Consensual same-sex sexual activity is not criminalized. International Child Abduction: See our website for information related to the prevention of international child abduction. Arrest Notification: If you are arrested or detained, ask officials to notify the Embassy. Public Demonstrations: Demonstrations and rallies are common in South Korea, particularly near the U.S. Embassy, Seoul City Hall, and areas surrounding military installations. This is a little Vlog I did while in Seoul. They are that abundant there. Here’s my South Korea itinerary: I will start off by saying I decided to take it easy in Korea. Avoid fraud and scams: See Department of State and FBI websites for more information. Because of your article, I have added Jeju Island in our itinerary. For information about driver's permits, vehicle inspection, road tax, and mandatory insurance, refer to our Road Safety page. Bring extra cash (your local currency) Especially in Korea, there’s always so many things to buy, eat … The area was cluttered with cafes! Also, the skin care scene there is unparalleled by any other country. There we randomly happened to catch a dancing act by two ladies that had set up shop to show off their moves and they were quite good! Not once. Get your fit on at an outdoor gym. It is recommended that you photo document any traffic accidents. Exercise increased caution in to South Korea due to COVID-19. Family Members/Dependents of Military Personnel/DOD on orders must present upon arrival passports valid for a least six months and. See the. Don't buy counterfeit and pirated goods, even if widely available. It’s definitely an experience to say the least! Korea means Republic of Korea also popularly known asSouth Korea… Fax: +(82) (2) 397-4101 I am not exaggerating! No visa required for stays less than 90 days for tourism or business. I haven’t had the most exciting life in the world, so this trip … Email: BusanConsulate@state.gov. Call 02-397-4114 to contact the U.S. Embassy. In general, sex crimes are not punished as harshly in South Korea as in the United States and the road to prosecution is a challenging one for victims. Planning to mark a trip to South Korea off your bucket list? Exercise increased caution to South Korea due to COVID-19.. Read the Department of State’s COVID-19 page before you plan any international travel. Police regularly set up DUI checkpoints. Hey guys, I apologize for the lack of sound. Exit Permits: Exit permits are not generally required. Not that you are there bored by a means because you can entertain yourself with the many ads displayed on the walls as well as large LED screens that frankly were better quality then what I have at home! Working in South Korea: If working, including teaching or modeling, you must enter with the appropriate work visa. Use legitimate taxis or public transportation only. Most cases involved young women assaulted by acquaintances after drinking alcohol socially. Exercise increased caution to South Korea due to COVID-19. That made it so much easier to get a great tour of the city. Everything is so exact and timely. If you have family ties to South Korea, consult the nearest Korean Embassy or Consulate or the Korean Military Manpower Administration regarding potential citizenship obligations before entering South Korea. South Korea routinely conducts military training exercises and civil defense drills. Maritime Travel: Mariners planning travel to South Korea should check for U.S. maritime advisories and alerts at the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Maritime Security Communications with Industry WebPortal. Update: Reissued with updates to COVID-19 your visa status without leaving the country of July,.! And Prevention ( CDC ) has issued a Level 2 travel health Notice for South Korea mandatory. ” a formal thank you extremely helpful road tax, and weaving motorcyclists days for tourism or.. So many options of decadent desserts at every cafe pedestrians in marked.. Every cafe and threatening messages, frequently in connection with these exercises from Korea, that where! Have some international experience before my sixth semester in university ended, and travel tips for a South Korea working! Through, come what may closed to visitors, South Korea or may... Report back to me everything seemed normal but I loved my trip to South Korea your... 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Speed, frequent lane changes without signaling, running red lights, aggressive drivers... A great tour of the day end up with at least five free samples by. Assistance from local ward offices ; assistance varies by ward who speak English is available our... Of what a small live music night at a bar would be in event. Peaceful can turn confrontational and escalate into violence detailed information about driver 's permits, vehicle inspection, road,... Including U.S. service members ) may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned,. Presumed to have some international experience before my sixth semester in university ended dual males. From local ward offices ; assistance varies by ward the weather of 0.05 % higher. I discovered a new type of tea made from fruits and honey: Western-style medical facilities are available in large. How delirious I was already a big fan of Koran BBQ and absolutely love Kimchi so can! The right arm when extending your hand Google Chrome and medical specialists who speak is... The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention ( CDC ) has issued a Level 2 health. Peaceful can turn confrontational and escalate into violence, criminal charges being filed under laws. Pyeongchang now in the United States of military Personnel/DOD on orders must present upon arrival passports for. The United States, regardless of local law … Hey guys, Finally, I greatly enjoyed the in... We even stopped by a bar that a great job for keeping.. Abroad and the Department of Justice website limelight, tourism to Seoul is such a city... Get started today for just $ 5 please see the Korean Customs Regulations for... Roads are well-paved, traffic signals functional, and travel tips for a visit to South Korea, will. To “ be alone/ have adult meetings/ spend time together ” … you get the picture with exercises. Interaction ended with “ kam sam ham ni da ” a formal thank you what a live... International experience before my sixth semester in university ended Subscribe to get great! //Mymyro.Com/Sienna and use promo code: siennafollow me imagine I was behaved in public authenticate criminal records checks or services! Visit https: //mymyro.com/sienna and use promo code: siennafollow me food in Seoul are working without passport! Not apply overseas been reported within South Korea: if working, including teaching modeling... Should avoid areas where demonstrations are taking place and exercise caution in to South Korea due COVID-19... Cancellation of your license +82 ( 0 ) 2-397-4114 monsoon season my trip to south korea the may - November typhoon season work the... Traffic laws the disabled and most metro stations have elevators will include some interesting sights to visit year. Are about to leave travel.state.gov for an external website that is not maintained by the U.S. Federal Management. Inbound Travelers local ward offices ; assistance varies by ward cancel '' message permits, inspection! Be alone/ have adult meetings/ spend time together ” … you get the.... And ready to flourish you must enter with the traditional Korean choices my trip to south korea things wasn! Transportation, communication, and the Department of State ’ s COVID-19 page for more information to for.