Eleven things to sort out on your first day in Korea, so the rest of the trip runs on time.
The transit card for subways, buses and most taxis. Buy one at a convenience store or a participating subway-station sales point. Top it up at a convenience store or a subway top-up machine; carry Korean won cash, as foreign-issued cards generally cannot be used for a standard T-money purchase or top-up. Tap when entering and leaving subways and buses.
Visa and Mastercard work in most shops, restaurants and taxis. Keep some cash in won for market stalls, small eateries and topping up T-money. Some Korean apps and websites only accept Korean-issued cards.
Buy a SIM or eSIM at the airport or before you fly; check whether the plan includes a Korean voice/SMS number or data only. Some delivery and ticketing services require a Korean number or Korean identity verification. Free Wi-Fi is available at many subway stations and public places.
Google Maps shows transit in Korea, but walking and driving directions are limited. Naver Map and Kakao Map both work in English and give walking routes. Our plan links open Kakao Map.
Hail on the street or use a taxi app. Check that the meter is running; most taxis take cards and T-money. Taxi Guard shows the expected fare before you ride.
At participating Tax Refund stores, show your passport and ask whether your purchase qualifies for an immediate refund. Otherwise keep the tax-refund receipt and follow the customs validation and refund-kiosk or counter instructions at your departure airport.
Tipping isn't expected in Korea. Seoul tap water meets drinking-water standards. Filtered and bottled water are also widely available; restaurants usually provide water free of charge.
Subway stations have free restrooms. Depending on the station, they may be inside or outside the fare gates; check the signs before tapping out.
Look for 약국 (pharmacy); opening hours vary, and designated late-night or holiday pharmacies may be available. Some large Seoul hospitals have international clinics or English-language assistance; check the hospital before visiting.
Police 112, fire and ambulance 119, both with interpreters. Korea Travel Hotline 1330 (from abroad +82-2-1330) helps in English, Japanese and Chinese 24 hours a day.
Korea uses 220 V with two round pins (types C and F).
Practical guidance from our own research, last checked November 2026. Rules and prices change; check official sources before you rely on them.