Tap water
Tap water is generally safe to drink.
Asia country brief
South Korea travel essentials
대한민국
South Korea uses Type C / Type F power outlets at 220V, 60Hz. The general emergency number is 112 (police) / 119 (fire & ambulance). Tap water is generally safe to drink.
Last reviewed
Verify visa and entry rules with official authorities before travel.
Quick answer
South Korea uses Type C / Type F power outlets at 220V, 60Hz. The general emergency number is 112 (police) / 119 (fire & ambulance). Tap water is generally safe to drink.
P
Power and plugs
- Plug types
- Type C, Type F
- Voltage
- 220V
- Frequency
- 60Hz
South Korea runs at 220V. Travelers from 100–127V regions (US, Japan) need a voltage converter for devices that aren't dual-voltage.
E
Emergency numbers
General
112 (police) / 119 (fire & ambulance)
Police
112
Ambulance
119
T
Travel notes
Tipping
Tipping is not customary in South Korea. Good service is expected without extra payment, and tipping can sometimes create confusion. Upscale hotels may accept tips, but they are not required.
Best season
April to May and September to November are the most comfortable seasons, with spring blossoms and autumn foliage. Summer can be hot, humid and rainy, while winter is cold but good for skiing and city food trips.
Visa basics
Short-stay rules depend on nationality. Some visitors are visa-free but may need a Korea Electronic Travel Authorization depending on current policy. Confirm through official Korean immigration or K-ETA guidance before travel.
✓
Before you go: South Korea checklist
- Pack a Type C/Type F plug adapter for South Korea.
- South Korea runs at 220V. Travelers from 100–127V regions (US, Japan) need a voltage converter for devices that aren't dual-voltage.
- Bring a refillable bottle — tap water in South Korea is generally safe.
- Save the emergency number 112 (police) / 119 (fire & ambulance) in your phone before you arrive.
- If you'll drive, remember traffic keeps to the right in South Korea.
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Compare your home country with South Korea for plug and voltage compatibility.
Reference
Emergency numbers by country
Browse emergency numbers across all published TravelReady Guide country briefs.
Questions
Frequently asked questions
Can I drink tap water in South Korea? ⌄
Yes. Tap water in South Korea is considered safe to drink.
What power plug and voltage are used in South Korea? ⌄
South Korea uses Type C, Type F plugs running at 220V, 60Hz. South Korea runs at 220V. Travelers from 100–127V regions (US, Japan) need a voltage converter for devices that aren't dual-voltage.
What is the emergency number in South Korea? ⌄
Dial 112 (police) / 119 (fire & ambulance) for general emergencies in South Korea. Police: 112. Ambulance: 119.
When is the best time to visit South Korea? ⌄
April to May and September to November are the most comfortable seasons, with spring blossoms and autumn foliage. Summer can be hot, humid and rainy, while winter is cold but good for skiing and city food trips.
Which side of the road do they drive on in South Korea? ⌄
In South Korea, traffic drives on the right side of the road, so the steering wheel is on the left.
What is the country calling code for South Korea? ⌄
The international dialing code for South Korea is +82. Dial this prefix after your exit code (e.g. 00 or +) to call a South Korea number from abroad.
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Sources
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