South Korea Visa Requirements
For 🇫🇷 France passport holders
Entry Requirements
Passport Validity
6 months beyond stay
Blank Pages
At least 1 page required
Multiple Entry
Single entry
Work Permitted
No - requires work visa
Travel Essentials
Health & Safety
Safety Rating
Vaccinations
Routine vaccines (MMR, Tetanus, COVID-19). Hepatitis A and B for some travelers.
Tap Water
Safe to drink
Safety Tips
South Korea is extremely safe - one of the safest countries in Asia. Violent crime is rare, and petty crime is uncommon. The main concerns are fine dust air quality (check AQI forecasts) and potential tensions with North Korea (though incidents affecting tourists are extremely rare). Women can walk alone at night safely in most areas.
Money & Costs
Currency
₩ South Korean Won (KRW)
Daily Budget (USD)
Budget: $60 · Mid: $120 · Luxury: $280+
Cards & ATMs
Cards are accepted almost everywhere - Korea is one of the most cashless societies globally. Visa and Mastercard work widely. Some traditional markets and small vendors may still need cash. Apple Pay and Samsung Pay work.
Tipping
Tipping is not customary in South Korea and can even cause confusion. Service is included in all prices. Don't tip at restaurants, taxis, or hotels. The only exception is tour guides, who may appreciate a modest tip.
Practical Info
Power
Type C, F, 220V, 60Hz
Driving
Right side
Emergency
Emergency: 112 (Police), 119 (Fire/Ambulance)
Tourist Hotline: 1330 (English available 24/7)
Mobile/SIM
Rent a portable WiFi egg (recommended - pick up at airport) or buy a tourist SIM from KT, SKT, or LG U+ at the airport. Data-only SIMs cost ₩30,000-50,000 for 7-30 days. Coverage and speeds are excellent - Korea has the world's fastest internet. SIM registration requires passport.
Getting There
Main Airports
Busan (PUS) · Seoul (GMP) · Seoul (ICN)
Airport Transfers
Incheon Airport (ICN): AREX express train to Seoul Station (₩9,500, 43 minutes) or all-stop train (₩4,750, 66 minutes). Limousine buses to various Seoul areas (₩16,000-18,000, 70-90 minutes). Taxi ₩65,000-80,000 (60-90 minutes). Gimpo Airport (GMP): Subway Line 5/9 or AREX to Seoul (₩1,500-2,500, 40-60 minutes).
Local Transport
Seoul's subway is extensive, clean, and efficient - signage is in English and Korean. Buy a T-money card (available at convenience stores) and reload as needed. KTX high-speed trains connect major cities (Seoul to Busan in 2.5 hours). Buses are comprehensive. Kakao T app works like Uber for taxis.
Culture & Travel Tips
Best Time to Visit
April-May for cherry blossoms and pleasant weather. September-November for stunning fall foliage. Summer (June-August) is hot and humid with monsoon rains. Winter is cold but beautiful for skiing.
Cultural Notes
Confucian values shape society - respect for elders and hierarchy is paramount. Use two hands when giving or receiving items, especially with elders. Bowing is the standard greeting. Korean BBQ has etiquette - let the eldest person eat first. Drinking culture is important for business. Never pour your own drink.
Insider Tips
Download Naver Maps - Google Maps has limited functionality in Korea due to national security laws. T-money cards work on all public transport and convenience stores. Koreans rarely tip. Shoes off in traditional restaurants (look for floor seating). Many places are card-only - cash is becoming obsolete in Seoul.
Dress Code
Koreans are fashion-conscious and tend to dress well. Smart casual is appropriate for most situations. When visiting temples, cover shoulders and knees. Shoes are removed at traditional restaurants, temples, and homes - wear clean, easily removable footwear.