South Korea Visa RequirementsFor Hong Kong passport holders
HKSAR passport holders require a visa to visit South Korea. The tourist visa costs approximately USD 50 and must be applied for at the Korean consulate in Hong Kong or through the online e-Visa portal.
Hong Kong passport holders require a visa to enter South Korea.
Apply at the Consulate General of the Republic of Korea in Hong Kong or through the online e-Visa portal at evisa.visa.go.kr. Required documents: valid HKSAR passport (6 months validity), completed application form, passport photo, proof of accommodation, return ticket, and bank statements. Fee: approximately USD 50 for a single-entry visa. Processing: 3-5 business days. The K-ETA (if applicable) is cheaper at approximately USD 12 and processed online.
Entry Requirements
Passport Validity
6 months beyond date of entry
Blank Pages
2 blank pages required
Multiple Entry
Single entry only
Work Permitted
No - requires work visa
Required Documents
HKSAR Passport
Valid HKSAR passport with at least 6 months validity.
Completed Korean Visa Application Form
Available at the Consulate General of the Republic of Korea in Hong Kong.
Passport-Size Photograph
Recent photograph meeting Korean visa specifications.
Proof of Accommodation
Hotel bookings or invitation letter.
Return or Onward Travel Ticket
Confirmed travel itinerary.
Bank Statements
Recent bank statements showing sufficient funds.
Visa Application Fee
Approximately USD 50 for single-entry; confirm with consulate.
Current Travel Situation
Hong Kong to South Korea: What You Need to Know
South Korea does not grant visa-free access to HKSAR passport holders. This is a notable gap given the close proximity and strong economic ties between Hong Kong and South Korea: Seoul is a major direct flight destination from Hong Kong, and Korean culture (K-pop, Korean cuisine, K-dramas) has a large following in Hong Kong. The Korea Electronic Travel Authorization (K-ETA) was introduced as a simplified option, but as of 2024, South Korea suspended the K-ETA requirement for many nationalities; verify current policy at the time of travel. HKSAR holders should check whether a full visa or a simplified authorization is required.
How to Get There
Japan (visa-free for HK, 90 days) is a natural companion: Tokyo is 2.5 hours by air from Seoul. China (visa required) is close but requires a separate visa. Taiwan (visa required) is accessible by direct flight from Seoul.
Money & Banking
South Korea uses the Korean Won (KRW). Seoul is moderately priced by Asian standards. Budget KRW 80,000-150,000 per day (roughly USD 60-115) for mid-range travel. Jeju Island is slightly pricier. T-Money card for transit is essential. Korean street food (tteokbokki, pajeon, gimbap) is outstanding and affordable.
Practical Tips
Incheon International Airport (ICN) near Seoul and Gimhae International Airport (PUS) in Busan handle most arrivals from Hong Kong. Korean Air, Asiana, and Cathay Pacific operate direct Hong Kong-Seoul routes. Multiple daily flights also serve Jeju Airport (CJU). Korea Train eXpress (KTX) high-speed rail connects Seoul to Busan in 2.5 hours.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do HKSAR passport holders need a visa for South Korea?
Yes. South Korea requires a visa from HKSAR passport holders. Apply at the Korean consulate in Hong Kong or check the online e-Visa portal.
Is the Korean K-ETA still required?
South Korea suspended the K-ETA requirement for many nationalities in 2023 as part of tourism promotion. Check the Korean embassy or Visit Korea website for the current status for HKSAR passport holders before travel.
How much does a South Korean tourist visa cost?
Approximately USD 50 for a single-entry visa. Fees may vary; confirm with the Korean consulate.
Are there direct flights from Hong Kong to South Korea?
Yes. Korean Air, Asiana Airlines, and Cathay Pacific operate multiple daily direct flights from Hong Kong (HKG) to Seoul Incheon (ICN). Flight time is approximately 3.5 hours. Flights to Busan (PUS) and Jeju (CJU) are also available.
What currency does South Korea use?
South Korea uses the Korean Won (KRW). The T-Money transit card (or smartphone NFC equivalent) is essential for Seoul's subway and buses.
How long can I stay in South Korea on a tourist visa?
Up to 90 days with a standard tourist visa.
What are the top experiences in South Korea?
Seoul's Gyeongbokgung Palace, Bukchon Hanok Village, Myeongdong shopping, the DMZ (Demilitarized Zone) tour, Busan's Haeundae Beach and Gamcheon Culture Village, Jeju Island, the Korean Folk Village, K-pop entertainment district (Hongdae), and Korean BBQ and street food.
Is there a Hallyu (Korean Wave) influence for Hong Kong visitors?
Absolutely. K-pop, K-drama, and Korean cuisine have massive followings in Hong Kong. Music show recordings (BTS, Blackpink, and others), K-beauty shopping in Myeongdong, and fan site visits are popular motivations for Hong Kong travelers to Seoul.