Thailand Visa RequirementsFor South Korea passport holders
South Korean nationals enjoy visa-free access to Thailand for up to 30 days per visit.
Great news! South Korea passport holders can enter Thailand without a visa for tourism or business purposes. You can stay up to 30 days.
No visa required for stays up to 30 days. If you plan a longer trip, a tourist visa (TR) should be obtained in advance from a Thai embassy. Overstaying Thai visas carries significant fines.
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
Current Travel Situation
South Korea to Thailand: What You Need to Know
Thailand and South Korea have a strong bilateral relationship with a long-standing visa exemption. Thailand is one of the most popular international destinations for Korean tourists. A 30-day visa-free stay covers most tourist itineraries.
Practical Tips
Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket, and Koh Samui are the headline destinations. The BTS Skytrain and MRT in Bangkok are the most efficient ways to avoid traffic. Thai street food is outstanding and inexpensive. Respect temple dress codes; cover shoulders and knees.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do South Koreans need a visa for Thailand?
No. South Korean nationals enjoy visa-free access to Thailand for up to 30 days per visit. This is sufficient for most tourist itineraries. For longer stays, a 60-day tourist visa must be obtained before arrival.
How can South Koreans extend their stay in Thailand beyond 30 days?
The 30-day visa-free entry can sometimes be extended by 30 days at a Thai immigration office inside Thailand for a fee of THB 1,900. Alternatively, obtain a 60-day tourist visa from the Royal Thai Embassy in Seoul before departure. Overstaying carries daily fines and potential blacklisting.
What are the most popular Thai destinations for Korean tourists?
Bangkok (temples, street food, shopping), Chiang Mai (temples, elephants, night bazaar), Phuket and Krabi (beaches and islands), Koh Samui, and Pai (mountain town) are the most popular with Korean travelers. Korean signage is ubiquitous in Phuket and Chiang Mai.
What should South Korean visitors know about Thai temple etiquette?
Remove shoes before entering temples. Dress modestly: cover shoulders and knees. Women must not touch or hand items directly to monks. Never disrespect Buddha images or point feet toward sacred objects. Photography is usually allowed outside but not always inside the main shrine buildings.