South Korea Visa RequirementsFor Uzbekistan passport holders
Uzbek citizens need a visa to visit South Korea. The South Korean Embassy in Tashkent processes applications, and Korea has a significant Uzbek migrant worker and diaspora community.
Uzbekistan passport holders require a visa to enter South Korea.
Apply at the South Korean Embassy or Consulate in Tashkent, or through VFS Korea if available. Required documents include a valid Uzbek passport, completed application form, passport photo, bank statements showing sufficient funds (at least USD 100 per day of stay), employment or student documentation, return flight booking, hotel reservations, and proof of ties to Uzbekistan. The fee is approximately $50 USD. Processing takes 5-7 business days. Those with a valid US, UK, or Schengen visa may be eligible for a simplified application process.
Entry Requirements
Passport Validity
6 months beyond date of entry
Blank Pages
2 blank pages required
Multiple Entry
Allowed
Work Permitted
No - requires work visa
Required Documents
Completed South Korea visa application form
Valid Uzbek passport (minimum 6 months validity)
Recent passport-sized photo
Bank statements showing sufficient funds (at least USD 100 per day)
Employment letter or student enrollment certificate
Return flight booking
Hotel reservations
Valid US, UK, or Schengen visa (if applicable -- may simplify process) Recommended
Current Travel Situation
Uzbekistan to South Korea: What You Need to Know
South Korea has a substantial Uzbek community; Uzbekistan is home to the Koryo-saram, ethnic Koreans deported from the Soviet Far East under Stalin, and this historic connection has led to strong people-to-people ties. Many Uzbeks work in South Korea under the Employment Permit System (EPS), and tourism from Uzbekistan to Korea has grown alongside Korean cultural exports (K-pop, K-drama). The South Korean Embassy in Tashkent processes tourist visa applications. The visa allows stays of up to 90 days.
How to Get There
Uzbekistan Airways operates direct Tashkent (TAS) to Seoul Incheon (ICN) flights. Korean Air also serves the route. The flight takes approximately 7-8 hours. From Seoul, Korea's KTX high-speed rail connects to Busan in 2.5 hours and other major cities efficiently.
Money & Banking
South Korea uses the South Korean won (KRW). Uzbek bank cards do not work in Korea. Bring USD cash for exchange at Korean banks or airport exchange booths (Myeongdong in Seoul has some of the best rates). Alternatively, use a Wise or Revolut card. South Korea is moderately priced; budget approximately USD 80-120 per day for mid-range travel in Seoul.
Practical Tips
Seoul is one of Asia's most dynamic cities: Gwanghwamun Palace, Gyeongbokgung, Bukchon Hanok Village, Myeongdong shopping, and the DMZ tour are popular with first-time visitors. The T-money transport card works on all Seoul metro and bus lines. Korean cuisine (bibimbap, samgyeopsal, tteokbokki) is affordable and widely available. The Koryo-saram community in Korea can provide useful cultural context for Uzbek visitors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does South Korea have a significant Uzbek community?
Uzbekistan is home to the Koryo-saram, ethnic Koreans who were deported from the Soviet Far East to Central Asia under Stalin in 1937. This historic connection has maintained people-to-people ties. Many Uzbeks also work in South Korea under the Employment Permit System (EPS).
Are there direct flights from Uzbekistan to South Korea?
Yes. Uzbekistan Airways operates direct flights from Tashkent (TAS) to Seoul Incheon (ICN). Korean Air also serves this route. The flight takes approximately 7-8 hours.