South Korea Visa RequirementsFor Vietnam passport holders
A visa is required for Vietnamese citizens to visit South Korea, costing approximately USD 50 for stays of up to 90 days. South Korea has a large Vietnamese community and robust bilateral ties.
Vietnam passport holders require a visa to enter South Korea.
Apply at the South Korean Embassy in Hanoi or Consulate in Ho Chi Minh City, or apply online via the Korea Visa Portal (visa.mofa.go.kr). For tourism, a C-3-9 visa is standard. Documents required include bank statements, employment proof, and itinerary. Family visits may require a letter of invitation from Korean relatives.
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
Vietnam to South Korea: What You Need to Know
South Korea is home to hundreds of thousands of Vietnamese migrants, workers, and international students, as well as many Vietnamese-Korean multicultural families. Korea-Vietnam bilateral relations are warm, with South Korea being one of Vietnam largest foreign investors. Tourism, family visits, and business are the primary travel purposes.
Practical Tips
Interview may be required for first-time applicants. A clean travel history to other countries strengthens your application. Seoul, Busan, Jeju Island, and the Korean DMZ are popular destinations. Korean dramas and K-pop culture have boosted Vietnamese interest in visiting Korea. Language apps or a Korean phrasebook are helpful.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Vietnamese citizens need a visa for South Korea?
Yes. Vietnamese passport holders require a South Korean visa, costing approximately USD 50 for stays of up to 90 days.
How do I apply for a South Korean visa from Vietnam?
Apply at the South Korean Embassy in Hanoi or the South Korean Consulate General in Ho Chi Minh City. You can also apply online through the Korea Visa Portal (visa.mofa.go.kr) for some visa types. Required documents include bank statements, employment proof, and travel itinerary.
Why is South Korea a significant destination for Vietnamese citizens?
South Korea has one of the largest Vietnamese communities abroad, with tens of thousands of Vietnamese workers, students, and spouses of Korean nationals. South Korea is also Vietnam largest foreign investor. K-pop, K-drama, and Korean food culture have also made Korea extremely popular among younger Vietnamese travelers.
What are the top attractions in South Korea for Vietnamese visitors?
Seoul (Gyeongbokgung Palace, Bukchon Hanok Village, Myeongdong shopping, Han River), Busan (Haeundae Beach, Gamcheon Culture Village), Jeju Island (volcanic scenery, beaches), and the DMZ tour are top draws. Korea is also known for its food culture; try bibimbap, Korean BBQ, and street food in Gwangjang Market.