Time Difference
Time in Korea is 9 hours earlier than Greenwich Mean Time and there are no daylight savings. If you want to know the time in Korea now, please [click here]
Weather
The average temperature in Korea during April ranges from 9°C and 15°C, creating a comfortable spring atmosphere characterized by mild temperatures, occasional rainfall, and blooming cherry blossoms. For more detailed information about weather, please [click here]
Credit Card
Visa, and Master Card are accepted at almost all retail outlets, but Diners
Club and American Express may only be accepted at major hotels, shops and restaurants. Check with your credit card company for details on merchant acceptance and other available services.
Electricity and Voltage
The standard voltage in Korea is 220 volts at 60 Hertz, and the outlet has two round holes. If you do not have a multi-voltage travel adapter, you may ask to borrow or purchase one from your hotel's front desk. You can also find them at the airport, retail stores, major duty-free shops, and even convenience stores.
VAT & Tipping
- Tip: Tipping is not regularly practiced in Korea. A 10% service charge will be included often to your bill at upscale restaurants and hotels. It is also not necessary to tip a taxi driver unless he assists you with luggage or provides an extra service.
- Tax: Foreign visitors can receive the tax refunds when they buy goods including tax. Tax refunds can be received immediately when visitors buy items at certified Tax Free Stores up to 30,000 KRW. Visitors can receive also by submitting the applicable receipts at the custom clearance desk when leaving the country.
Emergency & Useful Numbers
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Emergency calls
- Police : 112- Lost and Found : 182- Fire department : 119- Medical Emergency : 1339- First Aid Service : 129
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Useful Numbers
- 1330: Tourist Information- 02-120: Seoul Call Center- 02-114: Local Telephone Directory
Currency & Exchange
The official currency in the Republic of Korea is Korean Won (KRW). The current exchange rate for USE to KRW is USD 1 = KRW 1,328 (as of 8 Feb 2024).
- Currency Converter: www.xe.com/currencyconverter
Business Hours
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Banks
Weekday 09:00-16:00, Closed weekends & public holidays
Exceptions: Standard Chartered Bank weekdays 09:30-16:30, Closed weekends & public holidays
Government Offices and Organizations
Weekdays 09:00-18:00, Closed weekends & public holidays
Post Offices
Weekdays 09:00-18:00, Closed weekends & public holidays
Website: www.koreapost.go.kr (Korean, English)
Department Stores
Monday-Thursday 10:30-20:00, Friday-Sunday 10:30-20:30, Closed days vary by store
* Typically, department stores are closed one day a month, so we recommend checking before visiting
Convenience Stores
Most convenience stores are open 24 hours everyday, but some branches may close around 22-23 o’clock.