Know Before You Go: South Korea

Written By Shane Samuel

The laws, local rules, safety tips, and cultural things I’d want to know before landing

South Korea is one of those destinations that feels pretty easy once you understand how things work.

The transit is excellent, the cities are organized, and major places like Seoul and Busan are straightforward to navigate. But there are still a few things I’d want to know before landing, especially around entry requirements, medications, transit, money, shopping, and local etiquette.

Check Whether You Need K-ETA

South Korea extended its temporary K-ETA exemption for eligible travelers through December 31, 2026. If your nationality is covered by the exemption, you do not need to apply during that period. Travelers can still apply voluntarily, and one benefit is that an approved K-ETA can remove the need to submit an arrival card.

I would still check the official K-ETA site before your trip because eligibility depends on your passport.

You May Need an e-Arrival Card

If you are not covered by a valid K-ETA, residence card, or another exemption, you may need to submit an e-Arrival Card.

The official Korean government site says it is free and can be completed online within 3 days before arrival. It also specifically warns travelers about fake websites that charge fees.

That is one thing I would handle before the flight instead of trying to figure it out after landing.

Check Your Medications Before You Pack

This is one of the biggest things I would not leave until the last minute.

South Korea has restrictions on certain controlled medications, and some narcotic or psychotropic drugs can require prior approval before you bring them into the country.

So:

  • Check the active ingredient, not just the brand name

  • Keep medication in the original labeled packaging

  • Bring supporting documentation if needed

  • Apply for approval ahead of time if your medication falls into a controlled category

Do not assume that because something is prescribed in the U.S., it is automatically fine to bring into South Korea.

Cannabis Is Illegal

South Korea has strict drug laws, and cannabis is illegal.

I would not take chances with:

  • Marijuana

  • THC products

  • Edibles

  • Vapes containing cannabis

  • Anything you are unsure could be treated as a controlled substance

This is one of those destinations where “but it’s legal where I’m from” is not a useful argument.

Cards Are Common, But Keep Some Cash

Major cities are very card-friendly, so you can pay by card in a lot of places.

Still, I would keep some Korean won for:

  • Markets

  • Street food

  • Smaller vendors

  • Certain transit situations

  • Places that prefer cash

I would not travel cash-only, but I also would not arrive with zero cash.

Get a Transit Card

A rechargeable transit card makes getting around much easier.

You can use it for:

  • Subways

  • Buses

  • Some taxis

  • Certain convenience-store purchases

For a first-time visitor, this is one of the easiest ways to make public transportation feel less intimidating.

Download Naver Map or KakaoMap

This is a big one.

Google Maps is not always the best navigation tool in South Korea, so I would download Naver Map or KakaoMap before the trip.

That can make finding:

  • Restaurants

  • Transit routes

  • Addresses

  • Attractions

  • Neighborhoods

a lot easier.

Public Transit Etiquette Matters

South Korea’s transit systems are efficient, but there is definitely a social rhythm to them.

A few things to keep in mind:

  • Let people exit before you board

  • Keep your voice down

  • Avoid loud phone conversations

  • Respect priority seating

  • Keep large luggage out of the way

  • Pay attention to how people queue

You do not need to overthink it. Just watch how people around you move and follow the flow.

Tipping Is Not Generally Expected

South Korea does not have a broad tipping culture like the United States.

At most restaurants, cafés, taxis, and everyday services, tipping is not expected.

Pay the listed amount and keep it moving.

Tax-Free Shopping Can Be Worth It

Foreign visitors may qualify for tax refunds on eligible purchases at participating stores.

Visit Korea says qualifying purchases generally need to be at least 15,000 won, and travelers must depart Korea within three months of purchase. Some stores can process the refund immediately, while others require you to complete the refund process later.

If you plan to shop a lot, keep your passport handy and save your receipts.

Hotel Tax Refunds May Be Available

Some certified hotels participate in a tax-refund program for eligible international visitors.

Visit Korea says the program can apply to certain foreign guests staying at certified hotels for less than 30 days, with refund procedures varying by hotel.

Ask at check-in rather than assuming your hotel participates.

Convenience Stores Really Are That Useful

South Korea’s convenience stores can be surprisingly helpful when you are traveling.

You can use them for:

  • Snacks

  • Drinks

  • Quick meals

  • ATMs

  • Basic travel supplies

  • Small everyday purchases

They are one of those things that make daily travel easier.

Learn a Few Basic Korean Phrases

You can get around major tourist areas without speaking Korean, but a few phrases help.

Useful ones include:

  • Hello

  • Thank you

  • Excuse me

  • Please

  • How much is this?

  • Where is...?

A little effort goes a long way.

Be Respectful in Historic and Cultural Spaces

South Korea is modern and fast-paced, but tradition still matters.

Be mindful in:

  • Palaces

  • Temples

  • Shrines

  • Historic neighborhoods

Follow posted rules, keep your voice down, and do not assume photography is allowed everywhere.

Be Ready for a Lot of Walking

Especially in Seoul.

Even with great public transportation, you are still going to walk a lot.

Wear shoes that can actually handle it.

💡 SHANE’S TIP

Before South Korea, I would handle three things first:

entry requirements, medication rules, and navigation apps.

Once those are sorted, most of the rest is pretty easy.

Download Naver Map or KakaoMap, get a transit card when you arrive, keep a little cash on you, and pay attention to how locals move through public spaces.

The Bottom Line

South Korea is pretty easy to enjoy once you understand the basics.

The biggest things I would know before going are:

  • Check K-ETA and arrival-card requirements

  • Check medication restrictions before packing

  • Do not bring cannabis or other prohibited drugs

  • Get a transit card

  • Download Naver Map or KakaoMap

  • Keep some cash

  • Know how tax-free shopping works

  • Respect transit and public etiquette

  • Wear comfortable shoes

A little preparation goes a long way.

Go somewhere. Make it worth it.

Shane Samuel
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