Seoul

The K-ETA Exemption (2026 Update): The temporary exemption for the Korea Electronic Travel Authorization (K-ETA) has been extended through December 31, 2026, for citizens of 67 countries (including the US, Canada, the UK, Australia, and Singapore). If they hold a passport from these countries, they do not need to pay for or apply for a K-ETA.

The Mandatory e-Arrival Card: Crucial step. Since the start of 2026, South Korea eliminated paper arrival cards. Everyone who does not hold a K-ETA must fill out a digital e-Arrival Card online within 3 days before their flight. It is free, but if they forget, they will be scrambling to fill it out on their phones at immigration.

Passports: The standard 6-month validity rule applies.

The AREX Train: The absolute best way into the city is the Airport Railroad Express (AREX). The "Express Train" takes about 45 minutes straight to Seoul Station with no stops, costing around 13,000 KRW ($9 USD). The "All-Stop Train" is cheaper and takes about an hour.

Ditch Google Maps: Google Maps is notoriously unreliable for walking directions and transit routing in South Korea due to national security laws regarding mapping data. Tell attendees to download Naver Map or KakaoMap before they arrive; both have excellent English interfaces.

Taxis: Taxis are affordable and safe, but drivers rarely speak English. Attendees should have their hotel address written in Hangul (the Korean alphabet). Uber works in Seoul but effectively just hails a local "Kakao T" taxi.

Currency: The South Korean Won (KRW).

Cards and Cash: Seoul is highly digitized. International Visa and Mastercards will work at 95% of restaurants, hotels, and cafes. However, attendees should carry around 50,000 KRW ($35 USD) in cash for street food vendors or reloading their transit cards.

The T-Money or Climate Card: If they plan to use the subway, they must buy a T-Money card (available at any convenience store) to tap in and out. Alternatively, if they will be riding transit heavily within Seoul limits, they can purchase a short-term Climate Card pass (e.g., 3 days for 10,000 KRW), which can now be bought with an international credit card at subway kiosks.

Zero Tipping Culture: Tipping is not practiced in South Korea. It is not expected in restaurants, taxis, or hotels. Attempting to tip will likely result in the server chasing you down the street to return your "forgotten" change.

Plugs and Voltage: South Korea uses the standard European Type C and F plugs with 220V.

Staying Online: South Korea has some of the fastest internet in the world. Free Wi-Fi is ubiquitous—even on the subway. For mobile data, travel eSIMs (like Airalo or Nomad) are the easiest option. They can also rent portable Wi-Fi "eggs" or buy physical SIMs directly at the Incheon arrivals hall.

Dining Mechanics: Korean dining is built for efficiency. Most tables have a "call button" to summon the server. Utensils and napkins are usually hidden in a pull-out drawer built right into the side of the table.

Local Culinary Highlights: A communal Korean BBQ (Gogi-gui) dinner is mandatory. For quick bites, point them to street food like Tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes) and Hotteok (sweet stuffed pancakes) at markets.

Dietary Restrictions: Strict vegetarians and vegans will face challenges. Many seemingly vegetable-based dishes use fish sauce, shrimp paste, or meat broths. Point them toward specialized vegan spots or traditional Buddhist Temple food restaurants (which are strictly vegan and omit pungent alliums like garlic and onion). Halal food is mostly concentrated in the Itaewon neighborhood.

Tap Water: The tap water in Seoul is perfectly safe to drink, though locals generally prefer filtered or bottled water due to the taste. Water at restaurants is always free and usually self-serve.

The City Divide: Seoul is divided by the Han River. Gangbuk (North of the river) is the historical and cultural center. Gangnam (South of the river) is the modern, wealthy, and highly commercialized business district.

The "Must-Sees": Gyeongbokgung Palace: The largest and most iconic of Seoul's royal palaces. (Entry is free if you rent and wear traditional Hanbok clothing!) Bukchon Hanok Village: A hilly residential neighborhood featuring hundreds of traditional Korean houses dating back to the Joseon Dynasty. Gwangjang Market: One of the oldest traditional markets in Seoul, famous for its sprawling, chaotic, and delicious food stalls.

Etiquette Tips: When handing over cash or a credit card, tell attendees to use both hands, or support their right arm with their left hand. It is a sign of respect. Also, talking loudly on the subway is considered quite rude.