A Guide to the 2018 Winter Olympic Games - Pyeongchang, South Korea - www.assistamerica.com - Assist America
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A Guide to the 2018
Winter Olympic Games
Pyeongchang, South Korea
www.assistamerica.com
Introduction
The 2018 Winter Olympics, officially known as the XXIII Olympic
Winter Games and commonly known as PyeongChang 2018, is a
major international multi-sport event scheduled to take place from
February 9 to 25, 2018 in Pyeongchang County, South Korea.
Pyeongchang is a county in Gangwon province of South Korea
located in the Taebaek Mountains region. It is home to several
Buddhist temples, including Woljeongsa. It is approximately 180
km (110 mi) east southeast of Seoul, the capital of South Korea.
Pyeongchang has a slogan, ‘Happy700 Pyeongchang’, taken from
the city’s average elevation of approximately 700 metres (2,300
ft).
Security & Safety
The overall threat of terrorism in South Korea is low.
Authorities have not introduced warnings based on an official national terror
threat level system. Foreign governments have not issued warnings regarding
terror threats in South Korea. No specific threats exist, and South Korea may
not currently be considered a potential target.
There is currently no known, immediate threat of domestic terrorism in South
Korea. However, South Korean authorities have heightened their awareness
and responsiveness to potential threats of Islamic extremism from abroad. In
2015, the Islamic State (IS) labeled South Korea as an “enemy” due to South
Korea’s opposition to IS’ global caliphate movement.
Air raid drills are routine in South Korea.
South Korea conducts routine air raid drills to maintain a high level of readiness for any military threats from North Korea. Air
raid drills often occur on the 15th of the month. If you hear air raid sirens, follow the crowd, get off the street, and keep away
from doors and windows. Those on public transportation must disembark and seek shelter. When the drill is over, you may
continue your journey without paying an additional fare.
Emergency contact numbers in South Korea:
If you are calling from outside South Korea, dial +82 first.
• Police: 112
• Ambulance/Fire: 119
• Korean Immigration: 1345
• Translation (BBB Korea): 1588-5644. Free 24-hour Korean-English telephone translation service
• For assistance in English, Chinese, Japanese or Korean, you can dial the province’s new 24-hour Olympics Special Call
Centre (+82-2-1330)
Page 1
Security & Safety (cont.)
Contact information for select embassies in South Korea:
Familiarize yourself with the location and contact details of other foreign embassies in case your country’s embassy closes due
to an emergency or some other unexpected circumstances. Another embassy can often provide assistance in such cases.
If you do not see your country’s embassy listed below, please contact Assist America or use the Embassy Locator feature on
the Assist America Mobile App.
Australia - Embassy India - Embassy United Kingdom - Embassy
19th Floor, Kyobo Building 37-3 Hannam-dong Sejong-daero 19-gil 24
1 Jongro-1-Ga, Jongro-Gu, Seoul Yongsan-ku, Seoul Jung-gu, Seoul
Phone: +82 2.2003.0100 Phone: +82 2.798.4257 Phone: +82 2.3210.5500
www.southkorea.embassy.gov.au www.indembassy.or.kr www.gov.uk/government/world/south-korea
China - Embassy Japan - Embassy United States - Embassy
54 Hyoja-Dong 18-11 Junghak-dong 188 Sejong-daero
Jongno-Gu, Seoul Jongro-Gu, Seoul Jongno-Gu, Seoul
Phone: +82 2.738.1038 Phone: +82 2.2170.5200 Phone: +82 2.397.4114
www.chinaemb.or.kr (Chinese) www.kr.emb-japan.go.jp (Korean) http://seoul.usembassy.gov
Entry/Exit Requirements
• Passport required: Passports and other documents accepted for entry must
be valid on arrival.
• Passport Exemptions: Nationals of USA with an emergency passport.
• Visa required, except for Nationals of USA for a maximum of 90 days
• Additional Information: Holders of e-visas are required to hold an Electronic
Visa Issuance Confirmation, issued by the Ministry of Justice.
• Warning: Visitors not holding return/onward tickets could be refused entry.
Legal Overview
Visitors to South Korea are subject to local laws, which may not mirror, either in whole or in part, those of their home country.
Those deemed to be in violation, even unknowingly, may be fined, detained, imprisoned, temporarily or permanently expelled,
or tried in absentia depending on the nature of the offense.
Home-country consular officers are typically systematically informed of a detention and permitted to provide support services
to their detained citizens. When there is no treaty in force, notification and access depend on whether the two countries have
direct or indirect diplomatic relations. Consular officers cannot interfere with local judicial proceedings, nor provide legal advice
or representation at trial, and are unable to pay legal fees or fines with government funds. The status of dual nationals will be
determined by local officials, with all attendant ramifications for access and support.
Page 2
Health
Medical infrastructure in South Korea Dong-in Hospital
Gangwon-do, Gangneung, Ponam-dong, Gangneung-daero
South Korea has average medical infrastructure. This 419 beon-gil, 42
assessment is based on the number of available hospital beds, 82 33-651-6161
licensed and trained physicians and support staff, advanced
diagnostic capabilities, and other global data. The level of
available care in South Korea may vary greatly from urban
to rural settings. Some areas benefit from partnerships with
better-funded and -trained providers. Medical supplies can
sometimes be a challenge. Overall, individuals may obtain
adequate quality care in private hospitals in urban settings.
Travelers and individuals planning for extended stay in
South Korea should have health insurance that is valid and
readily accepted. Cash payment is often required at the time
services are rendered, and care may vary widely depending Recommended Immunizations for All Global Travels
on location and facility. Additionally, medical evacuation
insurance is strongly encouraged for any travel or assignment Ensure you are up to date on the following routine
abroad, as costs for medical repatriation may be substantial. immunizations. Visit a healthcare provider two to four months
prior to travel to complete multi-dose vaccination series, as
Western-style medical facilities are available in most large necessary, and fully develop immunity following vaccination.
cities. However, not all doctors and staff, are proficient in
English. Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis: Recommended for all
individuals unless contraindicated. Available formulations
Main Medical Team – For the event include one-disease, two-disease, and three-disease
Tel. number: 0082 - 33-350-5536 mixtures. Widely used formulations require between two and
Email: sohyun.kim@pyeongchang2018.com five doses, depending on the recipient’s age and vaccination
Contact person: Ms. Sohyun Kim history.
Main Hospitals (nearest to the venue): Influenza: Recommended for all individuals unless
Gangneung Asan Hospital – For Coastal Cluster contraindicated. Revaccination is required every year, or
38 Bangdong-gil, Sacheon-myeon, Gangneung, Gangwon-do, every six months for individuals with frequent travel in both
South Korea the Northern and Southern Hemisphere. Available in both
+82 33-610-3114 injectable and intranasal formulations.
Wonju Severance Christian Hospital – For Mountain Cluster Measles, Mumps, Rubella: Recommended for all individuals
20 Ilsan-ro, Ilsan-dong, Weonju, Gangwon-do, South Korea unless contraindicated. Available formulations include one-
+82-33-741-0114 disease, two-disease, and three-disease mixtures. Widely
used triple-virus formulations require two doses administered
Other hospitals in the province: at least 28 days apart, depending on the recipient’s age and
Sokcho Jung Hospital vaccination history.
Gangwon-do, Sokcho-si, Joyang-dong, Donghae-daero, 4084 Pneumococcal Disease: Recommended for all individuals
82 33-637-0757 over the age of 65 years or individuals with certain chronic
Cheongshim International Medical Center medical conditions, unless contraindicated. Available in
Misari-ro, Seorak-myeon, Gapyeong-gun, Gyeonggi-do several formulations protecting against different strains of
82 31-589-4300 pneumococcal bacteria.
Kangwon National University Hospital Polio: Recommended for all individuals unless
156 Baengnyeong-ro, Hyoja 3(sam)-dong, Chuncheon, contraindicated. Inactivated Polio Vaccine (IPV) is
Gangwon-do recommended when available, but Oral Polio Vaccine (OPV)
82 33-258-2000 is also an option. Widely used formulations require between
one and four doses, depending on the recipient’s age and
vaccination history.
Page 3
Health (cont.)
Varicella (Chickenpox): Recommended for all individuals Malaria Risk in South Korea
unless contraindicated. Widely used formulations require two • Areas at Risk: Rural areas in the northern parts of Incheon,
doses administered at least 28 days apart, depending on Gangwon, and Gyeonggi provinces, including the Korean
the recipient’s age and vaccination history. Also available in Demilitarized Zone (DMZ)
combination with measles, mumps, and rubella. • Period of Transmission: Year-round. Risk is highest during
and immediately following the rainy season, which typically
Recommended Immunizations for Travel to South Korea
occurs June to September.
Consult a travel medicine specialist to determine your need • Estimated Risk to Travelers: Low
for the following vaccinations. Visit a healthcare provider • Types of Malaria: P. vivax
two to four months prior to travel to complete multi-dose Several preventive medications are available for malaria.
vaccination series, as necessary, and fully develop immunity Consult a travel health provider to obtain the appropriate
following vaccination. medication for your itinerary.
Hepatitis A: Recommended for most individuals unless
Health considerations for individuals in South Korea
contraindicated. Two doses, administered six months apart,
are required for long-lasting protection. Major Health Threats
Hepatitis B: Recommended for many individuals unless Avian Influenza H5N1: Transmitted through direct contact
contraindicated. Widely used formulations require three doses with poultry, birds, and bird droppings. Symptoms of human
administered over the course of six to 18 months, depending H5N1 are usually severe, including high fever, cough, and
on the recipient’s age and vaccination history. shortness of breath. The risk of human infection from avian
influenza H5N1 is generally low, but it is greater for individuals
Japanese Encephalitis: Unless contraindicated, with frequent, close contact with wild birds and/or live or
recommended for individuals planning long-term stays in recently dead poultry.
endemic areas or short-term stays in endemic areas during
transmission season. Widely used formulations require two Hepatitis A: Transmitted by contaminated food and water.
doses administered 28 days apart. Hepatitis A does not always cause symptoms. If they occur,
symptoms appear two to six weeks after exposure and include
Rabies: Unless contraindicated, recommended for individuals fever, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, fatigue, dark urine,
whose activities bring them into direct contact with dogs, bats, loss of appetite, joint pain, and jaundice. Very low risk in
and other mammals; long-term travelers and expatriates; South Korea.
and children. Pre-exposure vaccination requires three doses
administered over the course of 28 days. Post-exposure Hepatitis B: Transmitted through infected blood and
vaccination is still required in the event of potential rabies bodily fluids, and effectively prevented with vaccination. An
exposure, but pre-exposure vaccination reduces the need unexpected medical or dental emergency may place the
for Rabies Immune Globulin, which can be in short supply in unvaccinated traveler at risk. Practice safe sex and ensure
many areas. medical procedures, tattoos, or piercings are conducted using
sterile equipment. Symptoms include fever, nausea, vomiting,
Tuberculosis: Not available in all countries. Vaccination abdominal pain, fatigue, dark urine, loss of appetite, joint pain,
with BCG (tuberculosis vaccine) will render a “false positive” and jaundice. Intermediate risk in South Korea.
result on TB skin testing. If receiving this vaccine, request
an alternate TB test. Vaccine is typically recommended for HIV/AIDS: Transmitted through infected blood and bodily
extended stays in highly endemic areas. fluids. Practice safe sex and ensure medical procedures,
tattoos, or piercings are conducted using sterile equipment.
Typhoid Fever: Recommended for most individuals unless Within two to four weeks of HIV infection, many people,
contraindicated. Available in both injectable and oral but not all, experience influenza-like illness including fever,
formulations. Widely used formulations require between swollen glands, sore throat, rash, fatigue, muscle and joint
two and four doses, depending on the formulation and the pains, and headache. These symptoms, also called acute
recipient’s vaccination history. Booster vaccination is required retroviral syndrome (ARS), can last from days to weeks. The
every two or five years, depending on the formulation. infection later progresses to a clinical latency stage, and in the
late stage, to AIDS (Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome).
Page 4
Health (cont.)
Hepatitis E: Transmitted by contaminated food and water. commonly include chest pain, bad cough lasting three weeks
Symptoms appear two to eight weeks after exposure and or longer, and coughing up blood and/or sputum. Some people
include fever, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, dark urine, also experience chills, weight loss, fever, weakness, night
joint pain, and jaundice. sweats, and loss of appetite. Intermediate risk in South Korea.
Japanese Encephalitis: Transmitted through mosquito Typhoid Fever: Transmitted by contaminated milk, water, and
bites. Fewer than 1 percent of individuals infected develop food. Raw fish and shellfish from contaminated waters are
symptoms. When symptoms do occur, they usually develop likely to be infected. Symptoms of typhoid fever usually include
four to 14 days after being infected. Most individuals develop fever, abdominal pain or discomfort, chills and body aches,
mild, influenza-like symptoms. However, some infections may weakness, and loss of appetite.
progress to encephalitis (inflammation of the brain), which can
be life-threatening. Risk is greatest for extended time in rural Medication
endemic areas and for those involved in agriculture. Sporadic Carry prescription medication in original packaging, along
cases have been reported nationwide. with your doctor’s prescription. Most prescription medications,
Malaria: Transmitted through mosquito bites. Symptoms of except psychotropic types, can be obtained at Korean
malaria most commonly include fever, chills, headaches and pharmacies (brand names often differ). Local pharmacies will
body aches, nausea and vomiting, and general malaise. These require a prescription from a Korean doctor.
symptoms usually develop 10-28 days after being bitten by an For narcotic medications, visitors must submit a written
infected mosquito. However, there are reports of symptoms application to the Narcotics Control Division of the Korean
beginning as early as seven days to as late as one year. Food and Drug Administration (KFDA) before traveling.
Preventative medications (prophylaxis) are available. Risk of Please contact the KFDA for application procedure and up-to-
infection is low and exists in rural areas of Incheon, Gangwon, date information at 82-43-719-2813 or by e-mail at narcotics@
and Gyeonggi provinces, including the demilitarized zone korea.kr.
(map).
For medications that do not contain narcotics or
Rabies: Transmitted through the saliva of infected wild or amphetamines, up to six bottles of medication (or equivalent
domesticated mammals, usually by a bite or scratch. Do not to a three-month supply) will be permitted into Korea, provided
approach unfamiliar animals. Wild and domestic animals pose they are for personal use only. Visitors must bring the original
a threat. prescriptions, a letter from your doctor specifying the medical
Tick-borne Encephalitis (TBE): Transmitted through the bite condition, and a statement from your doctor on the medicines
of an infected tick. Bite prevention is essential. In rare cases, you are importing.
people can become infected through the consumption of Food and Water Safety
unpasteurized dairy products. Early symptoms include fever,
fatigue, headache, myalgia, and nausea. These symptoms Drinking water may be unsafe in South Korea, especially in
generally appear two to 10 days after exposure. In some rural areas. Use only bottled, boiled, or otherwise purified
cases, infection can progress to encephalitis (inflammation water for drinking and cooking. Do not use ice cubes made
of the brain), which can be life-threatening. Most cases occur from unpurified water sources. Eat only thoroughly cooked
April to November in forests and fields below 1500 meters’ food served hot, or fruits and vegetables that you have
altitude (approximately 4,920 feet). Risk of infection likely cleaned and peeled; avoid salads. Consume only pasteurized
exists nationwide. Risk is likely year-round. milk and dairy products, or use powdered or canned milk and
cured cheeses. Avoid street vendors and unregulated food
Traveler’s Diarrhea: Transmitted by contaminated food and
establishments.
water. This is the most common illness in travelers. People
who become ill by an infectious agent that causes traveler’s Air Quality
diarrhea most often experience nausea, vomiting, fever, bloody
stools, and/or the urge to constantly pass stools despite an Air pollution routinely exceeds recommended thresholds
empty gastrointestinal tract. High risk in South Korea. in urban areas. Individuals with asthma or chronic
cardiorespiratory conditions should consult with a healthcare
Tuberculosis: Transmitted through respiratory droplets provider and carry necessary medications. On days when air
released by coughing or sneezing. Individuals planning an quality is particularly poor, affected individuals should take
extended stay should consider obtaining a PPD skin test to personal precautions to reduce respiratory stress.
reference against future suspected infections. Symptoms
Page 5
Culture
Important dates in 2018 for South Korea Language
• Feb. 15-17: Seollal (Korean New Year) Official Language: Korean
National holiday - Widespread business closures Other languages that are considered official or widely spoken:
• March 1: Independence Movement Day Regional Korean dialects are spoken in different areas of the
National holiday - Widespread business closures; country. Basic English is commonly spoken by workers in the
commemorative events travel and hospitality industry.
Conducting Business in South Korea
Standard Hours of Operation
Business: Monday-Friday, 0900-1700
Government: Monday-Friday, 0900-1800
Banking: Monday-Friday, 0900-1600
Business attire is generally semi-formal. For men,
conservative suits are appropriate. For women, conservative
dresses or business suits are appropriate. Women should
wear flat shoes or shoes with low heels.
Cuisine
Appointments are best scheduled Monday-Friday between
1000-1600. Arriving early to meetings or social engagements Korean cuisine, Hanguk yori or Hansik, has evolved through
is a common practice. Informal or personal discussions are centuries of social and political change. Ingredients and
common. Scheduled meetings will typically end on time. If a dishes vary by province. There are many significant regional
meeting includes dining out, the guest offers to pay the check, dishes that have proliferated in different variations across the
though the host usually pays. Alcohol taken during lunch or country in the present day.
dinner meetings is considered appropriate. Korean cuisine is largely based on rice, noodles, tofu,
English or Korean are commonly used for business purposes. vegetables, fish and meats. Traditional Korean meals
Attempts by visitors to use phrases in the native language are are noted for the number of side dishes, banchan, which
well-received but are not expected. Business cards are widely accompany steam-cooked short-grain rice. Every meal is
used and are presented with both hands. Always use Mr./Ms. accompanied by numerous banchan. Kimchi, a fermented,
or a local honorific/title until the host indicates that using first usually spicy vegetable dish is commonly served at every
names is appropriate. Addressing the host according to official meal and is one of the best known Korean dishes. Korean
title is seen as a sign of respect. When beginning and ending cuisine usually involves heavy seasoning with sesame oil,
the meeting, bow to the other participants before shaking doenjang, a type of fermented soybean paste, soy sauce,
hands. salt, garlic, ginger, and gochujang, a hot pepper paste.
Other well-known dishes are Bulgogi, grilled marinated beef,
Avoid using the following gestures or habits, as they are Gimbap, and Tteokbokki, a spicy snack consisting of rice cake
deemed offensive or insulting: seasoned with gochujang or a spicy chili paste.
• Disrespectful comments regarding the government, Soups are also a common part of a Korean meal and are
military, or previous leaders served as part of the main course rather than at the beginning
• Discussions involving foreign relations or politics or the end of the meal. Soups known as guk are often made
• Using red ink with meats, shellfish and vegetables. Similar to guk, tang has
• Failing to remove shoes upon entering a person’s home less water, and is more often served in restaurants. Another
• Pointing with the index finger (use the thumb of the right type is jjigae, a stew that is typically heavily seasoned with
hand instead) chili pepper and served boiling hot.
• Boasting about business or personal accomplishments
• Sitting in a way that causes the soles of your feet to face or Popular Korean alcoholic beverages include Soju, Makgeolli
point at another person and Bokbunja ju.
Korea is unique among Asian countries in its use of metal
chopsticks. Metal chopsticks have been discovered in
Goguryeo archaeological sites.
Page 6
Transportation
Road Conditions and Incheon International Airport (ICN) is South Korea’s main
Safety international airport and is located approximately 48 km (30
miles) west of Seoul. Onward public transportation from the
Roads are well-paved, traffic airport is provided by rail, bus, and taxi services. Car rental
signals functional, and most services are also available. Airport security personnel are
drivers comply with basic government-trained and supervised, and passenger security
traffic laws. South Korea screening procedures are efficient and effective. Securing
has a significantly higher baggage and all personal items is important as theft is a
traffic fatality rate than the standard threat. Arrivals and departures are mostly on time.
United States. Causes of
accidents include excessive speed, frequent lane changes Gimpo International Airport (GMP) is a prominent
without signalling, running red lights, aggressive bus drivers, secondary airport and is located approximately 16 km (10
and weaving motorcyclists. It is recommended that you photo miles) west of Seoul. Onward public transportation from the
document any traffic accidents. airport is provided by bus, rail, and taxi services. Car rental
services are also available. Airport security personnel are
Be aware that motorcyclists may drive on sidewalks,
government-trained and supervised, and passenger security
and drivers do not always yield to pedestrians in marked
screening procedures are efficient and effective. Securing
crosswalks.
baggage and all personal items is important as theft is a
Traffic Laws include: standard threat. Arrivals and departures are mostly on time.
• International driving permit (or ROK license) is required
for all drivers.
• Left-hand turns prohibited except with green arrow.
• Seat belts and car seats are mandatory.
• Motorcycle passengers must wear helmets.
• Automobile drivers are presumed to have some fault in
accidents involving pedestrians.
• Expect long waits at police stations while police
investigate any incidents.
• Police may take your passport or detain you during an
investigation.
• Even if negligence is not proven, criminal charges may be
filed. Gimhae Airport (PUS) is a prominent secondary airport and
• Blood-alcohol content of 0.05% or higher is considered is located 12 km (7 miles) west of Busan. Onward public
legally intoxicated. transportation from the airport is provided by public bus and
• Police regularly set up DUI checkpoints. Drivers are taxi services. Car rental services are also available. Airport
required to submit to breathalyser tests; refusal can result security personnel are government-trained and supervised,
in cancellation of your license. and passenger security screening procedures are efficient
and effective. Securing baggage and all personal items is
Handicapped Access: important as theft is a standard threat. Arrivals and departures
Major tourist sites and cultural facilities offer discounts or are mostly on time.
free admission for visitors with disabilities. However, some
small organizations or tourist sites may not offer these types Jeju International Airport (CJU) is a prominent secondary
of discounts. In order to receive your free admission, you airport and is located approximately 3 km (2 miles) west of
must present proper certification identifying your disability, downtown Jeju. Onward public transportation from the airport
especially if it is not readily apparent. is provided by bus and taxi services. Car rental services are
also available. Airport security personnel are government-
Major international airports in South Korea trained and supervised, and passenger security screening
procedures are not efficient or effective. Securing baggage
Airports in South Korea are generally efficient and safe. and all personal items is important, as theft is a standard
Major air carriers offer regular flights to various international threat. Arrivals and departures are prone to occasional delays
destinations. due to adverse weather conditions.
Page 7
Transportation (cont.)
Public transport in South Korea is generally modern, efficient, and safe.
Buses: Public buses can be found in most urban centers. Generally, they run on
time and are safe. For travel between cities, buses are appropriate. Personal and
property security is generally fair aboard intra- and inter-city buses.
Taxis and Ride-sharing Services: Taxis are readily available in South Korea at
official stands outside airports, or at organized queues in downtown areas. It is safe
to hail a cab on the street. Official taxis are usually orange, black with an orange
stripe, or silver. Official taxis will always have a yellow taxi sign on the roof. Taxi
drivers are prone to overcharging, so always agree on the cost of the journey, any
conditions on multiple passengers, and availability of receipts, if necessary, before
entering the vehicle. If possible, have a local host or hotel staff order a trusted
service.
Ride-sharing services or vehicles ordered through online apps are available in
South Korea.
Car Rentals and Driving Conditions: Car rentals are available at major airports and urban centers in South Korea.
Foreigners planning to drive in South Korea must have an International Driving Permit (IDP). Consider road and weather
conditions in your choice of vehicle. Road safety in South Korea is generally good.
Ensure familiarity with local laws and driving practices. Keep doors and windows locked and valuables out of sight, as thieves
may target parked vehicles as well as those trapped in slow-moving traffic or at stop signals. Park in well-lit, populated areas or
secure facilities.
Metro: Metro systems in major cities in South Korea are modern, well-maintained, clean, and generally safe. Services are
available during 0530-0000.
Train Travel: South Korea has a comprehensive rail network with frequent service. Trains generally run on time. Accidents
and derailments occur due to inattentive train operators. Personal and property security aboard trains or at train stations is
generally fair.
Page 8
Communications
Communication infrastructure in South Korea is Electricity and plug information for South Korea
advanced, reliable, and broadly available.
Electricity in South Korea is supplied at 220 AC, 50 Hz.
Internet: Internet service in South Korea is readily available
in accommodations and internet cafes. Internet activity is
considered private and secure in most areas.
Telephones: Land-based telephone service in South Korea
is reliable. Mobile phone service is reliable. Internet on
mobile phones is available and reliable. Satellite phones are
not typically needed for consistent communication. There
are no restrictions on the use of satellite phones in South
Korea. Conversations over landline/mobile networks may be
monitored by authorities. Continental-style plug Schuko plug with side
grounding contacts
Postal Services and Media: Postal delivery and other
package services are reliable. There is a wide variety of Two-pronged continental plugs with small-diameter round
choices for private or government-run or publicly sponsored prongs are the most common plug in South Korea. Schuko
radio and television news and broadcasts are available plugs and outlets with side grounding contacts can also be
primarily in Korean and English. Major newspapers, both found. While similar in appearance, schuko prongs are slightly
foreign and domestic, are found mostly in cities. Radio, larger in diameter than the continental type and do not fit into
television, and paper- or internet-based news is occasionally continental outlets.
subjected to government control. There is a reliable
emergency broadcast system. Some places in South Korea may still supply electricity at
110 AC, 60 Hz, and may use North American plugs with flat
prongs, but these are being phased out.
Banking & Currency
Currency: The official currency of South Korea is the South restaurants may charge extra for the use of credit cards.
Korean won (KRW - ₩). One KRW is made up of 100 jeon.
ATM Availability: Automated teller machines are widely
Other currencies are generally not accepted for transactions,
available in Seoul, Pusan and other major cities, but ATM
but some larger hotels may accept US dollars.
instructions are generally in Korean. Always choose a
Bank Availability: Banking hours are generally Monday machine located in a secure area, preferably within hotels or
through Friday 0930-1630 and Saturday 0930-1330. Cash other populated well-lit locations.
advances on major credit cards issued by foreign banks are
Money Transfers: Money transfer services widely are
not permitted.
available in South Korea with numerous locations in Seoul.
Currency Convertibility: Banks or legal money changers Service is provided by banks, merchants, and travel agencies.
offer the best exchange rates in South Korea. There is a maximum allowable amount of USD
Larger banks may offer the best exchange 2,000. Photo identification may be required.
rates on average. South Korea forbids
Tipping: It is not customary to tip hotel
foreigners from exiting with local currency in
personnel, wait staff in restaurants, or taxi
amounts greater than KRW 8,000,000.
drivers; a service charge of 10 percent may
Credit Card Acceptance: Major credit cards be added to the bill. Tipping is considered an
are widely accepted in many urban South insult and is not expected.
Korean businesses. Smaller stores and
Page 9Weather & Environment
Climate
The climate in South Korea ranges from temperate in the south to continental in the central and northern regions.
Temperatures may range from -8 to 4 C (18-40 F) in winter (December-March) and 18-30 C (64-86 F) in summer (June-
September). Rainfall averages 127-135 cm (50-53 inches) per year and is heaviest from June to September and in southern
areas.
Weather/Natural Disasters
Dust/Sand Storms: Dust and sand storms occasionally blow in from the west, and occur more frequently from March-May.
These storms may significantly reduce visibility and pose health risks. Travelers with pre-existing respiratory problems should
carry sufficient medication during travel to affected areas, and should consult a physician before such travel. Large sandstorms
can delay air and ground transportation throughout the region due to strong winds and low visibility.
Flooding/Severe Thunderstorms: Floods are a common threat in South Korea. Severe thunderstorms are typical in South
Korea and occur mostly during the summer.
Tropical Systems: Tropical systems, including typhoons can impact coastal communities and adjacent inland areas in South
Korea. The Pacific typhoon season has no bounds, but most development occurs from May to October. Infrastructure and
transportation networks in South Korea are good and can typically withstand the effects of major tropical systems.
Tsunamis: Tsunamis may present a threat to coastal and low-lying areas of South Korea. Typically following large-scale
seismic disturbances, the risk of tsunami is historically moderate.
Volcanoes: Volcanic activity in South Korea has historically been moderate. There are two active volcanoes in South Korea,
and one significant dormant volcano. Little recent activity has been recorded.
Wildfires: Wildfires are can occur in forested areas of South Korea, mostly from February to May and October to November.
Page 10Your Assist America Mobile App
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conveniently access a wide range of global
emergency assistance services from your phone
by downloading the Assist America Mobile App for
iPhone and Android.
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One-touch call to our A localization feature lets Detailed country-specific Membership ID cards
24/7 Emergency members know when they information to assist members are conveniently stored
Operations Center are eligible for services as they prepare their trip inside the app
TRAVEL ALERTS 7 LANGUAGES EMBASSY LOCATOR
Receive alerts on urgent The app is available in English, Locate the nearest
global situations that may Spanish, Arabic, Mandarin, embassy / consulate
impact travel via the app Thai, Bahasa, and French of 23 countries
D O W NL OAD & SET UP
Scan the Set up your Enter your
code below to account by home address
download the entering your to enable the
Mobile App reference Travel Status
for free number Indicator feature
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