May is the best time of the year to visit Korea. Average temperature in Seoul ranges from a high of 72°F (22°C) to a low of 52°F (11°C). It is ideal to bring along a hoodie, cardigan or light jacket for cooler evening temperatures. You can check the current weather of Korea by clicking the button below.

Go to check the weather

Standard Time in Korea is 9 hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT+9).

Go to the timezone converter

You can check the visa and entry requirements by clicking the button below.

Go to check visa and entry requirements

There are currently 4 banknotes (1,000 / 5,000 / 10,000 / 50,000) and 4 coins (10 / 50 / 100 / 500) in circulations in Korea. The current exchange rate is approximately 1 USD = 1,472 KRW as of January 2025. You can check the current exchange rate by clicking the button below.

Go to check the exchange rate

Visa, Mastercard and American Express credit cards are accepted throughout much of South Korea. Most of the businesses widely use and accept payment by credit cards, including at major hotels, department stores, and general shops. However, check the service availability before making purchases as some stores may not provide this service.

Korea has basically a no-tip culture. Value-added tax is levied on most goods and services at a standard rate of 10% and is included in the retail price. Sometimes, expensive restaurants and luxury hotels may add a service charge of 10%. Thus, you do not necessarily have to prepare for extra charges since it will be included in the bill.

The standard voltage in Korea is 220 volts at 60 Hertz, and the outlet has two round holes.

Banks and Public Institutions: 09:00 - 16:00
Tourist Information Centers: 10:00 - 19:00 (Varies by location)
Restaurants & Cafes: Varies by location (Many open 24 hours)

- Subway: 05:00 - 24:00
View Seoul metro subway line map
- Bus: 05:00 - 22:00 (Select routes operate until 25:00)
- Taxi: 24 hours (late-night surcharge from 22:00 – 28:00)

112 : Police Department
119 : Emergencies for Fire / Rescue & Hospital Services
1339 : Korea Disease Control and Prevention Call Center / Provides medical consultations, information on infectious diseases, and pharmacy locations.
1345 : Assistance for foreigners with visa issues, legal advice, and general living information(Supports over 20 languages.).