SOUTH KOREA Overall risk level
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Riskline / Destination Report / 02 January 2023
SOUTH KOREA
Overall risk level
Medium
Exercise caution
The Overall Risk Level will be determined by the higher of the Security Risk Level and Covid-19 Risk Level.
Security risk level
Moderate
Take normal safety
precautions
Generally safe, with some
predictable security risks
Travel is possible with an
expectation of routine
disruptions and delays
Covid-19 risk level
Medium
Exercise caution
Unvaccinated travellers
should exercise caution
when travelling to Medium
Risk locations, and
vaccinated travellers
should take normal
precautions. These
locations may have some
restrictions on
international travel, but
few restrictions on
domestic activities. These
locations have clusters of
or sporadic transmission of
the SARS-CoV-2 virus and
moderate to high rates of
COVID-19 infections.
Overview
Upcoming Events
05 January 2023 - 06 January 2023
Medium risk: Officials to further tighten COVID-19 entry
measures for arrivals from China from 5 January 2023 –
Update
Officials announced that from 5 January 2023, all arrivals from China will be
required to present a valid negative PCR or antigen test result within 48 or 24
hours prior to departure, respectively. All arrivals will also need to undergo a PCR
test within 24 hours of arrival. Authorities indicated that testing measures will
remain in effect through February 2023.
Riskline / Destination Report
South Korea / 02 January 2023
2 / 59Travel Advisories
Medium risk: Border tensions with North Korea
Exercise caution for travel to areas near the border with North Korea, particularly
the Korean Demilitarised Zone (DMZ), until further notice, because of
geopolitical tensions between North Korea and South Korea.
The Korean Demilitarised Zone (DMZ), a strip of land that cuts across the Korean
peninsula from the Yellow Sea in the west to the East Sea ( Sea of Japan) in the
east, acts as a buffer zone between North Korea and South Korea. It runs along the
northern border of South Korea’s Gyeonggi and Gangwon provinces. The Military
Demarcation Line (MDL) runs along the middle of the DMZ. The DMZ is heavily
mined and patrolled by soldiers on both North Korean and South Korean sides.
The maritime boundary, known as the Northern Limit Line, is also heavily
militarised on both sides and remains as a disputed demarcation line, unlike the
DMZ and MDL which were established by the Armistice Agreement at the end of
the Korean War in 1953.
Over the years, there have been several skirmishes between the two militaries
along the border region, often involving exchange of fire. In August 2015, North
Korea conducted shelling across the border into Yeoncheon County in Gyeonggi
province and South Korean security forces responded by firing back artillery
shells, followed by threats of war from North Korea and heavy troop movement on
both sides. There have also been numerous incidents of soldiers stepping on
landmines, drones being shot down and defectors being captured and even fired
at by militaries on both sides. In August 2018, a South Korean citizen was arrested
for attempting to illegally enter North Korea through a checkpoint in Paju,
Gyeonggi province. Low-level military skirmishes have also occurred along the
maritime border or NLL; in February 2014, South Korean officials claimed that a
North Korean warship repeatedly crossed into South Korean waters despite
warnings. The latest round of increased maritime border tensions involved North
Korean authorities shooting dead an unarmed South Korean civilian found drifting
alone in North Korean waters on September 2020. There is also the danger of
washed-up landmines in Civilian Control Zones and other areas near the DMZ
during and following periods of heavy rainfall due to floods and landslides. Most
recently, at least one person was killed in Cheorwon County, Gangwon province,
Riskline / Destination Report
South Korea / 02 January 2023
3 / 59on 3 July 2022 due to a landmine explosion. North Korean Unmanned Aerial
Vehicle (UAV) incursions over the DMZ can trigger heightened security and military
operations as was the case on 26 December 2022 when the South Korean military
unsuccessfully fired hundreds of anti-aircraft rounds towards several North Korean
UAVs near Ganghwado, Gimpo and Paju in Gyeonggi province; a South Korean
military aircraft crash landed without any casualties in Hoengseong County,
Gangwon province, amid this response.
Although organised tours to portions of the DMZ are available, travel itineraries
are strictly supervised by local authorities. Visitors should obey all instructions
from Korean and US security personnel near the border. Keep all identification
documents ready for inspection at checkpoints.
Moderate risk: North Korea’s nuclear weapon
programme and regional tensions
Take normal safety precautions for travel to South Korea until further notice
because of elevated tensions triggered by North Korea’s nuclear weapon
programme.
North Korean authorities have been sporadically conducting nuclear and missile
tests since 2017. Increased checks and movement restrictions may be imposed in
the vicinity of government and military facilities across South Korea,
particularly during periods of elevated tension in the region resulting from North
Korea’s aggressive rhetoric and missile launches towards the United States (US),
South Korea and Japan, in response to sanctions imposed on it by the United
Nations and joint military drills by the US and South Korea. Travel restrictions are
more likely along the border areas with North Korea.
On 3 September 2017, Pyongyang carried out its sixth nuclear test from its
Punggye-ri nuclear test site in North Hamgyong province, claiming to have tested a
hydrogen bomb suitable for mounting on intercontinental ballistic missiles
(ICBMs). The nuclear test took place amid increasing regional tensions between
Pyongyang and Washington and was preceded and followed by two missile
launches which flew nuclear-capable missiles over Japan’s Hokkaido. On 29
November 2017, Pyongyang launched its then-most powerful Hwasong-15 ICBM
which flew about 1,000 kilometres (621.4 miles) before landing in the East Sea (Sea
of Japan).
Tensions between the two Koreas have increased following North Korea’s
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South Korea / 02 January 2023
4 / 59resumption of ICBM tests on 24 March 2022 as well as the transition to a
conservative government in South Korea on 10 May 2022. North Korean state
media released a video of the test launch and claimed to have tested the newest
Hwaseong-17 ICBM, which flew around 1,090 km before landing in the East Sea,
while South Korean’s Ministry of Defense announced that the test was likely that of
Hwaseong-15 and that an edited video was released to make up for a previously
failed test of the actual Hwaseong-17. The ICBM test came after more than four
years of North Korea’s self-imposed moratorium on such tests, during which
diplomatic efforts for detente were made with former South Korean President
Moon Jae-in and former US President Donald John Trump. South Korea's President
Yoon Suk-yeol promised a tougher stance against North Korean provocations in
contrast to his predecessor’s more detente-oriented stance, while the US Biden
administration announced additional sanctions against entities related to the
recent ICBM test. Most recently, an ICBM was test launched on 18 November 2022;
it was preceded by numerous other ICBM and shorter-range ballistic missile tests,
almost every month since January 2022. Large-scale regular joint military exercises
between South Korea and the US also resumed; the exercises are defensive in
nature but are known to include counter-attack scenarios against North Korean
aggression and are criticised by North Korea as mock invasions by the US.
Moreover, US and South Korean officials warned of an impending nuclear
detonation test in North Korea after detecting signs of final-stage preparations for
such a test in late May. Earlier, the United Nations International Atomic Energy
Agency reported indications of resumed nuclear reactor operations at Yongbyon
since early July 2021; the Yongbyon reactor is considered to be capable of
producing weapons-grade plutonium for a nuclear explosion. Long-standing
tensions between North and South Korea are leading to setbacks in any kind of
diplomatic progress, resulting in a continuation of missile tests and aggressive
exchanges in the medium-term. The probability of an open conflict, however,
remains remote due to its catastrophic impact on the region.
In the past, officials in Pyongyang warned foreign nationals in South Korea to leave,
stating that North Korea would not wish to harm foreign visitors in the event of
war; the warning was largely dismissed as bluster by the international community,
and foreign embassies did not issue any statements. However, Washington
banned US citizens from travelling to North Korea, with limited exceptions.
Travellers should also note that North Korea has also launched GPS attacks in the
past, jamming satellite traffic navigation signals in South Korea; watch out for ‘GPS
Riskline / Destination Report
South Korea / 02 January 2023
5 / 59disruption warning’ signals and anticipate malfunctions to mobile phones and
other electronic devices and geo-navigation services during GPS jamming attacks.
Travellers should also anticipate a sudden increase in security measures and
related travel disruptions when regional tension is high. Monitor local media for
situational updates.
Moderate risk: Mpox outbreak in multiple countries
There is currently an outbreak of mpox in dozens of countries. Those who have
close contact with infected persons are most at risk, including healthcare workers
and household members. Travellers are advised to seek medical attention if they
believe they may have been exposed to an infected person.
Since early May 2022, tens of thousands of confirmed cases of mpox have been
detected across Europe, North, Central and South America, the Caribbean, the Asia
Pacific region including Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, India, Japan, South
Korea, Hong Kong and China, and Northern Africa and the Middle East, with the
United States, Brazil, Spain, Germany, England and France accounting for the
majority of cases. The first case was detected in the United Kingdom in a patient
with recent travel history in Nigeria, however, most of the confirmed cases in the
latest outbreak have no travel history in central or west Africa, where mpox cases
usually occur. World Health Organization (WHO) officials have indicated that due to
the detection of clusters in non-endemic areas, human-to-human transmission is
likely occurring among people who have had close physical contact with
symptomatic cases. More cases are expected to be identified as surveillance
efforts are stepped up, however, health officials maintain that the risk to the
general public is low.
Authorities have stepped up surveillance, case investigation and contact tracing to
help identify more cases, how the virus is spreading and stop further spread. Some
countries such as Thailand, Singapore, Fiji, Malaysia, Bangladesh, Indonesia, Peru,
Trinidad and Tobago, St Lucia and Malawi have imposed screening measures at
ports of entry, while Ethiopian authorities require all inbound air travellers to
complete a mpox e-Health Declaration form before boarding, and officials in Laos
imposed an entry ban for travellers from countries in Africa where mpox is
endemic. However, other countries are so far reluctant to impose similar bans, and
widespread restrictions similar to those imposed due to COVID-19 remain unlikely.
On 23 July, the WHO declared the outbreak as a Public Health Emergency of
Riskline / Destination Report
South Korea / 02 January 2023
6 / 59International Concern (PHEIC), which gives mpox the same designation as COVID-
19, Ebola, swine flu, Polio and the Zika virus. The same designation also allows for
a greater coordinated response to the outbreak. On 29 July, Brazilian public health
officials announced the country's first mpox-related death, the first death from the
disease outside Africa. Later on the same day, Spanish public health officials
recorded Europe's first two fatalities from the virus. Close physical contact with
infected persons is the most significant risk factor for mpox infection, therefore,
health workers and household members of positive cases are most at risk of
contracting the disease.
Travellers should avoid contact with sick people as well as materials used by sick
people which may be contaminated. Travellers are also advised to avoid contact
with dead or live wild animals such as rodents and primates, and avoid eating wild
game/bushmeat and using products derived from wild animals from Africa. Seek
medical attention if you believe you may have been exposed to an infected person.
The smallpox vaccine is 85 percent effective against mpox. While there is no
specific treatment, mpox can be controlled through medicine.
What is mpox: Mpox is a zoonotic disease, meaning that it is usually passed from
animals to humans. The main vectors of mpox are suspected to be rodents,
including rope squirrels. Human-to-human transmission usually occurs through
close contact with bodily fluids or skin lesions of an infected person (alive or dead)
or through contact with recently contaminated objects. Symptoms include severe
headache, fever, back pains and large rashes, which eventually form blisters. Most
of those infected usually recover without treatment.
Riskline / Destination Report
South Korea / 02 January 2023
7 / 59Summary
Overall Medium Risk
South Korea is a Medium Risk destination: exercise caution.
Security Moderate Risk
Moderate Risk locations are generally safe, with some predictable security risks. Travel
is possible with an expectation of routine disruptions and delays.
Covid-19 Medium Risk
In the past, authorities relied on gathering limits and social distancing measures to
contain outbreaks since the start of the pandemic. However, authorities have
maintained a 'living with COVID-19' policy by lifting most international entry and
domestic restrictions despite daily new COVID-19 cases reaching over 500,000 in mid-
March, as related severe cases and deaths have been limited compared to how they
were in the past. Measures are unlikely to re-tighten as long as COVID-19-related
deaths and severe cases remain low, and a sufficient number of hospital beds and
intensive care units remain available.
Political Instability Moderate Risk
South Korea functions as a democratic republic where the president is the head of the
state in a multi-party system. While overall a stable country, it faces persistent
problems related to corruption involving those close to or in power, political
polarisation and economic inequality. The conservative party candidate Yoon Seok-
youl was elected to succeed term-limited liberal Moon Jae-in as president in 2022 for a
five-year term, amid popular dissatisfaction over rises in housing prices and COVID-19-
related restrictions.
Riskline / Destination Report
South Korea / 02 January 2023
8 / 59Conflict Medium Risk
The Yoon administration will be challenged to manage the military threat coming from
North Korea while balancing relations between China and the United States (US).
Relations with North Korea have deteriorated since 2015, and tensions escalated
rapidly in 2017 when Pyongyang conducted several nuclear and missile tests. Although
a policy of detente was pursued from 2018 on, the situation started to deteriorate
again in early 2022 with the restart of Pyongyang’s intercontinental ballistic missile
testing programme and new threats to resume nuclear testing. Even though a
complete resolution of the Korean conflict remains elusive, the threat of open conflict
is unlikely due to the catastrophic impact it would have on both countries.
Terrorism Moderate Risk
The threat of terrorism in South Korea is minimal. However, the possibility of an attack
cannot be entirely ruled out due to the country’s high target value and high number of
foreign visitors.
Unrest Moderate Risk
Protests are common and have the potential to turn violent. Demonstrations are
frequent in Seoul, particularly on and around Gwanghwamun Plaza in the Jongno
district as well as near the Presidential Residence in the Yongsan district.
Crime Moderate Risk
The crime rate in South Korea is low; however, incidences of pickpocketing, purse-
snatching, hotel room burglaries and residential crime as well as overcharging taxi
fees persist in Seoul and other metropolitan areas. In the past, Western foreign
nationals have been targeted due to their perceived wealth.
Riskline / Destination Report
South Korea / 02 January 2023
9 / 59Natural and Environmental Medium Risk
South Korea is regularly hit by typhoons and tropical storms during the rainy season
from June to October, impacting locations across the country, particularly Busan,
South Jeolla province and Jeju Island. Flooding and landslides are also common
during this period. The country lies near an active seismic zone, making it prone to
earthquakes. Additionally, there is a risk of wildfires in the vast forest areas of the
country. South Korean emergency personnel are well-equipped to tackle natural
disasters. However, infrastructure may be relatively poor outside of major urban
areas.
Health and Medical Low Risk
South Korea has some of the most advanced hospitals in the world, especially in
Seoul, Busan and Daegu. Healthcare facilities may be more limited in rural regions.
Despite overall good standards, medical care in South Korea can be expensive and
staff may not speak English.
Local Travel Low Risk
Most major systems of transportation in South Korea are reliable and safe. The
country boasts an effective and highly integrated public transportation system. A toll-
based nationwide motor expressway network joins most major urban centres and
road linkages are well established across the country.
Riskline / Destination Report
South Korea / 02 January 2023
10 / 59Political Overview : Moderate Risk
While the competition between the country’s conservative and liberal parties is fierce,
South Korea has managed multiple transitions of power in a peaceful manner since its
democratisation in the late 1980s. However, corruption scandals involving presidents’
close aides, family members and even the presidents themselves have plagued every
administration to varying degrees. Some of these led to mass protests and the
impeachment of a sitting president, President President Park Geun-hye, in 2017.
Although Park was eventually pardoned by President Moon Jae-in on compassionate
grounds, she and another former president, Lee Myung-bak, were separately
convicted on abuse of power and bribery charges. The centralised power held by the
presidency has often been blamed for enticing corruption among those near to or in
power, leading to calls for more delegation of power to the office of the prime
minister.
It remains to be seen whether or not President Yoon Seok-yul’s administration will be
able to keep corruption at bay. Previous presidents have all vowed to root out
corruption when they assumed office but all have left office under a cloud of
recrimination and further investigations of their own administrations. Yoon won with
48.56 percent of the votes over his liberal Democratic Party of Korea (DPK) rival Lee
Jae-myung who garnered 47.83 percent of votes, the closest margin in any national
election held since democratisation took place. Despite his victory, Yoon faces a
difficult political environment due to his small margin of victory and the opposition
DPK continuing to hold a majority in the National Assembly until at least the next
general election is held by May 2024. Opposition forces will continue to challenge
Yoon’s mandate to implement his preferred policies. Although not a new development
in South Korean history, the election result revealed that the Korean public has been
politically polarised between the largest conservative and liberal parties. Tensions with
North Korea are likely to further escalate as Yoon’s more hardline stance towards
North Korea is expected to replace the more détente-oriented policies of the Moon
administration, amid renewed missile tests by North Korea. Previous conservative
governments have emphasized deterring North Korea’s nuclear ambitions and military
provocations by strengthening military ties with the United States (US) through large-
scale joint military exercises. Such policies have triggered strong responses from North
Korea and at times China.
The Yoon administration will be expected to deliver on campaign promises of
Riskline / Destination Report
South Korea / 02 January 2023
11 / 59reopening the economy fully whilst improving the COVID-19 situation. Restrictions
related to the COVID-19 pandemic have hit small and mid-sized businesses hard,
which employ around 82 percent of the total workforce, as non-essential businesses
had to limit their operations or close altogether. While South Korea is a relatively
wealthy country with exports by major conglomerates being the most significant
contributor to its economy, its household debt level is one of the highest among the
major economies and has been worsening in recent years. This, in addition to a sharp
rise in housing prices, has resulted in the widespread perception of economic disparity
between the few homeowners with well-paying jobs at big companies and those
unable to amass enough wealth for homeownership or starting a family. Throughout
his five-year term, Yoon will also be faced with tackling problems of the shrinking
workforce and overall economic vitality due to the country having one of the lowest
birth rates in the world. Estimates indicate that the national pension fund will be
unable to distribute pensions to those born after 1990 from 2055 if the current
pension system and demographic trends remain unchanged, as the young population
needed to fund the system will drastically decrease. Gender issues have also become
more contentious in South Korea, with a rise of anti-liberal, anti-feminist movements
and the uncertain fate of the Ministry of Gender Equality and Family, which Yoon
promised to abolish once elected but later backtracked on after his own party split
internally over a new family planning policy. If left unresolved, these issues have the
potential for future political instability.
There are no recent incidents
Riskline / Destination Report
South Korea / 02 January 2023
12 / 59Conflict : Medium Risk
Conflict with North Korea: Tensions between South Korea and North Korea have
remained high since 1953. Efforts by the international six-party talks and the United
Nations Security Council (UNSC) to induce Pyongyang to halt its nuclear program in
exchange for foreign aid or under the threat of further sanctions have been largely
unsuccessful.
Facing an increasingly aggressive posture made of missile tests by North Korea and
relentless militaristic rhetoric since 2016, Seoul and Washington agreed to deploy the
new Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) missile defence system in Seongju
County of North Gyeongsang Province, far from the reach of DPRK's DMZ artillery,
to counter a growing threat posed by North Korea. Amid international outcry,
Pyongyang carried out its fifth nuclear test in September 2016. The following year was
marked by the highest number of nuclear and missile tests conducted by Pyongyang.
In May 2017, a successful intermediate-range ballistic missile (IRBM) test
demonstrated North Korea’s potential to target the other side of the Pacific Ocean. In
September 2017, authorities claimed to have tested a hydrogen bomb capable of
being mounted on intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs). North Korea’s then most
powerful Hwasong-15 ICBM was launched in November 2017; it traversed a distance
of about 1,000 km (621 miles) before landing in the East Sea (Sea of Japan). North
Korea is now assessed as possessing ICBMs capable of striking targets throughout the
Pacific region including the US, though their numbers are small and accuracy low.
Diplomatic efforts did see some progress including North Korea’s moratorium on
ballistic missile tests from 2018 to 2021. Nevertheless, this atmosphere of detente
since the the 2019 Hanoi Summit between the leaders of North Korea and the US has
been reversed with a series of missile tests leading up to the test firing of the
Hwaseong-15 ICBM and the new Hwaseong-17 ICBM, with the potential for reaching
targets anywhere in continental US. South Korea will take a tougher stance towards
North Korea’s nuclear weapons development and military provocations. Further
missile tests are certain while resumed nuclear testing, limited attacks on military
targets, infiltration bids and cross-border skirmishes along the Korean Demilitarized
Zone (DMZ) remain possible. .
Territorial Disputes: South Korea's dispute with Japan over the Dokdo/Takeshima
Islands, which sit in rich fishing grounds and on potential gas deposits, has led to
protests as well as a standoff between South Korean and Japanese naval patrols.
Riskline / Destination Report
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13 / 59However, deep economic ties between the two countries and shared concerns over
North Korea and China make conflict over the islands unlikely.
Strength of Military Forces: The tensions that exist along the northern border have
meant that the South Korean government has been obliged to spend sizeable sums on
its armed forces. To this end, Seoul maintains a standing force of around 625,000
soldiers, complemented by around 28,000 US troops stationed in the country. The
DMZ border region is one of the most highly militarised areas in the world and is
heavily mined.
Riskline / Destination Report
South Korea / 02 January 2023
14 / 59Terrorism
Terror tactics: Reports suggesting possible terrorist activities have surfaced
sporadically in recent years. The country is susceptible to threats of lone-wolf attacks
associated with international terror groups, particularly in relation to its close alliance
to the United States (US) or Japan. In March 2015, a 55-year-old South Korean citizen
attacked with a knife and left wounded US Ambassador Mark Lippert in Seoul; the
assailant shouted anti-war slogans and was known to have a long history of violent
anti-US and anti-Japanese activism. In July 2019, a 23-year-old became the first South
Korean national to be arrested on suspicion of plotting terrorist activities in
collaboration with the Islamic State (IS).
Islamist extremism: In February 2019, authorities received intelligence reports
suggesting a possible influx of members from IS-linked Uzbek militant groups. Though
defeated militarily in Syria and Iraq, the group has reconstituted itself through
scattered underground networks of sleeper cells across pockets in the Middle East and
spawned various offshoots and adherents in other parts of the world. At the same
time, the group’s ideology continues to retain influence and attract radicalised
individuals across the world due to its extensive propaganda efforts mainly through
social media. Countries that have high number of foreign visitors, notably Western
tourists, and have little or no history of Islamist militancy remain at risk, as authorities
there may be unprepared to deal with the threat. An Uzbek national staying past his
visa expiration was detained in March 2022 on suspicion of illegally transfering money
to a terrorist group in Syria.
Recent incidents
26 December 2022 - 27 December 2022
Moderate risk: Military responds to suspected North
Korean drone incursions - Update
South Korea’s military responded with aircraft and other assets in Gyeonggi
province, including near Ganghwado, Gimpo and Paju, from morning hours local
time due to the incursion of several suspected North Korean drones. The earlier
reported crash landing of an aircraft in Gangwon province reportedly occurred
amid this response.
Riskline / Destination Report
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15 / 59Unrest : Moderate Risk
Demonstrations: While a majority of demonstrations have been peaceful, the scale of
some rallies have in the past triggered significant disruptions in Seoul. Protests in
2016 and 2017 demanding then-president Park Geun-hye's resignation, as well as
rallies for and against former justice minister Cho Kuk in September and October
2019, drew over one million protesters to the capital. While they generally avoid
confrontation, police have employed strong measures to disperse protestors if they
become violent, having used tear gas and water cannons to disperse crowds on
certain occasions.
When travelling in South Korea, avoid protesting crowds as political, labour and
student demonstrations have occasionally spiralled into violence. In March 2017,
clashes erupted outside the Constitutional Court in Seoul when right-wing supporters
of then-President Park Geun-hye attempted to enter the complex and clashed with
police officers following a verdict upholding Park's impeachment. Four people were
killed and dozens of others were injured during the violence.
Recent incidents
31 December 2022 - 01 January 2023
Moderate risk: Activists to rally in Seoul on 31 December
Activists announced plans to march from the City Hall Station to the Sungnyemun
Gate via Gwanghwamun and Bosingak areas in Seoul from 14:00 local time (05:00
GMT) on 31 December, to demand the resignation of President Yoon Suk-yeol.
24 December 2022 - 25 December 2022
Moderate risk: Activists plan to rally in Seoul on 24
December
Local sources indicated that activists plan to hold a rally near the City Hall Station
in Seoul, from 16:00 local time (07:00 GMT) on 24 December, to demand the
resignation of President Yoon Suk-yeol.
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16 / 5917 December 2022 - 18 December 2022
Moderate risk: Multiple rallies to trigger traffic disruptions
in Seoul
The Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency warned of traffic disruptions on major roads,
including Sejong-daero and Hangang-daero in Downtown Seoul and urged
residents to use public transport, due to planned protests at Donghwa Duty Free
Shop, Sungnyemun Gate and Samgakji Station at 14:00 local time (05:00 GMT) and
at City Hall Station at 17:00. A march is also planned to Samgak, Seoul Station and
Sungnyemun Gate.
03 December 2022 - 04 December 2022
Moderate risk: Activists to hold multiple rallies in Seoul
Local media reported that multiple rallies will be held in Seoul, including in Yeouido
from 12:00 local time (03:00 GMT), in front of the DongHwa Duty-Free shop on
Sejong-daero from 13:00, and in front of the National Assembly building from
14:00; a march will also be held from City Hall Station to Sungnyemun Gate, Bank
of Korea, Jonggak, and Daehanmun Gate from 16:00.
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17 / 59Crime : Moderate Risk
Petty Crime: Foreign nationals may be targeted for pickpocketing and mugging in
busy areas such as Itaewon and other large market areas. Avoid overt displays of
wealth. Valuables (jewellery, passports, etc.) should be kept out of sight. Always secure
bags against the hip and within sight. Placing the strap of a bag diagonally across the
body can help to better secure your possessions and deter thieves. Visitors should
take care to ensure wallets and purses are well hidden and secure. Consider using a
money belt and do not carry bags on one shoulder.
Property Crime: The risk of burglaries from hotel rooms and residential dwellings
increases substantially in the country's major metropolitan centres. There are
frequent reports of theft from more downmarket hotels in Seoul and other major
cities.
Violent Crimes: Violent crimes are very rare in South Korea, but exceptional cases of
violence commonly due to intoxication or motivated by personal disputes did result in
fatalities. These incidents generally do not target foreign nationals but they can
nonetheless pose a threat to bystanders.
Organised Crime: The triad and other gangs are active in all major metropolitan areas
within South Korea. They are involved with gambling, prostitution, drug trafficking, and
the extortion of local businesses. Visitors are, however, unlikely to be impacted by
organised crime during brief visits.
Kidnap-for-Ransom: Kidnappings are a rare occurrence in South Korea, with only
three to five incidents reported annually. In many cases, the kidnappings are linked to
personal or family disputes.
There are no recent incidents
Riskline / Destination Report
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18 / 59Law
Overview
The South Korean legal system incorporates elements of continental European civil
law systems, Anglo-American law, and Chinese classical thought. Foreign nationals
convicted of crimes in South Korea are commonly deported after serving their
sentence and may be banned from the country for several years. People arrested in
South Korea, even for minor offences, may be detained temporarily. The death penalty
can be applied for serious crimes.
Drugs and Alcohol: You must be 19 years of age or older to purchase alcohol in South
Korea. The limit for drink driving is 0.5 milligrams of alcohol per millilitre of blood. This
limit is enforced by traffic police more strictly in areas close to and within urban areas.
Police can impose heavy fines and confiscate your licence if you are caught over the
limit.
Drugs-related offences will lead to deportation, heavy fines and possible jail
sentences. Even minor violations, including smoking minute quantities of marijuana in
a private home, can lead to detention even before a trial has begun. Travellers have
been arrested on the basis of drug tests imposed by customs officials and police.
Traffic Infractions and Speeding: In all accidents involving an automobile and a
pedestrian or motorcycle, the driver of the automobile is presumed to be at fault.
Criminal charges and heavy penalties are common in accidents involving injury, even if
negligence is not proven in court. Speed limits vary, but are commonly 60kph to 80kph
(37mph to 49mph) on urban and small rural roads and 80kph to 120kph (49mph to
71mph) on large rural roads, including motorways. Traffic police use radar speed
detectors and can impose fines at the side of the road.
Photography: Taking photographs of government buildings, airports and military
facilities is illegal. As a general precaution, permission should be sought prior to taking
pictures, and especially where guards are on duty. Failure to adhere to the regulations
can result in cameras and other photographic equipment being confiscated, as well as
possible detention.
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19 / 59Corruption
Overview
Corruption has been deeply entrenched in South Korea's politics and business,
particularly in the chaebols (family-owned conglomerates that have dominated the
South Korean economy's modernisation). In October 2016, a major political scandal
unveiled a system of corruption revolving around President Park's close friend and
aide, Choi Soon-sil, involving millions of dollars of kickbacks from big companies, which
prompted the parliament to impeach Park on 9 December. Indeed, in South Korea's
democratic history, all presidents have been directly or indirectly touched by
corruption scandals.
Travellers: Visitors may experience bribery with border officials or security services.
Amongst Koreans bribes operate in a subtle way, as it is often seen as a token of
gratefulness traced back to Korean culture and Confucian tradition. To avoid repeated
bribery requests, it might be advantageous to know local Koreans with good
connections with public officers. Do not pay bribes under any circumstances: it is
illegal and anti-graft police are likely to view foreign nationals as easy targets for
prosecution.
Residents: Residents are likely to experience bribery in a similar way to travellers,
although residents who are obviously non-Korean will be less affected.
Business: Bribes and payoffs are considered a normal part of doing business in some
South Korean industries. Anti-corruption civil groups have been the driver of major
changes and contributed to the arrest or prosecution of several chaebols' CEOs. Most
of these groups believe there to be a lack of political will to address graft. The major
2016 political scandal also touched the head of Samsung Group, who was accused of
funnelling tens of millions of dollars to companies controlled by Park's confidante Choi
in return for political favours in a 2015 merger.
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20 / 59Security Services
Overview
The National Police Agency of South Korea (KNPA) operates under the control of
Ministry of Government Administration and Home Affairs. Uniformed police include
the general police, and the traffic police. The general police perform conventional
police duties relating to the control and prevention of crime and protection of
property. Traffic police patrol the nation's roadways and supervise the licensing of
drivers and the registration of motor vehicles. There are 16 local, or regional, police
agencies which fall under control of the KNPA.
Efficiency: South Korean police have an advanced capability in responding to criminal
acts. They are well trained, and their investigative capabilities are high. Most officers in
Seoul and other major cities have English-speaking skills. Elite special police units
enforce order in situations that are beyond the capability of regular officers. They wear
the same uniform as other police but are distinguished by special badges. A small unit
of Sea and Air Police patrol the national waters and airspace, providing tactical aid to
other elements by regulating traffic, guarding against smuggling and the theft of fish,
and supplying transport.
Professionalism: Police professionalism is good, although corruption remains a
significant problem. Police commonly extract bribes, ranging from minor payoffs in
traffic cases to large bribes in criminal investigations. Outright robbery and theft by
members of the police force has also been reported.
Areas Active: The police are extremely visible in all metropolitan areas, and most
small towns have one or two dedicated local officers.
Force Strength: The KNPA has a regular force strength of almost 100,000 police
officers.
Abuses/Miscarriages of Justice: Abuses are rare, although police are frequently
inconsistent in their interpretation of, and subsequent distribution of penalties for,
minor offences. Bribery is common.
Political/Religious/Ethnic Sensitivities: The police are not known to harbour any
political or religious bias.
Emergency Contact: In the event of an emergency the police can be contacted by
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21 / 59dialling telephone number 112.
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22 / 59Natural Risks : Medium Risk
South Korea is regularly hit by typhoons and tropical storms during the rainy season
from June to October, impacting locations across the country, particularly Busan,
South Jeolla province and Jeju Island. Flooding and landslides are also common
during this period. The country lies near an active seismic zone, making it prone to
earthquakes. Additionally, there is a risk of wildfires in the vast forest areas of the
country. South Korean emergency personnel are well-equipped to tackle natural
disasters. However, infrastructure may be relatively poor outside of major urban
areas.
Earthquakes
An earthquake is the sudden, rapid shaking of the earth, caused by the breaking and
shifting of subterranean rock as it releases strain that has accumulated over a long
period. Initial mild shaking may worsen and become extremely violent within a matter
of seconds. Additional earthquakes, called aftershocks, may follow the initial
earthquake.
The country is located near one of the most active seismic zones in the world and is
subject to many low-level earthquakes each year. While strong quakes are rare, the
country’s small size and weak infrastructure increase the potential impact, compared
to more prepared countries like Japan. A 2016 simulation by the Ministry of Public
Safety and Security found that a 6.5-magnitude earthquake in Seoul could leave at
least 12,000 people dead, 110,000 more injured and 380,000 buildings destroyed. The
capital was estimated to have about 600,000 buildings that lacked earthquake-
resistant design. South Korea experienced two major earthquakes in 2016 and 2017.
In September 2016, an earthquake struck the eastern city of Gyeongju, North
Gyeongsang province. Measured by South Korean meteorological authorities to be
5.8 in magnitude, the event was the most powerful recorded earthquake in the
country’s history. At least 23 people were injured and residents complained of
receiving SMS from emergency services as late as nine minutes after the earthquake.
In November 2017, a shallow 5.4-magnitude earthquake struck Pohang, North
Gyeongsang province, injuring more than 90 people and displacing upwards of a
thousand more. A lack of earthquake-resistant buildings was blamed as one of the
factors that exacerbated its impact, with damage also reported on newer buildings
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23 / 59with purportedly earthquake-resistant designs.
When shaking begins, drop to the ground and take cover under, and hold on to, a
sturdy piece of furniture, such as a heavy desk or table that can provide you with air
space if the building collapses. If you're not near a strong piece of furniture, crouch
down and protect your head and face in an inner corner of a building; only stand in a
doorway if you know it is strongly supported. Stay away from windows or glass panels.
Most deaths and injuries in an earthquake are caused by collapsing building materials
and heavy falling objects. Stay indoors until the tremors stop and you are sure it is
safe to exit. Avoid all areas in the vicinity of outer walls and doorways, as these are
most prone to falling debris. In a high-rise building, the electricity may go out and the
sprinkler systems may come on. Do not use the elevators. If the lights go out, avoid
using candles, matches or lighters during or after the earthquake; if there is a gas leak,
an explosion could result. If outdoors, move to an open space away from buildings,
electric poles and street lights which are prone to collapse. Do not travel on roads and
bridges which may have been damaged by the earthquake. Be prepared for secondary
earth movements that follow the initial earthquake; some of these may be large
enough to cause additional damage or bring down weakened structures.
Hurricanes/Typhoons/Tropical Cyclones
A cyclone/typhoon/hurricane is essentially a large mass of air that spirals around a
low-pressure centre. It is an organised collection of thunderstorms embedded in a
swirling mass of air. This mass of air is called a cyclone if it forms in the Indian or South
Pacific oceans, a typhoon if formed in the West Pacific Ocean and a hurricane if
formed in the East Pacific and Atlantic oceans. Cyclones/typhoons/hurricanes normally
bring gale-force winds, heavy rainfall and high tides, with the potential of causing
significant or destructive damage and widespread travel disruptions.
The typhoon season runs from June to October and can affect all regions of the
country, particularly those in the coastal areas, such as the city of Busan, North
Gyeongsang and South Jeolla provinces and Jeju Island. Adverse weather from
typhoons and tropical storms can cause overland, air and maritime travel disruptions,
property damage and power outages.
Follow local radio or television broadcasts for information and evacuation instructions.
If not under an area with mandatory evacuation orders, remain indoors. Locate and
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24 / 59secure important documentation, including passports, photo identification, travel
permits and any indispensable personal effects. Be advised that the calm 'eye' is
deceptive and should by no means be interpreted as a sign that the storm has passed.
The second winds are likely to be worse and may destroy trees and buildings damaged
in the first pass. If caught in a region hit by a cyclone/typhoon/hurricane, remain
indoors until the storm passes. If there is a need to move to an evacuation centre,
evacuate in a calm manner and ensure you carry important personal identification.
Avoid all low-lying coastal areas due to storm surges. Confirm the viability of overland
travel routes due to the risk of flooding. Air and sea travel are also likely to be
impacted. Anticipate disruptions to power, communications and other essential
services.
Flooding
A flood is an overflow of water that submerges land that is usually dry. It is normally
triggered by an extended period of heavy rainfall and can be exacerbated by poor
drainage systems in the affected area.
Widespread flooding is common in the country during the rainy season and often
accompanies tropical storms. It can trigger significant disruptions to overland travel in
areas across the country, particularly in Seoul, Incheon and North Jeolla as well as
South Jeolla and Gyeonggi provinces. Sudden spells of torrential rainfall can also
cause flash floods.
If instructed of the possibility that flash-flooding may affect the area you are in,
monitor local updates and move immediately to higher ground away from rivers,
streams, creeks and storm drains. Though flash-flooding is commonly attributable to
excess upstream precipitation, be aware that flooding can occur without typical
warning signs of rain clouds or heavy rain. This is especially true near streams,
drainage channels, canyons and other areas known to flood suddenly. If you happen
across a flooded road in your car, turn around and drive in the opposite direction.
When trapped on a flooded road, vacate your vehicle immediately and climb to higher
ground.
Landslides/Mudslides
Sometimes referred to as debris flows, mudflows, lahars or debris avalanches,
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25 / 59landslides/mudslides are a form of mass soil movement that tends to flow in channels
in a surge of water-saturated rock, earth and debris, typically following heavy rainfall.
Landslides are reported during the rainy season, often in the capital Seoul, and in
parts of Gyeonggi, South Jeolla, North Jeolla, Gyeongsang and Gangwon provinces.
Landslides can trigger disruptions to overland travel.
Follow local news updates in landslide prone areas for warnings about intense storms
and rainfall. If landslide or debris flow danger is imminent, quickly move away from
the path of the slide. Seek shelter on the nearest high ground in a direction away from
the path. If rocks and debris are approaching, run for the nearest shelter and take
cover (if possible, under a desk, table or other piece of sturdy furniture that can
provide you with air space if the building collapses). Anticipate disruptions to overland
travel in areas affected by landslides. Confirm the viability of intended overland travel
routes before departure and remain alert for landslide warning signs including cracks
in the soil or the faint rumbling sound of an approaching landslide or debris flow.
Wildfires
A wildfire is a fire that breaks out in an area of combustible vegetation, normally
located in the countryside or rural areas.
There is a threat of wildfires in forest areas of the country, particularly Gangwon
province, located on the border with North Korea. Wildfires can cause extensive
damage of property and trigger overland travel disruptions. In April 2019, authorities
declared a state of emergency in parts of Gangwon province, namely Sokcho,
Gangneung and Donghae cities, as well as Goseong and Inje counties, due to
dangerous wildfires that killed one person and displaced thousands of others.
In areas under wildfire threat, stay indoors at a relatively safe distance from the blaze
and limit your exposure to smoke by closing all windows and doors. The fresh-air
intake on air-conditioners should be shut. If your place of residence is threatened,
select a direct route that leads you away from fire hazards, complying with all
directives, including evacuation orders, from emergency management officials. Watch
for changes in the speed and direction of the fire and wear protective clothing: sturdy
shoes, cotton or wool pants, a long-sleeved shirt, gloves and a handkerchief to protect
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26 / 59your face.
Recent incidents
23 December 2022 - 24 December 2022
Medium risk: Heavy snowfall and strong winds disrupts
flights and ferries in Jeju province
Local sources indicated that 294 out of 474 inbound and outbound flights were
cancelled at Jeju International Airport (CJU/RKPC) while inbound and outbound
ferry services were restricted in Jeju province as of morning hours local time due to
strong winds and heavy snowfall. Precipitation was forecast to continue until 24
December.
23 December 2022 - 24 December 2022
Medium risk: Heavy snowfall disrupts traffic and prompts
warnings in Gwangju, other areas
Traffic was controlled on Bukbusunhwan-ro (road) and the Honam Expressway
Suncheon direction at Munheung junction among other roads in Gwangju and
South Jeolla province during morning hours local time as heavy snowfall warnings
were issued over Gwangju, and parts of South Jeolla, including Suncheon and Naju,
North Jeolla, including Gunsan and Iksan, and Jeju provinces.
21 December 2022 - 22 December 2022
Moderate risk: Authorities warn of heavy snowfall over
Seoul, other areas
Local sources indicated that authorities advised people to opt for public transport
and drive in deference to road conditions across Seoul, Incheon and Sejong as well
as Gangwon province, and parts of Gyeonggi, North Chungcheong, South
Chungcheong, North Gyeongsang and South Gyeongsang provinces until
afternoon hours local time due to heavy snowfall.
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27 / 5918 December 2022 - 19 December 2022
Medium risk: Heavy snowfall triggers flight cancellations
at Jeju International Airport, other airports
Local media reported that 51 outbound and 44 inbound flights were cancelled at
Jeju International Airport (CJU/RKPC) in Jeju province, six outbound flights and
inbound flights were cancelled at Gwangju Airport (KWJ/RKJJ) Gwangju province, as
well as four inbound and outbound flights cancelled at Muan International Airport
(MWX/RKJB), as as of late morning hours local time, due to heavy snowfall.
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28 / 59Health and Medical: Low Risk
Overview
South Korea has some of the most advanced hospitals in the world, especially in
Seoul, Busan and Daegu. Healthcare facilities may be more limited in rural regions.
Despite overall good standards, medical care in South Korea can be expensive and
staff may not speak English.
Before you travel
Consult your doctor or a healthcare provider who specialises in travel medicine at
least six weeks before your departure. If you have a medical condition, you should also
share your travel plans with your doctor.
Note: Requirements and recommendations for vaccines and other medicines are
based on guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Documentation requirements are based on World Health Organisation guidelines.
Outbreaks
Malaria
Areas with Malaria: Limited to the months of March–December in rural areas
in the northern parts of Incheon, Kangwon-do, and Kyônggi-do Provinces,
including the demilitarized zone (DMZ).
Recommended chemoprophylaxis: Atovaquone-proguanil, chloroquine,
doxycycline, mefloquine, primaquine, or tafenoquine.
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29 / 59Yellow Fever
There is no risk of Yellow Fever infection.
Vaccine requirement: None
Vaccine recommendation: None
Vaccinations, Medicines and Documentation
Recommended for all travellers
Measles
Infants (6 through 11 months old): 1 dose of measles-mumps-rubella
(MMR) vaccine before travel. This dose does not count as the first dose in
the routine childhood vaccination series.
People 12 months old or older, with no evidence of immunity or no written
documentation of any doses: 2 doses of MMR vaccine before travel. The 2
doses must be given 28 days apart.
People 12 months old or older who have written documentation of 1 dose
and no other evidence of immunity: 1 additional dose before travel, at least
28 days after the previous dose.
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30 / 59Recommended for most travellers
Hepatitis A
CDC recommends this vaccine because you can get hepatitis A through contaminated food or
water in South Korea, regardless of where you are eating or staying.
Recommended for some travellers
Hepatitis B
You can get hepatitis B through sexual contact, contaminated needles, and blood products,
so CDC recommends this vaccine if you might have sex with a new partner, get a tattoo or
piercing, or have any medical procedures.
Vaccinations, Medicines and Documentation
Required documentation
Yellow Fever entry requirement: No
Other entry requirements: None
Note: Documentation requirements are subject to change. Consult your destination embassy
or consulate prior to departure for confirmation.
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31 / 59While you are there
Emergency Numbers
Medical 119 -
Emergency services
Emergency services are excellent across South Korea.
Evacuation
It is very unlikely medical evacuation would be required for injury or illness.
Routine care
Medical staff are professional and highly trained, although they occasionally have
different ideas on treatment compared to standard Western practice with regard to
complex procedures.
Medicine
There are no known issues with the availability or quality of prescription and over-the-
counter medicine.
Payment
Up-front or cash payments may be required prior to treatment, even for individuals
with medical insurance. Whenever possible, check with medical providers for payment
requirements prior to treatment.
Ailments
Avian Influenza (Bird Flu)
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32 / 59There was a nationwide bird flu alert issued in South Korea in 2008, following a
spate of human cases, but the risk of infection is low, even when travelling to
infected areas.
Avian influenza is a class of viral infections, including H5N1 and H7N9, which can be
transmitted through contact with wild or domesticated birds. Symptoms are flu-like,
and include fever, muscle aches, coughing, as well pneumonia and – in severe cases
– respiratory failure. Treatment includes a course of antivirals.
Malaria
Malaria risk exists in the northern areas of the border provinces of Kyonggi-do and
Kangwon-do from May to September. Although there is malarial risk along the
outskirts of Seoul county, the city itself is safe.
Malaria is a serious parasitic infection, transmitted by the bite of the Anopheles
mosquito. Symptoms can be flu-like and include a high fever, joint pain, anaemia,
chills and headaches; if left untreated, symptoms can quickly complicate and
become life-threatening. While pre-departure courses of anti-malarial prophylactics
are available, these do not guarantee immunity to malaria. Caught early, malaria can
be treated easily with a range of anti-malarial medications.
Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS)
The outbreak of MERS that hit the country from May to July 2015, the worst outbreak
of MERS outside of the Arabian peninsula, resulted in 36 fatalities, 186 confirmed
infections and thousands of quarantines across the country. Thousands of schools
were closed and public events cancelled. Although the South Korean government
was criticised for minimising the risk of outbreak and acting tardily, the response by
health authorities was strong and effective, and the outbreak was officially declared
over on 28 July 2015. To fight the outbreak, a number of strict quarantine measures
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33 / 59and travel restrictions were introduced to South Korean citizens and long-term
residents.
Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) is a viral infection transmitted by close
physical contact with an infected person or animal or via the coughing and sneezing
of infected persons. Symptoms include breathing difficulties, coughing and fever and
– in severe cases – pneumonia or kidney failure. There is no treatment for MERS,
beyond supportive hospital care and bed rest.
Schistosomiasis
Schistosomiasis (also known as bilharzia or katayama fever) is a parasitic infection,
transmitted through contact with infected water sources, usually freshwater lakes or
rivers. Saltwater and chlorinated pools are not affected by schistosomiasis.
Symptoms include a rash, fever, muscle pain, abdominal pain and the enlargement
of the spleen and/or liver. The disease can be treated via the administration of
praziquantel. If left untreated, schistosomiasis can cause serious chronic
gastrointestinal or central nervous system diseases.
Tick-borne Encephalitis (TBE)
In spring months there is a risk of tick-borne disease across South Korea. The
Disease Control and Prevention Centre regularly advise all people engaging in
outdoor activities to wear long-sleeved shirts/tops and trousers.
Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) is a viral infection usually transmitted through the bite
of an infected tick. Typically the disease occurs in two stages. The first is a mild-flu
like illness. The second is a potentially serious infection of the central nervous
system (brain and spinal cord). TBE can at times be fatal in up to 20 percent of cases.
Long-term neurological complications are common. Individuals are at increased risk
if they visit areas where TBE is known to occur particularly in woodland or grassland.
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34 / 59You can also read
