ICKMDS 2023

Useful Information

: Weather and Clothing

December marks the arrival of winter in South Korea and whilst temperatures are not yet as icy as can be expected in January and February, they are much cooler than previous months. Average temperatures in Busan, which located on the southeastern cost of Korea, range from lows of 0°C(32°F) to occasional highs of 10°C(50°F). While Seoul range from lows of -5°C(23°F) to highs of 4°C(39°F). Snow is unlikely in Busan in December, but you should wear warm clothes such as, long sleeve t-shirts and long trousers with coats or winter jackets.
Make sure to check the weather before you leave by the link below:
https://www.kma.go.kr/eng/index.jsp

: Time Difference

Standard Time in Korea is 9 hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT+9).
https://www.timezonewizard.com

: Visa

To check visa exemption agreement, please check your country via link below:
https://english.visitkorea.or.kr/svc/contents/contentsView.do?vcontsId=140769&menuSn=450

: Monetary System & Currency

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= 1,327 KRW as of March 2023.
You can check the current exchange rate by the link below:
https://www.xe.com

: Credit Card

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.

: Tax and Tipping

Korea is 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.

: SIM Card & Wifi-Egg Rental

Cellular phone and SIM card can be purchased at Gimpo and Incheon airport. More information about the fees, location of roaming centers and other details can be found on website below. (Due to Covid-19, some services may not available.)
https://krsim.net/

: Electricity

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

: Business Hours

Banks and Public Institutions: 09:00 - 16:00
Tourist Information Centers: 09:30 - 22:00 (Varies by location)
Restaurants & Cafes: Varies by location (Many open 24 hours)

Transportation
Subway: 05:00 - 24:00
Bus: 05:00 - 22:00 (Select routes operate until 25:00)
Taxi: 24 hours (20% late-night surcharge from 24:00 – 28:00)

: Emergency Call

112 : Police Department
119 : Emergencies for Fire / Rescue & Hospital Services