South Korea is a unique country that offers travelers an interesting mix of history, modernity, and culture. With bustling cities like Seoul, scenic spots like Jeju Island, and historical sites in Gyeongju, there is no shortage of attractions for travelers to visit.
From K-pop and street markets to temples and palaces, the country has something for everyone. Whether you’re visiting for a week or planning a longer stay, having travel insurance for your trip to South Korea is key, just in case not everything goes exactly as planned.
In this article, we’ll look at what’s required or recommended in terms of travel insurance, typical costs, coverage options, and a few tips to help you choose the right plan for a safe and stress-free trip.
Travel Insurance for a Trip to South Korea
When planning your vacation to South Korea, know that travel insurance can be an essential safety net, covering you in situations where unexpected issues might come up. Whether it’s a sudden trip cancellation, a missed connection, or even an illness or injury while you’re abroad, this type of insurance helps protect the investment you’ve made in your trip and ensures you’re prepared for any unplanned expenses.
Do I Need Insurance to Travel to South Korea?
While South Korea doesn’t require travel insurance for entry, it’s still a smart choice to have coverage. For example, South Korea’s healthcare system is known for its high-quality care and affordability compared to many Western countries like the U.S., but even so, medical costs for visitors can vary. Routine visits may be relatively reasonable, but emergencies or specialized treatments could still be very expensive for travelers without local coverage.
Travel insurance can help manage these potential costs, and can help cover out-of-pocket expenses for unexpected medical needs. Beyond medical coverage, travel insurance is also useful for managing other unpleasant disruptions like lost luggage, delays, or trip cancellations. So for many travelers, financial peace of mind is worth the added expense.
How Much Does Travel Insurance Cost for My Trip to South Korea?
You’ll find that the cost of travel insurance for South Korea (and most places) will vary depending on factors like your age, the length of your trip, what type of coverage you want, and the insurance provider you choose. Typically, a comprehensive travel insurance plan can cost somewhere between 4% to 10% of your total trip cost. Let’s say you’re spending $3,000 on your trip – you can expect to pay between $120 to $300 for a plan that includes medical coverage, trip cancellation, and baggage protection.
Medical-only travel insurance plans are usually more affordable because they offer less coverage than a comprehensive plan. For those travelers who are concerned that they might need to cancel their trip, a “Cancel for Any Reason” (CFAR) upgrade can often be purchased along with a comprehensive policy. A CFAR upgrade will increase your overall travel insurance cost by about 40% but allows you to cancel for any reason at all and receive reimbursement for a set percentage (typically 75%) of your prepaid, nonrefundable trip costs.
TravelInsurance.com can help make choosing travel insurance for your trip to South Korea simple and effective. Since prices and coverage can vary significantly from one provider to another, being able to compare options is essential.
With TravelInsurance.com’s comparison tool, you can look at quotes from multiple top-rated travel insurance providers in one place. This way, you can evaluate each policy’s benefits and exclusions side-by-side to ensure the plan you choose aligns with your needs, itinerary, and budget.
Once you’ve found the best policy, you can conveniently buy your coverage directly through the platform, backed by a lowest-price guarantee.
Travel Tips
As you prepare for your trip to South Korea, a few travel tips can make your experience smoother and more enjoyable. From knowing the best ways to manage money to understanding local customs and getting around, these tips will help you adapt easily to the country’s pace and culture. Consider these insights as you plan your adventure, so you can focus on making the most of each moment.
Money: Currency & Tipping
The currency used in South Korea is the South Korean won (KRW). You’ll find that credit cards are very common, especially in urban areas and tourist spots, but you’ll want to keep some cash for smaller vendors, local markets, and rural areas where cards may not be an option. You’ll find ATMs available in cities, with many offering English language options, though international transaction fees may apply depending on your bank.
Tipping isn’t customary in South Korea, and in fact, it can often be seen as inappropriate or even rude. Employees are paid by their employers and it’s expected that they deliver excellent service without extra compensation.
What to Pack for Your Visit & Weather Conditions
South Korea has four distinct seasons, so packing depends on the time of year you’re visiting. Spring (April to June) and fall (September to November) bring mild weather, making light layers and a jacket ideal. Summer (July to August) can be hot and humid, with the possibility of rain, so pack breathable clothes and an umbrella. Winter (December to February) is cold, especially in northern areas, so you’ll want to bring warm clothing like coats, boots and gloves. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended year-round since exploring South Korea often involves plenty of walking.
Additionally, South Korea has excellent ski resorts in the winter, so pack accordingly if skiing or snowboarding is on your itinerary.
Immerse Yourself in the Local Culture
South Korea is rich in cultural heritage and there are many experiences to help you immerse yourself. From tasting authentic Korean barbecue and street foods in Seoul’s busy markets to trying traditional tea at a hanok (traditional Korean house), the culinary scene is one you just can’t miss. And understanding a few local customs can enhance your experience too. For example, Koreans value respect and politeness, so offering items or shaking hands with two hands is seen as courteous.
When it comes to language, while younger generations often understand English, especially in cities, learning a few basic Korean phrases (like “annyeonghaseyo” for hello and “gamsahamnida” for thank you) can go a long way in showing respect. Another great way to dive into Korean culture is through its pop culture—visiting sites related to K-pop and K-dramas, which are hugely popular around the world.
Getting Around
South Korea’s public transportation system is highly efficient, clean, and easy to navigate. In cities like Seoul and Busan, subways and buses are convenient, affordable, and safe. Be sure to grab a T-money card, a reloadable card that can be used on public transportation and even in some convenience stores. Taxis are also widely available, though they can be more expensive than public transit. Ride-sharing apps are less common in South Korea, but Kakao Taxi is the go-to app for booking taxis. Note that driving yourself is generally not recommended in major cities due to heavy traffic and limited parking, but it is a viable option for exploring more rural areas.
Popular Destinations in South Korea
When planning a vacation to South Korea, it can be tough to narrow down which places to visit. The country offers a captivating blend of ancient traditions, vibrant cities, and scenic landscapes, appealing to virtually every kind of traveler. To make your decision easier, here’s a list of the top 10 most popular spots in South Korea along with a few hidden gems for unique experiences off the usual tourist routes.
- Seoul
- Busan
- Jeju Island
- Gyeongju
- Incheon
- Suwon
- Andong
- Daegu
- Damyang
- Gangneung
Top 5 Unique Places to Visit in South Korea
- Namhae Island
- Jeonju
- Suncheon Bay Wetland Reserve
- Jinhae
- Boseong
Enjoy Your Trip
Whether you travel with a tour group on a set itinerary, seek out the most remote hiking trails in Bukhansan National Park or spend your time eating your way through Seoul, a trip to South Korea is bound to be unforgettable. With travel insurance in your corner, you are even more likely to travel without worry and enjoy your experience to the fullest extent.
