FAQ & Tips

We update our FAQs regularly so you can plan better. To be absolutely sure you have the most current information, please check with your airline or official sources. Entry requirements in particular can change on short notice.

Which airline is best?

Depends on what you’re looking for:
✈️ Korean Air & Asiana
These two Korean airlines offer reliable service, good comfort, and fair prices. For most travelers, the best choice: solid value for money.
✈️ Lufthansa
Also an option, but usually pricier than the Korean carriers, with comparable comfort.
✈️ T’Way
Significantly cheaper, but with trade-offs in service and comfort. Perfect if price matters more to you than onboard extras.
All four airlines offer direct flights from Germany.

How long is the flight?

Outbound (Germany → Incheon): approx. 12–13 hours
(depending on departure city and airline)
Return (Incheon → Germany): approx. 13–14 hours
For flights from other countries, best to check directly with the airline—they always have the most up-to-date schedules.

How much does the flight cost?

It really depends: Airline, departure city, and travel season can make a big difference.
For a direct round-trip flight from Germany in economy class, you can expect around 800 to 1,000 euros as of January 2026. During peak season it might be a bit more expensive; outside of holidays you’ll often find better deals.
For flights from other countries, it’s worth checking the airline websites—you’ll see current prices there right away.

Do I need a visa?

For Germany and most European countries (as of January 2026):
✔ No visa required for stays up to 90 days
✔ Requirement: Passport must be valid for at least 6 more months
For all other countries (or if you want to be absolutely sure), here are the official sources:
International: South Korea Visa Requirements Official Korea Electronic Travel Authorization Website, Korea Immigration Service < K-ETA
For Germany (in German): Federal Foreign Office Auswärtiges Amt – Auswärtiges Amt
Quick tip: The regulations are currently very stable, but a quick check before departure just gives you peace of mind.

Which vaccinations are recommended?

For travelers from Germany and most European countries (as of January 2026):
✔ No specific vaccinations are required for South Korea
✔ Standard vaccinations (like tetanus, diphtheria, measles) should be up to date—which is always a good idea anyway.
The most current and reliable information can be found here:
👉 Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Republic of Korea / Auswärtiges Amt – Auswärtiges Amt
For travelers from other countries or with a different passport:
Please check with the relevant authorities in your home country. Requirements may vary.
Our tip: Even though no vaccinations are mandatory, a quick check with your doctor or a travel clinic gives you peace of mind and never hurts. 😊

Can I bring medication that needs to be refrigerated?

Yes, generally that’s possible, but there are a few things to keep in mind:
For the journey:
Medications belong in your carry-on (especially if they need to be kept cool)
Bring the original packaging and prescription if available. This makes inspections easier.
On site:
Most hotels have mini-fridges in the rooms, but double-check when booking to be safe.
Special cases (injectables, liquid medications, etc.):
Notify your airline in advance. That way there won’t be any nasty surprises at security.
Our tip: If you’re unsure, ask your airline or doctor. They know the current regulations best.

How high is the duty-free allowance?

There are different duty-free allowances for returning to Germany and for entering Korea.
For entry into Germany (as of January 2026):
For flights from non-EU countries, goods with a total value of up to €430 can be brought in duty-free.
More info: German Customs (Zoll online – Startseite)
For entry into Korea:
Goods up to a value of approximately $400–$600 USD (converted) are usually duty-free. There are also separate allowances for alcohol (1 bottle), tobacco (200 cigarettes), and perfume (60 ml).
Current detailed regulations (in English): [영문사이트] For other countries: Best to check directly with the respective customs authority. Regulations can vary significantly.

Are there special rules for smokers in South Korea?

Actually, the rules for smokers in Korea are stricter than in most European countries. Here’s what you need to know:
Where is smoking prohibited?
In many public places, including:
Major streets and busy plazas
Within 10 meters of bus stops
In most restaurants and cafés
At train stations and in public buildings
Important: This ban also applies to e-cigarettes! As of April 2026, they will be legally treated the same as tobacco products in South Korea.
Where can I buy cigarettes?
At most convenience stores (like GS25, CU, 7-Eleven)
At specialized vape shops
A pack costs around €3.10–€4.50 (as of November 2025)
Our tip:
The duty-free allowance upon entry is 200 cigarettes per person (19 years and older). If you smoke, make use of this allowance—or see the trip as an opportunity to take a break. 😉
Important: Rules can change on short notice. Best to check with Korean Customs shortly before your departure: 영문사이트

What if I get sick in Korea?

Don’t worry! South Korea has an excellent healthcare system. And if something does come up, we’re of course there to help you on site. But here’s the most important information for emergencies:
For minor illnesses (colds, upset stomach, minor injuries):
Head to the pharmacy (약국 / “yak-guk”). They’re easy to spot by the red cross sign.
Many pharmacists speak some English, and in a pinch, a translation app like Papago can help.
Opening hours: usually 9 AM–7 PM, some are open later.
For more serious concerns:
Go to the hospital (병원 / “byeong-won”) or a clinic.
In larger cities, there are international clinics with English-speaking staff.
Quick tip: Apps like Naver Map or Google Maps can help you find the nearest facility.

In an emergency:
Dial 119 That’s the ambulance service / fire department.
English-speaking assistance is usually available here too.

📞 1330 Korea Travel Hotline
This is a multilingual hotline for foreign tourists, available 24/7. You can get help with:
Tourist information
Translation / interpreter services
Referrals to hospitals or police
How to reach 1330:
In Korea: Simply dial 1330 (no area code needed)
Supported languages: Korean, English, Japanese, Chinese, Russian, Vietnamese, Thai, Malay
Our tip: Save 1330 in your phone as soon as you start your trip—then you’ll have it ready just in case. And of course, we’re also there for you on site if you need help!

How can I call a taxi?

In South Korea, hailing taxis has changed a lot in recent years. In 2026, almost everything runs digitally through an app.
The best apps for tourists:
🚕 Uber (our personal recommendation)
This is the app we’ve had the best experiences with ourselves. If you already have Uber on your phone, you can simply keep using it in Korea: same app, same payment method. Perfect for short-term travelers! Your saved card works without any issues. The only downside: In rural areas or during bad weather, fewer vehicles may be available.
🚕 Kakao T
This is what most taxis in Korea use. The app is available in English, and you can enter your destination in English letters. The app translates it for the driver. Important: Foreign cards usually don’t work for automatic payment. Our tip: If you want to try the app, just select “Pay to Driver” (기사님께 직접 결제) when booking. Then you can pay with cash or your physical card directly in the taxi.
🚕 k.ride
A newer app specifically designed for foreign travelers. It supports over 130 languages and accepts foreign cards.
Our tip: We personally use and recommend Uber. The app has always worked reliably for us. We haven’t tested the other apps ourselves yet, so we can’t speak from personal experience. Best to just try out what works best for you! Feel free to share your experiences with us.

How do I best find my way around Korea?

For navigation in South Korea, we recommend the Naver Map app. Google Maps only works there to a limited extent.
What makes Naver Map practical:
Reliable navigation throughout Korea
Can be switched to English (simply change it in the settings)
Shows you which subway exit to take
Metro and bus schedules with real-time updates

What should I keep in mind regarding allergies, intolerances, or special diets?

Important to know:
Ingredients are generally not listed on menus.
Extra caution is needed with:
🥜 Nuts (including sesame!) Sesame oil and paste are in almost everything
🦐 Seafood – fish sauce, shrimp paste, etc., are basic ingredients in many dishes
🥣 Soups and stews – even vegetable soups often have a meat or fish broth base
For vegetarians and vegans:
Traditional Korean cuisine is heavily meat- and fish-based. In Seoul and Busan, however, there are more and more vegetarian restaurants. Outside the big cities, it becomes more difficult.
Our tips for stress-free eating:
Have Korean phrases ready (e.g., saved as favorites in your translation app)
“I am allergic to nuts/sesame/seafood.”
“I don’t eat meat/fish.”
Use the Papago app
Naver’s translation app is more accurate than Google Translate and can also translate photos of menus.
When in doubt: Ask
Better to ask once too often than once too little. Most restaurant staff will try to help, even if language is a bit bumpy.
Plan for self-catering options
Supermarkets have fresh fruit, vegetables, rice, and international products. If you want to be absolutely sure, you can prepare a meal yourself. Many accommodations have small kitchens or at least a kettle.

What if I’m not good with chopsticks?

Don’t worry, you don’t need to be a pro!
In Korean restaurants, you’ll always get chopsticks and a spoon. The spoon is the classic choice for rice dishes and, of course, for soups. Koreans use it just as often as chopsticks.
Our tip: Even for heartier dishes, you can simply use the spoon as backup. No one will think it’s weird.
And if it makes you more comfortable: Bringing your own fork is totally fine in most restaurants. In accommodations with a kitchen, you’ll often find utensils there too.

What if I can’t handle spicy food?

That’s not a problem at all!
Even though Korea is known for its spicy dishes, the cuisine has so much more to offer. Many traditional dishes are savory but mild, for example:
Samgyetang (ginseng chicken soup)
Bibimbap (can often be ordered without spice)
Japchae (glass noodles with vegetables)
Gimbap (Korean rice rolls)
Our tip: In many restaurants, chili paste (gochujang) is served separately, so you can decide for yourself how much heat you want.

Are Korean cities clean?

Yes, for metropolises of millions, Seoul and Busan are surprisingly clean.
Public trash cans are rare, but the streets still usually look well-maintained.
Small caveat: After holidays or during vacation season, things can look a bit dirtier and messier. Especially after large events, trash sometimes accumulates.

Is Korea a safe travel destination?

Yes, South Korea is one of the safest travel destinations in the world.
The crime rate is low, and you can move around safely in most areas even at night. That said, common sense and the usual caution never hurt.
What to watch out for:
Petty crime: In large cities like Seoul or Busan, pickpocketing can occasionally happen, especially in busy areas like Myeongdong or Hongdae.
Cults: Korea has an active cult scene. You might be approached friendly on the street and invited to “free courses” or “exhibitions.” The easiest thing to do is politely decline and keep walking.
Scams: Like anywhere, there are people in Korea who try to overcharge tourists or make money through dubious methods.
Our tip: Just stay alert and trust your gut—then nothing stands in the way of a relaxed Korea vacation!

What’s the situation for LGBTQ+ travelers in South Korea?

Homosexuality is legal in South Korea, but social acceptance is still limited, especially compared to Western Europe. Many Koreans hold conservative views on this.
Even in larger cities, the community is hardly visible.
Our advice for your trip:
Some discretion in public is advisable. Public displays of affection between same-sex couples may be met with confusion or disapproval.
That doesn’t mean you have to hide! Many young Koreans in Seoul and Busan are open-minded, and tourist areas are usually relaxed.
And most importantly: We and our guides welcome all travelers. Just be yourselves. 🌈

Are there many rules in Korea?

Yes, there are actually even more social conventions in Korea than in Germany 😄 But don’t worry: As a tourist, you get a certain “leniency bonus.” As long as you’re polite and friendly, you won’t have any problems. Just keep in mind: You’re a guest in this country, and with a little respect and consideration, you’ll be well received everywhere.

Are there really no trash cans in Korea?

That’s not entirely true. You’ll often search in vain on the streets, but you’ll almost always find them in metro stations. So just pop into the nearest metro station or take your trash with you back to your accommodation.
Is Korean cosmetics really that good?
A difficult question, because “good” always depends on your own skin. Fact is: Many Korean products have excellent quality and are popular worldwide. Whether they’re better for you than your usual products, you’ll have to try for yourself. Our tip: Definitely leave some room in your suitcase!

What absolutely must be on my packing list?

The most important things: Passport, credit card, smartphone, sunglasses, deodorant, and any medications you need regularly. (Almost) everything else you can buy on site if necessary. And if you like shopping, you have the perfect excuse.

Can you drink tap water in Korea?

In Seoul and Busan: Yes, it’s safe. The water is strictly controlled and of good quality. However: The taste takes some getting used to for many Europeans. It just tastes different. Bottled Water is inexpensive in Korea and available everywhere.

Do you still need cash in Korea?

Definitely yes! Even though Korea is super digital: For many markets, street food stalls, and especially for topping up your T-Money card (as of January 2026), you’ll need cash. In most shops and restaurants, you can (or must) pay by card though.

What do I do with leftover Korean won in cash or remaining balance on my T-Money card?

T-Money card: You can get your remaining balance refunded before departure. Either at ticket vending machines in subway stations or at most convenience stores (GS25, CU, 7-Eleven). A small fee applies (about 500 won). Instructions are also on the back of your card.
Cash (Won): Leftover won can be exchanged back at currency exchange offices. Or just ask us. We’ll exchange them for you at the current daily rate into your currency. Please note: This can only be done via bank transfer, not in cash.

How difficult are the hikes?

Our hikes are easy to moderately challenging. You’ll need:
Sturdy, slip-resistant shoes
Long pants
A moderate fitness level (you should be comfortable walking on inclines)
For anyone unsure: We go at our own pace—no one needs to overexert themselves.

Accessibility
Our trips are not wheelchair accessible and unfortunately not suitable for people with mobility impairments (stairs, uneven paths, no wheelchair ramps).
If you have a visual or hearing impairment, you’ll need to assess for yourself whether the hikes and city tours are feasible. We’re happy to help where we can, but we are not personal assistants. If you have questions, just reach out an we’ll figure out together whether the tour is right for you.

Can I bring my dog?

Generally yes, but the hurdles are high! 🐕
Getting around in Korea:
Large dogs must travel in a carrier on public transportation
Small dogs can be carried in a doggy pouch or stroller
The big hurdle: Entry requirements
To avoid your dog having to go into quarantine, you absolutely need:
✅ Microchip (mandatory)
✅ Valid rabies vaccination
✅ Rabies antibody test (FAVN test)
✅ Health certificate (issued within 10 days before departure)
✅ Registration with the relevant authorities
If you don’t provide these documents in full, you risk your dog being placed in quarantine.
Our urgent advice: Get in touch with your veterinarian and airline well in advance (months ahead!) and clarify all the details. This is not a last-minute decision.

Sanseoki’s Tips

🌤️ Weather & Packing Tips
Spring and autumn weather in Korea can be quite changeable: Pleasant and warm during the day, but mornings and evenings can get surprisingly cool.
Our packing tip: The onion style! Layering is perfect. And remember: you don’t have to bring everything with you. Laundry and shopping are easy to do locally.

Always have these essentials with you:
☂️ Umbrella (An absolute must-have in Korea! You simply can’t go without it.)
🧴 Sunscreen
🕶️ Sunglasses
💧 Reusable water bottle

🍜 Restaurants & Cafés
At the restaurant:
Cutlery and napkins are usually on the table or in a drawer. Just have a look around
Ordering is often done via a screen at the table or by pressing a call button
You pay at the register by the exit, not at your table
At the café:
Here’s the rule: Clean up after yourself! Return your tray with dishes and wipe down the table if needed.
Leaving everything behind is considered extremely rude. When in doubt, just see what the Korean guests are doing.
🏨 Accommodations
Umbrellas:
Many hotels provide loaner umbrellas when it rains. You can usually take them with you and leave them elsewhere, or simply pass them on to someone without one.
Important: This applies only to public ones! Please don’t take private umbrellas.
Laundry:
If your hotel or room has a washing machine: Fire up your translation app! Typically:
First program on the left = Normal wash
Last program on the left = Quick wash
Bathroom & Toilet:
🚽 Toilet brush? Nowhere to be found. Not in hotels, not out and about.
🧻 Toilet paper can usually be flushed in hotels, but not always when you’re out. Just pay attention to the pictograms!
If you’re lucky, you’ll find a bidet with a control panel. Definitely try it out: Game changer! 😉
Water & Trash:
💧 Complimentary water is often provided at check-in. Many hotels restock it regularly.
🗑️ Trash separation is mandatory! Leave it sorted on cleaning day.
Room Cleaning:
Rooms are generally not cleaned automatically. You need to hang out a sign or send a message to request it. Instructions are usually provided in the room.

🚦 Good to Know: Little Traps in Everyday Life
Pedestrian crossing buttons: Don’t press them! They’re only for people with visual impairments.
Buttons & cords in the bathroom: First check whether that’s really the flush and not the emergency call! 😅
Korean rhythm: The day starts later and ends later. Rush hour on the subway and bus is:
Morning: 7–9 AM
Evening: 5–7 PM

💛 One Last Tip
Don’t try to be more Korean than the Koreans. Standard European politeness is totally fine:
😊 A smile
👋 Hello
👋 Goodbye
🙏 Please & Thank you
That’s all it takes to be welcome as a guest.