South Korea

The Republic of Korea (South Korea or ROK) is a highly developed, stable, democratic republic with powers shared between the president and the legislature. South Korea is a modern economy where tourist facilities are widely available. English is rarely spoken outside the main tourist and business centers.

You can find information about tourism in the Republic of Korea through the Korea Tourism Organization (KTO) website (in English) or by calling 1-800-868-7567 from the United States and Canada. The KTO operates a free, 24-hour Korea Travel Hotline available by dialing 1330 within Korea or +82-2-1330 from outside Korea. The 1330 Korea Travel Hotline has English-language speakers who can provide tourism information, assist with travel reservations, address safety and medical needs, handle tourist complaints, and provide English translation services. The KTO operates several Tourist Information Centers throughout Korea that can provide in-person assistance. In Seoul, the Metropolitan Government operates the Seoul Global Center (SGC) to assist foreigners with a variety of services. You can reach the SGC English language helpline by calling (02) 1688-0120 or 02-2075-4180. The SGC is open from 9:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m. Monday through Friday and is located at 38 Jong-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, near Jonggak metro station, Exit 1.

Read the Department of State’s Fact Sheet on the Republic of Korea for additional information on U.S.-Republic of Korea relations.