Culture, customs & laws

On arrival you’ll pass immigration then baggage and customs. Declare items your arrival card asks about (cash over limits where applicable, certain foods, high-value goods, etc.). Rules change—read the latest official leaflets from Korean customs and your airline.

Do not assume “small snacks” are always allowed: agricultural restrictions can be strict. When in doubt, declare or discard before the desk.

Shoes off indoors in homes, many guesthouses, and some traditional cafés—watch the foyer line. Two-hand gestures or a supporting hand on the elbow when giving/receiving to elders reads as respectful.

On transit, quiet cars and phone calls are kept low; eating on the KTX is normal, on short-hop metro less so. Tipping is not customary like North America; excellent service hotels sometimes include service charges—read the bill.

Smoking: outdoor smoking is restricted to designated zones in many districts—fines exist. Do not smoke while walking in busy pedestrian areas where banned.

Alcohol: public intoxication can still lead to police attention; alcohol purchase is restricted by age rules enforced at shops and bars—carry ID and read current official guidance.

Photography: avoid shooting strangers closely without consent; some venues ban commercial-looking shoots. Drones need registration and strict no-fly zones near military sites and airports—check aviation authority rules before flying.

Drugs: Korea enforces very strict drug laws; do not assume norms from other countries apply.

This page is educational for trip planning. It is not immigration, tax, or legal advice. Verify requirements with official sites (immigration, customs, police, aviation) before you travel or if your situation is non-standard.