Staying Safe in South Korea
Local Laws
When visiting South Korea, it's important to be aware of and follow local laws. The country has very strict drug laws, and even possessing, using, or dealing with illegal substances, including marijuana, can result in significant jail time and hefty fines.
As a foreign national, you're not permitted to engage in any political activities, such as joining demonstrations or rallies, which are quite common here. Remember that it's against the law to take photos of people without their permission, so always ask first if someone is in your shot. You'll also find that smoking is banned in most indoor public areas.
When you go into someone's home or certain traditional restaurants, it's customary to take off your shoes at the entrance. Bowing is a common way to greet people, and a deeper bow generally signifies greater respect. When you're handing something over or receiving it, especially from elders or people of higher social standing, it's polite to use both hands or to support your right hand with your left forearm or wrist.
LGBTQ+ Travellers
South Korea does not criminalize consensual same-sex sexual activity for civilians, but national law currently does not recognize same-sex marriage or civil unions. While there are no comprehensive nationwide anti-discrimination laws protecting LGBTQ+ individuals, social attitudes are generally conservative, and public displays of affection between same-sex couples may attract disapproving reactions, particularly outside of major urban centers.
Despite this, vibrant LGBTQ+ communities and venues exist in cities like Seoul, and violent crime against LGBTQ+ travelers is rare, though discretion in public is often advisable.
Scams
When you're out and about, it's good to be aware of a few common tricks. Sometimes, taxi drivers might try to charge you more than they should, especially if they don't use the meter. It's always a safer bet to go with official taxis that have meters or use ride-hailing apps like KakaoTaxi.
You might also run into people who offer to take your photo, but then pretend to drop their camera, blaming you and asking for money. Just a heads-up to be wary of that. Another thing to watch out for are invitations to "tea ceremonies" or "cult ceremonies" – these can sometimes turn into requests for money or donations, so it's best to be cautious with unsolicited invitations.
When you're looking to buy nice things, especially from street vendors, keep an eye out for counterfeit items. It's also worth noting that there have been reports of hidden cameras in private places, which is a more widespread concern in the country.
In some shops, street food stalls, and restaurants, prices might not always be clearly displayed. This can sometimes lead to overcharging, so it’s a good idea to stick to places you know are reputable.
Finally, if someone approaches you at an ATM offering help, be careful. Their real intention might be to steal your card information or see your PIN.
Crime
While serious crimes against visitors are rare in South Korea, you should be aware of minor offenses like pickpocketing and the theft of unattended items. These are more common in busy spots, such as popular tourist destinations and bustling markets, especially in cities like Seoul and Busan.
In certain nightlife areas, like Itaewon and Hongdae, there have been reports of sexual assault, harassment, and drink spiking. To help stay safe, it's a good idea to keep your belongings secure, particularly when you're in crowded areas. Also, be cautious about accepting food, drinks, gum, or cigarettes from people you don't know.
When you're out at night, especially in entertainment districts, it's wise to stay aware of your surroundings. Traveling with friends can also be helpful, and it's best to stick to official taxis or public transport.
