Currency

Major foreign currencies that can be exchanged at banks, hotels, and the airport include the US Dollar, Japanese Yen, Euro, and UK Sterling. Most hotels, restaurants, and shops accept major international credit cards including Visa, American Express, Diners Club, Master Card, and JCB. Foreign-issued ATM cards may have limited use. [more]

Old Bills
 
10,000 won (man won) 5,000 won (ocheon won) 1,000 won (cheon won)  
New Bills
10,000 won (man won) 5,000 won (ocheon won) 1,000 won (cheon won) 50,000 won (oman won)
Coins
500 won (obaek won) 100 won (baek won) 50 won (osip won) 10 won (sip won)

ATM (Automated Teller Machines)

Travelers who carry internationally recognized credit cards can get a cash advance in Korea Won from Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) installed at airports, major hotels, department stores, subway stations and tourist attractions. ATMs are in operation 24 hours a day. Most large stores, hotels and restaurants in Korea accept major international credit cards. However it is advisable to carry some cash, since many smaller establishments and stores are unlikely to accept credit cards.

Time

When Indicating Korea Time: Present Time (GMT+9) / No daylight savings time

Weather

Korea Meteorological Administration [Click]

Cell Phone Rental

You may rent a cell phone at the Incheon International Airport. Users can rent a handset and pay rental and call charges upon returning the phone. Applicants require identification, credit card, and a service contract (available at the booth).

International Call

International dialing code in Incheon, Korea is +82-32 (Area code). Please omit (0) when dialing from overseas.

Tip & Tax

Tip Tipping is not a regular practice in Korea. Service charges are included in your bill for rooms, meals and other services at hotels and upscale restaurants. Koreans occasionally do tip when they are especially pleased with the service they receive.

Tax Visitors can receive a refund on a receipt for a minimum purchase of KRW 50,000 (around US$52). To receive this refund, present refund receipts with the purchased goods at the customs desk at the Incheon International Airport when departing. These receipts can be cashed in at the Cash Refund Office in front of the Airport Duty Free Shop.

Business Hours

Government office hours are usually from 9:00 to 18:00 on weekdays. Banks are open from 9:00 to 16:00 on weekdays. Most stores are open every day from 10:30 to 20:00, including Sundays.

Electricity

The standard electricity supply is 220 volts AC/60 cycles. Most hotels may provide outlet converters for 110 and 220 volts. Participants are recommended to check with the hotel beforehand.

Emergency Phone number

1339 Medical Emergency 119 Emergencies for Fire, Rescue & Hospital Services
112 Police 129 First Aid Services

Useful Websites

Korea Tourism Organization http://www.visitkorea.or.kr
Gateway to Korea http://www.korea.net
Seoul Tourism Organization http://www.miceseoul.com
Seoul Metropolitan Government http://www.visitseoul.net
Korea Immigration Service http://www.immigration.go.kr
Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade http://www.mofat.go.kr
Incheon International Airport http://www.airport.kr