About Korea
Useful Information
Time Zone
Korea is 9 hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT +9) and does not have daylight savings time.
Weather
Korea Meteorological Administration [Click here]
Emergency Phone Number
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.
Tipping
Tipping is not a traditional custom in Korea. A 10% service charge will be added to your bill at all tourist restaurants and hotels. It is also not necessary to tip a taxi driver unless he assists you with luggage or provides an extra service.
Currency
The Korean local currency is the Won. 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 JBC. Foreign-issued ATM cards may have limited use.
| Bills | |||
|---|---|---|---|
50,000 won(oman won)
|
10,000 won(man won)
|
5,000 won(ocheon won)
|
1,000 won(cheon won)
|
| Coins | |||
500 won(obaek won)
|
100 won(baek won)
|
50 won(osip won)
|
10 won(sip won)
|
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.