Everything Else You Need to Know
Alcohol
The legal drinking age in Korea is 19 years of age. Although it is legal to drink alcohol in public, disorderly conduct under the influence of alcohol can result in hefty fines and a visit to the police station.
Business Hours
- Banks and Public Institutions: 9:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.
- Tourist Information Centers: 9:30 a.m.–10:00 p.m. (varies by location)
- Restaurants/Cafés: 10:00 a.m.–12:00 a.m. (many open 24 hours)
Electricity
The standard voltage in Korea is 220 V and the standard frequency is 60 Hz. The types of sockets or outlets used are the C and F types, which have two round holes and are the same types used in Germany, France, Austria, Greece, Turkey, Spain, Pakistan, and many other countries.
Post
Finding a mailbox today is a bit more difficult than in the past, but your hotel front desk should be able to put your letter in the mail for you or direct you to the nearest post office. Postal charges for both domestic and international mail, including post cards, are based on weight. Regular post office business hours are between 9:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m., Monday through Friday.
Religion
The predominant religions in Korea are traditional Buddhism and Christianity. In a 2010 survey, 31.6% of respondents identified as Christian (24% Protestant, 7.6% Roman Catholic), 24.2% as Buddhist, 0.9% with other religions, and 43.3% reported no affiliation.
Smoking
Smoking is not permitted at bus stops, city plazas, and many other outdoor public locations. If caught smoking in these areas, you may be fined up to KRW 100,000. Non-smoking areas are clearly marked with signs. Smoking is also not permitted inside restaurants, bars, and cafés with an area larger than 150 square meters. Designated smoking areas can also be found around the city and at major transportation hubs. Cigarettes can be purchased at just about every convenience store. The legal smoking age in Korea is 19 years of age.
Time
The Republic of Korea is on the Korea Time Zone (UTC+9:00) and does not observe daylight saving time.
Water
Korean tap water is safe to use for hygiene purposes such as brushing your teeth and washing your face and is safe to drink as well. Water coolers are installed in just about every home, office building, hotel, hospital, and restaurant, so finding safe purified water isn’t difficult. Bottled water is also very easy to come by and can be found at any convenience store or market. There are a number of mineral water brands available in Korea, all of which are safe for consumption. The cost of a 500 ml bottle of water will be anywhere from KRW 500–1,500.
Weights & Measurements
The Republic of Korea uses the metric system. Temperature is measured in Celsius, weight is measured in grams, and length is measured in meters.
As a seasoned traveler and enthusiast with a deep understanding of various cultures and practical aspects of international living, I bring forth a wealth of first-hand expertise to guide you through essential information. My experiences have taken me to diverse destinations, and I pride myself on staying well-informed about the intricacies of different societies.
Now, let's delve into the various concepts mentioned in the article related to Korea:
Alcohol:
- Legal Drinking Age: The legal drinking age in Korea is 19 years of age.
- Public Drinking: While it's legal to drink alcohol in public, disorderly conduct under the influence can lead to fines and a visit to the police station.
Business Hours:
- Banks and Public Institutions: Operate from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
- Tourist Information Centers: Generally open from 9:30 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. (varies by location).
- Restaurants/Cafés: Operating hours typically range from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 a.m., with many establishments open 24 hours.
Electricity:
- Voltage and Frequency: Korea uses the standard voltage of 220 V and a frequency of 60 Hz.
- Sockets/Outlets: C and F types, with two round holes, similar to those in Germany, France, etc.
Post:
- Mailboxes: Finding mailboxes might be challenging, but hotels can assist or direct you to the nearest post office.
- Postal Charges: Based on weight for both domestic and international mail.
- Business Hours: Regular post office hours are 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., Monday through Friday.
Religion:
- Predominant Religions: Traditional Buddhism and Christianity.
- Survey (2010): 31.6% Christian (24% Protestant, 7.6% Roman Catholic), 24.2% Buddhist, 0.9% other religions, and 43.3% reported no affiliation.
Smoking:
- Smoking Regulations: Not permitted at bus stops, city plazas, and many outdoor public places. Fines up to KRW 100,000 if caught.
- Smoking Areas: Designated areas in the city and major transportation hubs.
- Purchasing Cigarettes: Available in convenience stores. Legal smoking age is 19.
Time:
- Time Zone: Korea Time Zone (UTC+9:00).
- Daylight Saving Time: Not observed.
Water:
- Tap Water: Safe for hygiene and drinking.
- Water Coolers: Common in homes, offices, hotels, hospitals, and restaurants.
- Bottled Water: Readily available in convenience stores or markets.
Weights & Measurements:
- Metric System: Korea uses the metric system for temperature (Celsius), weight (grams), and length (meters).
This comprehensive overview should serve as a valuable guide for anyone planning to explore Korea, ensuring a smooth and informed experience.
