Visitor information

About Seoul/Korea

APNIC 16 will be held at the Lotte Hotel, Seoul Jamsil in Seoul, the capital of the Republic of Korea, commonly known as South Korea. Background information on Seoul and South Korea is provided below. Information on accommodation options at the Lotte Hotel, Seoul Jamsil and nearby hotels is also available.

SARS travel information

As of 17 June 2003, the World Health Organisation has issued no SARS-related travel advisories for Korea. However, delegates to APNIC 16 are advised to contact their local health authorities for any supplementary information that may be available.

Visas

Foreign visitors require a valid passport and visa for entry to the Republic of Korea. The nationals of countries under visa exemption agreements or under the principles of reciprocity can enter Korea without visas for short term visits.

Details of visa requirements and the visa application form are available from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Banking hours

Monday to Friday, 09:30 to 16:30

Climate

South Korea has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Summers are humid, rainy, and warm with an average temperature of 20° C from June to September. During summer maximum temperatures often climb above 30° C. The monsoon season is usually during July or August.

Clothing

Shorts, cotton tee shirts, or thin cotton pants are suitable for the summer. Waterproof clothing and an umbrella should be brought in case of rain.

Credit cards

Major credit cards, including American Express, Diner's Club, MasterCard, and Visa are widely accepted at hotels, shops, and car rental agencies. Smaller restaurants and markets may ask for cash. Some banks in Seoul provide cash advances on credit cards, but your passport will be required.

Foreign exchange

The local currency is the Korean Won (KRW). Foreign bank notes and travellers cheques can be converted into Korean Won at foreign exchange banks and other authorised money exchangers. The exchange rate is subject to market fluctuations.

Language

Korean is the official language of the South Korea.

Mobile phones

CDMA cell phones are used in South Korea. Cell phones can be rented at the airport.

Power

The electricity supply in South Korea is predominately 220V, 60 Hz but 110V may be available in hotel rooms. Power outlets are in the form of two round pins. Always check the voltage before using your equipment.

Time zone

South Korea is nine hours ahead of Coordinated Universal Time (UTC). Time differences can be checked at the World Time Server.

Tipping

Tipping is not customary in Korea. Value-added tax (VAT) is levied on most goods and services at a standard rate of 10% and is included in the retail price. In tourist hotels a 10% service charge is added to the bill. Hotel room rates are VAT exempt for overseas visitors but the 10% VAT still applies to the service charge.