FAQs

Question

Is Seoul Safe?

Answer

Yes! Our neighbours north of the wall do indeed threaten us with nuclear annihilation every now and then, but having both lived in the U.S. and the UK, we deem Seoul to be one of the safest cities in the world all things considered. Risk of theft / pickpocketing: Very Low Risk of gun / knife violence: Very Low Risk of staying out until late at night / early in the morning: Low Risk of war / martial law: Lower than ever

Question

Places to Avoid?

Answer

Gwanghwamun Square (only during weekends): While Gwanghwamun is home to some of the top must-see sightseeing landmarks in Seoul (palaces, monuments, etc.), it is also the venue of choice for protests during weekends. So by all means, pay a visit but just not during weekends! Myeong-dong: This neighbourhood is the most notorious tourist trap in Seoul that we feel obliged to urge you not to bother with.

Question

Basic Korean Etiquette

Answer

Public places: An easy rule to abide by would be to avoid being rowdy wherever locals appear to be noticeably quiet (e.g. public transport) Tipping: There is zero expectation for tipping, and should you find yourself being pressured to tip, you are most definitely in a tourist trap. Dining: Especially so in Korean restaurants, servers will start filling your table with little side dishes ('banchan') before or soon after you make your order. These come free of charge and can be refilled free of charge upon request. Drinking: In Korean culture, it is common courtesy to fill your neighbour's drink whenever his/her glass is empty (with two hands if he/she is older than you). Everyone then clashes their glasses together and drinks in unison (again with two hands if your party is older than you).