Travel Safety in South Korea

South Korea is generally safe. The most common form of crime in the country is petty in nature, and mainly includes pickpocketing and bag-snatching. The risk is elevated in major urban centres such as Seoul and Busan (including in crowded tourist areas). Although violent crime is rare, there have been a few reports of sexual assaults around bars and night clubs.

Since the end of the Korean War in 1953, the Korean Peninsula has been divided by a demilitarised zone separating North Korea from South Korea. Even though peace is maintained under an armistice agreement, the two Koreas are still technically at war. Relations continue to be tense and low-level military clashes have sometimes occurred.

Demonstrations are a common occurrence throughout the country, and have turned violent in the past.

Currently, there is no major concern relating to kidnapping or terrorism in South Korea.

Medical facilities are of a good standard in major cities such as Seoul, but limited in smaller urban centres and rural areas.