A handful of small practicalities that smooth out the trip — from which plug to pack to which days bring closures.
Power & plugs
Korea runs on 220V / 60Hz with Type C and F outlets — the European-style round two-pin. Bring an adapter, and check your devices handle 220V.
Language
The language is Korean, written in Hangul. English signage is good in transit and tourist areas, and the Papago app bridges most gaps elsewhere.
Time zone
Korea Standard Time is GMT+9, with no daylight saving — the clocks stay the same all year.
Opening hours
Many shops open late morning and run late into the night, while palaces and most museums close on Mondays. Convenience stores are 24/7.
Major holidays
Seollal (Lunar New Year) and Chuseok (autumn harvest) are the big holidays. Some shops and attractions close and transport gets very crowded, so plan around them.
Fares, prices and rules can change over time — please check official sources before you travel.
