Health & safety: South Korea
Tap water
Safe
Food safety
Safe
Can you drink the tap water in South Korea?
Tap water meets WHO standards but locals usually drink filtered or bottled.
Food safety in South Korea
Excellent food safety. Street food culture vibrant and generally safe. Raw fish (hoe) safe.
Vaccinations
Required for entry
None required for entry.
Recommended by CDC/WHO
- Routine current
Always check the CDC traveler's health page 4-6 weeks before departure for current recommendations.
Altitude warnings
Mt Halla (Jeju, 1,950m). Nothing serious.
Mosquito-borne diseases
Negligible. Some Japanese Encephalitis risk Jul-Oct.
Heat risk
Seoul + Busan Jul-Aug 35°C+ humid.
Emergency medical infrastructure
World-class. English limited outside major hospitals. Cash + insurance.