Useful information

General Facts

Temperatures +18C to +25C (June)
Time Zone GMT + 9 (Korea Standard Time KST or Japanese Standard Time JST)
Electricity 220v, 60 hz throughout the country (same type used in France, Germany, Austria, Greece, Turkey)
Country Dialing Code +82
Area Code Seoul 02 (when dialing from overseas remove the zero)
Language Korean

Currency Exchange and Taxes

  • Currency : Korea's official monetary unit is the won(￦).
  • Bill
    1,000 Won
    5,000 Won
    10,000 Won
    50,000 Won
    Coin
    10 Won
    50 Won
    100 Won
    500 Won
  • Tax : 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, this 10% tax applies to rooms, meals and other services and is included in the bill.

Credit card

Most of the businesses in Korea widely use and accept payment by credit cards, including at major hotels, department stores, and general shops. Visa, MasterCard, American Express and other credit cards can be used; however check the service availability before making purchases as some stores may not provide this service.

Banks / ATM (Automated Teller Machines)

Banks are open Monday through Friday from 9am to 4pm. ATM service is typically available until 10pm, although some ATMs offer service after 10pm with additional fees.

Wi-Fi

As a leading nation in information technology, Korea provides one of the best internet connections worldwide. Take privilege of the world’s fastest internet speed through Wi-Fi for your convenience during your time in Korea.

Tipping

Tipping is not customary in Korea. Sometimes, expensive restaurants and luxury hotels may add a service charge of 10%. Thus, you do not necessarily have to prepare for extra charges since it will be included in the bill.

Electricity

The standard voltage in Korea is 220 volts and the outlet has two round holes. If you do not have a multi-voltage travel adapter, you may ask to borrow or purchase one from your hotel's front desk. You can also find them at the airport, retail stores, major duty-free shops, and even convenience stores.

Liability and Insurance

The Organizing Committee will take no liability for personal injuries sustained by, or for loss or damage to property belong to meeting participants, either during or as a result of the meeting. It is, therefore, advised that participants arrange their own personal health, accident and travel insurance.

Emergency Numbers

Dial 119 for the fire department and medical assistance, and 112 for the police. A hotel staff or hotel manager can arrange for a doctor or an ambulance in an emergency (though most Korean operators speak little or no English).

Useful Websites