Communication: Seoraksan National Park

Local SIM Cards and Mobile Providers

SK Telecom, KT, and LG U+ lead as mobile providers. All three provide wide coverage, including in mountainous areas like Seoraksan National Park.

SIM cards are available at major airports (ICN, GMP) upon arrival, or at telecom retail stores in cities like Sokcho.

Plan Options

Data-only plans
Voice and data bundles
Unlimited data plans for tourists
Pre-booking tourist ESIMs makes arrival activation simpler.

Internet Access & Wi-Fi

South Korea features excellent Wi-Fi infrastructure. Free Wi-Fi is widely available in hotels, cafes, restaurants, and public areas.

Portable Wi-Fi Egg

These devices are for rent at airports or pre-bookable online. A Portable Wi-Fi device keeps multiple devices connected during your travels.

Features

Connects multiple devices
Consistent connectivity
Available for rental periods

Postal Services

Post offices (우체국, ucheguk) are dependable for sending postcards or packages internationally. Find them in Sokcho city center.

Postal Features

International postcard sending
Package shipping
Locations in city centers

Language Barriers & Translation

Main Language

Korean (한국어, Hangugeo) is the official language.
English ability varies; more common in Seoul, limited in Seoraksan and Sokcho.
Do not expect universal English fluency.
Complex discussions may pose challenges.

Translation Tools

Papago (Naver Dictionary) is a top choice for Korean-English translation (text, voice, image).
Google Translate also has a place.
Dial 1330 (Korea Travel Hotline) for 24/7 assistance.
Interpretation services are available via hotline.

Important Phrases

Hello: 안녕하세요(Annyeonghaseyo)
Thank you: 감사합니다(Gamsahamnida)
Excuse me/Sorry: 죄송합니다(Joesonghamnida)
Yes: 네(Ne)

No: 아니요(Aniyo)
Please: 주세요(Juseyo)
How much is it?: 얼마예요?(Eolmayeyo?)
Water: 물(Mul)

Business Hours & Schedules

Government & Banking

Government Offices/Banks generally work Monday-Friday, 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM for banks, or 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM for government offices.

ATMs

ATMs are widely available 24/7.
Find ATMs at banks, subway stations, and convenience stores.
Look for "Global ATM" signs for foreign card compatibility.

Retail & Dining

Retail Stores are generally open from 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM, often daily. Convenience Stores are 24/7 (GS25, CU, 7-Eleven).

Restaurant Schedules

Restaurants generally open from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
A common break time (브레이크 타임) often between 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM.
Check specific hours for local eateries.

Religious & Public Holidays

National Celebrations

Seollal (Lunar New Year) is a 3-day holiday in late January or early February.
Many businesses, including restaurants, may be closed for a day or two during Seollal.
Chuseok (Korean Thanksgiving) is a 3-day holiday in mid-September or early October.
Transport is heavily booked during Seollal and Chuseok.

Service Changes

Most government offices and banks close on other public holidays.
Major tourist attractions generally stay open.
Some smaller shops might close.
Always check specific opening hours during holiday periods.

Seasonal Closures

Seoraksan National Park trailsMay close seasonally
Fire prevention periodsTypically spring (Feb-May) and autumn (Nov-Dec)
Heavy snow or iceWinter closures possible
Korea National Park Service (KNPS)Check their website for current conditions

Cable car operationMay close in high winds
Adverse weatherSafety closures occur
Always verifyBefore planning your visit
Safety firstClosures protect visitors

Etiquette & Cultural Norms

Traditional Greetings

A slight bow is customary when greeting and saying goodbye, especially to elders or in formal situations.

Casual Greetings

A nod is common among peers. Handshakes are common with foreigners, often with a slight bow.

General Courtesy

Acknowledge greetings with a slight bow or nod, especially when interacting with elders or in formal settings.

Attire Guidelines

South Koreans generally dress neatly. Casual wear is fine, but avoid overly revealing clothing in public places.

Temple Attire

Shoulders covered
Knees covered
Respectful attire is appreciated

Dining Practices

Remove your shoes when entering traditional restaurants, homes, or some guesthouses. Look for shoe racks.

Table Etiquette

Meals are shared from communal dishes.
Do not stick chopsticks upright in your rice bowl (resembles offerings to the dead).
Do not use chopsticks to point at people or things.

Photography & Sensitive Topics

Photography generally welcomes you in public spaces and at attractions.

Be respectful at religious sites. Ask permission before photographing monks or people praying.

Avoid using flash inside temples.

Always ask permission before photographing individuals, especially children.

Approach the Korean War/Division respectfully. Avoid strong political opinions unless invited.

Avoid comparisons or insensitive comments about Japan due to historical ties. The number 4 is unlucky (sounds like 'death').

Cultural Awareness

A mindful approach to local customs creates a more harmonious travel experience.
South Korea is generally a conservative society.
Public displays of affection are less common than in some Western countries.
LGBTQ+ visibility increases in major cities, but attitudes can be conservative in rural areas.
Personal discretion is advised for all travelers.

Accessibility Information

Accessibility infrastructure in South Korea shows differences between major cities and natural areas.

Urban Areas

Newer buildings and public facilities often feature ramps and elevators. Sidewalks can be uneven, older areas may lack accessible infrastructure.

Public Transport

Some city buses are low-floor and accessible. KTX trains generally welcome those with mobility aids.

Seoraksan National Park

Accessibility in Seoraksan National Park is limited. The main path from the entrance to Sinheungsa Temple and the Cable Car welcomes those with mobility aids.

Communication