Bringing prescription drugs into the Republic of Korea The Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS) states that any narcotics-containing medication (including CBD oil) is strictly prohibited from import into Korea, even with the doctor's prescription.
Travelers arriving in Korea are unable to carry animal products (such as meats, dairy, eggs, etc.) or plant products (such as fresh fruits, seeds, etc.) into the country. In-flight meals which include the aforementioned items, cannot be taken off the aircraft upon arrival.
Cultural insensitivity in South Korea can include using one hand to give or receive items, especially when dealing with elders. Also, avoid pointing with your index finger, as it's considered impolite. Instead, use an open hand to indicate direction.
Foods, including herbal medicine, red ginseng, and health supplements, in solid form (including pills and powders) can be carried in both checked and carry-on baggage, but the allowable quantities may vary by airline, so please check with your airline.
The TSA website clearly states that yes, packing vitamins is allowed in both your carry-on bag and checked baggage. [7] As long as they are in solid form, such as capsules, tablets, or gummies, you are permitted to pack as many supplements as you like, and they don't have to be labeled.
What articles must be declared? Luxury watches, cameras, precious metals, jewelry, furs, A-class golf clubs, etc. Carrying articles specified by other laws and regulations, such as cultural assets, is restricted.
Restricted goods : Firearms, Narcotics; animals and plants stipulated in the Convention on International Trade of Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) and their products, etc.
What NOT to wear in South Korea. While South Korea is quite modern, it's considered inappropriate to show too much skin, especially around the shoulders and chest area. Avoid wearing overly revealing clothing, particularly in traditional or religious settings.
Bringing prescription drugs into the Republic of Korea
For other prescription medications, visitors must submit a written application to the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS) before traveling. Please contact the (MFDS) for up-to-date information at +82-43-719-2813 or by email at [email protected].
Keep your medicines and equipment in the original packaging with labels and information leaflet. If your medicine needs to be kept cool you can use a thermos flask, cool pack or insulated pouch. Carry your medicine in your hand luggage: suitcases in the hold can become delayed or lost in transit.
Courses or boosters usually advised: none. Other vaccines to consider: Hepatitis A; Hepatitis B; Rabies; Tetanus; Tick-borne Encephalitis. Selectively advised vaccines - only for those individuals at highest risk: Japanese Encephalitis. No yellow fever vaccination certificate required for this country.
Watch your belongings and exercise normal safety precautions. Sexual assault and harassment, drink spiking and other violent crimes occur, particularly around bars and nightlife areas, such as Itaewon and Hongdae. Don't accept food, drink, gum or cigarettes from strangers.
However, in Korea, National Health Insurance services had banned non-psychiatrists from prescribing antidepressants for more than 2 months until January 2017. Now, neurologists are able to prescribe antidepressants to patients with only four neurological disorders.
While some unspoken Korean social norms, like taking your shoes off indoors, are more expected and common, others, like covering a bottle label when pouring drinks for elders, or waiting until they take their first bite, can catch foreigners totally off guard.
South Korean customs authorities allow you to bring small amounts of medication for your personal use, if it is kept in carry-on baggage. Take an English language prescription from your doctor at home for both your prescription drugs and non-prescription medicines.
Some important laws to be aware of include the strict anti-drug policy, with severe penalties for possession or use of illegal substances. Smoking is prohibited in many public places, including restaurants, bars, and public transportation. It's also illegal to take photographs of military installations or personnel.
Most countries require travellers to complete a customs declaration form when bringing notified goods (alcoholic drinks, tobacco products, animals, fresh food, plant material, seeds, soils, meats, and animal products) across international borders.
The e-Arrival card is an online entry declaration form for travelers entering the Republic of korea. Starting from 3 day prior to their entry to Korea, travelers can submit their e-Arrival card conveniently through the website (www. e-arrivalcard.go.kr) via PC or mobile web or by scanning the QR code below.
How much money are you allowed to bring into Korea?
In addition, there is no need to report or authorize the importation of promissory notes, letters of credit, or bills of exchange. However, if you enter the country with foreign currency, KRW notes, or checks above USD 10,000 or the equivalent in total, you must report it to the Customs.
Liquids, sprays, gel-type cosmetics, toiletries (toothpaste, shampoo, etc.), or medicines. However, liquids in containers of 100 ml or less are allowed if placed in a single 1 L transparent ziplock bag (20.5 cm * 20.5 cm / 15 cm * 25 cm) per person, with no restrictions on domestic flights.
For those on a mid range budget, 120 000 krw should be enough and for those on a luxury budget, a minimum of 200 000 krw should be ok. It is recommended to bring at least around 200$ in cash. You can use this in places that don't accept cash or in emergencies.
The practice of selling toilet paper outside of restrooms doesn't happen in Korea. Either there will be toilet paper inside the stall or outside of it. You shouldn't have to bring or buy your own toilet paper in Korea. It may be useful to keep some in your bag in case the toilet is out of stock, however.
