1. Overall Safety
Korea is one of the safest countries in the world. However, tourist-heavy areas like Myeongdong and Hongdae have occasional petty theft. Late-night city areas are generally safe but basic precautions apply.
2. What to Watch Out For
**Pickpocketing**: Wear your bag on your front and keep zippers closed on subways and in crowds. **Taxi overcharging**: Use KakaoT app or official airport taxis. **Unofficial tour guides**: Use Visit Korea official tourist information centers. **Money exchange scams**: Only use licensed banks or official exchange offices.
3. Emergency Numbers
**Police**: 112 / **Fire & Ambulance**: 119 / **Tourism Complaints Hotline**: 1330 (24/7, English/Chinese/Japanese available) / **MOFA Emergency**: 02-3210-0404
4. Medical Care
Korea has world-class medical facilities. Foreign visitors can use emergency rooms and pay after treatment. Travel insurance is strongly recommended. Major hospitals (Asan Medical Center, Samsung Seoul Hospital, Severance) have international patient centers.
5. Natural Disasters and Safety Apps
For typhoon warnings in summer and heavy snow in winter, check the KMA weather app or official disaster text alerts. The Korea Disaster Portal (safekorea.go.kr) provides real-time emergency information.
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