Is it Safe for Solo Women to Travel in South Korea?
South Korea, known for its efficient public transport system, vibrant cities, and rich culture, offers a safe and enjoyable travel experience for solo female travelers. Here are some essential tips to ensure a smooth and secure journey.
Essential Safety Measures
Beyond the common concerns of crime and public transport safety, solo female travelers in South Korea should take additional precautions.
- Use secure bags: A cross-body bag worn around the chest or waist, or concealed under clothes, helps avoid pickpocketing or theft.
- Research neighborhoods: Identify which areas are safe or unsafe by checking online, guides, or asking locals/hotel staff.
- Respect dress codes: Dressing appropriately according to local norms not only shows cultural respect but can reduce unwanted attention.
- Be alert to scams: Learn about common scams in tourist areas through quick online searches or travel community advice to avoid falling victim.
- Cyber safety: Use a VPN when connecting to public Wi-Fi to prevent personal data theft, especially banking details.
- Stay connected and informed: Download Korean emergency and navigation apps (KakaoMap for navigation, KakaoTaxi for rides, Papago for translation), and join local female traveler groups (e.g., “Girls Love Travel Korea” on Facebook) to share tips and support.
- Know emergency contacts: 112 for police, 119 for fire/ambulance, and the Korea Travel Helpline at 1330 provide quick access to help.
These tips supplement South Korea’s already low crime environment and safe public transport systems, helping solo women travelers enjoy freedom with added confidence and preparedness.
Navigating South Korea
Internet access is crucial for traveling in South Korea, as it makes navigating the country easier and provides safety benefits such as using maps, ordering Ubers, sharing live locations, or contacting someone if feeling uneasy.
Google Maps does not work well in South Korea, so it is recommended to download the local app, Naver Maps, for planning journeys and getting notifications when it's time to get off the underground. Another app for calling local taxis is Kakao T, which can be used to pay online or directly to the driver.
Transportation in South Korea
As long as sensible choices, precautions, and common sense are taken, solo female travelers should be perfectly safe traveling alone in South Korea. The public transport system in South Korea is efficient, cheap, clean, and safe, with excellent subway systems, bus networks, and a fantastic system of trains and buses linking the whole country.
However, it's important to note that assaults and sexual assaults are rare but can happen, especially near bars and nightlife areas. To avoid such situations, it is advisable to avoid going to bars alone, don't walk alone in quiet areas or busy nightlife areas late at night, and avoid using unlicensed taxis.
Other Important Information
- South Korea is considered very safe for solo female travelers. Seoul ranked 25th on the Economist's Safe Cities Index in 2021 and 7th on the 2025 State of Travel Insurance Safest Destinations report.
- Vaccinations are not required to travel to South Korea, but it may be a good idea to top up your Covid and Flu vaccinations if you're in a high-risk category.
- Uber is available in South Korea, mainly in major cities like Seoul, Busan, and Gyeongju, but smaller towns and rural areas may not have Uber yet.
- Terrorism and political issues are not significant risks in South Korea.
- The emergency numbers in South Korea are 112 for police and 119 for ambulance/fire. The Korea Travel Helpline can also be contacted on 1330.
- It's advisable to get a local pre-paid SIM or eSIM for internet access, and options like Airalo or Nomad can be considered.
By following these tips and guidelines, solo female travelers can confidently explore the wonders of South Korea, enjoying its vibrant culture, delicious cuisine, and unforgettable experiences.
- To ensure a secure solo travel experience in South Korea, take additional precautions such as using secure bags, researching neighborhoods, respecting local dress codes, and being aware of scams and cyber threats.
- Navigating South Korea becomes easier with internet access, so travelers should consider downloading apps like Naver Maps and Kakao T for navigation, public transportation, and communication needs.
- Despite the low crime rate, solo female travelers should exercise caution near bars and nightlife areas and avoid using unlicensed taxis.
- South Korea is considered safe for solo female travelers, with Seoul ranking 25th on the Economist's Safe Cities Index and 7th on the 2025 State of Travel Insurance Safest Destinations report.
- Travelers should consider getting a local pre-paid SIM or eSIM for internet access, with options like Airalo or Nomad for added convenience.
