Is it safe to travel alone? A deep dive into Korea's travel safety
1. “Still One of the Safest Countries in 2025: South Korea”
As of 2025, South Korea is once again confirmed as a globally recognized ‘safe travel destination.’
According to OECD data, Korea has a much lower crime rate than the average of member countries,
and crimes targeting tourists are extremely rare.
Major cities like Seoul, Busan, and Jeju maintain low crime rates,
while smaller towns also enjoy a peaceful atmosphere.
In a recent survey of foreign tourists,
83% responded that “traveling alone in Korea feels safe,”
with female travelers especially noting that the country felt secure and welcoming.
2. City Safety Comparison from a Traveler’s Perspective
| Seoul | Very High | Constant Patrols | 9.1 / 10 |
| Busan | High | Day & Night Coverage | 8.8 / 10 |
| Jeju | Medium | Tourist Areas Focused | 9.3 / 10 |
| Daegu | High | Central Areas Mainly | 8.5 / 10 |
This table is based on the 2025 joint report by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism and the Korea Tourism Organization.
Overall, all cities score highly in safety,
with increasingly sophisticated systems in place to assist travelers.
3. Real-Time Support: Multilingual Help Centers & Emergency Lines
The Korean government runs a 24/7 multilingual call center (1330)
to support tourists facing any issues during their trip.
Available in eight languages including English, Japanese, Chinese, and Vietnamese,
the service covers a wide range of topics: transportation, accommodation, lost items, medical help, and safety.
“1330 isn’t just an info hotline — it’s a lifeline that connects you to emergency support.”
It offers live translation, contact with police, and even emergency dispatch in certain cases,
making it a trusted safety net for foreign travelers.
4. A Solo Trip by a Japanese Woman: Safe and Memorable
In March 2025, Maiko (27) from Fukuoka, Japan,
traveled to Seoul on her own. Her friends couldn't join,
so she took her first solo international trip — and shared her experience online:
“Even walking around Myeongdong at 10 PM, I didn’t feel scared.
The subways were clean and secure, and there were CCTV cameras everywhere,
which made me feel like someone always had my back.”
She spent four days visiting Hongdae, Bukchon, Itaewon, and Namsan,
and never once felt unsafe or uncomfortable.
Her experience highlights the strength of Korea’s tourism safety infrastructure,
especially for solo female travelers.
5. Post-2024 Accidents: Stronger Safety Systems Across the Nation
- December 2024: Jeju Air landing incident
- November 2024: Bucheon hotel fire
Following these incidents, the government launched a nationwide safety inspection of all lodging and airport facilities,
and introduced a Tourist Safety Certification Program.
They also enforced mandatory safety checks on tour buses and private shuttles,
alongside emergency response training for accommodation providers.
“These weren’t just short-term reactions —
they marked the beginning of a long-term, sustainable safety management system.”
Regular collaboration between government and private agencies ensures
that risks are identified and prevented early on.
6. Must-Check Safety Tips Before Traveling
Q. Is Korea really safe for solo travelers?
A. Yes. As long as you follow basic precautions.
Avoid isolated alleys late at night and keep your belongings secure in public places.
Q. What numbers should I call in an emergency?
A. Police: 112 / Fire & Medical: 119 / Tourism Help: 1330
All are toll-free and offer foreign language support.
Q. What should female travelers watch out for?
A. Stick to well-lit, populated areas at night,
and choose accommodations with strong reviews and safety ratings.
7. 2025 Travel Trend: The Rise of “Soft & Solo Travel”
In 2025, “Soft Travel” and “Solo Travel” have become major travel trends in Korea.
These focus on psychological comfort and flexibility,
backed by strong infrastructure like safe public transport, free Wi-Fi, and multilingual signs.
‘Soft Travel’ emphasizes going at your own pace,
and is particularly popular among middle-aged women, seniors, and solo international travelers.
Korea’s welcoming infrastructure makes these trips seamless and worry-free.
8. Final Thoughts: Korea, Still a Trusted Travel Destination in 2025
As of 2025, Korea remains one of the safest countries in the world for travelers.
From low crime rates and solid infrastructure,
to proactive government policies and public awareness —
everything aligns to provide a secure and enjoyable travel experience.
“As long as you stick to basic safety tips,
your trip to Korea will be both safe and unforgettable.”
Before you go, check the latest updates and official travel safety guides,
and prepare for a journey you’ll never forget.
