Korea Emergency Phrases Etiquette Travelers in Korea: Practical Guide for Foreign Travelers

Quick answer

For emergencies in Korea, dial 119 for fire, rescue, and ambulance, and 112 for police. English-speaking operators are available 24/7. Key phrases like "도와주세요" (dowa juseyo, help me) and "119 불러주세요" (119 bulleo juseyo, please call 119) can be lifesavers. Save the 1330 Korea Travel Hotline for non-urgent language help.

Best route

Emergency numbers to save in your phone

How to call and what to say

1. Dial the number – No area code needed. Calls are free from any phone, including unlocked foreign phones with a local SIM or eSIM.
2. State your language – Say "English, please" or "한국어 못해요" (hangugo mothaeyo, I don't speak Korean).
3. Give your location – Use the nearest landmark, subway station exit number, or building name. If you have a map app, share your GPS coordinates.
4. Describe the emergency – Use simple words: fire (불, bul), accident (사고, sago), injury (부상, busang), chest pain (가슴 통증, gaseum tongjeung).

Key Korean emergency phrases

Timing and tickets

Emergencies don't follow a schedule, but knowing when to call 1330 vs. 119 can save time.

• 119: Immediate life-threatening emergencies (fire, heart attack, accident, crime in progress).
• 1330: Non-urgent language help, lost items, translation, or medical appointment booking. Available 24/7, but wait times can be longer late at night.

Medical facilities with English service

Major hospitals in Seoul and other cities have international clinics. Save this list before your trip:

• Severance Hospital (신촌세브란스병원) – Sinchon, Seoul. International health center: +82-2-2228-5800
• Samsung Medical Center (삼성서울병원) – Gangnam, Seoul. International clinic: +82-2-3410-0200
• Seoul National University Hospital (서울대학교병원) – Jongno, Seoul. International clinic: +82-2-2072-0505
• Asan Medical Center (서울아산병원) – Songpa, Seoul. International clinic: +82-2-3010-5001

For smaller issues, visit a 의원 (uiwon, local clinic) or 약국 (yakguk, pharmacy). Pharmacists can advise on minor ailments and many speak basic English.

Photo plan

In an emergency, photos can help responders. If safe, take a picture of:

• Your location (street sign, building number, subway station entrance)
• Any injuries or damage
• Medication you're taking (for allergic reactions or overdose)
• Your passport and travel insurance card (keep a digital copy)

Mistakes to avoid

1. Assuming everyone speaks English – Many Koreans, especially older adults and taxi drivers, do not. Always have your phone ready with a translation app (Papago is more accurate than Google Translate for Korean).
2. Calling 911 – 911 does not work in Korea. Use 112 for police, 119 for fire and ambulance.
3. Not having travel insurance – Medical costs can be high. Always carry proof of insurance and know the emergency contact number.
4. Forgetting your hotel address – Keep a business card or screenshot of your hotel name and address in Korean. Show it to taxi drivers or emergency responders.
5. Wandering off without a charged phone – Carry a portable battery. If your phone dies, you lose maps, translation, and emergency numbers.

Source check

• VisitKorea official travel information – For general emergency numbers and travel tips: https://english.visitkorea.or.kr/
• Korea Tourism Organization (KTO) – For the 1330 hotline and language support details: https://english.visitkorea.or.kr/
• National Police Agency – For 112 emergency reporting: https://www.police.go.kr/ (Korean only, but numbers are standard)

FAQ

Q: What if I don't have a Korean SIM or eSIM?

A: You can still call 112 and 119 from any phone, even without a local SIM. Roaming charges may apply, but the call will connect.

Q: Can I text 119?

A: Yes, you can send an SMS to 119 for deaf or speech-impaired users, but it's slower. Voice call is preferred.

Q: Is 1330 free?

A: Yes, calls to 1330 are free from any phone in Korea. You can also use the 1330 app for chat translation.

Q: What should I do if I'm in a taxi and feel unsafe?

A: Call 112 immediately. Taxis have GPS, and police can track the vehicle. You can also send your location to a friend via KakaoTalk.

Q: Are there emergency numbers for specific cities?

A: No, 112 and 119 are nationwide. For local tourist police, check with the nearest tourist information center.

Q: What if I need a prescription refill?

A: Visit a local clinic (의원) with your prescription bottle. Many doctors speak English. You can also call 1330 for help finding a pharmacy.

Q: How do I find a hospital that speaks English?

A: Use the VisitKorea website or app to search for "International Clinic" in your area. The 1330 hotline can also recommend one.

Q: What if I lose my passport?

A: Report it to the police (112) and then contact your embassy. The 1330 hotline can help you find the embassy contact.

Q: Can I use a translation app to speak to emergency operators?

A: It's better to say "English, please" and wait for an interpreter. Translation apps can be inaccurate in high-stress situations.

Q: What if I'm in a remote area with no signal?

A: Move to higher ground or a spot with better reception. Emergency calls can sometimes connect even with weak signal. If possible, use a messaging app over Wi-Fi to contact someone who can call 119 for you.