Emergency Numbers in Korea Every Traveler Should Know
Be prepared for any emergency that may occur during your trip to Korea. We have compiled a list of essential emergency phone numbers that every traveler should save, including police, fire, ambulance, and tourism support services.
In This Article
Save These Numbers Before Your Trip
While Korea is known for its high level of public safety, travelers may encounter unexpected accidents, loss of property, or illness. The contacts below are available 24/7 anywhere in Korea and are free to use.
| Service | Number | Primary Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Police | 112 | Theft, assault, lost property, or any police assistance. |
| Fire / Ambulance | 119 | Fire emergencies, medical emergencies, and rescue requests. |
| Tourist Hotline | 1330 | Travel information, interpretation, and tourism-related issues. |
Detailed Emergency Guide
- 112 (Police): Use this when you immediately need police assistance for crime reporting, theft, or assault.
- 119 (Fire / Ambulance): Contact this first in the event of a fire or a medical emergency. You can also request professional rescue services for traffic accidents.
- 1330 (Korea Travel Hotline): A comprehensive service for foreign travelers. It provides 24/7 support for tourist information, directions, and complaints, along with multilingual interpretation services.
Emergency Response Guide
Interpretation Support: When calling 112 or 119, inform the operator that you are a foreigner, and they will connect you to an interpretation service to help you explain your situation in detail.
Location Description: If you are unable to explain your exact location during an emergency, provide details such as nearby large buildings, shop signs, or the exit number of a subway station.
Lost Passports: If your passport is lost or stolen, contact your home country's embassy or consulate first to receive the necessary assistance. (Be sure to save your embassy's contact information on your smartphone before your trip.)
Important Notes
Toll-Free Calls: 112 and 119 are free to use at any time from mobile phones or public telephones within Korea.
Use Responsibly: Please use 1330 for general inquiries, and save 112 and 119 strictly for life-threatening emergencies or criminal incidents.