Useful Information
Weather during the PASMISS 2025
South Korea experiences distinct four seasons, with August marking the peak of summer characterized by hot and humid weather. Average temperatures range from 25-30°C, and the intense sunlight combined with high humidity results in persistently sweltering conditions.
When traveling to South Korea in August, it's important to stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun due to high temperatures and humidity. Be prepared for frequent showers by bringing an umbrella. It's advisable to wear light and breathable clothing and avoid outdoor activities during midday.
Language: Korean (Official Alphabet: Hangeul)
안녕하세요
Korea uses Hangul, an ingenious and scientific writing system created in 1443, consisting of 14 consonants and 10 vowels. Hangul accurately reflects pronunciation and is easy to learn, leading to its recognition as a UNESCO Memory of the World.
These characteristics make Hangul quick to master, contributing to high literacy rates and playing a significant role in the dissemination of Korean culture and language.
Time Difference
National Holiday
During the PASMISS 2025 period, August 15 is Korea’s Liberation Day. Liberation Day commemorates the 1945 independence from Japanese colonial rule and is designated as a significant national holiday in Korea.
Business Hours
- Banks
-
- Weekdays: 09:00 - 16:00
- Weekends and Public Holidays: Closed
- Government Offices and Organizations
-
- Weekdays: 09:00 – 18:00
- Weekends and Public Holidays: Closed
- Department Stores
-
- Weekdays: 10:30 - 20:00
- Fri-Sun: 10:30 - 20:30
Exchange Money
- Gimhae International Airport
- Upon arrival, inbound travelers can easily convert their money into the local currency at bank branches and money changers located in the airport.
| Category | Busan bank branch | Busan Bank money changer |
|---|---|---|
| Operating hours | Weekday 09:00 ~ 16:00 | Everyday 06:00-21:00 |
| Location | International Terminals 1F | International Terminals 2F |
| Landline | +82-51-971-2643 | - |
Korean Currency
- Korean Currency
- Korea's official monetary unit is the won(₩).
- The Korean currency consists of a ten thousand, fifty thousand, and one thousand, five thousand won note, and five hundred, one hundred, fifty and ten won coins.
Bills
-
Fifty thousand won
(O-man-won) -
Ten thousand won
(Man-won) -
Five thousand won
(O-cheon-won) -
One thousand won
(Cheon-won)
Coins
-
Five hundred won
(O-baek-won) -
One hundred won
(Baek-won) -
Fifty won
(O-sip-won) -
Ten won
(Sip-won)
Korean Currency
- Most of the businesses in Korea widely uses and accepts payment by credit cards at major hotels, department stores, large restaurants, and stores.
- VISA, American Express, Diners Club, Master Card and JCB can be used; however, do check the service availability before making purchase as some stores may not be subject to this service.
Tipping and Value-added Tax (VAT)
- Tipping is not a regular practice in Korea.
- Value Added Tax(VAT) and service charges are usually included in the consumer price. Value Added Tax is levied on most goods at a standard rate of 10%. In major tourist spots, a 10% VAT plus a 10% service charge is added to the bills. However, service charges and VATs may not be included in the fees charged by some hotels and luxurious restaurants.
- Tax Refunds for Non-residents and Foreigners: https://english.visitkorea.or.kr/svc/main/index.do
Currency Converter
Electricity & Voltage
- The standard voltage in Korea is 220 volts at 60 Hertz.
- The outlet has two round holes and is same type as that of which are used in France, Germany, Austria, Greece, Turkey, and many other countries.
- You can purchase a multi-voltage travel adapter at the airport, retail stores, or convenience stores.
Wi-Fi Service
- Internet service is often provided in public places such as airports, train stations, and bus terminals in Korea. Fast food restaurants, cafes, or stores are also good places to access to Wi-Fi. It is of course available on site during the conference.
Mobile Phone Rentals and Roaming Service
- As soon as visitors arrive at Korea's major airports, including Incheon, Gimpo, Gimhae and Jeju international airports, you can proceed to 'roaming center' desks and get your mobile devices connected immediately with local network service provider after a simple registration. In addition to roaming services, SIM Card purchase, Wi-Fi egg rentals and even smart phone or other mobile gears are available. More information about fees, location of roaming desks and other details are found from the websites listed below.
Travel Insurance
- The organizers take no liability for personal injuries or loss or damage to property belonging to the participants, either during or as a result of the event. Participants are advised to take out proper travel and health insurance before leaving their home country.
Emergency Medical Service
Dial 112 or 119 from anywhere in Korea and your location will automatically be tracked; you can ask for an ambulance in English. The ambulance will be dispatched to the caller’s locating.
Emergency and Assistance Call
| 112 | Police |
|---|---|
| 119 | Emergencies for Fire, Rescue & Hospital Services |
| 129 | First Aid Services |
| 182 | Lost & Found Information |
| 1330 | Korea Travel Hotline |
| 1339 | Emergency Medical Information Center |
| 00794 | Information Service International Call |
| 00799 | International Call Service |
| 02-735-0101 | Tourist Complaint Center |
Useful Websites