Emergency Numbers in Korea: How Tourists Can Get Help
Traveling in a new country is much easier when you know where to turn for help.
Whether you lose your belongings, need an ambulance, witness a crime, or simply need assistance understanding a travel problem, knowing the right contact number can save valuable time.
Here are the essential numbers every international visitor to South Korea should know.
1. The Three Numbers to Remember
Save these numbers on your phone before exploring Seoul or traveling elsewhere in Korea.
| Number | Service | When to Use It |
|---|---|---|
| 112 | Police | Crime, theft, or an immediate safety threat |
| 119 | Fire and emergency rescue | Fire, ambulance, rescue, or urgent medical emergencies |
| 1330 | Korea Travel Helpline | Tourism information, interpretation, and travel-related assistance |
The first two numbers are for emergencies requiring police or emergency rescue services. The 1330 Korea Travel Helpline is a tourism assistance service, not a replacement for emergency services.
2. When Should You Call 112?
Call 112 when you need police assistance, such as when:
- You witness a crime or are threatened.
- Someone steals your belongings and police assistance is needed.
- You face an immediate safety concern that requires police intervention.
If you do not speak Korean, try saying:
“English, please.”
You can also say:
“Interpreter, please.”
Korean emergency services have arrangements for connecting callers with interpretation assistance. In an emergency, provide your location as clearly as possible and follow the operator's instructions.
3. When Should You Call 119?
Call 119 for fire, rescue, ambulance, and urgent medical emergencies.
Examples include:
- Someone is seriously injured or suddenly becomes critically ill.
- You need an ambulance.
- There is a fire or a situation requiring emergency rescue.
When calling, explain what happened, where you are, and how many people need assistance.
If you are unsure of your exact location, look for the nearest street sign, building name, subway station, or recognizable landmark.
Do not delay an emergency call while trying to find the perfect English phrase.
4. What Is the 1330 Korea Travel Helpline?
The 1330 Korea Travel Helpline, operated by the Korea Tourism Organization, provides travel information and assistance in multiple languages.
It can be useful when you need help with:
- Transportation and travel directions.
- Tourist information and practical travel questions.
- Interpretation assistance.
- Tourism-related complaints or problems.
The service provides assistance in Korean, English, Japanese, Chinese, Russian, Vietnamese, Thai, and Malay. Availability differs by language: Korean, English, Japanese, and Chinese support is listed as available 24 hours a day, while Russian, Vietnamese, Thai, and Malay support is listed for 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily.
Calling from within Korea: 1330
Calling from overseas: +82-2-1330
If you have a tourism-related problem and are unsure which organization to contact, 1330 can help direct you to the appropriate service.
5. What If You Lose Your Phone or Wallet?
Losing a phone or wallet while traveling can be stressful, but a clear plan makes the situation easier to manage.
If Your Phone Is Lost
- Retrace your route and contact the places you visited.
- Use your device's official location or lost-device service if available.
- Ask your accommodation or a nearby information desk for assistance.
- If you suspect theft, contact the police.
If Your Wallet Is Lost
- Contact your bank or card issuer to freeze or block affected cards.
- Keep your passport separate from your everyday wallet when practical.
- If your passport is missing, contact your country's embassy or consulate for guidance.
- Contact the police if theft is suspected or a report is required.
The 1330 helpline may help with tourism-related questions, but it does not replace your bank, embassy, or police.
6. Prepare Before Something Goes Wrong
A few simple steps can make it easier to get help:
- Save 112, 119, and 1330 in your phone.
- Keep your accommodation's name and address in Korean.
- Save a screenshot of your hotel's location.
- Keep your passport details and emergency contacts accessible in a secure place.
- Make sure your phone has enough battery for maps and calls.
If you are traveling with family or friends, agree on a meeting point in case you become separated in a crowded area.
Final Tip: Save These Numbers Now
You may never need to use them, but knowing these numbers is part of being a prepared traveler.
112 — Police
119 — Fire, rescue, and ambulance
1330 — Korea Travel Helpline
For urgent danger or a medical emergency, contact the appropriate emergency service directly. For travel information, interpretation, and tourism-related assistance, 1330 is a valuable resource.
VISIT HONGDAE — Helping international visitors explore Korea with confidence.
