South Korea: Visa Application To Travel Checklist- An Indian Traveller's Guide To Explore This Country

South Korea is rich in diversity- from Seoul's skyscrapers to Gyeongbokgung Palace, there are a lot you can visit. Have a look at the visa procedure and application process for Indian travellers.

Gyeongbokgung Palace, located in northern Seoul, South Korea, was built in 1395. It is the largest and most striking of the five grand palaces constructed during the Joseon dynasty and is a top tourist attraction.

Source : Getty

South Korea, in the past decade, has become a hotspot for Indian tourists, thanks to K-dramas and Korean music capturing the hearts of many. More and more folks are choosing to go to South Korea instead of other main foreign destinations, attracted by its lively culture and modern charm. This place is a dream destination offering a whole bunch of experiences, stunning landscapes, and an incredible journey through culture and history. Apart from its beautiful national parks, majestic mountains, and cozy villages, there's something special about sleeping in traditional wooden houses and visiting rice paddies as guests of the locals.

If you are also eager to visit South Korea and do not know from where to start, don't worry – we've got you covered.

Know How To Apply For A South Korean Tourist Visa:

If you're planning a trip to South Korea during the upcoming vacation season, your first step should be to apply for a visa to enter the country.

South Korea offers different categories of visas based on the purpose of travel, including short-term visits, medical treatment, study, professional work, and more. For leisure purposes, Indians can apply for the 'Ordinary Tourist Visa' category.

To apply, you need to fill out the Visa Application Form (Form No. 17) and attach necessary documents such as ID proof and financial statements. For e-visa applications you need to submit: 

• Scanned image files of passport pages, valid for at least 6 months with 2 blank pages for stamps
• Digital photograph (size 3.5cm x 4.5cm, front view, taken within the last 6 months)
• Visa application e-form through the Visa portal 
• Documents for the status of stay
  

The processing time varies depending on the Embassy or Consulate, but it's advisable to submit a completed application at least 15 days before travel, but no earlier than three months.

If you need to stay longer than your visa allows, you can apply for a visa extension at the Immigration Office in South Korea, ideally four months before your current visa expires.

South Korea’s New ‘Workcation Visa’:

South Korea has introduced a new 'workcation' visa from January 1, 2024, with the aim of attracting digital nomads and boosting tourism. This visa allows foreign workers and their families to stay in the country for up to two years, which is a big change from the previous visa policies. Earlier, foreigners could only get tourist visas or stay for less than 90 days.

To qualify for the workcation visa, applicants must work for a foreign company and have at least one year of experience in the same industry. They also need to have an annual salary of 84.96 million Won (approximately Rs. 52,07,728.75) and personal health insurance coverage of at least 100 million Won (about Rs. 61,45,119.92).

Travel Logistics:

South Korea is a year-round destination, so there isn't any particular 'best time' to visit. However, spring offers pleasant weather with minimal fluctuations, making it the most popular tourist season. Additionally, you can enjoy the beautiful cherry blossoms in full bloom during this time.

Winter in South Korea falls between December and March and can be quite chilly. If you enjoy snow adventure activities and prefer fewer crowds and cheaper accommodations, then winter is the ideal time for your travels.

For reaching the island nation, air travel is the most common option. Direct and layover flights are available from major Indian cities to Incheon International Airport in Seoul. Flight durations vary from 10 to 15 hours depending on layovers. Flight costs can range from ₹30,000 to ₹60,000 or more for round-trip tickets, depending on factors like airline, booking time, and travel dates.

If you're looking for a leisure trip on a cruise, you'll need to travel to China, Singapore, or Australia first, as there are no direct cruises from India to South Korea. This journey can take up to 2 weeks and cost up to lakhs.

Within the country, the public transport system is efficient and covers most areas. For affordable options, choose buses, subways, and trains, although taxis are also available but tend to be more expensive.

South Korea offers a range of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences. From luxury hotels in major cities to guesthouses and hostels catering to budget travellers, there's something for everyone. Booking websites and apps provide convenient ways to find and reserve accommodation according to your needs.

Also, it's advisable to exchange currency at banks or authorised exchange counters for the best rates and avoid unlicensed currency exchangers. The currency of South Korea is the South Korean Won (KRW). As of now, 1 Indian Rupee is approximately equal to 16 South Korean Won. Major credit cards are widely accepted, especially in urban areas, but it's always good to carry some cash for smaller transactions or in rural areas.

Language:

Korean is the official language of the island nation, but you'll also encounter people who speak English and Japanese. However, knowing a few Korean phrases can make your trip smoother. For example, 'Annyeonghaseyo' means hello, and 'gamsahabnida' means thank you. You're likely learn more Korean as you go, but having these basics can be helpful along the way.

What To Explore:

The south-east nation offers its visitors a diverse range of experiences- from stunning landscapes to rich cultural and historical journeys. In cities like Seoul and Busan, modern skyscrapers dominate the skyline, while UNESCO Heritage Sites like The Hahoe Folk Village showcase traditional Korean culture.

You can begin your exploration in Seoul, the bustling capital where ancient palaces blend with modern architecture and then go on to visit the historic Gyeongbokgung Palace. In addition, the trendy Gangnam is also a place worth visiting. For those who love to explore local cuisine and street food, you can do so at Gwangjang Market.

Jeju, known as the 'Island of the Gods,' offers volcanic landscapes and beautiful beaches, while Hallasan National Park and Seongsan Ilchulbong Peak offer breathtaking views.

In Busan, South Korea's second-largest city, you can explore maritime history and scenic coastlines, discover the colourful Gamcheon Culture Village, relax at Haeundae Beach and hike to historic sites like Beomeosa Temple and Taejongdae Park for panoramic vistas.

An interesting thing awaits in Gyeongju, known as the 'Museum Without Walls,' where UNESCO-listed sites like Bulguksa Temple and Yangdong Village offer insight into Korea's ancient kingdom of Silla.

You can also immerse yourself in the vibrant tapestry of traditional Korean customs at the Korean Folk Village as it offers an authentic glimpse into the country's cultural heritage.

Commonly referred to as the 'Land of the Morning Calm,' South Korea offers a captivating journey through time and culture. From bustling cities to serene landscapes, there's something for every adventurer to explore in this captivating country.