South Korea travel advisory

What the advisory says

Updated to reflect information on demonstrations and ongoing physician shortage. Exercise normal precautions when traveling to the Republic of Korea (ROK or South Korea). Advisory summary: Large-scale demonstrations related to the domestic political situation may occur with little notice, potentially disrupting transportation and other essential services. Tensions on the Korean Peninsula remain high. North Korea continues to conduct missile launches and other military activities that may increase tensions. Travelers should monitor local developments and remain vigilant. The South Korean government conducts civil emergency drills throughout the year. Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to South Korea. Please note that consular services, including passport services, are not available at the U.S. Consulate in Busan; they are only available at the U.S. Embassy in Seoul. If you decide to travel to South Korea: Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive messages and Alerts from the U.S. Embassy and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.    Review the  Country Security Report  for South Korea.    Visit the CDC page for the latest  Travel Health Information  related to your travel and return to the United States.    Prepare a plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler's Checklist .     We highly recommend that you buy insurance before you travel. Check with your  travel insurance provider  about evacuation assistance, medical insurance, and trip cancellation coverage.