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The Only South Korea Packing List You Need (2025 Edition)

· 5 min read
Elena Vance
Elena Vance
Editor-in-Chief & Logistics Expert

Packing for South Korea is tricky. One month it's a humid sauna where you sweat through your shirt in 5 minutes. Three months later, it's Siberia.

And while Seoul is a shopping paradise where you can buy almost anything, there are a few surprising items that are impossible to find or extremely expensive. (Spoiler: If you use strong deodorant, bring it from home).

I have lived through the yellow dust of spring and the freezing winds of winter. Here is the ultimate, no-nonsense packing list to ensure you survive and thrive.

The Only South Korea Packing List You Need (2025 Edition)

1. The "Non-Negotiables" (Year-Round)​

No matter when you visit, these items must be in your suitcase.

Universal Adapter (Type C/F)​

Korea uses 220V with two round pins (Schuko style).

  • The Plug: If you are from Europe (except UK), your plugs likely work. If you are from the US, UK, or Australia, you need an adapter.
  • The Voltage: US devices are 110V. Check your hair straightener. If it doesn't say "100-240V", it will explode. (Laptops and phones are usually safe).

Deodorant (Crucial!)​

This is the #1 complaint from Western travelers. most Koreans do not have the gene that causes underarm odor.

  • The Reality: Korean stores sell very weak, floral-scented deodorants (usually Nivea roll-ons).
  • The Fix: If you need Old Spice, Mitchum, or clinical strength, bring 2 sticks from home.

Comfortable Shoes (Slip-ons preferred)​

You will walk 15,000+ steps a day. Seoul is full of hills and stairs.

  • Tip: Many restaurants require you to take off your shoes. Wear shoes that are easy to slip on and off. And wear nice socks (no holes!).

A Small Trash Bag​

Public trash cans are extinct in Korea. You will carry your empty coffee cup for 4 blocks. Bring a small ziplock bag in your daypack for your trash.

2. Spring (March - May): The Dust and The Bloom​

Spring is beautiful (Cherry Blossoms!) but comes with "Yellow Dust" (fine dust from deserts).

The Checklist​

  • KF94 Masks: Don't just bring cloth masks. You need KF94 (Korea Filter) masks to filter the fine dust. You can buy them everywhere in Korea (convenience stores, pharmacies).
  • Light Layers: Mornings are 5°C, afternoons are 18°C. A trench coat or denim jacket is perfect.
  • Allergy Medicine: The pollen count is high. Bring your Claritin or Zyrtec.

3. Summer (June - August): Surviving the Steam​

Korean summer is wet and hot. It feels like swimming through soup.

The Checklist​

  • Portable Fan (Handy Fan): This is not a toy; it is a life support device. Every Korean carries one. Buy one at Artbox or Daiso upon arrival ($5-10).
  • Dehumidifier Packets: Put these in your suitcase, or your clothes will feel damp even when "dry."
  • Rain Gear:
    • Umbrella: Don't pack a heavy one; buy a cheap clear one at 7-Eleven.
    • Waterproof Shoes: When the monsoon (Jangma) hits, streets flood. Crocs or Teva sandals are better than soggy sneakers.
  • Quick-dry Clothes: Cotton/Linen is okay. Airism (Uniqlo) is better.

4. Autumn (September - November): The Golden Season​

This is the best weather. Crisp air, blue skies, red leaves.

The Checklist​

  • Cardigans/Hoodies: Perfect for the cool breeze.
  • Picnic Mat: You will want to sit by the Han River and eat Ramen. (You can also rent these at the park).
  • Camera: The foliage is stunning.

5. Winter (December - February): Arctic Survival​

Do not underestimate Korean winter. The wind comes from Siberia. It cuts through jeans.

The Checklist​

  • Long Padded Coat (The "Long Padding"): This is the national uniform. It's a puffer coat that goes down to your ankles. If you don't have one, buying a cheap one in Korea is a great investment.
  • Heattech (Thermals): Uniqlo Heattech is a lifesaver. Wear it under your jeans.
  • Hot Packs (Kairo): These are little heat packets you shake and put in your pocket. Convenience stores sell ones that stick to your undershirt.

6. Personal Care & Meds​

  • Toothpaste: Korean toothpaste often tastes different (sometimes pine or salt flavor). If you are picky, bring your own Colgate/Crest.
  • Tampons: They are sold, but the selection is very small compared to pads. Bring your preferred brand.
  • Tummy Medicine: Pepto-Bismol or Tums are hard to find. Korean food is spicy; your stomach might react.

7. What Not to Pack (Leave it at home)​

  • Heavy Guidebooks: They are heavy and outdated. Use Naver Map.
  • Too Many Clothes: Korea is a fashion capital. Shopping here is cheap and trendy. You will want empty suitcase space to buy new clothes.
  • Big Towels: Most Airbnbs and hostels only provide small hand towels (face towels). If you absolutely need a giant bath sheet, maybe bring a microfiber travel towel, but otherwise, embrace the local custom.

Final Review​

Double-check your bag:

  1. Passport (Valid for 6 months?)
  2. Adapter (Type C/F)
  3. Deodorant
  4. Credit Card (Visa/Mastercard) & Some Cash.

You're ready.

Now that you are packed, download the essential apps to survive. Check out our Essential Apps Guide.