LGBTQ+ traveler guide

Seoul and Busan are generally safe cities for travelers; the usual big-city care applies late at night.

Public displays of affection are fairly reserved for every couple. Hand-holding between same-sex friends is common and usually not read as romantic.

Same-sex marriage is not legally recognized — the Supreme Court has held that the Civil Code allows marriage only between a man and a woman. In July 2024 its full bench ruled (2023두36800) that the National Health Insurance Service may not deny dependent (피부양자) status to a same-sex partner living as a de facto couple. There is no comprehensive anti-discrimination law, though the National Human Rights Commission Act lists sexual orientation among grounds of discrimination.

Hotels and booking platforms take bookings by name and generally don't ask about your relationship; small family-run guesthouses vary.

Hotels, pharmacies and ticketed venues may check your name against your passport. If your presentation differs from your passport photo, expect a brief question at check-in.

Common international dating apps work in Korea. Meet new contacts somewhere public first, as you would anywhere.

Call 112 for police — English and Chinese interpreters are on the line 24/7. 1330 (Korea Travel Hotline) interprets and takes tourist complaints. Chingusai (02-745-7942, weekdays 10:00–19:00) handles human-rights-violation counselling.