Is South Korea Safe for Tourists? A Local’s Honest Guide

Is South Korea Safe for Tourists? The Truth About Laptops and Late Nights

If you have been scrolling through social media, you have probably seen the “Korea Safety Tests.” You know the ones: a YouTuber leaves a $2,000 laptop on a cafe table, goes to the bathroom for 10 minutes, and comes back to find it exactly where they left it. For many global travelers, this seems like magic. Is it staged? Is it real?

As a local living in Korea, I can tell you: Yes, it is real. But there is more to the story. Korea is statistically one of the safest countries in the world, but it is not a crime-free utopia. From the famous “cafe culture” to walking alone at night, let’s break down the reality of safety in Korea through the most common questions I get asked.

1. Q: Is it true I can leave my laptop unattended in a cafe?
2. Q: Is it safe to walk around at night?
3. Q: What about guns and organized crime?
4. Q: So, can I let my guard down completely?
5. Q: Is it safe to travel to the countryside alone?

Q: Is it true I can leave my laptop unattended in a cafe?

A: Generally, yes. It is a common cultural norm, but use context.

This is the aspect of Korean culture that shocks foreigners the most. Walk into any Starbucks in Seoul, and you will see seats “saved” with iPhones, wallets, or laptops while the owners are ordering at the counter or using the restroom.

Why is this possible?

There are two main reasons. First is the extensive network of CCTV (security cameras). Korea is one of the most surveillance-heavy countries in the world. Almost every cafe corner and street is recorded. Second is a high level of civic consciousness. Most Koreans are taught from a young age that touching someone else’s property is a serious social taboo.

However, Is South Korea safe for tourists to do this 100% of the time? As a local, I leave my phone on the table when I go to the bathroom without a second thought. But, I wouldn’t leave it there for an hour while I go out for lunch. Theft is rare, but opportunistic crime can still happen.

💡 Local Insight: Ironically, while Koreans won’t steal your laptop, bicycle theft is somewhat common! It’s a strange local quirk—feel free to leave your phone, but lock your bike.

Q: Is it safe to walk around at night?

A: Yes, extremely safe compared to most Western countries.

Korea has a vibrant 24-hour culture. In cities like Seoul or Busan, the streets are well-lit and populated even at 3:00 AM. Whether you are in the party district of Hongdae or a quiet residential neighborhood, walking alone at night is generally not considered dangerous.

Violent crimes like muggings, kidnapping, or assault by strangers are exceedingly rare. Women often walk home alone late at night or take taxis without the fear that is common in Europe or the Americas. The abundant 24-hour convenience stores (C U, GS25, 7-Eleven) also serve as “safe zones” because they are always staffed and well-lit.

Q: What about guns and organized crime?

A: You do not need to worry about them at all.

Strict Gun Control

Korea has some of the strictest gun laws in the world. Civilians are essentially prohibited from owning firearms. Gun violence is virtually non-existent here. You will never have to worry about a shooting incident while traveling.

The State of Organized Crime

You might have seen scary gangsters in Korean movies (K-Noir films), but reality is different. In the past, organized crime existed, but the Korean government and police have successfully cracked down on large-scale syndicates over the decades.

Modern Korean “gangs” operate more like corporate entities in the shadows and rarely, if ever, interact with or harm ordinary civilians and tourists. The street-level violence you might fear from other countries is not part of the Korean travel experience.

Q: So, can I let my guard down completely?

A: No. Low crime does not mean “No Crime.”

While South Korea is safe for tourists, assuming nothing bad can ever happen is dangerous. Crime exists here, just like in any human society. There are bad people everywhere.

What should you watch out for?

• Alcohol-fueled incidents: Korea has a heavy drinking culture. Late at night in nightlife districts, you might encounter drunk individuals. They are usually just loud, but fights can break out. It is best to just walk away.
• Scams: While violent crime is low, phishing or tourist scams (like overpriced taxis or “cult” recruiters on the street asking for directions) do exist.
• Spycams (Illegal filming): This has been a social issue in Korea. While authorities inspect public restrooms regularly, it is something to be aware of.

The most important advice I can give you is this: Don’t leave your common sense at the airport. Just because you can leave your wallet on a table doesn’t mean you should leave it there if you are sitting on an outdoor patio in a crowded tourist market.

Q: Is it safe to travel to the countryside alone?

A: Yes, rural areas are often even safer than Seoul.

When you leave the big cities and head to places like Gyeongju, Gangwon-do, or Jeolla-do, the pace slows down. The rural communities are tight-knit, and locals are generally curious and welcoming to foreigners.

The only safety concern in rural areas is logistics, not crime. Countryside roads can be very dark at night (fewer streetlights), and buses stop running early. If you are hiking or exploring remote areas, ensure you have a charged phone and a plan, as English speakers may be harder to find in emergencies.

To summarize: Korea offers a level of safety that allows you to relax and enjoy your trip without constantly looking over your shoulder. The pickpockets that plague many European capitals are practically non-existent here. Exercise basic caution, respect the local laws, and you will have a safe, wonderful journey.

Korean Culture portal KCulture.com

Join the mailing service and add to your favorites.