Do you need insurance for a trip to South Korea?
Russian citizens can stay in South Korea without a visa for up to 60 days, but no more than 90 days in total within 180. Visa-free entry is intended for tourism and short business trips: you cannot work on it. Before departure you need to obtain a K-ETA electronic travel authorisation. Apply only on the official portal and beware of intermediary websites that charge money for the same application. The K-ETA procedure changes from time to time, so check it before your trip.
Medical insurance is not mandatory for entering South Korea. But medical care for tourists is paid here, and a doctor's visit, tests or a hospital stay will come out of your budget. A travel medical insurance policy (known in Russia as VZR) lets you get help without worrying about the bill.
What to look for in the policy
Since insurance is not mandatory, there are no consulate requirements, and the choice is a matter of common sense. We recommend a sum insured of USD 50,000: it is enough for emergency care, inpatient treatment and transport home in case of serious illness. Also check that:
- the policy covers every day of the trip, not just sightseeing days;
- medical repatriation is included;
- there is no deductible, or you are comfortable with it: with a deductible you pay part of the costs for each claim;
- your first and last name are in Latin letters, as in your international passport.
How South Korea differs from other destinations
Mountains and hiking
Korea is a mountainous country, and hiking is a favourite pastime for locals and tourists alike. Trails in national parks can be steep and rocky. A sprain or fracture on a trail is a classic insured event if active leisure is included in the policy. The Accident option additionally pays compensation for an injury, regardless of treatment costs. Read more on the accident insurance page.
Ski resorts in winter
In winter, Korean resorts welcome skiers and snowboarders. Skiing on marked runs is added to the policy as a separate option. If you are heading for the slopes, see the ski insurance page: it explains the difference between skiing on marked runs, freeride and competitions.
Jeju and the sea
Jeju Island is a resort destination with beaches, volcanic landscapes and boat trips. Sun, ocean wind and swimming deserve attention. If you plan water sports, select them in the calculator.
Flights and baggage
The journey from Russia to Seoul usually takes a long time, often with a connection. The Flight Delay and Baggage options help compensate for trouble on the road.
How to choose a programme
For a city trip to Seoul and Busan, a medical programme of USD 50,000 without a deductible is enough. Active travellers should add sports and accident cover, families with children should add emergency dental care. People with chronic illnesses will benefit from the Chronic Conditions option: it covers relief of a sudden flare-up. If your route includes Japan or China, compare the conditions on the pages for insurance to Japan and insurance to China and choose a wider territory.
If you need medical help
First, call the assistance company on the phone number in your policy. The operator will find a clinic and agree the treatment with the insurance company. Do not pay for a consultation yourself without approval: such costs may not be reimbursed. Keep discharge notes, prescriptions, invoices and receipts. A detailed guide is in the Insured Event section.
How to buy insurance for South Korea online
You can buy a policy right here at polisre.ru. The calculation runs through the Cherehapa service (Polis Re's partner), which shows offers from 16 insurance companies, including AlfaStrakhovanie, Ingosstrakh, RESO-Garantia, VSK, Soglasie and others. The policy is issued by the company you choose.
- Enter your travel dates and the age of each traveller in the calculator.
- Choose the sum insured and the options you need.
- Compare the offers and pick the right one.
- Fill in your details in Latin letters, as in your international passport.
- Pay for the policy and receive it by e-mail.
If you are already in Korea, some insurers offer programmes for people who are already travelling; check the conditions (for example, a waiting period) in the calculator. Other countries are listed in the travel insurance section.