Indian travellers should have a passport valid for at least six months; Indian nationals generally require a short‑term visa applied through the Korean embassy/consulate (start the application 2–4 weeks ahead) though some travellers may be eligible for K‑ETA—if so apply at least 72 hours before departure. There are currently no mandatory vaccinations for entry, but ensure routine vaccines are up to date and consider a COVID booster and seasonal flu shot; carry prescriptions and basic cold medicine for the trip. Check both South Korean and Indian government travel advisories (avoid restricted areas near the DMZ), confirm any temporary entry restrictions or testing/return-to-India requirements before departure, register with the Indian embassy/consulate in Seoul, and buy travel insurance; keep printed and digital copies of your visa/K‑ETA, accommodation, and Coldplay ticket for immigration.
Wi‑Fi is ubiquitous and fast in South Korean cities—free hotspots in hotels, cafés, subways and tourist sites—so staying connected is easy; cellular coverage (4G/5G) is excellent across Seoul and most regions (slightly variable in very remote areas), and a pocket Wi‑Fi helps if you have multiple devices. Prepaid local SIMs (KT, SK Telecom, LG U+) and eSIMs are widely available at Incheon/Gimpo airports, major convenience stores and online—bring your passport for registration or buy an eSIM beforehand for instant activation. Power is 220V/60Hz with two‑round‑pin sockets (Type C/F), so pack a Euro‑style adapter and verify your chargers support 220V or bring a converter for single‑voltage appliances.
Korea values respect, modesty and order: offer a slight bow when greeting, use honorifics and present or receive items (including money or business cards) with both hands, and defer to elders at the table; remove shoes when entering homes, some traditional restaurants and temples, and dress modestly at religious sites (casual-smart is fine in cities and for concerts). Keep noise low on public transport, stand on the right on escalators to let others pass, avoid loud public displays of affection in conservative settings, and don’t stick chopsticks upright in rice or pass food mouth-to-mouth. Tipping isn’t expected (rounding up or a small gesture at luxury hotels is okay), carry a T-money card for seamless travel, and wearing a mask when you’re sick is common and considered polite.