Is South Korea Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

South Korea is remarkably safe for solo female travelers. With low crime rates and a society that is generally respectful, most women feel comfortable when navigating through both urban and rural areas. However, like in any foreign country, it's important to take precautions such as keeping personal belongings close and avoid dark alleys at night. Be respectful of cultural customs and the South Koreans will surely mirror that respect back. In case of emergencies, the locals and police service can be very helpful.

Safety rating

4.7 /5

Based on 59 experiences from female travelers

4.5 /5

Based on our research and crime data

4.3 /5

Based on 33 experiences from local women

South Korea is currently ranked #13 safest country for solo female travelers, with an overall safety rating of 4.7 out of 5. Check the full ranking.

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How safe is South Korea?

Safety at night:Safe

South Korea is generally very safe for solo female travelers, even at night. Most areas in the city are well lit, and there's a significant police presence. Crime rates are relatively low compared to other countries. However, it is always important to remain cautious of your surroundings

Public transportation:Very safe

Public transportation in South Korea is highly efficient, punctual and considered very safe, even late at night. Buses and metros are not only reliable but also clean and well maintained. It is common for solo female travelers to use them without encountering any issue. The transportation system is also equipped with CCTVs and easy-to-understand signs in English. Therefore, whether it's day or night, public transportation in South Korea provides a safe and comfortable way to explore the country.

Street harassment:Low

South Korea is generally safe for solo female travelers. While the culture is deeply respectful and instances of street harassment are comparatively low, some areas known for nightlife may warrant caution. Do not disregard personal safety measures. Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night, and don't be afraid to use Korean customs or language to your advantage if needed.

Petty crimes:Low

South Korea is generally a safe country for solo female travelers with regard to petty crimes. However, it's always important to stay vigilant. Petty thefts such as pickpocketing or bag-snatching can occasionally happen in crowded areas or public transport. Remember to always secure your belongings and avoid flashy displays of wealth.

Is South Korea worth visiting?

Overall rating

4.7 /5

based on 59 experiences from female travelers

Things to do

4.6/5

Safety

4.7/5

Food

4.5/5

Budget-friendly

3.4/5

Kari

Poland

Korea, Group travel

we did a tour of Seoul, Busan, Jeju, Gyeongju, Sokcho in 5/6 people. First of all, the communication of the place is great, you can easily get everywhere, the signs are legible and it is difficult to get lost. the food is delicious and huge portions for a low price. a lot of nature and beautiful views. we felt safe and confident on the streets, people are nice and helpful

Posted: June 4, 2025

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Seoul, Solo travel

Loved the trip honestly. I'm planning on shifting to Seoul soon and planned this trip to get familiar with the place before shifting there. Had a great experience people were nice. Everything was good overall tbh!

Posted: May 27, 2025

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Korea, Couple travel

We felt very safe in Korea. And We could go out whenever we wanted. We stayed in Seoul. It is a city that is lively 24 hours a day and you can find everything you want.

Posted: May 20, 2025

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Alexa

United States

Seoul, Solo travel

The entire time I was in Seoul I never felt unsafe. Everyone was kind and helpful. Korean food is amazing! I say get out of your comfort zone and try something different, you won’t regret it. The bus and metro system are fairly easy to use and understand. Just make sure to get a t-money card, buy one at any convenience store and load it up at the machines in the stations.

Posted: May 13, 2025

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Seoul, Solo travel

Seoul is beautiful and breathtakingly impressive. I felt very safe being alone and didn’t have any weird situations whatsoever. Also, it’s quite cheap for a capital! Definitely recommend for people who are new to traveling and.

Posted: May 12, 2025

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Seoul, Solo travel

As a foreigner I felt safe walking around, even at night. I was there for around 8 weeks and never witnessed any antisocial behaviour. The worst thing was some of the public toilets were quite poorly maintained. Bring your own toilet paper! In fact, I was warned about racism (especially from older people) yet the older people I came across were lovely, even at one time offering their seat to me on public transport when I had many shopping bags. I was mostly worried about rabies, as there were many stray cats I liked to feed around my hotel. Unfortunately I did see a rabid cat :(

Posted: May 7, 2025

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Is South Korea safe for women?

Safety index

4.3 /5

Based on 33 local experiences

Crime index

1.5 /5

Based on 33 local experiences

Haillie

Changwon

Changwon feels like a pretty safe city overall. Public areas are well-lit, and I haven’t personally felt unsafe, even at night. Still, like anywhere, it’s best to stay alert in quiet or unfamiliar places.

Posted: June 6, 2025

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Seoul

Seoul is one of the safest city. I had few foreign friends in Korea and they all told me they feel safe in Seoul! Nobody is going to harass you even if you are a girl walking alone at night. But be a little cautious when clubbing.

Posted: May 25, 2025

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