Everything Malaysians Need to Know: Travel Tips, Entry Requirements, Must-Have Apps, and How to Make the Most of Your Trip to South Korea
Annyeonghaseyo yorobun! thinking about jetting off to South Korea from Malaysia? It’s a bucket-list destination for sure ~ whether you’re craving a chill beach getaway, planning to feast on amazing Korean eats in buzzing cities, or just wanna dive deep into the world of your fave K-pop idol. Whatever vibes you’re chasing in Korea, don’t forget the essentials! What is it? Ofc, your travel docs! This guide’s got all the deets you need to cross that border hassle-free.
Korea Travel Requirements for Malaysians
Korea’s a hot favourite for Malaysian travellers, but what’s the deal with visa rules and any lingering restrictions or COVID-19 protocols? Do you still need documents like the K-ETA or Q-code?
Here’s the good news: as of 6th January 2024, there’s no need for COVID-19 vaccination proof, PCR tests, or quarantine to enter Korea. Plus, the Q-code requirement has also been scrapped with the easing of COVID-19 measures. Travel just got a whole lot easier!
Is a Visa Required for Malaysians Traveling to Korea?
If you’re a Malaysian passport holder, you don’t need a full-on visa to visit Korea for tourism. But you will need to apply for a K-ETA (Korean Electronic Travel Authorisation) before you go. It’s a simple online process, and it’s pretty much a replacement for a visa. Only certain countries, like Malaysia, can apply for it, so getting into Korea is easier and less hassle.
South Korea’s entry rules depend on your age and nationality. Here’s a quick breakdown of what you need to know if you’re heading to Korea from Malaysia:
- Malaysians aged 17 and under – valid passport, no K-ETA needed
- Malaysians aged 18 to 64 – valid passport & K-ETA
- Malaysians aged 65 and above – valid passport & no K-ETA needed
Check here to know the details on how to apply for K-ETA
Just a heads up, if you’re heading to Korea for work, study, or a long-term stay, different visa rules might apply. Make sure to check with the Korean Embassy in advance to get your application sorted before you travel.
Flying to Korea from Malaysia?
Most flights go from KL to Seoul, making it super chill to catch a train or connect to another flight once you land. You can book a flight to Incheon Airport (ICN) with AirAsia, Malaysia Airlines, Singapore Airlines, or Korean Air. Flight duration? Around 6.5 to 6.75 hours – easy peasy.
When you touch down, getting around is a breeze. Hit up Seoul Station for trains to other cities or pop over to Gimpo Airport (GMP) for domestic flights to spots like Busan or Jeju. A flight to Busan takes like an hour and the train? Just over 2 hours. Smooth, right?
If Jeju’s on your mood board, here’s the tea: no direct flights from Malaysia atm. But don’t sweat it! you can catch a domestic flight in Korea or a Scoot flight from Changi Airport in SG. A Gimpo Airport to Jeju flight is just over an hour, so it’s perfect even for a short trip. Just don’t forget ~ you’ll need a visa or K-ETA for Jeju since September 2022, whether you’re going direct or connecting locally. Stay prepped!
Must-Have Apps Before Travelling to Korea
NAVER Maps
PSA: Google Maps ain’t the vibe in Korea. NAVER Maps are all about. These apps slap with accurate directions, live updates, reviews, and foodie recs. Trust me, download these bad boys before you touch down!
Papago
How’s your Korean game? If you think you’ll be fumbling with the language in Korea, Papago’s got your back. Made by the same crew behind NAVER Maps, this app lets you scan text, upload pics, use voice input, or type stuff out to get translations in and out of Korean. It’s a lifesaver, fr.
Money thingy
The top picks? Wise and BigPay. These gems make spending and shopping in South Korea a total breeze. Just tap, and you’re good to go—easy peasy! So, hit up their websites and snag your card now!
Ready to explore South Korea? With the right prep, apps, and travel tips, your trip will be smooth sailing. As they say, “Travel is the only thing you buy that makes you richer.” So pack your bags, and let the adventure begin!
연휴 잘 보내세요! ~ Yeonhyu jal bonaeseyo! ~ Have a good holiday!
the hip life asia
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