Country
South Korea
K-Pop, street food, and the gay scene of Itaewon
LGBTQ+ status
Moderate for LGBTQ+
Marriage equality
Not recognised
Decriminalized
Yes
Anti-discrimination
Partial protection
Adoption rights
Not available
Equal age of consent (16)
Equal
Gender recognition
Limited
About the country
South Korea is a technologically advanced democracy in East Asia, the birthplace of the global cultural phenomenon of K-pop and K-dramas. For LGBTQ+ travellers, the country offers vibrant urban experiences within a conservative social atmosphere. Younger Koreans are considerably more open.
LGBTQ+ in this country
Same-sex relations are not criminalised in South Korea, but society remains broadly conservative, shaped by Confucian and Christian values. The Seoul Queer Culture Festival takes place annually in June, sometimes meeting organised opposition. Seoul's Itaewon district is the country's main LGBTQ+ hub, with bars on «Homo Hill».
Key events
June
Seoul Queer Culture Festival
Seoul
September
Busan Queer Cultural Festival
Busan
Cities in South Korea
Moderate Best time: April — June, September — November
Moderate Best time: May — October
Moderate Best time: April — May, September — October
Visas & entry
Israeli passport
Visa-free entry for up to 90 days. Return ticket required.
Russian passport
Tourist visa required. Obtained at the South Korean consulate.
US passport
Visa-free for up to 90 days. K-ETA registration may be required — check current requirements.
Travel tips
- 1 Itaewon in Seoul is the country's main LGBTQ+ zone: gay bars on «Homo Hill» stay open until dawn.
- 2 Be more reserved outside gay venues — public displays of affection may attract unwanted attention.
- 3 K-pop fandoms are very supportive of queer people; youth districts (Hongdae) are more open.
- 4 Gay apps (Grindr, Jack'd) are actively used for socialising.
- 5 Seoul Pride in June is a powerful event — arrive early as it fills up fast.