How to Call Korea Republic Of
Complete guide to dialing Korea Republic Of (country code +82)
Planning to make a call to South Korea? Understanding how to call Korea Republic Of doesn't have to be complicated. Whether you're connecting with family, coordinating business matters, or reaching out to friends, calling Korea Republic Of requires knowing the right dialing codes and procedures. This comprehensive guide walks you through everything you need for successful international calls to South Korea. You'll discover step-by-step dialing instructions, learn about common mistakes that could disconnect your call or result in extra charges, and explore Korean phone etiquette to ensure your conversations start on the right note. We'll also share useful emergency numbers and essential contacts that every caller should have. By the end, you'll be confidently dialing Korea Republic Of like a pro.
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Quick Reference
Dialing Instructions
How to Dial South Korea (Country Code: +82)
Calling South Korea requires understanding the international dialing format and regional number structures. Follow these straightforward instructions to connect your call successfully.
International Dialing Format Structure
The complete format for calling South Korea is:
Exit Code + 82 + Area Code (without leading 0) + Local Number
Dropping the Leading Zero
South Korean local numbers begin with 0, but you must remove this zero when dialing internationally. For example, Seoul's area code 02 becomes just 2, and mobile numbers starting with 010 become 10.
Dialing from Different Countries
From USA:
Dial 011 (US exit code) + 82 + area code (without 0) + local number
From UK:
Dial 00 (UK exit code) + 82 + area code (without 0) + local number
From other countries:
Replace the exit code with your country's international access code (commonly 00 or 011)
Specific Examples
Example 1 - Seoul Landline (02-1234-5678):
- From USA: 011-82-2-1234-5678
- From UK: 00-82-2-1234-5678
- Using + symbol: +82-2-1234-5678
Example 2 - Busan Landline (051-123-4567):
- From USA: 011-82-51-123-4567
- From UK: 00-82-51-123-4567
- Using + symbol: +82-51-123-4567
Example 3 - Mobile Number (010-1234-5678):
- From USA: 011-82-10-1234-5678
- From UK: 00-82-10-1234-5678
- Using + symbol: +82-10-1234-5678
Example 4 - Incheon Landline (032-123-4567):
- From USA: 011-82-32-123-4567
- From UK: 00-82-32-123-4567
Quick Tips
The + symbol replaces your country's exit code and works on most mobile phones. Simply press and hold 0 to generate the + symbol, then dial 82 followed by the Korean number without its leading zero. This method works universally regardless of your location.
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Common Mistakes
When dialing Korea Republic Of (+82), avoid these common mistakes:
Forgetting to drop the leading zero from the local number. Korean phone numbers begin with 0 domestically (like 02 for Seoul), but you must remove this zero when calling internationally. Dial +82 2 followed by the remaining digits, not +82 02.
Using incorrect exit codes. Many people dial 00 82 assuming it's universal, but exit codes vary by country. The US uses 011, while most of Europe uses 00. Using +82 instead works from any country and eliminates confusion.
Confusing the country code with area codes. The country code +82 connects you to Korea, but you still need the area code (without the leading 0) and local number. For example, Seoul's area code is 2, Busan's is 51.
Incorrectly formatting mobile numbers. Korean mobile numbers start with 010, 011, 016, 017, or 019. Drop the leading 0 and dial +82 10 (or other prefix) followed by the remaining 8 digits.
Adding unnecessary spaces or dashes. While spacing helps readability, inconsistent formatting can cause dialing errors. Follow the format: +82-Area Code-Local Number.
Cultural Etiquette
In South Korea, phone etiquette reflects the country's respect for hierarchy and formality. When answering calls, Koreans typically say "여보세요" (yeoboseyo), which means "hello" on the phone. It's important to identify yourself promptly, especially in business contexts.
For business calls, maintain a formal tone and use appropriate honorifics based on the person's age and position. Address colleagues and superiors with their title plus "님" (nim), such as "부장님" (bujangnim) for department heads. Personal calls allow more casual language, but respect for elders remains essential—always use polite speech forms with older relatives or acquaintances.
Avoid calling during meal times, particularly lunch (12-1 PM) and dinner (6-8 PM), as these are considered family times. Late evening calls after 10 PM are generally inappropriate unless urgent or previously arranged. Early morning calls before 8 AM should also be avoided.
Koreans often prefer text messages before calling to check availability, especially for non-urgent matters. When leaving voice messages, keep them brief and clear, stating your name, purpose, and contact information.
A unique consideration: many Koreans use a two-hand gesture when handing phones to elders or superiors, even though it's not visible during calls—this shows ingrained respect. Additionally, stepping away from groups to take calls demonstrates consideration for others. Using speakerphone in public spaces is considered rude and should be avoided.
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Emergency Numbers
Essential Emergency Numbers:
- 112 - Police (National Emergency Number)
- 119 - Fire Department and Ambulance
- 1330 - Korea Travel Hotline (24/7 tourist assistance in multiple languages)
- 1345 - Immigration Contact Center
All emergency numbers are toll-free and accessible from any phone, including mobile devices and public payphones. The 112 and 119 services operate 24/7 nationwide. English-speaking operators are available on all emergency lines, though response times may vary depending on operator availability.
The Korea Travel Hotline (1330) is particularly valuable for tourists, offering assistance in English, Japanese, and Chinese for emergencies, travel information, and translation services. For non-emergency medical consultations, the International Medical Service Center can be reached at 1577-7129. Save these numbers in your phone upon arrival for quick access during emergencies.
Useful Numbers
Directory Assistance: Dial 114 for local directory inquiries and general information services throughout South Korea.
International Operator: Call 00799 for operator-assisted international calls and connection support.
Korea Travel Hotline: Reach 1330 for 24/7 tourist information in multiple languages, including travel guidance, directions, and complaint resolution.
Immigration Contact Center: Dial 1345 for visa inquiries, residence permit questions, and immigration-related assistance (available in multiple languages).
Lost Property Center: Contact Seoul Metro at 02-6110-1122 for items lost on public transportation.
Foreign Embassies: Locate your country's embassy through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs at www.mofa.go.kr or call 1330 for assistance.
Medical Information Center: Dial 1339 for non-emergency medical guidance and hospital referrals with interpretation services available.
Tips for Calling Korea Republic Of
When calling the Republic of Korea, plan around their UTC+9 time zone. For international callers, early morning or late evening in your location may align with Korean business hours. Standard business hours are 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, Monday through Friday.
Best calling times: Mid-morning (10-11 AM) or mid-afternoon (2-4 PM) Korean time typically work best, avoiding lunch hours around noon. Off-peak rates often apply during evenings and weekends.
Business calls: Schedule appointments in advance, as Koreans value punctuality and proper planning. Confirm meetings via email beforehand.
Days to avoid: National holidays include Lunar New Year (3 days), Chuseok harvest festival (3 days), and National Foundation Day (October 3rd). Many businesses close during these periods.
Communication tips: Speak clearly and slightly slower than usual, as English proficiency varies. Begin formal calls with proper greetings and titles. Have key information written down, including reference numbers or names. Consider using video calls when possible, as visual cues aid understanding. If language barriers arise, request English-speaking staff or use translation apps as backup. Keep initial calls brief and follow up with written confirmation.
Frequently Asked Questions
The country code for Korea Republic Of (South Korea) is +82. You need to dial this code before the local phone number when making international calls to South Korea from anywhere in the world.
To dial Korea Republic Of from your cell phone, start with + (or 011 in the US), then dial 82 (country code), followed by the area code without the leading zero, and finally the local phone number. For example: +82-2-XXXX-XXXX for Seoul numbers.
Yes, you must drop the leading zero from the area code when calling Korea Republic Of internationally. For example, Seoul's area code is 02 locally, but you would dial +82-2 when calling from abroad, omitting the zero.
The cheapest way to call Korea Republic Of is using ZippCall, which offers affordable pay-as-you-go international calling rates. With ZippCall, you can call from your web browser, iPhone, or Android device with no contracts, no subscriptions, and no hidden fees—just transparent, low-cost rates for calling Korea Republic Of.
In Korea Republic Of, the main emergency numbers are: 112 for police, 119 for fire and ambulance services, and 1330 for the Korea Travel Hotline which provides tourist assistance in multiple languages including English, available 24/7.
Yes, you can call Korea Republic Of directly from your web browser using ZippCall. Simply visit the ZippCall website, add credit to your account, enter the Korean phone number, and start calling—no downloads or apps required for browser-based calling.
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