South Korea Passport Ranking 2024

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South Korea Passport
3rd passport rank
179 visa-free destinations
Flag of South Korea South Korea
3rd passport rank
179 visa-free destinations

We rank the South Korea passport as number 3 in the world in line with our Passport Index ratings. As a South Korea citizen, you’ll be able to travel visa-free to 179 countries. To gain access to all other countries, you and your family as South Korea passport holders will need to apply for an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) or visa online in advance. Certain countries will allow you to apply for a visa on arrival.

Find a country of your interest from the lists below

Visa-free

Visa free access for South Korea

As a South Korea passport holder, you are permitted to travel visa-free to 179 countries and territories. This data is correct as of September 2024.

In order to travel visa-free, you will need a valid passport, often with at least six months until expiry. Additionally, you may need travel insurance, as required by your destination country.

Within these countries, there is often a separate section in airports where you can submit your Visa on Arrival. You will receive your visa on arrival (VOA) after entering the country that issued the visa.

Acquiring an eVisa follows the same process as applying for a traditional visa. The main difference with an eVisa is that you don’t need to visit a visa application centre. You can submit your application online, including making any payments relating to the visa.

Once the relevant authorities approve your application, you will receive a confirmation email regarding your visa status, along with a document that you must print and bring with you when crossing the border.

You will need a valid visa to enter the 179 countries with a South Korea passport.

About South Korea

South Korea, officially known as the Republic of Korea, is located in East Asia on the southern half of the Korean Peninsula. With a population of approximately 51 million people, it is renowned for its remarkable economic growth, known as the “Miracle on the Han River”. From the ruins of the Korean War, South Korea has emerged as the world’s 12th largest economy by GDP as of 2021.

South Korea experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. The culture of South Korea is heavily influenced by Confucian principles and this can be seen in their customs, etiquette, and social behavior. The country is also famous for its contributions to music, film, and technology, with the global popularity of K-pop, Korean dramas, and electronics brands like Samsung and LG.

South Korea is also recognized for its educational fervor, boasting a literacy rate of nearly 100%. Additionally, the country’s cuisine, such as kimchi, bibimbap, and bulgogi, has gained international fame. The capital city, Seoul, is a bustling metropolis that perfectly blends tradition and modernity. Despite its small size, South Korea’s rich history, dynamic culture, and forward-thinking approach make it a fascinating country to explore.