Is Travel Insurance Mandatory For South Korea?

Boasting a wonderful blend of historical attractions and modern skyscrapers, South Korea is a beautiful destination for all types of travellers. From vibrant cities and serene beaches to delicious cuisine, temples, palaces, and fortresses, the country offers something for everyone. Hence, if you are planning a vacation with your loved ones or friends, South Korea is an excellent choice. With its rich culture and breathtaking landscapes, you will surely have a memorable vacation. However, when you are doing the necessary bookings, remember to purchase travel insurance to secure your journey. If you encounter a travel-related emergency, such as a medical issue or baggage loss, you can contact the travel insurance provider for timely assistance.

Is it mandatory to have travel insurance for South Korea?

No, it is not mandatory to purchase travel insurance for South Korea. However, keeping travel-related risks and uncertainties in mind, it is wise to cover your trip with an insurance policy for timely assistance and financial security. When visiting a new country, travel insurance is more like a reliable travel companion, providing peace of mind and support during unforeseen events. Let’s look at the benefits of buying travel insurance for South Korea.

Benefits of buying travel insurance for South Korea

Although travel insurance is not mandatory for South Korea, it is wise to cover your trip under this insurance product for the following reasons —

1. Medical emergencies: It can be stressful and challenging to face a medical emergency in a new country. Moreover, hospital bills can take away a significant part of your trip budget and cause financial woes. If you have travel insurance handy, the insurer will cover your medical bills and associated expenses. When buying travel insurance, you can also check with your insurance provider if they offer cashless treatment in South Korea. If the option is available, you can keep the required details handy for medical emergencies.

2. Other medical expenses: A travel insurance policy also covers personal accidents, emergency dental treatment, and medical evacuation bills of the insured. Additionally, in the unfortunate event of the insured’s death, while travelling, the insurer will cover the cost of repatriation of his/her mortal remains. This assistance helps ease the financial burden of the deceased’s family.

3. Trip-related issues: Travel insurance policies cover trip cancellations and delays. If you need to cancel your trip due to an unforeseen event, such as a medical issue, family emergency, or natural calamity, the insurer will cover the cancellation fees charged by airlines or travel providers. They may also cover the cancellation charges of hotel reservations, tour bookings, and activities and excursions booked in advance.

Moreover, a travel insurance policy also covers the expenses you incur if your trip gets delayed due to an unavoidable reason.

1. Baggage-related issues: If your checked-in baggage gets lost or delayed, the insurer will reimburse you for the essentials you purchase, such as clothes and toiletries. This assistance helps you continue with your trip comfortably until you get your luggage.

2. Loss of Passport: If you lose/misplace your Passport during the trip, the insurer will reimburse you for obtaining a new or duplicate one.

3. Personal liability: If you accidentally injure a third party during the trip or damage someone’s belongings, the insurer will cover the legal fees you are liable to pay. However, the coverage will depend on your policy terms and conditions.

4. Compassionate visit expenses: Travel insurance also covers the compassionate visit expenses of an immediate family member. If you get hospitalised during the trip due to an illness/injury, the insurer will cover the transportation and accommodation expenses of a family member under compassionate visit.

5. Adventure sports injuries: Some travel insurance policies also cover injuries and accidents that may occur while participating in adventure sports during the trip. The coverage (mostly subject to payment of additional premium), can help you meet your hospital bills and prevent financial setbacks when you are in a foreign land.

Conclusion

Although travel insurance is not mandatory in South Korea, it is highly recommended to purchase this insurance product to secure your journey against uncertainties. This is especially crucial when you are travelling to a new country where you may not have any acquaintances. The policy offers comprehensive coverage, ensuring both peace of mind and financial security. With most insurance companies offering 24/7 assistance to policyholders, you can reach out for support and guidance whenever you need it.

(No Hans India Journalist was involved in creation of this content)