What To Wear In South Korea
To sum it up - Conservative but with style
- Seoul is a cosmopolitan city and the women love to dress up. They are very well groomed, so join in and feel at home.
- However, be aware that it is also a conservative country so avoid showing cleavage, keep shoulders covered and if you have a short skirt do as the local women do and take a pashmina, scarf or wrap to cover your knees when you are sitting.
- Pack comfortable shoes that slip off easily but also look good.
- Heels are really popular here but if you take flat shoes go for pretty, dressy ones.
- On the beach local women wear shorts and t-shirts rather than swimwear. Unless you are in a tourist beach area, we advise that you avoid a bikini in favour of a one piece suit and a sarong.
- Wearing sunglasses is regarded as rude, so ensure you take them off when you speak to anyone.
- The weather in spring (March, April and May), and autumn (September, October and November) is cooler, so long-sleeved shirts, trousers and a pullover, cardigan or jacket will work well.
- In summer (June, July, August) it is hot, humid and wet and natural fabrics work well.
- December to February is very cold so pack your coat, a warm scarf and gloves, and remember it snows at higher altitudes too.
- If you are here on business go for skirt suits (not too short) with heels. For men suits, shirts and ties are appropriate business dress just as in the West.
- Don’t drink or even brush your teeth in tap water. Consider taking a waterstraw water purifier or safe water drinking bottle.
- Keep bottled water out of the sun as the plastic bottles can release dioxins when they heat up, which is not healthy. An alternative is to use a 100% BPA-free foldable water bottle. Reusing your water bottle will also help you do your bit for the planet - millions of plastic water bottles end up in landfill every year.
- To avoid taking separate electrical leads, chargers and adaptors for all your phones and devices, try a solar powered charger - this one gadget will charge most devices anywhere at any time.
- And look after your mobile phone with a phone bunjee - this elasticated strap will secure it to your bag or pocket, so you don't need to worry about dropping it anywhere.
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