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South Korea Plugs, outlets & travel adapters
South Korea uses Type F sockets. The mains supply is 220 V at 60 Hz.
Plugbert's take South Korea keeps it straightforward: Type F at 220 V.
Do you need a travel adapter for South Korea?
It depends on where your plugs come from.
🇺🇸 From the United States
You need a plug adapter. Plugs from the United States (Type A and B) don't fit the Type F sockets in South Korea. A Type F (Schuko) adapter fits the listed socket families there. Socket variants can differ; check the actual outlet and adapter rating.
South Korea uses 220 V, much higher than the 120 V in the United States. An input rating of "100–240V" covers the listed supply voltage; you still need a suitable plug or adapter. For single-voltage devices, follow the manufacturer's guidance on conversion; using a suitable local device may be simpler.
United States to South Korea in full🇬🇧 From the United Kingdom
You need a plug adapter. Plugs from the United Kingdom (Type G) don't fit the Type F sockets in South Korea. A Type F (Schuko) adapter fits the listed socket families there. Socket variants can differ; check the actual outlet and adapter rating.
South Korea uses 220 V and the United Kingdom uses 230 V, but similar nominal voltages do not guarantee compatibility. Check that your device's input rating covers the destination supply.
United Kingdom to South Korea in fullFrom other countries
Somewhere else?
Sockets you'll find in South Korea
What to expect in South Korea
A European-looking outlet, at 60 Hz
VisitKorea confirms 220 V, 60 Hz and two round outlet holes. Electrical Safety First identifies the socket as Type F. We list F as the outlet family; compatible small Type C Europlugs can also fit.
For an ungrounded charger, a suitable Type C Europlug adapter is an option. Equipment requiring earth needs a grounded Type F adapter with the proper side contacts and support for your home plug. “Two round pins” alone does not describe a grounded connection.
Traveling from Japan or North America
South Korea's electricity is higher-voltage than Japan's 100 V and the US or Canada's 120 V supplies. Check the device's input label: 100–240 V, 50/60 Hz includes Korea's listed supply. A single-voltage 100 V or 120 V device must not be connected through a plain adapter.
For European visitors, the frequency also deserves attention: Korea uses 60 Hz. Check that the device accepts it even when the plug fits and the voltage range is suitable.
Borrowing an adapter or buying a universal one
VisitKorea says hotel desks may lend or sell adapters, and lists airport and retail outlets as other options. Availability is worth asking about before arrival. Check any adapter's Type F compatibility, grounding and power limit. The word “universal” does not mean it converts voltage or that every detachable plug accessory is included.
Will your devices work in South Korea?
Sockets in South Korea supply 220 V. Find the "input" line on each device or its charger. An input rating of "100–240V" covers the listed supply voltage; you still need a suitable plug or adapter. Check that the input frequency also covers 60 Hz. An adapter changes the plug shape, not the voltage or frequency. For switchable devices, follow the manufacturer's instructions before plugging in.
Often rated 100–240 V; confirm on the charger: phone charger, laptop charger, camera battery charger.
Check the label first: electric toothbrush, electric shaver, CPAP machine, hair straightener / curler.
Usually single voltage: hair dryer, kettle / coffee maker, anything with a heating element.