Busan

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Emergency Numbers

Key contact numbers for emergencies, such as police, ambulance, and fire services, as well as translation assistance.

Sections

Emergency Numbers in Busan, South Korea

South Korea has a well-organized emergency response system, and Busan, as the second-largest city in the country, is no exception. The emergency numbers are easy to remember and cover a wide range of services.

1. General Emergency Services (Police, Fire, Ambulance)

  • Dial 112 for Police (Crime, Theft, Assault, etc.)
  • Dial 119 for Fire and Medical Emergencies (Fire, Accidents, Medical Assistance)

2. Non-Emergency and Specialized Services

  • Dial 1339 for Medical Consultation and Poison Control (Non-urgent medical advice, including COVID-19-related inquiries)
  • Dial 1345 for Immigration Services (Visa issues, immigration-related questions)
  • Dial 120 for the Dasan Call Center (General city information, including transportation, lost items, and public services)
  • Dial 182 for Missing Persons or Lost Property (Police assistance for non-urgent cases)
  • Dial 1588-5644 for the Tourist Police (Assistance for tourists in cases of fraud, scams, or other issues)

Associated Costs

  • 112 and 119: Free of charge. These are government-funded emergency services.
  • 1339, 1345, 120, and 182: Free of charge for calls, but charges may apply if you are redirected to a private service (e.g., hospitals or legal services).
  • Ambulance Services: Free for emergency transport to hospitals. However, treatment at the hospital will incur costs, which vary depending on the hospital and the type of care required. Ensure you have travel insurance or the Korean National Health Insurance (if applicable).

Steps for Accessing Help

1. Police (112)

  • Dial 112 for immediate police assistance.
  • An English-speaking operator is available. If you do not speak Korean, say "English" when the call connects.
  • Provide your location and a brief description of the issue. Use landmarks or nearby buildings if you are unsure of your exact address.

2. Fire and Ambulance (119)

  • Dial 119 for fire emergencies or medical assistance.
  • English-speaking operators are available. Say "English" to be connected to an interpreter.
  • For medical emergencies, describe the symptoms or injuries clearly. If possible, provide the patient’s age, gender, and any known medical conditions.
  • Ambulances are dispatched quickly, and paramedics are trained to provide first aid on-site and during transport.

3. Medical Consultation (1339)

  • Dial 1339 for non-urgent medical advice or poison control.
  • English-speaking operators are available. You can ask for guidance on symptoms, medication, or nearby hospitals.
  • This service is particularly useful for minor illnesses or when you are unsure if you need to visit a hospital.

4. Immigration Services (1345)

  • Dial 1345 for visa or immigration-related inquiries.
  • Services are available in multiple languages, including English, Chinese, and Vietnamese.
  • This is a non-emergency line, so it is best used during regular business hours.

5. Tourist Police (1588-5644)

  • Dial this number if you are a tourist and need assistance with scams, fraud, or disputes with local businesses.
  • English-speaking officers are available to help mediate and resolve issues.

6. General City Information (120)

  • The Dasan Call Center provides information on public services, transportation, and more.
  • English-speaking operators are available, and this service is particularly helpful for navigating Busan as a visitor or new resident.

Cultural and Local Considerations

  1. Language Barriers:

    • While many emergency operators speak English, it is helpful to know a few basic Korean phrases or have a translation app ready.
    • For example, "도와주세요" (dowajuseyo) means "Please help me."

  2. Address System:

    • South Korea uses a modernized address system, but older landmarks or building names are still commonly used. Be prepared to describe your location using nearby landmarks if you are unsure of the exact address.

  3. Respect for Authority:

    • South Koreans generally have a high level of respect for emergency personnel. Be polite and cooperative when interacting with police, firefighters, or medical staff.

  4. Tourist-Friendly Services:

    • Busan is a major tourist destination, so emergency services are accustomed to assisting foreigners. Do not hesitate to call for help if needed.

  5. Health Insurance:

    • If you are a visitor, ensure you have travel insurance to cover medical expenses. If you are an immigrant, check if you are enrolled in the Korean National Health Insurance (NHIS) system, as this will significantly reduce medical costs.

  6. Emergency Apps:

    • Download the Emergency Ready App (by the Korean government) for quick access to emergency numbers, safety tips, and real-time alerts. The app is available in multiple languages, including English.

  7. Cultural Sensitivity:

    • Avoid raising your voice or showing frustration when speaking to emergency operators or responders. Calm and clear communication is highly valued in South Korea.

Key Phrases to Know

Here are some useful Korean phrases for emergencies:

  • "도와주세요" (Dowajuseyo) – Please help me.
  • "119를 불러주세요" (Baek ilsip gureul bulleojuseyo) – Please call 119.
  • "경찰을 불러주세요" (Gyeongchareul bulleojuseyo) – Please call the police.
  • "병원에 가야 해요" (Byeongwone gaya haeyo) – I need to go to the hospital.
  • "길을 잃었어요" (Gireul ilheosseoyo) – I am lost.

Conclusion

Busan’s emergency services are efficient, reliable, and accessible to both locals and foreigners. By familiarizing yourself with the emergency numbers and procedures outlined above, you can ensure a safer and more enjoyable experience in the city. Always carry a charged phone, know your location, and don’t hesitate to ask for help when needed.