Global Major Cities Guide

Access to police, fire departments, and other emergency response services in Busan.

Sections

1. Emergency Contact Numbers in Busan

South Korea has a well-organized emergency response system, and the following numbers are crucial to know:

Police (Crime or General Emergencies): Dial 112
- For reporting crimes, theft, or other emergencies requiring police assistance.
- Interpretation services are available for foreigners.
Fire and Ambulance (Medical Emergencies): Dial 119
- For fire-related emergencies or to request an ambulance for medical emergencies.
- Interpretation services are also available.
Foreigner Support Hotline: Dial 1345
- Operated by the Korea Immigration Service, this hotline provides assistance in multiple languages for immigration-related issues and general guidance.
Tourist Information Hotline: Dial 1330
- Managed by the Korea Tourism Organization, this hotline offers 24/7 assistance in English, Chinese, and Japanese. They can help with directions, emergency translations, and general tourist information.
Coast Guard (Maritime Emergencies): Dial 122
- For emergencies at sea, such as accidents or rescues.
Emergency Medical Information Center: Dial 1339
- Provides medical advice and information on nearby hospitals or pharmacies. Available in multiple languages.

2. Safety Resources for Foreigners

Busan is a foreigner-friendly city, and there are several resources available to ensure your safety and comfort:

Busan Foundation for International Cooperation (BFIC):
- Website: www.bfic.kr
- BFIC offers support services for foreigners, including legal advice, cultural adaptation programs, and emergency assistance. They also operate a Global Center in Busan where you can seek help.
Embassies and Consulates:
- Many countries have consulates in Busan. In case of emergencies, such as lost passports or legal issues, contact your country’s consulate for assistance.
Hospitals with Foreign Language Support:
- Major hospitals in Busan, such as Busan National University Hospital and Inje University Haeundae Paik Hospital, have international clinics with English-speaking staff.
Mobile Apps for Safety:
- Emergency Ready App: A government-provided app that offers information on emergency procedures, shelters, and contact numbers. It is available in English and other languages.
- HiKorea App: Useful for immigration and visa-related emergencies.

3. Costs or Fees for Using Emergency Services

Police Services (112): Free of charge.
- Reporting crimes or emergencies to the police does not incur any fees.
Fire and Ambulance Services (119): Free of charge.
- Ambulance services are provided free of charge, but you may need to pay for medical treatment or hospital fees once you arrive at the hospital.
Medical Costs:
- South Korea has a high-quality healthcare system, but medical treatment can be expensive for foreigners without insurance.
- If you are a resident, ensure you are enrolled in the National Health Insurance Service (NHIS) to reduce costs.
- For tourists, consider purchasing travel insurance to cover medical emergencies.
Translation Services: Free when using official hotlines like 119, 112, or 1330.

4. Procedures for Reporting Emergencies

When reporting an emergency in Busan, follow these steps:

A. Calling 112 (Police) or 119 (Fire/Ambulance):

Dial the appropriate number (112 for police, 119 for fire/ambulance).
When the operator answers, state your emergency clearly. If you don’t speak Korean, say “English, please” or the name of your preferred language.
Provide your location. Use landmarks, street names, or nearby buildings to help responders find you quickly.
Stay on the line until the operator confirms they have all the necessary information.

B. Using the Emergency Ready App:

Open the app and follow the prompts to report your emergency. The app can also guide you to the nearest shelter or hospital.

C. Reporting at a Police Station:

If you prefer to report a non-urgent matter in person, visit the nearest police station. Many stations in Busan have officers trained to assist foreigners.

5. Cultural and Regional Considerations

Understanding cultural norms and regional specifics can help you navigate emergency situations more effectively:

Language Barrier:
- While many emergency responders in Busan are trained to handle calls from foreigners, not all may speak fluent English. Be patient and use simple language. Interpretation services are available, but there may be a brief delay.
Address System:
- South Korea uses a modernized address system, but older locals may still refer to landmarks or traditional addresses. It’s helpful to have your location written in Korean or use a map app like KakaoMap or Naver Map.
Respect for Authority:
- South Koreans generally have a high level of respect for police and emergency responders. Be polite and cooperative when interacting with them.
Natural Disasters:
- Busan is occasionally affected by typhoons and heavy rains. Familiarize yourself with evacuation routes and shelters, which are marked on the Emergency Ready App.
Traffic Laws and Pedestrian Safety:
- While Busan is safe, traffic can be chaotic in some areas. Always use crosswalks and follow pedestrian signals.
Cultural Sensitivity:
- South Koreans value privacy and discretion. If you witness an emergency involving others, avoid taking photos or videos, as this may be considered disrespectful.

6. Additional Tips for Staying Safe in Busan

Stay Informed:
- Follow local news or weather updates, especially during typhoon season (July to September).
- Use apps like KakaoTalk or Naver for real-time updates.
Keep Emergency Contacts Handy:
- Save the numbers for your embassy, local friends, and emergency hotlines in your phone.
Learn Basic Korean Phrases:
- Knowing a few emergency-related phrases can be helpful. For example:
  - “도와주세요” (Dowajuseyo) – “Please help me.”
  - “119를 불러주세요” (Baek ilsip gureul bulleojuseyo) – “Please call 119.”
Carry Identification:
- Always carry your passport or Alien Registration Card (ARC) if you are a resident.

Conclusion

Busan is a safe and welcoming city, but being prepared for emergencies is essential. Familiarize yourself with the emergency contact numbers, download helpful apps, and understand the procedures for reporting emergencies. By doing so, you can enjoy your time in Busan with peace of mind, knowing that help is readily available if needed.

Busan

Safety and Emergency Services