Seoul

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Public Telephones

Information on the availability and usage of public telephones in Seoul.

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Public Telephones in Seoul, South Korea: A Comprehensive Guide

Public telephones in Seoul, while not as commonly used as they once were due to the widespread adoption of mobile phones, are still available and serve as a reliable communication option for certain situations. Below is a detailed guide covering their availability, costs, operation, and cultural considerations.

1. Availability of Public Telephones in Seoul

  • Locations: Public telephones can be found in key areas such as subway stations, bus terminals, airports, major streets, and public buildings. They are often located near convenience stores, parks, and tourist-heavy areas.
  • Decline in Numbers: Due to the prevalence of smartphones and mobile networks, the number of public telephones has decreased significantly in recent years. However, they are still maintained for emergencies and for those who may not have access to a mobile device.
  • Emergency Use: Public telephones are particularly important for emergency situations. Many are equipped with direct buttons for emergency services (police, fire, and ambulance).

2. Costs of Using Public Telephones

  • Local Calls:
    • The cost for a local call is typically 70 KRW per 3 minutes for coin-operated phones.
    • For card-operated phones, the rate may vary slightly depending on the type of card used.
  • Long-Distance Calls (Domestic): Rates are higher for long-distance calls within South Korea, and the cost increases based on the duration of the call.
  • International Calls: Public telephones that support international calls are available in major areas like Incheon International Airport, Seoul Station, and tourist hubs. Rates for international calls depend on the destination country and the duration of the call.
  • Payment Methods:
    • Coins: Most public telephones accept 10 KRW, 50 KRW, and 100 KRW coins.
    • Phone Cards: Prepaid phone cards (commonly called "T-money phone cards") can be purchased at convenience stores, subway stations, and kiosks. These cards are inserted into the phone for use.

3. How to Operate Public Telephones

  • Coin-Operated Phones:
    1. Insert coins into the slot.
    2. Dial the number (local numbers typically start with 02 for Seoul).
    3. Speak as usual. The phone will notify you when your time is running out, and you can insert more coins to continue the call.
    4. Hang up to end the call. Any unused coins will be returned.
  • Card-Operated Phones:
    1. Insert the prepaid phone card into the designated slot.
    2. Dial the number.
    3. The phone will deduct the cost of the call from the card balance.
    4. Remove the card after the call is complete.
  • International Calls:
    1. Look for a phone labeled "International" or with a globe icon.
    2. Dial the international access code (001, 002, or 008), followed by the country code, area code, and phone number.
    3. Follow the same payment process as above.

4. How Public Telephones Tie with Local Communication Needs

  • Emergency Communication: Public telephones are a critical resource for emergencies, especially for those without a mobile phone or when mobile networks are down.
  • Tourist Use: Visitors who do not have a local SIM card or an international roaming plan may find public telephones useful for making quick calls, especially to local businesses, hotels, or tour operators.
  • Backup Option: Even for residents, public telephones serve as a backup in case of lost or malfunctioning mobile devices.
  • Accessibility: Public telephones are designed to be user-friendly, with instructions often available in both Korean and English, especially in tourist-heavy areas.

5. Cultural and Practical Considerations

  • Language Barrier: While public telephones are easy to use, non-Korean speakers may face challenges if they need to communicate with someone who does not speak English. It is advisable to carry a written note with key phrases or the phone number you need to call.
  • Etiquette: South Koreans value efficiency and politeness. If there is a queue for the phone, keep your call brief and avoid loud conversations.
  • Modern Alternatives: While public telephones are available, most locals rely on mobile phones and messaging apps like KakaoTalk for communication. Tourists are encouraged to rent a portable Wi-Fi device or purchase a local SIM card for convenience.
  • Emergency Numbers: Public telephones often have quick-dial buttons for emergency services:
    • Police: 112
    • Fire and Ambulance: 119
    • Tourist Hotline: 1330 (available in multiple languages, including English, Chinese, and Japanese).

6. Tips for Tourists and Immigrants

  • Carry Small Change: If you plan to use public telephones, keep a few 100 KRW coins handy, as not all phones accept cards.
  • Purchase a Phone Card: For longer stays, buying a prepaid phone card can be more convenient and cost-effective.
  • Learn Basic Korean Phrases: Knowing how to say "hello" (안녕하세요, annyeonghaseyo) and "thank you" (감사합니다, gamsahamnida) can be helpful when asking for assistance.
  • Use Tourist Hotlines: The 1330 hotline is a valuable resource for tourists and can assist with translation or providing directions.

Conclusion

While public telephones in Seoul are not as ubiquitous as they once were, they remain a practical and reliable option for communication, especially in emergencies or for visitors without mobile access. Understanding their operation, costs, and cultural context can help you make the most of this resource during your time in Seoul. For long-term convenience, consider combining public telephone use with modern communication tools like local SIM cards or portable Wi-Fi devices.