Hello everyone!

It has been half a month since visa-free travel was permitted throughout August.

We have started to see Japanese tourists in Korea quite often.

In Korea, the outdoor mask mandate was lifted this past May,

and you can see many people not wearing masks outdoors.

So, this time, we will introduce the current mask-wearing situation in Korea, as well as some mask accessories to help you enjoy your mask-wearing life a little more!

※Information is current as of August 14, 2022.

What is the current status of the mask mandate in Korea?

To prevent the spread of COVID-19, mask-wearing was made mandatory

both indoors and outdoors in Korea starting November 13, 2020.

When the ordinance was first implemented, there were measures such as a "100,000 won fine for being caught without a mask,"

which caused the mask-wearing rate to rise immediately.

However, as of May 2, 2022, the outdoor mask mandate was lifted,

and currently, there is no problem with not wearing a mask outdoors.

However, for events at outdoor facilities such as live concerts or swimming pools,

there are places where wearing a mask is still mandatory even outdoors,

so be sure to check the local notices and precautions carefully.

Masks essential for life in Korea

While masks are essential for life in Korea,

among the various types, we highly recommend the "KF94 mask."

The "KF94 mask" is classified as a "health mask" under Korean law,

and it is certified to be able to "filter out 94% of particles with an average size of 0.4μm."

For a time, it was designated as the "official COVID-19 prevention mask" in Korea,

and there were even purchase restrictions.

Also, at some hospitals and emergency rooms, masks other than the KF94

are prohibited.

It seems that the KF94 mask has often been introduced in Japan as a "trendy mask in Korea,"

but correctly speaking, it is not a "trend" but a "nationally designated" mask,

meaning it has become a standard mask for people appearing on television or in public spaces.

Recently, many KF94 masks featuring celebrities as models have appeared,

with products featuring EXO's Kai, Kim Soo-hyun, Jo Jung-suk, BTS, and others

on the packaging, making them great for souvenirs as well★

Accessories to enjoy your mask life

Mask Straps

First, we would like to introduce mask straps.

These are likely already quite common in Japan as well.

Perhaps because wearing a mask has become second nature in Korea,

we don't see as many people wearing mask straps anymore,

but for those who want to take their masks off only when outdoors, or those who frequently take their masks on and off,

or for children, they are a very convenient item.

Recently, trendy mask straps using different materials like beads or yarn have become popular,

and for children, products with cute character keyrings are said to be popular.

You can get them cheaply at places like the Express Bus Terminal or Dongdaemun General Market, so they are also recommended as souvenirs★

Mask Stickers

This might not have caught on in Japan much yet,

but mask stickers are currently very popular among moms in Korea.

It seems it started with people decorating their masks with stickers that can be applied to skin or fabric,

but now, scented stickers and stickers with insect-repellent functions have also appeared.

Even children who dislike masks might be willing to wear them if they have their favorite characters on them.

Have a comfortable mask life★

How was it?

This time, we shared the latest mask situation in Korea!

During the hot summer months, wearing a mask outdoors can be quite difficult as heat builds up.

When traveling to Korea, don't push yourself; if you are outdoors where there are few people,

feel free to take off your mask and prioritize your health.

(Of course, we recommend wearing a mask outdoors at train stations and concerts!)

It is expected that the mask mandate for indoors and public facilities will continue for some time.

Please use this article as a reference when you travel to Korea♪

These are English translations of articles from our GTTOUR Japanese website.