Korea guide › Questions people ask about Korea
🚰 Can I drink tap water in Korea?
Quick answer
Seoul says its tap water (Arisu) is safe to drink. If you dislike the chlorine smell, let it sit or boil it. Worried about an old building? Seoul offers a free water test.
Seoul says its tap water (Arisu) is safe to drink. If you dislike the chlorine smell, let it sit or boil it. Worried about an old building? Seoul offers a free water test.
Key facts
| Seoul tap water | Safe to drink at the treatment plant standard |
|---|---|
| Old buildings | Tanks and pipes vary; run water 2-3 minutes first |
| Free test | Seoul Arisu website or call 120 |
| Other cities | Check the local water authority |
How to do it
- Run the tap 2-3 minutes
- Let it sit 20-30 minutes or chill it to remove the smell
- Request a free test via 120 if the building is old
- Brown or cloudy water: ask management to clean the tank
⚠️ Watch out · Not sure? Bottled water is cheap at convenience stores.
Official sources
Checked: 2026-11-09
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Guidance only, not legal or visa advice. Rules change; check the official source.
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