When traveling to a new country, one of the basic needs is finding a restroom. It can be a challenging experience if you are not familiar with the country's culture or language. Korea, however, is a country where it is easy to find clean, convenient, and often free toilets. In this article, we will provide tips and tricks on how to locate restrooms in Korea.
Restrooms can be found in various places such as subway stations, public facilities, large marts, cafes, and restaurants. In most cases, you do not have to pay to use them. If you are in a large city, you will never be too far from a public restroom. One useful tool to find the location of public restrooms is Naver Maps, which provides the location of restrooms.
In the past, squatting toilets were located in older buildings. However, today, Western-style toilets have become standard and are now installed in most buildings. If you visit a Korean home or hotel You may find high-tech toilets common in households and hotels in Korea.
Finding restrooms in Korea is not difficult as signboards indicating toilets are well posted in most buildings, making it easy to locate the restroom you need. The signboards usually have pictograms of men and women to indicate the gender of the restroom. Additionally, some buildings may also have signs indicating the location of restrooms for people with disabilities.
Toilets in most buildings are separated by gender, but in some small cafes, there may be toilets and urinals for both men and women, so be sure to lock the door when using the restroom. It is important to note that in Korea, it is considered rude to use the opposite gender's restroom, so make sure to double-check the sign before entering. If you are unsure, don't be afraid to ask for help or clarification.
When it comes to the subway, restrooms can be found near the ticket office and inside the ticket gate, allowing you to use the restroom without exiting the gate. For single buildings with only a restaurant or cafe, you can usually find a restroom inside. However, in the case of private buildings with various business facilities, there are often common restrooms located in the hallway.
In the lavatories of Incheon Airport, you'll find a thoughtful balance catering to various preferences. While the restrooms are segregated by gender to ensure privacy, they are also considerately equipped. Within, toilet paper is readily available in each stall, and for those who prefer an extra touch of cleanliness, bidets are installed in select toilets. This accommodation of different comfort levels showcases South Korea's commitment to hygiene and the personal preferences of its international visitors. Take a look at the provided photo to get a snapshot of what you might typically encounter in a Korean toilet—a blend of traditional fixtures and modern conveniences.
If you encounter a locked restroom door, don't hesitate to ask for help from workers in nearby cafes, restaurants, or other businesses. Koreans are generally very generous when it comes to allowing others to use their restrooms, and are especially kind to foreigners who are in need of a bathroom. Explain your situation and kindly ask to use the restroom. If you still feel uncomfortable asking for help, try looking for restrooms on the 2nd or 3rd floor, which is generally unlocked. Don't be shy or embarrassed - it's completely normal to ask for help!
One of the biggest concerns when it comes to public restrooms is cleanliness. The good news is that the cleanliness of public facilities and private buildings is generally good in Korea. Most public restrooms provide toilet paper, and it is also available in most shopping malls, cafes, and restaurants. However, there are cases where toilet paper may not be available in some private buildings. It is always a good idea to carry your own toilet paper just in case.
Finding a restroom in Korea is not difficult. You can find clean, convenient, and often free restrooms in various places. When in doubt, look for signboards indicating toilets, or use Naver Maps to find the nearest public restroom. If the door to a restroom is locked, don't hesitate to ask for help. Koreans are generally kind and will be happy to help you. Just remember to always carry a small amount of toilet paper with you, just in case. With these tips and tricks, you can comfortably and confidently relieve yourself while traveling in Korea.
If you're looking to discover the essential apps you'll need while traveling in Korea, take a moment to explore the article below:
"What Apps Can Foreign Travelers Use in Korea?"
If you're curious about traveling in Korea using only a credit card and leaving cash behind, delve into the article below:
"Can You Travel Cashless in Korea with Just a Credit Card?"
If you're interested in learning about the free Wi-Fi available to both Koreans and travelers, be sure to explore the article below:
"How Korean People and Tourists Stay Connected with Free Internet (Free WiFi)"
If you're curious about how to breeze through the departure process in just 10 minutes, click on the article below:
"Incheon Airport Departure Procedures: Leaving in 10 Minutes"
If you're wondering where you can unwind and stretch your legs for free before your flight, explore the articles below:
"Finding Comfort at Incheon Airport: Free Relaxation Spots in Terminal 1 & Concourse"
"Unwind Before You Fly: Discover Terminal 2's Free Comfort Zones at Incheon Airport"
If you're interested in indulging in a multitude of complimentary programs offered by Incheon Airport before your departure, be sure to delve into the article below:
"The Best Things in Life Are Free: Exploring Incheon International Airport's Must-Try Attractions!"
