best korea power adapter

5 Must Have Korea Power Adapters And Plus For When You’re Travelling

If you’re traveling to South Korea, don’t forget to carry Korea power adapters with you to make sure your electronics can be charged anywhere!

Travelling informed never goes out of style. Especially when it is to a different country! 

It is always good to read up about things to carry, things to purchase, must-visit, must-eats, and the must-haves. 

Once you have your list written down and ticked off, you can enjoy a stress-free and well-deserved vacation.

When traveling to South Korea, one of the more important aspects that you should focus on is the adaptor and converter situation that you might find yourself in. 

I’ve reviewed some of the best Korea power adapters and converters out there, followed by a guide on how voltage variations and adaptors work in different cases.

Here’s to a hassle-free vacation!

Best Korean Power AdapterNumber Of Devices Best Feature
PAC2GO Universal Travel Adapter4 Devices8 Amp Safety Fuse
NEWVANGA International Universal Adapter Plug3 DevicesBuilt-in Safety Shutter
Bestek Universal Travel Adapter5 DevicesDetachable Power Cable
SAUNORCH Travel Power Plug Adapter 5 Devices Built-in Smart IC Chip
Schuko USB Korea Power Adapter 3 Devices Compact Size

Korea Power Adapters

How to use plugs from USA in South Korea?

To use plugs from the USA in South Korea, you will typically need a plug adapter. South Korea uses a different type of electrical socket (Type C and Type F) than the USA (Type A and Type B). Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to use your US plugs in South Korea:

  1. Check Your Device’s Voltage Compatibility: Before you plug anything in, ensure that your electronic devices and appliances are compatible with South Korea’s voltage. South Korea typically uses a voltage of 220V, while the USA uses 110-120V. Most modern electronic devices like laptops and phone chargers are designed to work with a wide range of voltages, but double-check to avoid damaging your equipment.
  2. Purchase a Plug Adapter: Visit an electronics store or purchase a plug adapter online that is designed to convert your US plug (Type A or Type B) to fit South Korean sockets (Type C or Type F). Plug adapters are relatively inexpensive and can be found easily.
  3. Insert the Plug Adapter: Once you have the plug adapter, simply insert it into the South Korean electrical socket. The adapter should fit snugly.
  4. Plug in Your US Device: Now, you can plug your US device or charger into the adapter. Make sure it’s secure.
  5. Turn on Your Device: After plugging in your device, turn it on, and it should work without any issues.

Remember that while the plug adapter allows you to physically connect your US plug to a South Korean socket, it does not change the voltage. If your device is not compatible with South Korea’s voltage (220V), you may need a voltage converter or transformer to safely use it.

However, most modern electronics, such as laptops and smartphones, have built-in voltage converters and can handle both US and South Korean voltages without a problem.

Always double-check your device’s voltage requirements and capabilities to ensure safe and proper operation when using it in South Korea.

Here are a few of the best power adaptors out there:

PAC2GO Universal Travel Adapter 

The PAC2GO Universal Travel Adapter is lightweight, compact, and an ideal companion to those traveling to South Korea. 

Designed by longtime travelers, it also comes with a handy protector pouch. It has a black rubberized surface and a safety shutter that prevents external shock and short circuits. 

I liked that it can charge upto 5 devices simultaneously and has 4 super-fast USB charging ports, and is suitable to use for high-tech accessories as well. 

Also, it boasts of being accessible and usable in almost any type of socket or hotel, which is quite a relief if you are a frequent traveler. 

The only disadvantage I found was that it does not convert voltage. 

But then again, adaptors are not converters so the conversion of voltage is a rare feature among them. 

My Rating: 4.7/5

Related: Best Korean Gifts And Souvenirs

NEWVANGA International Universal Adapter Plug 

I bought this product as the plug boasts of being adaptable with sockets in more than 150 countries. 

This product comes from an independent electronics company called Newvanga based in the United Kingdom. 

Their product stands out as they have classic colors: the Newvanga World Adapter Plug itself comes in black and white.

I actually found their customer service is also reassuring as they provide full refunds in case of any defect.

The adapter can charge 2 devices at the same time and is perfect for those traveling to South Korea. Since all the plugs are integrated, there is no way for loose pieces to get misplaced. 

My only complaint was that the adapter, just like the last one, does not convert voltage. 

My Rating: 4/5

Bestek Universal Travel Adapter 

A leading manufacturer of all sorts of adapters, BESTEK is known for its converters, be it the travel-friendly ones or the industrial ones. So it was a no-brainer for me to get this one!

This particular adapter is ideal for those traveling to South Korea from the United States. 

If you plan on using and changing around a lot of devices, this product is perfect for you. It steps down from 220V to 110V which is prevalent in the US. 

If you are only looking to charge everyday devices like phones and laptops, this adapter is honestly not worth the investment. I suggest you go for a classic adapter instead. 

As this converter can charge upto 7 devices, it is perfect if you are traveling as a family. 

The only disadvantage is that it does not work on high wattage devices like hairdryers, and might make a bit of noise when charging devices. 

My Rating: 4.5/5

SAUNORCH Travel Power Plug Adapter

Best known for how compact it is, the SAUNORCHTravel Power Plug Adapter comes with a storage pouch. 

SAUNORCH itself is known for its wide range of ‘safe travels’ products like travel wallets, luggage locks, and so on. This adapter also comes in a variety of colors like blue and parrot green.

It has USM ports and makes for a great travel companion to South Korea. The company however does not provide any warranty. 

Like most adapters, it does not convert voltage. Hence it can only be used alongside single voltage rated appliances. 

My Rating: 4.5/5

Schuko USB Korea Power Adapter 

If all you need is a simple USB charger then this is for you. Travel light, pack light. 

If a smartphone is all you need to charge, this simple plug is compatible with most phone models. It can charge upto two devices at the same time. 

The USB  Korea Power Adapter can be used across Europe, and without any question, in South Korea. 

Again, since this is merely a USB adapter, it does not convert voltage. 

My Rating: 4/5

Voltage converters and transformers

While both converters and transformers serve a similar purpose, their application varies.

More often than not, converters are used alongside appliances that function only for a short period of time (a couple of hours or so), while transformers are used to assist devices that operate continuously. 

How do voltage converters and transformers work

Across the world, the electricity supply usually ranges between 100V and 240V. 

This means that when it comes to your electric devices, especially laptops, computers, and heavy usage cameras, you need to check the amount of voltage it can take. 

It is very dangerous to use an appliance that is rated at a voltage that is different from the voltage of the supply. 

As the level of voltage differs from country to country, you should ideally use a voltage converter or transformer when you are in Korea, to avoid any unnecessary damages – big or small. 

If the frequency happens to be different, the normal functioning of the device may be affected; this is to say that your device might not reach any visible harm, but might start functioning abnormally. 

For instance, a 50Hz clock may run much faster on a 60Hz electricity supply.

Plus, most voltage converters and transformers usually come with plug adapters, you do not even need to buy a separate travel adaptor. 

Additionally, all these converters come with a maximum power rating. 

Hence, make sure the appliance you plan on connecting to these voltage converters and transformers do not exceed the given rating. 

You can figure out whether or not your appliance needs a converter or a transformer by looking at the appliance rating plate. 

Let us now look at what are dual and single-voltage-rated appliances, and how to identify which is which when it comes to your appliances. 

korea plug same as europe

Dual voltage rated appliance

Usually, dual voltage-rated appliances will display the rating on the body, as we mentioned. For example, it may say ‘INPUT: 110-240V’. 

As South Korea operates on a 220V supply, you would not need a converter in this case, just a travel adaptor.  

Dual voltage appliances usually operate on a range (like 110-240V here), hence making for more travel-friendly devices.

Single voltage rated appliances

Since the supply voltage is 220V in South Korea, the appliance that you use should also operate at the exact same supply voltage of 220V. 

You can find this out by looking at the back of the body. 

If it does not run on 220V, then you will need a converter or a transformer so that the device works safely and at an optimum level. 

What plug sockets are common in South Korea?

In South Korea, the most common type of electrical plug and socket used is the “Type C” and “Type F” sockets, which are also known as the Europlug and Schuko plug, respectively. These sockets have two round pins and are compatible with many European devices.
However, South Korea has its own unique plug type known as the “Type C” plug with a grounding pin, which is commonly used for heavier appliances.
In addition to these types, it’s worth noting that some modern South Korean buildings, especially in newer construction or international hotels, may also have outlets that accommodate the “Type A” plug (two flat pins) or “Type B” plug (two flat pins with a grounding pin), which are common in North America.
If you plan to travel to South Korea, it’s advisable to bring a universal adapter with you, which can accommodate a variety of plug types. This ensures that you can use your electronic devices without any issues, regardless of the specific socket type you encounter.

Frequently Asked Questions – Korea Power Adapters

At what voltage does Korea operate?

South Korea operates on a 220V supply at 60Hz, which is compatible with most devices. Carry a converter (in the case of high-tech goodies) or an adapter so that you can charge your device anytime anywhere. 

How reliable is the electricity supply in Korea?

Power Cuts are extremely unheard of in this country. Korea is highly developed in the tech sphere as well, hence you will not face any power cuts at all.

Are portable chargers useful in Korea?

You will find charging plug points in almost every cafe, supermarket, tourist spot or part you visit. 
Charging is extremely convenient in South Korea, and carrying a portable charger is always helpful especially if you do not own a power bank. 

Like any travel essentials, carrying your Korea power adapters,  charger, and USB cables should be your first priority. 

Apart from that, always carry a power bank, as your phone battery might die if you use the navigation app or the camera for too long. 

If you are an ardent tourist, carry your camera and do not forget your SD card as well as the camera battery. 

Photographs will help etch your trip in memory forever! 

And finally, while it is not ‘essential’, earphones are a prerequisite when you want some time alone, or want to groove to some music. 

Why You Should Trust Koreatruly?

All our editors including the author of this article, Song-i do extensive research on the products reviewed and recommended in the article. We also use these products ourself to give you accurate, first hand information without any prejudice or bias. Koreatruly has also got a team of medical reviewers and skincare experts to help give accurate advice and provide research-based facts concerning a product, its formulation or ingredients.

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Pac2Go Universal Travel Adapter
best korea power adapter

The best Korean power adapter lets you use your electronics like charger, hair dryer, etc. without any issue. The Pac2Go Universal Travel Adapter comes with multiple USB ports.

Product SKU: SKP2G266099J

Product Brand: Pac2Go

Product Currency: USD

Product Price: $21.00

Price Valid Until: 2022-08-07

Product In-Stock: InStock

Editor's Rating:
5

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