# Do Ireland passport holders need a visa for South Korea?

## Answer
Ireland passport holders need an approved electronic travel authorisation (eTA) before travelling to South Korea, but no embassy visa.

- Requirement: eTA
- Maximum stay: 3 months
- Scope: Tourism, ordinary passport
- Action before travel: Yes, arrange in advance
- Data confidence: unverified

## Context
An electronic travel authorisation must be approved online before departure. No embassy visit.

South Korea drives on the right, the opposite side to Ireland. If you're renting a car, budget extra care at first, especially at junctions and roundabouts.

- Distance between capitals: 8,955 km, straight line (~11h 2m nonstop)
- Visa-free access context: 154 of 242 nationalities tracked

## Sources and freshness
- Canonical URL: https://visafreemap.com/visa/ireland/south-korea/
- Data as of: 2026-10-14
- Official source: [k-eta.go.kr](https://www.k-eta.go.kr/portal/guide/viewetaalification.do) (checked July 17, 2026)

Visa rules change frequently and can depend on your specific circumstances. This site is compiled from public government sources and is provided for general information only. Always confirm requirements with the official immigration authority or a consulate of your destination before you travel.

## Frequently asked questions
### Do Ireland passport holders need a visa for South Korea?
Ireland passport holders need an approved electronic travel authorisation (eTA) before travelling to South Korea, but no embassy visa.

### How long can Ireland citizens stay in South Korea without a visa?
Up to 3 months, for tourism, ordinary passport.

### How far is South Korea from Ireland?
About 8,955 km in a straight line, roughly ~11h 2m nonstop by air.

### What currency is used in South Korea?
South Korean won (KRW).

### What is the emergency number in South Korea?
112 / 113 / 119.

### Does South Korea drive on the same side of the road as Ireland?
South Korea drives on the right, the opposite side to Ireland. If you're renting a car, budget extra care at first, especially at junctions and roundabouts.

### What time zone is South Korea in?
Seoul (UTC+9).

### What is the nearest airport to Seoul?
Seoul Gimpo International Airport (GMP), about 15 km away.

### How many countries can enter South Korea without a visa?
154 of the 242 nationalities this site tracks can enter South Korea visa-free, with a visa on arrival, or with an eTA.


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