Emergency bells in public toilets
Many public toilets in Korea now have an emergency call button (비상벨). Pressing it alerts staff, security or police, and in some locations links to nearby CCTV. They are there for medical emergencies and for personal safety.
Bballi Bballi flags which toilets have an emergency bell installed, covering tens of thousands of locations from public data. If you are traveling alone, especially at night, you can choose a toilet that has one.
Everyday safety in Korea
Violent crime rates are low and it is common to see people out late. CCTV is widespread in public areas, and 24-hour convenience stores make useful, well-lit safe havens if you ever feel uneasy. As anywhere, stay aware of your surroundings and watch your belongings in crowds.
Getting home safely at night
- Well-lit main streets and 24-hour stores are good route markers late at night.
- Some local governments run a safe-return escort service (안심귀가) in certain areas.
- Use licensed taxis or a recognized ride app, and share your trip with a friend when you can.
- Save 112 (police) and 119 (fire/ambulance) before you head out.
If something goes wrong
- Press the nearest emergency bell if you are in a toilet or station and feel unsafe.
- Call 112 for police or 119 for medical help; interpretation can be arranged.
- Call 1330 (Korea Travel Hotline) for 24-hour, multilingual assistance.
- Step into a 24-hour convenience store or a subway staff booth and ask for help.