Seoul is easy to love, and even easier when you know the small rules that locals follow without thinking. Here’s your quick guide to the fines and “please do not” moments that visitors actually run into. 1. Smoking within 10m of Seoul subway exits, up to $69 Look for ground markings and no smoking signs at station exits. 2. Bukchon tourist curfew (5PM–10AM, red zone), $69 It’s a residential area, and the curfew applies in the designated zone. 3. E-scooter rules (no helmet, 2 riders, no license), $14 / $28 / $69 Helmet on, one rider only, and follow license rules. 4. Unapproved drone flights + no-fly zones, up to $2,080 Restricted zones include central Seoul and near airports, get approval first. 5. Undeclared meat/quarantine items at airport, up to $6,930 If you are unsure, declare it. Fines can be high. 6. Possessing illegal substances, arrest + severe penalties Korea is strict. Do not bring cannabis products or similar items. 7. Illegal dumping or wrong trash sorting, $69 to $693 Sorting rules vary, ask your hotel or host what to do. 8. Public transport fare evasion (no tap/no pay), 30× the fare Always tap your card, even for one stop. 9. Public urination, fines possible Use subway toilets or public restrooms. 10. Spitting on the street, fines possible Handled as a minor offense and still enforced. 11. Feeding pigeons in Seoul parks, up to $693 No-feeding zones exist, and repeat fines can escalate. 12. Smoking in national parks (hiking trails), $416 first Treated as a fire risk, penalties are strict. 13. Wedding shoots at Changdeokgung, prohibited Plan formal shoots outside the palace grounds. 14. Photographing or filming military installations, up to $20,800 If you see warning signs or fencing, do not film. 15. Bringing counterfeit goods through customs, up to $69,300 Items can be seized, and penalties can apply. Have this in mind for your next trip to Korea.