Using a hair dryer in South Korea

South Korean power outlet

Will my blowdryer work in South Korea?

Check your hair dryer can work in South Korea:

If not then either:

  • Use a power converter (or voltage transformer) - this enables you to use your existing hair dryer and other applicances with a 220 volt South Korean power outlet, however this is significantly heavier, bulkier and more expensive than a dedicated travel hair dryer. A voltage transformer changes the voltage but not the actual physical shape of the plug on your hair dryer to fit in the power outlet used in South Korea, therefore please check that your power converter includes a power adapter for South Korea otherwise you will still need to purchase a seperate power adapter. Please note - your own domestic hair dryer might not be suitable for travel and you risk potential damage in transit. [7] [AD]
Warning: If your hair dryer won't handle 220 volts you run a risk of a blown fuse, damage to your hair dryer or even an electrical fire hazard. Prior to using your hair dryer in South Korea please check the instruction manual first to ensure safe operation.

Using a hair dryer in South Korea

Will my hair dryer work in South Korea?

That will depend on if your hair dryer can operate using the 220 volts as used in South Korea. If you're using either a dual voltage hair dryer or your hair dryer can operate using 220 volts and you have the correct power adapter then you'll be able to use the hair dryer in South Korea. If not then you will need to consider purchasing either a power converter or a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2], read our section on do you need a power converter to use a hair dryer for help deciding which option is more suitable. [7] [AD]

Best travel hair dryers for South Korea

What to look for when choosing a travel blow dryer for South Korea

Travel hair dryer with a folding handle

What to look for when choosing a travel blow dryer for South Korea

When looking for the best travel hair dryer for South Korea choose a sturdy but light dual voltage model which operates with a 220 volt South Korean power outlet power outlet, includes a folding handle, ALCI safety plug and a long cord. When drying thick hair buy a faster 1600+ watt dryer and included diffuser.

9 tips for buying a new travel hair dryer

  1. Your hair dryer needs to be dual voltage in order to function with a 220 volt South Korean power outlet.
  2. Modern hair dryers feature a cool shot option for rapidly cooling down the hair after drying to hold a style but this feature could be lacking in smaller models.
  3. Buying the cheapest travel hair dryer on the market could be risky, as well as safety concerns there is a greater chance that the dryer could fail during travelling abroad due to a poor build.
  4. Try to look for lighter travel dryers which are durable enough to survive being transported in baggage, models with a folding handle will mean more room.
  5. Safe travel hair dryers include ALCI safety plugs which will minimise the risk of overloading the motor that could lead to electrical fires, you can idenfity these with the 2 'test' and 'reset' switches.
  6. If you have thicker or curlier hair then you may need a travel blow dryer with a stronger motor. A high wattage ceramic model which includes a diffuser will dry hair faster, thereby preventing damage.
  7. Suitable hair dryers should give control of both temperature and speed settings with low and high options - lower temperatures with slower speeds prevent damage to your hair whilst faster hotter speeds will quickly dry thicker hair.
  8. Hotel rooms might have a wall mirror installed away from the nearest power outlet which makes it cumbersome to style hair, therefore shop for the model with the lengthiest power cord possible.
  9. Rather than looking for expensive third party attachments which fit the unique barrel exactly it could be cheaper purchasing a dryer which is supplied with both a concentrator and diffuser from the manufacturer as these are designed to fit perfectly.
Which is the best dual voltage hair dryer with a diffuser attachment?

Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer

Which is the best dual voltage hair dryer with a diffuser attachment?

  • The X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic has a 1600 watt motor with a 1.65m electric power cable, it is supplied with a tourmaline diffuser but is missing a cool shot button.
  • The Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer features a lengthy 1.82m electric power cable for greater flexibility when styling with an ALCI safety plug and a removable filter to clean. It also has a powerful 1875 watt motor including a cool shot option making it perfect for styling thick hair.

Each ionic travel hair dryer includes a concentrator and diffuser with strong motors to make them the best travel blow dryers for thick hair. Both only require a suitable power adapter for South Korea to plug into a South Korean power outlet, each hair dryer is lightweight and folds up to pack in carry-on baggage.  [8] [8] [9] [AD]

Which is the smallest dual voltage hair dryer?

The BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium with folding handle

Which is the smallest dual voltage hair dryer?

  • If you want to dry thin and fine hair whilst on the go then a ceramic 1200 watt Conair MiniPRO is the cheapest small ionic hair dryer available on the market.
  • The BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium is lightweight enough to transport in a handbag due to it's 10.5 ounce body and folding handle and includes features found on larger blow dryers including a tourmaline outlet which can emit infrared heat to protect against heat damage during use for a shinier finish.

Both of these are dual voltage mini hair dryers when used with the right plug adapter for a South Korean power outlet they should work in South Korea folding conveniently enough to be carried around during the day for drying on the go. They have a twin speed motor, have a 1.5m electric power cable and include a concentrator.  [10] [10] [11] [AD]

What is the best hair dryer for thick or curly hair?

Thicker hair can take longer to dry and might be hard to do so without your hair turning frizzy, the best option will be an ionic hair dryer, if the hair is curly we suggest a diffuser as both are able to manage and dry hair smoothly without frizz. Both the X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic or a Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer are suitable because they both have powerful motors, ionic outlets and bundled diffusers, avoid buying a hair dryer with a motor that is less powerful than 1600 watts as it will struggle to dry thicker hair.  [8] [9] [AD]

What is the best travel hair dryer with cool shot?

Berta Folding Hair Dryer

What is the best travel hair dryer with cool shot?

  • A Conair Compact Styler uses a powerful 2 speed 1875 watt motor, removable filter and features a cool shot button which can will quickly cool hair down to give a longer lasting hold.
  • The Berta Folding Hair Dryer also has cool shot, uses a ceramic tourmaline air outlet meaning faster and safer drying, twin heat settings, a longer 1.8m electric power cable and includes a concentrator.

Both models can fold, have an ALCI plug which prevents power overloads and support dual voltage making them ideal for travel to South Korea in carry on luggage when used along with a power adapter for a South Korean power outlet.  [12] [12] [13] [AD]

Best hair dryers for travel

Which is the best blow dryer to buy for South Korea?

Conair
MiniPRO
This compact hair dryer incorporates a folding handle, two heat settings, and two speed settings, aiming to accommodate various hair types. The long power cord and dual voltage make it convenient for travellers.
BaByliss
PRO
https://www.amazon.co.uk/BaByliss-Travel-2000-Hair-Dryer/dp/B0056FXFRO/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&qid=1520000711&sr=8-1&keywords=BaBylissPRO+Tourmaline+Titanium+Travel+Dryer&linkCode=ll1&tag=wikiconnectio-21&linkId=b63332fd20a821dec0b5e56af0330da8
Conair
Compact
https://www.amazon.co.uk/BaByliss-Travel-2000-Hair-Dryer/dp/B0056FXFRO/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&qid=1532458776&sr=8-1&keywords=Conair+dual+voltage+hair+dryer&linkCode=ll1&tag=wikiconnectio-21&linkId=f9cccd664854ebe2be03a43f6a0c7cce&language=en_GB
Berta
Folding
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Conair-Group-Ltd-5549U-TRESemme/dp/B00I4R4A84?crid=3P4NIYAG2C5JL&keywords=Ceramic+tourmaline+hair+dryer+concentrator+dual+voltage&qid=1695044687&sprefix=ceramic+tourmaline+hair+dryer+concentrator+dual+voltage%2Caps%2C65&sr=8-8&linkCode=ll1&tag=wikiconnectio-21&linkId=c6cca6f1cdf99277aafe116a9bf0d0ba&language=en_GB&ref_=as_li_ss_tl
X5
Superlite
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Red-Hot-37070-Professional-Settings/dp/B01G3E9R46?dchild=1&keywords=X5%2BSuperlite%2B1600W%2BDual%2BVoltage%2BCeramic%2BIonic%2BTravel%2BDryer&qid=1623853478&sr=8-9&th=1&linkCode=ll1&tag=wikiconnectio-21&linkId=dac34b2236e4574360f73c2fbe82110d&language=en_GB&ref_=as_li_ss_tl
Hot Tools
1044
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Compact-Foldable-Lightweight-Portable-Technology/dp/B07HTWRMW5?crid=GOV3SFXX8LUZ&keywords=1875+watt+travel+dryer+with+folding+handle+and+dual+voltage&qid=1668535844&sprefix=1875+watt+travel+dryer+with+folding+handle+and+dual+votage%2Caps%2C49&sr=8-42&linkCode=ll1&tag=wikiconnectio-21&linkId=c1c76abbfb0ab79c7b377ec225918f66&language=en_GB&ref_=as_li_ss_tl
Class Mini Compact Compact with diffuser
Works in South Korea Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Works in US Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Dual voltage Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Watts 1200 1000 1875 1875 1600 1875
Folds Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Ceramic Yes Yes Yes Yes
Ionic Yes Yes Yes Yes
Tourmaline Yes Yes Yes
Infrared Yes
Speed settings 2 2 2 2 2 2
Heat settings 1 1 1 2 1 1
Cool shot Yes Yes Yes
Removable filter Yes Yes
Concentrator Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Diffuser Yes Yes
ALCI safety plug Yes Yes Yes Yes
Cord length 1.52m 1.52m 1.52m 1.8m 1.65m 1.82m
Color
Buy Buy Buy Buy Buy Buy

Original testing and suitability of hair dryer models was compiled 2017, subsequent updates performed monthly - last updated September 2023.

South Korea power outlets and plug sockets

What is the voltage in South Korea?

Power outlets in South Korea are 220 volts.

What is the frequency used with a South Korean power outlet?

The frequency of the alternating current from a South Korean power outlet is 60Hz. [14]

Which power adapter will you need to bring for using a hair dryer in South Korea?

Type C and F power outlets

Which power adapter will you need to bring for using a hair dryer in South Korea?

There are two different types of power outlets used in South Korea, these are type F and C with the primary power outlets being type F:

  • Plug Type C - You can identify the plug socket by 2 circular holes adjacent to each other for live and neutral pins. Type C electrical sockets in South Korea are less commonplace as Type F outlets.
  • Plug Type F - This sunken circular plug socket (called the type F power outlet or Schuko socket) can be recognised by the two 4.8mm adjacent holes, plus a pair of two grounding clips above and below. The most common outlets found in South Korea are Type F power outlets.

A recommended travel adapter to bring for using a 220 volt hair dryer in South Korea is a Type F power adapter; read the step-by-step instructions below for full details of using a hair dryer in South Korea. Note that unless you that have a dual voltage hair dryer you might also need to use a power converter.  [6] [15] [AD]

Dual voltage hair dryers

Is my hair dryer dual voltage?

Single voltage hair dryer

Is my hair dryer dual voltage?

An easy way how to tell if your hair dryer supports a dual voltage power outlet is to look for either a sticker or numbers printed on the plug, base or handle of the hair dryer. This location will vary depending on the make or model of your hair dryer, it should also be written in the instruction manual. Some dual voltage hair dryers will change automatically but other hair dryer models will have a button which allows you to change between different regions.

  • A specific number such as 110V indicates a single voltage hair dryer. If this number matches the 220 volts used in South Korea then you should be able to use your hair dryer with a South Korean power outlet.
  • A small voltage range with a dash such as 100-120V also indicates a single voltage hair dryer which can accomodate small voltage fluctuations. If the 220 volts used in a South Korean power outlet falls within the range shown on your hair dryer then you can use it in South Korea.
  • A large voltage range separated with a slash such as 100/240V indicates a dual voltage hair dryer capable of being used in South Korea or any other country.

How can you switch a travel hair dryer?

  1. Normal dual voltage hair dryers have either a dial or switch which toggles between two voltages however some dryers are capable of automatically detecting the voltage used in South Korea.
  2. This dial or switch will typically require either a screwdriver or coin to change the hair dryer to the correct voltage between the 110v-120v range or a 220v-240v range.
  3. Also, it's worth noting down the 2 switch positions because the painted numbers can sometimes fade on certain models.

How can I use a dual voltage blow dryer in South Korea?

  1. Check that you are have a dual voltage hair dryer and it works with a 220 volt power outlet.
  2. If your dryer is dual voltage then ensure that it is switched to the 220-240 volt range. The switch is usually found on the handle or base of the blow dryer and may require a screwdriver or coin to switch.
  3. Plug your hair dryer into the power adapter for South Korea and also plug in the power adapter into the South Korean power outlet.
  4. It's common on a majority of dual voltage hair dryer models operating in the 220-240V range to only work safely on their lowest speed setting - but this temperature and speed should still be sufficient for drying hair. We recommend checking the manufacturers instructions to find out if this rule is appropriate for your model of dryer to prevent the risk of overheating.
  5. The dryer can now be operated with a South Korean power outlet.

Travelling to South Korea with a hair dryer

Can you pack a blow dryer in your carry on luggage?

Folding travel hair dryer with cord wrapped for carry on

Can you pack a blow dryer in your carry on luggage?

According to the TSA guidelines for hair dryers there are no restrictions when carrying a mains powered hair dryer in your hand luggage through airport security in the US. The TSA also recommends that you should verify that your airline which is taking you to South Korea will allow a blow dryer onboard and that it will fit in the overhead bin or underneath the seat of the airplane. Packing the blow dryer in a dedicated heat resistant protective travel hair dryer case leaves it easily accessible when going through airport security checks, it can be packed away quickly and should avoid a tangle of power wires in your carry on luggage (the TSA suggests wrapping cords tightly around electronic items). If you do intend to pack fragile or expensive hair dryers in your hand held luggage then it is recommended to use hard carry on luggage as this provides the greatest protection against bumps and knocks during transit.   [16] [17] [18] [AD]

Is it safe to bring a domestic blow dryer to South Korea?

Bringing a dual voltage travel hair dryer is preferable to packing your existing hair dryer to South Korea as it ensures that it will work with the 220 volt power outlets used with a South Korean power outlet (provided that you bring the correct plug adapter for South Korea). Travel hair dryers typically feature a collapsing handle and are much lighter, this helps in reducing the size and weight in luggage compared to bringing a domestic hair dryer.

Note that bringing your expensive domestic hair dryer might place it at risk because of potential loss or damage in transit by an airport baggage handler. The cost and inconvenience involved in replacing an expensive specialised blow dryer in South Korea might be more than purchasing a much cheaper dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] and a suitable travel hair dryer case before your trip .  [17] [AD]

Do hotel rooms in South Korea have hair dryers?

Hotel hair dryer

Do hotel rooms in South Korea have hair dryers?

This depends on the individual hotel or bed and breakfast and the class of the room. Hotel hair dryers are typically found in the bathroom, these could be a slower air hose variety, or could be found in the bedroom cupboard, wardrobe or drawer.

In budget motels, hotels and hostels a communal hair dryer could be available at the reception, however that might involve waiting in turn for other guests. If you are uncertain about the hotel hairdryer policy you could either look on the hotel web site or call ahead to your hotel in South Korea to find out if a suitable hairdryer available to guests. Hair dryers in hotels are usable but are typically rudimentary models lacking a diffuser and notorious for low heat and providing slow air speeds. For those concerned with hygiene might want to remove burnt hair from previous guests on a shared hair dryer as room service might not have removed it when cleaning the room.

Guests who aren't sure that a suitable and hygienic hair dryer is available should put their mind at rest by bringing their own dual voltage travel hair dryer or phone the hotel in South Korea to check first.  [2] [AD]

Power converters for South Korea

Can you use a hair dryer with a power converter for South Korea?

The correct model of voltage transformer (or power converter) allows your hair dryer using a different voltage to operate using a 220 volt power outlet used in South Korea. A power converter is more suitable for travellers wishing to use their own domestic hair dryer, but it might be a lot cheaper to purchase a dedicated dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] than it is to buy a power converter. In addition, a travel hair dryer can be noticeably lighter than a power converter making a travel hair dryer more suitable when packing in luggage. [7] [AD]

What is the difference between a plug adapter and a voltage converter?

Voltage converter

What is the difference between a plug adapter and a voltage converter?

An expensive and heavy power converter transforms a 220 volt South Korean power outlet to work with a non-220 volt hair dryer, but a smaller and more lightweight power adapter (or plug adapter) will change the shape of the plug on your hair dryer to slot into a power outlet in South Korea. [7] [AD]

How to use a hair dryer in South Korea using a type C power adapter

How to use a hair dryer in South Korea by using a two pin Type C travel charger.

  1. Make sure that the blow dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or works with a 220 volt power outlet; but if it doesn't then don't proceed because you might create an electrical fire hazard, damage your hair dryer or blow a fuse. Before using a dual voltage travel hair dryer which can toggle between different voltages ensure you have set it to accept 220 volts to use in South Korea; consult the user guide for more details on how to do this.
  2. If the plug on your hair dryer isn't the same shape as the outlet used in South Korea you'll need to use a Type C plug adapter [4]. The plug adapter will fit different plugs from other countries for use with an electrical outlet found in South Korea simply by changing the shape of the plug, however it doesn't change the frequency or voltage of the hair dryer to work with a 220 volt outlet.
  3. Start the process by inserting the Type C plug adapter into the power outlet. This plug outlet is recognised by the 2 adjacent holes. Be aware that Type C power sockets might not be as common in South Korea as Type F outlets.
  4. Next plug in your hair dryer into the Type C plug adapter.
  5. Switch on the South Korean power outlet. The hair dryer can now be used in South Korea. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in South Korea using a type C power adapter

How to use a hair dryer in South Korea using a type F power adapter

Instructions on how to power a hair dryer in South Korea with a Type F power adapter.

  1. Check that the blow dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or works with a 220 volt power outlet; if it doesn't then do not proceed because you might create an electrical fire hazard, damage your hair dryer or blow a fuse. Before using a dual voltage travel hair dryer which can toggle between different voltages ensure you have set it to accept 220 volts to use in South Korea; consult the owners manual for more details on how to do this.
  2. If the type of power outlet used in South Korea isn't the same shape as the plug shape on your hair dryer you'll need to bring a Type F plug adapter [6]. The plug adapter will convert different plugs from other countries into an electrical outlet in South Korea simply by changing the shape of the plug, however the adapter doesn't change the frequency or voltage of the hair dryer to work with a 220 volt supply.
  3. Start the process by inserting the Type F plug adapter in the South Korean power outlet. This circular plug outlet can be recognised by the two 4.8mm adjacent holes along with a pair of two grounding clips above and below. The most common outlets found in South Korea are Type F power outlets.
  4. Plug in the hair dryer into the Type F plug adapter.
  5. Turn on the South Korean power outlet.
  6. The hair dryer should now be ready to be turned on. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in South Korea using a type F power adapter

See also

  1. Visitkorea - Korea Tourism Organization site
  2. Amazon - dual voltage travel hair dryer
  3. iec.ch - Type C power outlet
  4. Type C plug adapter - An unearthed Europlug Type C travel adapter with two 4mm rounded pins placed 19mm apart, designed to fit a variety of sockets commonly used across Europe, including Italy, France, Spain, Greece, Turkey, Croatia and Iceland..
  5. iec.ch - Type F power outlet
  6. Type F plug adapter - A versatile Type F adapter, also known as Schuko, compatible with Europlugs and CEE 7/17 plugs. Ideal for use in countries using the Germany outlet type like Peru, Chile, and Uruguay..
  7. Power converter - Heavy-duty power converters are designed to convert voltage levels between different electrical standards, shifting between 110V/120V and 220V/240V with both 50Hz and 60Hz, often incorporating safety features such as fuse protection and circuit breakers..
  8. Hot Tools Professional Ht1044 Ionic 1875 Watt Travel Dryer with Folding Handle and Dual Voltage - The appliance integrates a 1875-watt motor, targeting quick and effective hair drying. The folding handle is intended for easier storage and transport..
  9. X5 Superlite 1600W Dual Voltage Ceramic Ionic Travel Dryer - This hair dryer boasts a 1600-watt motor intended for efficient hair drying. The long 1.65-meter cable provides an extra layer of convenience for users who require mobility during use..
  10. BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium Travel Dryer - With dual heat and speed settings, the device aims to cater to a variety of hair types. Its dual voltage capability, folding handle and lightweight design make it suited for international travel..
  11. Conair MiniPRO Folding Handle Tourmaline Ceramic Styler - This compact hair dryer incorporates a folding handle, two heat settings, and two speed settings, aiming to accommodate various hair types. The long power cord and dual voltage make it convenient for travellers..
  12. Berta 1875W Folding Hair Dryer Dual Voltage Blow Dryer Negative Ions Travel Dryer - This hair dryer features two speed and heat settings, dual-voltage and a foldable handle whilst equipped with an ALCI plug to help prevent electric shock..
  13. Conair 1875 Watt Compact Folding Handle Hair Dryer with Dual Voltage - This travel-ready hair dryer uses a high 1875-watt motor for efficient and rapid hair drying. Smart voltage technology adjusts to foreign voltage, maintaining heat and speed settings for convenience..
  14. Wikipedia - WikiPedia - Mains electricity by country -
  15. iec.ch - IEC World Plugs by location -
  16. tsa.gov - TSA guidelines for hair dryers -
  17. Hard case for travel hair dryer - Hard case designed for storing and protecting a hair dryer safely during travel in luggage.
  18. Hard carry on luggage - Example of hard cases, suitcases and luggage suitable for airline carry on.