Emergency Contacts and Services
Skip to: 119 Emergency Service/ 112 Police Service/ Women's Resources/ 24/7 Interpretation Services/ Legal Resources/ Multicultural Family Support.
119 Emergency Service
119 is the number to dial in emergency situations such as medical emergencies or fires. Your location will automatically be traced so help can be sent swiftly.
Can they speak English?
English translation is supposed to be provided for 119. However, this might not always be the reality. A better option might be to first call the 24/7 Korea Travel Hotline on 1330 (press 2 for English). You can explain your situation to them in English and they can connect to 119 and assist in facilitating communication.
Ambulance and fire brigade staff will likely be unable to speak English. You can use interpretation services to communicate with them.
112 Police Service
112 is the number to dial for the police. This is the number to use for crime reporting or if you are in a dangerous situation.
Can they speak English?
Similar to emergency services, English translation is supposed to be provided for 112. You might want to go through the 1330 interpretation service to ensure that there is no miscommunication.
The Gwangju Dongbu Police Station has a Foreign Liaison who is able to speak English. Her name is 이혜경 (or Monica) and she can assist in matters such as filing crime reports and victim support. Please see her Facebook page for more information.
Women's Resources
Gwangju Women's Hotline
The Gwangju Women's Hotline is a branch of the Korea Women's Hotline (located in Seoul). The Gwangju Hotline does not have much English support. For English support, it is best to contact the police foreign liaison mentioned above. Otherwise, visit the Korea Women's Hotline website to see English information on what services are offered.
1366 Women's Call Center
This is a 24/7 call center that offers services in different languages. They can be called in crisis situations. Please note they are based in Seoul.
24/7 Interpretation Services
1330 Korea Travel Hotline
Dial 1330 and press 2 for English. They can offer information and interpretation services, as well as connect you to emergency services and police (as mentioned above).
1588-5644 BBB Korea
Dial 1588-5644 and press 1 for English. They offer interpretation services but cannot support conference calling. An app is also available.
Legal Resources
You might find yourself in a situation where you need legal advice or assistance. Please see the Korea Legal Aid Corporation or Pureum Law Office (they are based in Seoul but can do telephone consulting). Alternatively, see search on LOFT: Legal Office for Foreign Teachers (Facebook group) for more resources.
Multicultural Family Support
Danuri offers support services for multicultural families in Korea. Visit their website to locate their Gwangju branches or call their helpline on 1577-1366.