KoreaClear · Travel answer
How can I explain and manage my food allergy or coeliac needs while travelling?
Short answer
Carry a clearly translated card describing your exact allergy or coeliac requirement, and ask about ingredients and cross-contact before ordering. If staff cannot confidently confirm suitability, choose another option.
What to do
- List shellfish types, sesame/oil or gluten sources precisely and have the translation checked.
- Ask about stocks, sauces, seasonings and shared cooking surfaces or utensils, not just visible toppings.
- Carry prescribed emergency medicines and your clinician’s action plan; identify nearby medical help and call 119 for a severe reaction.
Check before relying on this
- Removing a garnish does not remove ingredients already in sauce or broth.
- Coeliac disease needs gluten avoidance and cross-contact precautions; it is not the same as an immediate food allergy.
More details and examples ExpandCollapse
More detail
Pack known suitable snacks for travel days and discuss medicine transport and sufficient supply before departure. No restaurant or translated phrase can guarantee an allergen-free meal.
Coeliac and allergy details
For coeliac disease, explain gluten and cross-contact as well as wheat; Korean sauces can contain wheat-based soy sauce, and noodles require an ingredient check. For sesame or shellfish allergy, specify the exact allergens and ask about oil, garnish, stock and shared preparation. Arrange a checked Korean-language card before travel, carry suitable backup food subject to import rules, and have your clinician review an emergency plan. A card or menu label does not guarantee a safe kitchen.
Sources and provider examples
External sources may use another language.
Sources last checked: . Rules, hours and services can change.