Lost Something? What to Do
What to do if you lose something in Korea β on the subway, in a taxi, or in a restaurant β and how to replace a lost passport.
Stay calm and retrace your steps
The first step is to stay calm and think about where you last had the item. Check your pockets, your bag, and the last place you sat or ate. If you were in a restaurant or cafe, call or go back β staff often keep lost items at the counter.
Lost on the subway or bus
Seoul's subway and bus system has a lost-and-found service. For the subway, go to the lost-and-found office at the station or call the metro lost property centre. For buses, contact the bus company β the number is shown on your T-money transaction or at the bus stop. Give the date, time, route, and a description of the item.
Lost in a taxi
If you left something in a taxi, call the taxi company or use the Kakao T app to check your ride history. If you paid by card, your bank statement will show the taxi company name. You can also call the tourist hotline at 1330 for help in English.
Lost passport
If you lose your passport, report it to the police first and get a police report. Then contact your embassy in Seoul to apply for an emergency travel document. Your embassy will tell you what documents you need, so keep a photo of your passport on your phone as a backup.
Lost phone
If you lose your phone, use another device to lock it or locate it through your phone's find-my-device service. Contact your mobile provider to block the SIM. If the phone was stolen, report it to the police at 112 β you will need the police report for an insurance claim.