Can you fly a drone to film or photograph in South Korea?

Drones over 250 g are registered through the Drone One-Stop portal (a Korean phone number is needed). Aerial photography needs approval whatever the drone's weight, and much of Seoul is restricted airspace.

Sources: Drone Traveller: drone laws in South Korea · Dronesgator: drone laws in South Korea

Whatever the drone's weight or purpose, flying in airport control zones (9.3 km radius), in no-fly zones (northern Seoul, near the DMZ and nuclear plants) or at 150 m or higher needs advance permission. Applications go through MOLIT's Drone One-Stop portal, which lists about 3 working days for flight approval and 4 for aerial filming.

Sources: MOLIT Drone One-Stop: drone safety rules (Korean) · MOLIT Drone One-Stop portal (Korean)

Checked against the official source on October 6, 2026.