Ask for the right kind of description
An audio guide may explain an object's history or meaning without describing what it looks like. Audio description provides visual details that a blind or partially sighted visitor may otherwise miss.
Ask the attraction which service it offers, in which language, and whether it includes navigation or tactile experiences. A general guided tour is not automatically an accessible described tour.
Test guide apps before visiting
The National Museum of Korea publishes information about its exhibition-guide services. Odii is the Korea Tourism Organization's audio-guide service for participating destinations.
Use the official download links and check the exact app, content language and device requirements. Similar app names may refer to different products.
Test screen-reader operation, text size, audio controls and any offline downloads before the visit. Bring suitable earphones and enough battery capacity; Bluetooth or location permissions may be needed for automatic location-based commentary.
Enquire about described tours
The Korea Heritage Service and Seoul tourism organisations have offered live visual-description programmes at selected attractions. Contact the programme through Seoul Danurim or the venue's current information.
Confirm the language, route, session length, party size and any eligibility requirements. If transport is offered, confirm the pickup area and availability. A programme announced in Korean does not by itself promise English description.
Check braille and tactile information
Korean braille represents Korean and differs from English braille. Some facilities may also provide numbers, international symbols or other-language material, so ask about the actual resource rather than assuming every braille sign is usable or unusable for you.
Tactile maps, raised models and touch experiences can support a visit where provided. Ask what may be touched; ordinary exhibits are not automatically part of a tactile programme.
Plan navigation and assistance
Tactile paving can indicate a direction or warn of a change or hazard. Its layout and condition vary, and temporary obstructions may interrupt the route.
Check the entrance, crossings, elevators and meeting point with the venue or transport operator. Test the navigation app with your own assistive technology before relying on it in an unfamiliar place.
Ask accommodation staff about room orientation and emergency arrangements. Save contact details and directions in a format you can use independently.
Check the specific performance or screening
For cinema or theatre, confirm that audio description is available for the actual session and in a language you understand. Check whether a receiver, phone app or other equipment is required.
A venue advertising accessibility does not establish that every performance provides every form of support. Written confirmation can help avoid a wasted journey.
