The Embassy of South Korea in Ottawa serves as a bridge between Canada and South Korea, providing consular services to South Korean nationals and Canadians. Its address is 150 Boteler Street, Ottawa, Ontario, K1N 5A6, in the city’s historic Lower Town. The building is marked by the South Korean flag and bilingual signage. It is close to Parliament Hill, ByWard Market, government offices, the Royal Canadian Mint, and Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica. (Consul.info)
The embassy provides visa and passport services, document authentication, notarial services, and emergency support. Staff speak Korean, English, and French. For more information, see Embassy of South Korea Ottawa and embassies.info.
History and commemorations
The Korean War Memorial on Boteler Street recognizes the Canada–South Korea relationship and commemorates the more than 26,000 Canadians who served in the Korean War, including over 500 who lost their lives. Annual remembrance ceremonies, especially on July 27th (Korean Armistice Day), include wreath-laying, speeches, and cultural performances. Veterans, diplomats, and cultural performers participate in commemorations.
The National War Memorial at Confederation Square was unveiled in 1939. It commemorates Canadian service in World War I, World War II, the Korean War, and other conflicts.
What to see
Korean War Memorial
Located at 150 Boteler Street, Ottawa, Ontario, K1N 5A6, the memorial features commemorative plaques and sculptures recounting Canada’s role in the Korean War and its ongoing partnership with South Korea.
- Hours 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM daily, year-round
- Admission Free
- Accessibility Wheelchair accessible
- Guided tours Available through the embassy or local organizations
See Korean War Memorial, Veterans Affairs Canada, and Canadian War Museum.
National War Memorial
The National War Memorial stands at Confederation Square, Ottawa, ON K1P 5P6. Its features include bronze sculptures and the iconic “Cenotaph.”
- Hours Open 24/7
- Guided tours and Visitor Centre Typically 9:00 AM–5:00 PM, Monday–Saturday
- Admission Free
- Accessibility Fully wheelchair accessible
- Special events Remembrance Day ceremonies on November 11 and the Changing of the Guard in summer
The memorial is accessible year-round without admission fees. See Veterans Affairs Canada and Canadian War Museum.
Practical visiting information
Hours and appointments
The embassy operates Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, excluding Canadian and South Korean public holidays. Morning hours are typically reserved for consular appointments.
Appointments are strongly recommended for all consular services, including visa applications and passport renewals; appointments are also described as required for most consular services. Book by phone at +1 613-244-5010 or by email, using the contact details on the official embassy website.
Consular services and visas
Consular services include:
- Visa issuance and inquiries
- Passport renewals and emergency travel documents
- Notarial and document authentication services
- Emergency assistance for South Korean citizens
- Registration of events such as births and marriages
Canadian citizens do not require a visa for short-term visits of up to six months for tourism or business. Long-term stays, study, or work require an appropriate visa. Some non-Canadian nationals must provide proof of at least two years’ residency in Canada. (ketasouthkorea.com; mofa.go.kr; embassy-ottawa.com)
Getting there and accessibility
- Public transit OC Transpo buses serve the area. The Rideau Centre transit hub is about a 10–15 minute walk from the embassy.
- By car Limited street parking is available on Boteler Street. Public lots are available near ByWard Market.
- Taxi or rideshare Uber, Lyft, and taxis can drop visitors at the embassy entrance.
- Accessibility The embassy is wheelchair accessible. Advance notice is recommended for special accommodations.
Security and entry
Visitors must present valid government-issued photo identification, such as a passport or driver’s license, and undergo security screening, including bag checks and metal detectors. Large bags, cameras, and electronic devices may be restricted. Photography is prohibited inside and directly outside the embassy. Arrive at least 10–15 minutes early for security checks. (embassies.info)
There are no entry fees for the embassy or memorial sites, though consular services may have service charges.
Tips for your visit
- Be punctual, polite, and prepared for security screening, especially for embassy appointments.
- Business casual attire is expected at the embassy. Avoid shorts, flip-flops, and overly casual wear.
- Greet staff with a nod or slight bow, and use formal titles and surnames.
- Use both hands when giving or receiving documents. Tipping is not customary.
- Korean greetings include “Annyeonghaseyo” (hello) and “Kamsahamnida” (thank you).
- Photography is allowed at memorials; use cameras respectfully. It is not permitted inside or directly outside the embassy.
- Mornings and early afternoons are noted as less crowded.
- Check whether COVID-19 protocols are in effect: can-ottawa.mofat.go.kr.
Nearby places
The Korean War Memorial is on Boteler Street near the embassy. Other nearby places include the National War Memorial at Confederation Square, Rideau Canal, Parliament Hill, ByWard Market, and the Canadian Museum of History. These sites offer further insights into Canadian heritage and culture. (Korean War Memorial; Veterans Affairs Canada; Canadian War Museum)
Frequently asked questions
Do I need an appointment to visit the embassy?
Appointments are strongly recommended for most consular services and are described as required for most services.
What ID is required?
Valid government-issued photo ID, such as a passport or driver’s license.
Is there a fee to enter the embassy or memorial sites?
There are no entry fees; consular services may have service charges.
Are guided tours available?
Guided tours are available for the memorials, but not for the embassy itself.
Is travel insurance required?
It is strongly recommended and sometimes required for visa applications.
Are the sites accessible for people with disabilities?
The embassy and memorials are wheelchair accessible.
