Living in Korea

One of the very first things you need to do when coming to study in Korea is to set up your mobile phone service. Nowadays, smartphones are essential for daily life — from getting school information and navigating directions to ordering food delivery and connecting with transportation cards. Without a phone, life can become quite inconvenient. In Korea, there are three major telecom providers — SK Telecom (SKT), KT, and LG Uplus (LG U+) — plus a variety of MVNO (budget phone) operators, making it tricky to decide which one to choose.

In this article, we’ll go over the features and pricing plans of major telecom companies for international student mobile phone, explain what MVNOs are, and explore how you can save money while still enjoying convenience when choosing a phone plan as a foreign student.

1) Overview of the Korean Telecom Market

The Korean mobile market is dominated by three major providers that cover most of the market share, offering wide-ranging networks from the latest 5G to 4G LTE and even 3G. These major telcos boast excellent nationwide coverage and a variety of added benefits such as membership perks, discounts, and content services. However, their basic monthly fees tend to be relatively high, which might be a burden for students on a tight budget.

On the other hand, MVNO (budget phone) operators lease networks from the major telcos and sell plans at lower prices. The service conditions — data, voice, and SMS — are usually similar with some minor limitations, but the value for money is excellent, attracting many consumers. If you have an Alien Registration Card (ARC) as a foreign student, you may be able to sign up for both major telcos and MVNOs, so it’s worth making a detailed comparison.

2) Comparison of Major Telcos: SKT, KT, LG U+

SK Telecom (SKT)

As Korea’s number one telecom provider, SKT offers stable coverage and service quality. With plenty of membership perks (such as movie and café discounts), it’s very practical for students who use these benefits often. They offer a variety of 5G and LTE plans, and although prices are slightly higher than competitors, it may be worth it if you value gifts or membership benefits. Large discounts are available with family or Internet+TV bundles, but for international students living alone, these might not be very advantageous.

KT

KT’s strength lies in its internet infrastructure and Wi-Fi network. Some plans provide free access to KT WiFi in public places such as subway stations, and they offer strong bundle discounts for combining giga internet with mobile service. If you frequently use international roaming or make overseas calls, KT’s international communication packages are worth a look. Their pricing is similar to SKT, and they offer a wide variety of plans, so it’s important to choose one that fits your usage pattern.

LG U+

LG U+ targets the MZ generation (Millennials and Gen Z) with bundled media service plans including Netflix, YouTube Premium, and gaming options, as well as cloud gaming services. Their 5G network is stable in Seoul and the metropolitan area, but coverage in rural areas is sometimes considered weaker than SKT or KT. However, if you take advantage of contract discounts and promotions, you can end up paying significantly less. They also operate a foreign customer support center with English-speaking assistance, which can help new international students overcome language barriers.

3) What is an MVNO (Budget Phone)?

MVNO stands for Mobile Virtual Network Operator — these companies lease the infrastructure from major telcos and sell their own branded phone plans, usually called “budget phones” in Korea. The main advantage is a much lower monthly fee compared to major carriers. Plans range from unlimited data to small-data options, and because they use the same networks (e.g., SKT network, KT network, LG network), call quality and data speeds are almost the same as with major providers.

However, MVNO customer service centers are generally smaller, and some services may be unavailable — for example, major carrier perks like T membership, data sharing, or certain bundled services are often not offered by MVNOs. For an international student who prioritizes cheap monthly fees over perks, budget phones can be a very reasonable choice.

4) Examples of MVNO Providers and Sign-Up Process

There are dozens of MVNO providers in Korea, such as Hello Mobile (LG HelloVision), SK Seven Mobile, KT M Mobile, U+ Budget Mobile, and others like A Mobile, FreeT, and SmarTel. You can simply order a SIM (USIM) card online, have it delivered to your home, and start the activation process. Some providers have offline stores where you can sign up in person by presenting your ID.

For foreigners, an Alien Registration Card (ARC) along with a passport or a domestic credit card may be required, so check in advance. Many plans have no contracts and can be canceled on a monthly basis, allowing you to use the service for just your study period and cancel when you return home.

5) How to Choose a Plan

International students should consider data usage, international calls or roaming needs, and calling/texting patterns. For instance, if you spend most of your time on campus with Wi-Fi access, you may need less mobile data. However, if you frequently use maps, YouTube, or social media on the go, you’ll want a plan with generous data.

Major carriers offer both 5G and LTE plans, and MVNOs also support LTE and sometimes 5G. While 5G plans are more expensive, the difference in real-world usage may not always justify the cost — LTE may be sufficient. Whether you need 5GB, 10GB, or unlimited data per month will greatly affect your plan’s cost, so understanding your usage habits is crucial.

6) Online Activation & SIM Verification

Nowadays, you can apply for activation online. Simply visit the website of a major carrier or MVNO, choose your plan, and order a SIM (USIM) card. Within 1–2 days, it will be delivered to your home, and you can follow the instructions to upload your ID (Alien Registration Card) photo and verify your identity for activation. Once completed, insert the SIM into your phone, and you can start using the service immediately.

Keep in mind that some devices (especially phones brought from overseas) may not be compatible with Korean networks due to frequency band issues. If possible, buy an unlocked phone in Korea or confirm in advance whether your overseas unlocked phone supports Korean bands.

7) Contract Period & Early Termination

Major telcos usually promote long-term contracts. With a two-year contract, you can receive handset installment discounts and monthly plan discounts (choice contracts). However, if you plan to stay for only about a year, you may face hefty early termination fees. With MVNOs, most plans have no contracts and can be canceled anytime, so buying your own phone separately and just using an MVNO SIM can often be more cost-effective.

That said, if you utilize major telco promotions well, you may be able to get a new phone at a lower price and monthly discounts, so if you plan to study for 2 years or more, it could be worth considering. Just make sure to check the early termination fees, how public subsidies and choice contract discounts apply, and other important details.

8) Data Roaming vs. Local Plan

Some students consider keeping their home country SIM card and using international roaming. However, for long-term stays, local Korean plans are far cheaper and more convenient. You can keep your home SIM on the cheapest plan just for number retention and use your Korean SIM as the primary one. When traveling abroad temporarily, you can use roaming from your Korean SIM instead.

If you need to make international calls, services like Skype or KakaoTalk Voice Call are commonly used, so you don’t necessarily need to pay for expensive international calling packages. As long as your Korean plan provides sufficient data, you can handle calls via VoIP or messenger apps.

9) Device Purchase Strategy

Where you buy your smartphone is also important. Purchasing from a major telco store allows you to get contract discounts and public subsidies, but you may be tied to that carrier for a certain period. Buying an unlocked phone (SIM-free) from an online or offline retailer, then using it with an MVNO SIM, is also a popular option.

For international students, buying a used phone is another good choice. You can get a relatively new phone at a lower price via second-hand markets (like Bungaejangter or Karrot Market) and pair it with a budget SIM to lower your monthly costs. Be sure to verify that the used phone is not lost/stolen and has been properly released from its previous contract.

10) Conclusion: Finding the Best Option for You

Ultimately, choosing a carrier depends on factors like “How long will you be in Korea?”, “How much data will you use?”, and “Do you need perks like memberships or extra services?”. If you plan to stay long-term, want unlimited 5G, and value perks like movie discounts, it might make sense to sign a two-year contract with SKT, KT, or LG U+. On the other hand, if you are staying less than a year or only need basic internet surfing and messaging, an MVNO plan (such as LTE 10GB) will be cheaper and more flexible.

Major carrier stores are located nationwide, and some offer English assistance, so visiting a store for consultation when you first arrive is a good idea. MVNOs typically focus on online sign-ups, so you’ll need some ability to read Korean websites, which could be a small barrier. However, once you get used to the process, both major and MVNO plans can be easily started or canceled online, so it shouldn’t be a big challenge for international students.

Lastly, when signing up, make sure you prepare all necessary documents like your Alien Registration Card and passport, and carefully check the terms of the contract, early termination fees, and details of the plan (voice, text, data) to avoid issues. Korea is known for having one of the world’s most advanced internet and telecom infrastructures, so once you’re set up, your student life here will become much more convenient.

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When people think of Korean cuisine, rice, soups, side dishes, and meat-based meals often come to mind. However, traditional Korean desserts also boast a long and rich history. From royal court sweets enjoyed by kings and aristocrats during the Joseon Dynasty to fusion desserts created with modern interpretations, the variety is vast and diverse. Made with glutinous rice, beans, fruits, nuts, and honey, these treats offer a sweet yet healthy taste. Recently, they have been reinvented in stylish café settings, captivating the palates of not only Koreans but also international tourists.
In this article, we’ll explore both the traditional and contemporary sides of Korean desserts, looking into the different types and how to best enjoy them.

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1) The World of Traditional Korean Sweets: Hangwa and Tteok

Traditional Korean desserts can largely be categorized into two types: “Hangwa” (traditional sweets) and “Tteok” (rice cakes). These desserts were often served during banquets, ceremonies, or alongside tea in royal courts or noble households. They exhibit artistic finesse, featuring time-honored recipes and premium ingredients.

Hangwa: Gangjeong, Yakgwa, Dasik, and More

Hangwa is a category of traditional confections made from ingredients like glutinous rice flour, soybean powder, honey, malt syrup, and sesame seeds. Notable examples include Gangjeong, Yakgwa, and Dasik.

• Gangjeong is made by frying glutinous rice dough to create a crispy texture, then coating it with honey or syrup and sprinkling it with sesame seeds, peanuts, or puffed rice for added sweetness.
• Yakgwa is a honey cookie made from wheat flour dough mixed with honey and oil, then deep-fried. It’s known for its melt-in-your-mouth texture and rich, sweet flavor.
• Dasik is a small bite-sized confection made by kneading fine powders such as ground beans or green tea with honey, then pressing the mixture into decorative molds. Beautifully shaped, it pairs excellently with traditional teas.

Tteok: Songpyeon, Injeolmi, Gyeongdan, and Others

Tteok, or Korean rice cakes, are symbolic of celebrations and holidays. From Garaetteok and Injeolmi to Songpyeon and Mujigae-tteok (rainbow rice cake), the varieties are extensive, with textures and flavors that differ depending on ingredients and preparation methods. Made from ground rice or glutinous rice, the dough can range from soft to chewy. Fillings like sweet red bean paste, honey, or roasted soybean flour enhance their savory-sweet flavor.
For instance, Songpyeon is traditionally enjoyed during Chuseok (Korean harvest festival). These half-moon-shaped rice cakes are filled with sesame seeds, beans, or sweetened red beans. Injeolmi, made by pounding glutinous rice and coating it with roasted soybean powder, is known for its soft and sticky consistency.

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2) Pairing with Traditional Korean Teas

Korean desserts are often enjoyed alongside traditional teas. Various options—such as jujube tea, citron tea, Ssanghwa-cha, and green tea—complement Hangwa or Tteok perfectly. The natural sweetness of the desserts and the warmth and fragrance of these teas create a harmonious pairing.
For example, desserts with intense sweetness like Yakgwa or Gangjeong go well with clear-flavored teas like green or yellow tea. Tteok, on the other hand, pairs wonderfully with aromatic teas like jujube or citron tea which enhance the flavor of the rice cake. This pairing tradition dates back to the royal court and can still be experienced at specialized tea houses today.

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3) Fusion Korean Desserts: A Blend of Tradition and Modernity

Recently, Korean desserts have been reimagined in more modern and sophisticated styles. By combining traditional elements such as Tteok or Hangwa with Western dessert techniques, these new creations bring unique flavors, textures, and visual appeal.

Examples: Hangwa Macarons, Tteok Cakes, and Tea-Based Beverages

• Hangwa Macarons: These unique desserts blend the French macaron with ingredients from Hangwa. Fillings like Injeolmi cream, roasted soybean powder, or black sesame create distinctive flavor profiles and colorful visuals.
• Tteok Cakes: Rather than using conventional sponge cake, these use layered glutinous rice cakes. Frosted with soy milk cream or sweet bean paste instead of whipped cream, they offer a luxurious appearance and healthier alternative that has gained popularity.
• Traditional Tea Lattes: A variety of tea-based lattes and sparkling drinks made with green tea, Pu’er tea, and even Ssanghwa-cha are now featured in many cafés. Often served with side desserts like Tteok or Gangjeong, they make Korean dessert culture more accessible and enjoyable.

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4) How to Enjoy Korean Desserts: Tips and Considerations

Traditional Korean desserts often use natural sweeteners like honey, molasses, or rice syrup rather than refined sugar, providing a deep and nuanced sweetness. To fully appreciate this, it’s best to savor them slowly in small bites.
Some rice cakes tend to harden if left out for too long, so for the best texture, consume them fresh or gently warm them up. Pairing with traditional tea aids digestion and balances the sweetness for a more harmonious experience.

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5) Where to Enjoy Them: Cafés and Traditional Markets

If you’re looking to experience Korean desserts authentically, visit a traditional tea café or a Hanok-style café. In Seoul’s Insadong, Jeonju Hanok Village, Gyeongju, and other cultural heritage areas, cafés often serve curated dessert sets or feature unique fusion offerings.
Traditional markets are also a treasure trove of quality Tteok and Hangwa. Handmade by local vendors with care and fresh ingredients, these desserts make great souvenirs or treats to enjoy during your travels.

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Conclusion: A New Discovery in Korean Dessert Culture

Korean desserts are not just a sweet bite after a meal—they’re rooted in centuries-old traditions from royal ceremonies to everyday customs, now evolving with creative modern twists. A single piece of Tteok or Hangwa encapsulates Korean culinary wisdom, unique ingredients, and heartfelt warmth.
As Korean desserts gain global attention, even those familiar only with cupcakes or macarons are showing interest in treats like Injeolmi, Yakgwa, and Dasik. With ongoing innovation and fusion, the scope of Korean desserts continues to expand.

If you’re traveling in Korea, don’t miss the chance to try traditional sweets and fusion-style desserts. Pairing them with a cup of warm tea offers not only delicious flavors but also a cozy glimpse into Korean culture that’s both elegant and comforting.

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To comfortably use an airport pickup service after arriving at Incheon or Gimpo Airport, making a reservation in advance is essential. However, if you enter incorrect details during the booking process or overlook required documents or flight information the company requests, it can lead to confusion upon arrival. As a result, issues like “I definitely booked in advance but can’t find the driver” or “I got lost because the arrival gate was different” may occur.

This article covers the topic “Checklist of Common Mistakes to Avoid When Airport Pickup Booking.” We’ll go over the key points that need to be confirmed during the booking process. Simply following this checklist can help you enjoy a smoother and more accurate airport pickup experience.

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Accuracy in Flight Details

Flight Number, Arrival Airport, and Terminal

One of the most critical steps in booking an airport pickup is correctly stating your flight number, arrival airport (Incheon vs. Gimpo), and terminal (T1 or T2 for Incheon Airport). Even a small typo or misspelling can prevent the system from tracking your flight, leading to miscommunication in assigning a driver. For example, if you arrive at Incheon Terminal 1 but mistakenly select “T2,” the driver may be waiting in a completely different area.
Since airlines can adjust their schedules or airports may change terminal assignments, it’s a good habit to confirm your flight information once more before departure.

Estimated Arrival Time and Possible Delays

While you’re asked to provide your estimated arrival time, if your route is known for frequent delays, it helps to inform the company of potential delay times. Although providers often monitor flights in real time, mentioning that your flight is prone to delays and asking for the driver to be scheduled with some buffer time significantly reduces the chances of missed pickups.

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Ensure Reliable Communication

Local SIM Card or Roaming Number

If you and your driver can’t find each other at the airport, the only way to solve it is via phone call or messaging. That’s why it’s important to provide your Korean roaming number or local SIM card number in the reservation form. If you plan to activate a new SIM upon arrival in Korea, you might not know the number in advance, so it’s better to enter your overseas number or email instead.
Additionally, sharing global messenger IDs like KakaoTalk, WhatsApp, or WeChat enables the driver to reach you via Wi-Fi, making it easier to coordinate the meeting point.

Emergency Contact Information for the Pickup Service

Conversely, you should also take note of the company’s emergency contact details. If there’s Wi-Fi access on board during the flight, you can notify the company instantly about delays. Should roaming or voice calls not work after arrival, you can use the free airport Wi-Fi to send a message via email or messenger. By securing ‘two-way’ communication, you can significantly reduce the chance of confusion.

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Luggage Quantity and Vehicle Selection

Choose Larger Vehicles for Excess Baggage

If you only have one or two carry-ons, a midsize sedan should suffice. However, if you’re traveling in a group or carrying large items like golf bags, strollers, or other oversized baggage, you’ll need a vehicle with ample trunk space. An upgrade to a VAN or SUV may be necessary. By clearly indicating the number and size of your bags when booking, the company can suggest the most suitable vehicle type.
Booking too small a vehicle could result in all your luggage not fitting, forcing an on-the-spot upgrade – at an added cost. Selecting the appropriate vehicle ahead of time also allows drivers to prepare, saving time and money later.

Special Baggage (Wheelchairs, Musical Instruments, etc.)

Items like wheelchairs, instrument cases, or boxed bicycles are larger than standard suitcases. If you don’t notify the company in advance, the vehicle’s trunk capacity may not match, potentially resulting in refusal of service. Different companies have different surcharge policies regarding special luggage, so it’s essential to confirm the terms in advance.

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Companion Information

Traveling with Children or the Elderly

It’s easy to overlook that a car seat is mandatory for children under six years old. If you forget to mention children during the reservation, a vehicle with no car seat may be sent, leaving you in a difficult situation. Some companies offer car seats for free, while others charge extra, so it’s vital to check this in advance.
Also, if elderly or mobility-impaired passengers are traveling with you, be sure to note if they’ll need assistance while entering the vehicle or space for a wheelchair. This ensures drivers can prepare in advance for a truly “door-to-door” experience.

Accurate Headcount

It’s not uncommon for people to state “three passengers” during booking but then show up with two additional friends. If the reserved vehicle doesn’t have enough seats, legally, it cannot take more than its capacity, and the extra passengers may need to arrange separate transportation. Always state the exact number of people, and if additional friends may join, consult the company beforehand.

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Confirm Arrival Gate and Meeting Point

Incheon T1 vs T2, Domestic vs International

Incheon Airport has two terminals (T1 and T2), which can be confusing, especially for international travelers. Different airlines use different terminals, so checking your flight information is a must. Gimpo Airport, though mostly for domestic travel, also has an international section, so identifying the correct gate in advance is crucial.
Pickup drivers typically wait near the arrival gate with a sign showing your name or at a designated location like a cafe or convenience store. Thoroughly reviewing the map or instructions sent after booking will help prevent getting lost right after landing.

Setting a Realistic Meeting Time

Consider the time needed for immigration, baggage claim, and customs procedures when setting your meeting time. For instance, even if your flight lands at 2 PM, meeting your driver at exactly 2 PM is unrealistic. For international flights, allow 30 to 60 minutes, and longer if it’s a busy season. If you underestimate the meeting time, your driver could be stuck waiting, and this might trigger additional charges.

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Payment Methods and Refund Policies

Pay On-Site vs Advance Payment

Some services allow for on-site payments, but more often, providers prefer credit card payments in advance. This is especially helpful for international travelers whose roaming or foreign credit cards may not work smoothly. When opting for on-site payment, be sure to check if you can pay with cash (in KRW) or international cards and whether any extra fees apply.

Refund and Cancellation Policies

As previously mentioned, flights may be canceled last minute or travel plans could change for personal reasons. To avoid penalties, know the refund period and cancellation policy in advance. Many companies offer full refunds if canceled 24 hours ahead, 50% for 12 hours, and no refund for cancellations within 6 hours. Always read the terms specific to each provider.

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Conclusion: Small Details That Make a Big Difference

Booking an airport pickup involves many variables. Misreporting your flight arrival time or gate can delay your meeting, and omitting luggage or passenger information can cause vehicle mismatches. If there’s no reliable contact method, dealing with delays becomes even harder. That’s why the key to a smooth and stress-free airport pickup lies in carefully reviewing and submitting all essential details to the provider in advance.

To recap our “Common Mistakes to Avoid When Booking Airport Pickup” checklist: verify your flight, terminal, and gate thoroughly; provide contact methods (calls and messengers); clarify your luggage and passenger count; estimate a realistic arrival time; and review payment and refund terms. Taking the time for this process, even if tedious, will help you avoid awkward situations such as “Where’s the driver?” or “I can’t fit all my luggage in the car.”

If this is your first visit to Korea or your first time using a pickup service, be sure to consult this checklist. In a busy airport environment where small mistakes can cause big inconveniences, careful planning is the first step to an enjoyable trip.

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Traveling often ends as simply touring and sightseeing. However, if you get the chance to interact with locals, taste their culture, and exchange unique stories, your journey will become far more enriching. In line with this growing trend, experiences like “social dining” and “local cooking classes” are gaining popularity. The act of cooking and sharing delicious meals naturally leads to conversations and bonding, offering a deeper understanding of the local food culture. In this post, we’ll explore what makes social dining and cooking classes so special, and how you can take part in them.

The Concept and Charm of Social Dining

Social dining literally means “a gathering where people connect over a meal.” It’s common for strangers to come together, introduce themselves, and enjoy a meal while chatting in a relaxed setting. Sometimes the host will open up their home, while other times the event is held in a shared kitchen space where participants cook together. These gatherings often go beyond one-time encounters and create opportunities for genuine friendships — locals and travelers mingling in a pleasant, inclusive atmosphere.

Although food is the medium, the real essence of social dining lies in “building human connections.” For foreign travelers, it becomes a precious chance to enjoy authentic Korean home-cooked meals. For the host, it’s a joyful experience to share their culture through conversation. Even with language barriers, the food on the table and shared laughter act as a bridge. As people share their favorite dishes or travel stories, the initial awkwardness fades away, and meaningful connections start to blossom.

Cooking Classes: Creating Local Dishes Together

Cooking classes are similar to social dining but place more emphasis on the process of “cooking together.” For example, participants may cook traditional Korean dishes like bulgogi or bibimbap under the guidance of a host or chef, learning about ingredients, recipes, and tips along the way. Some experiences even start with a visit to a local market to purchase fresh ingredients, ending with everyone sitting down together to enjoy the meal they’ve prepared.

There are many advantages to this kind of experience. Conversation flows naturally while chopping vegetables or marinating ingredients. Participants often exchange personal tastes, compare seasoning styles between countries, and share cooking stories. The satisfaction of enjoying food you’ve cooked with your own hands lingers longer compared to just eating a pre-made dish. Food, in this context, becomes not just a way to fill your stomach, but a rich means of sharing emotions and culture.

Where to Find Them: Platforms and Local Communities

If you’re interested in participating in social dining or cooking classes, it’s now easier than ever thanks to online platforms and social networks. Popular travel communities, local experience booking platforms, or Facebook groups run by residents frequently post event details. Some cities have well-developed expat communities, where locals and foreign residents often gather and even invite travelers to join them.

In major Korean cities like Seoul, Busan, or Jeju, many cooking classes and social dining events offer English support, making it easy for non-Korean speakers to join. If your travel schedule allows, try booking one of these experiences in advance. Look into details like time, location, and theme — whether it’s a traditional home-cooked meal, a night market tour followed by cooking, vegetarian dishes, or dessert classes — and pick one that suits your interests best.

What to Expect: Scenes and Joyful Conversations

When invited to a social dining experience, you might walk into a cozy home where the host greets you warmly and a bubbling pot of doenjang-jjigae (soybean paste stew) is brewing in the kitchen. There may be a hint of initial awkwardness, but the aroma of food quickly puts everyone at ease. Simple questions like “Where are you from?” or “What kind of food do you like?” soon evolve into talks about daily life, travel plans, or hobbies. Conversations about K-dramas or K-pop often spark even more laughter and bonding moments.

In cooking classes, teamwork naturally develops when preparing ingredients or seasoning dishes. As you clean scallions or add spoonfuls of gochujang (red chili paste), people often exchange stories about their national cuisine or family food traditions. When the kimchi stew turns out just right, cheers erupt. If something’s too salty or bland, everyone laughs while adjusting the seasoning together. These experiences often lead to surprisingly deep exchanges and help participants understand cultural differences through food.

A Memory Beyond Travel

Relationships built through social dining and cooking classes can last much longer than expected. Even after the trip ends, many stay connected through social media and make plans to reunite in another country. A single meal can turn into a lasting bond and serve as a cultural bridge — that’s the unique power of shared culinary experiences. On top of that, such gatherings are an excellent way to receive useful local tips from residents. You might learn about hidden gems or local events, transforming an average itinerary into something truly special.

For foreigners, it’s a chance to dive deeper into Korean culture. For Koreans acting as hosts, it’s a source of pride and joy to introduce traditional dishes. When both sides show curiosity and respect, the brief moment shared over food truly sparkles like magic.

In Conclusion: Friendships Born Over Food

Social dining and cooking classes open the door to the heart through the act of making and sharing food. Unlike flashy media or museum exhibits, they offer a hands-on opportunity to feel the warmth of Korean cuisine and the human connection it brings. Realizing that even with different backgrounds and nationalities, people can become friends over a delicious meal, reminds us how diverse and kind the world can be.

Even if your travel itinerary is full, consider setting aside a day or even half a day to join a social dining gathering or a cooking class. Amid unfamiliar ingredients and the warm hospitality of new acquaintances, you’ll gain a firsthand encounter with Korean food culture and leave with unforgettable memories and a smile on your face. Ultimately, these experiences bring to life the idea that “food is a universal language that transcends borders and words.”

WeBring Service : Provides personalized services to foreigners living in Korea
Exclusive offer: Introducing foreign car rental in Korea, WeBring-SoCar

Academics are undoubtedly the most crucial aspect of studying abroad. However, purchasing brand new textbooks and reference materials for every course can be quite costly—not to mention the lack of space to store all those books. Fortunately, Korean universities offer well-equipped libraries, easy access to a vast array of online resources, and cost-effective alternatives such as second-hand bookstores and e-books. In this post, we’ll break down how international students can save on textbook expenses by effectively utilizing the campus library, discovering tips for reducing the cost of study abroad textbooks, and making smart use of e-books and second-hand materials.

1) Features of University Libraries

University libraries in Korea go beyond simply lending and reading books; they also offer facilities such as study rooms, computer labs, and lounges. From academic research materials to novels, magazines, and thesis databases, the range is vast. For international students, borrowing textbooks or accessing academic journals via online research databases can significantly reduce costs without needing to make purchases.

Some university libraries even operate 24-hour reading rooms for late-night study sessions and offer amenities like lockers, rest areas, and cafes. Entry usually requires a student ID card (or a mobile student ID), which is also needed for book borrowing. Be careful not to lose it!

2) Library Usage Tips

Understand the Borrowing Rules

Each university may have different borrowing limits and durations for undergraduates, graduate students, and international students. For instance, undergrads may be allowed “five books for two weeks,” while graduate students may borrow “ten books for a month.” Knowing the rules, such as how to renew, reserve, or compensate for lost books, will make your library experience smoother.

Electronic Resources and Databases

Many libraries subscribe to premium academic databases like Elsevier and JSTOR, as well as e-book services. Students can access these for free, making it possible to read academic journals and English-language articles without incurring extra costs. Learn which databases are available through the library website or help desk, then connect via VPN or school Wi-Fi to search papers and articles effectively.

Study Room Reservations

If you’re working on a group project or conducting a study meeting, you can reserve a small study room in the library. Reservations are typically made via the library’s website or app, and you can use the room for 2 to 3 hours at a time. International students can gather their teammates in these rooms for English-Korean mix discussions, utilizing large monitors or whiteboards to share and organize ideas collaboratively.

3) How to Save on Textbook Purchases

New textbooks can be especially expensive for international students—importing them from your home country is difficult and buying original versions in Korea can be challenging. Here are some ways to cut down on costs:

1. Used bookstores and online platforms: Around university districts like Seoul National Univ. of Education Station and Sinchon, there are second-hand bookstores, and online markets like Aladin Used, Yes24 Used, and Danggeun Market offer books at a fraction of the cost.
2. Buying from senior students: Department bulletin boards or community groups often have listings that say “Selling textbook for this course.” Buying directly from seniors allows you to save a lot on course materials.
3. Library book requests: If a required textbook is not available in the library, some schools allow students to request the library to purchase and stock the book. If it’s an expensive title, this option saves you the purchase cost while giving you access to the book via loan.

4) Using E-books and PDFs

Some courses offer electronic versions of textbooks, which are far cheaper than printed ones—especially via platforms like Amazon Kindle. They’re also easier to carry since they don’t add weight to your bag. However, Korean-language textbooks may still be limited in e-book format, so this is more viable for English-language titles.

Professors also sometimes provide lecture materials or article excerpts in PDF format. Legal download sites also offer access to academic documents. Be aware that illegal PDF copies or scans of entire textbooks violate copyright laws. Some print shops offer full copies of exam prep books, but these practices are legally questionable and should be avoided.

5) Tips for Buying Used Textbooks

When buying second-hand books, make sure to check the condition—look for notes, tears, or page discoloration. Underlines and comments from former students can be helpful, but messy annotations may cause distraction. Also, be careful not to accidentally purchase outdated editions; some courses require the most recent updates, so confirm the edition with the syllabus or professor beforehand.

For safer transactions, use secure platforms like Danggeun Market or Bunjang (Lightning Market), or meet in person if possible. Used book prices typically range from 30% to 70% of the original cost, but rare textbooks may be priced higher. Always compare current market prices.

6) External Libraries: Local Libraries and the National Library of Korea

If your university library doesn’t have a certain book, consider checking out local public libraries or the National Library of Korea (located in Banpo, Seoul). This library houses a massive collection, including many foreign language books, making it an invaluable resource for international students. However, borrowing materials can involve complex procedures, so check how to register in advance on their website.

Additionally, you can use online portals like RISS (Research Information Sharing Service) or KISS (Korean studies Information Service System) to search resources across university libraries nationwide. You can request copies or interlibrary loans—there may be a small fee, but it’s a great way to access rare academic materials for research and thesis writing.

7) Study Groups and Sharing Materials

Sharing textbooks or prep books with classmates taking the same course is another way to cut costs. Form a study group and split the cost by each buying a different book and rotating them among members. Some professors offer course materials as PDFs on the LMS platform, completely replacing the need to buy the textbook.

For international students, collaborating with Korean students or peers from other countries can help share resources and reduce individual costs while enhancing language and teamwork skills. If several people buy one book together, be cautious about loss or damage and coordinate schedules, especially during exam season.

8) On-Campus Copy and Print Facilities

Libraries and student centers typically have copy rooms or PC rooms equipped with printers and copy machines. You can print or copy documents for about 40–50 KRW per A4 page, often cheaper than off-campus shops. Printing portions of an e-book or PDF can aid your studies, but excessive copying may violate copyright laws.

It’s generally illegal to copy an entire book inside the library. Korean copyright law prohibits duplication beyond a certain percentage of a publication. Some professors will tell you which parts you are allowed to copy, so always follow these guidelines and use these facilities responsibly.

9) For Graduate Students: Labs and Academic Journals

Graduate students often don’t need to buy every book individually, as their advisors or labs may share resources. Common bookshelves usually contain core textbooks, academic journals, and presentation materials. Ask your advisor or senior, “May I borrow research materials from the lab’s collection?” and be sure to handle everything respectfully and return it promptly.

Additionally, becoming a member of a professional society allows you to purchase journals or conference proceedings at discounted rates and access online archives. International students can benefit from visiting the websites of academic associations (e.g., Korean Economic Association, Linguistic Society of Korea) to take advantage of the resources they offer.

10) Conclusion

For international students studying in Korea, managing textbooks and learning resources efficiently is vital for academic success. Thankfully, Korea has excellent university library systems, second-hand book markets, e-book options, and study groups that help you save money while maintaining study quality. Make full use of library functions and explore alternatives like used bookstores or e-books to reduce your textbook expenses.

Instead of buying all textbooks as new books at the beginning of the semester, evaluate the course content first and buy only what’s truly necessary—or submit purchase requests to the library. Since there are many ways to spend money during your study abroad—like travel and activities—you’ll benefit from saving on textbooks and enjoying a broader range of experiences. With smart use of library resources and second-hand markets, you can reduce tuition burdens and enrich your study-abroad journey in Korea.

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