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One of the most important things to consider when starting your student life in Korea is, “Where will I live?” While many students opt for studio apartments or dormitories, a uniquely Korean housing option called the “hasukjip” (boarding house) continues to be a steady choice. A hasukjip typically offers both a living space and meals, giving it a “home-like” atmosphere that sets it apart from hotels or guesthouses. In this article, we will explore the cultural background of hasukjip, its pros and cons, real-life experiences, and whether or not meals are provided.

1) What is a Hasukjip?

A hasukjip is usually a private home or multi-room dwelling where the owner (commonly referred to as “hasukjip ajumma” or landlady) rents out rooms and provides meals. In the past, Korean university students often turned to hasukjip accommodations when commuting was not feasible or living alone was burdensome. Although studio apartments and dormitories are now more common, it’s still not unusual to see signs saying “boarding students wanted” in university neighborhoods.

Typically, each room houses one or sometimes two to three students, and common areas such as the kitchen or living room are shared. Most hasukjips follow the “meal-included” model, where the landlord prepares meals—commonly breakfast and dinner. However, there are hasukjip/studio hybrids that do not provide meals, so it’s important to confirm details in advance.

2) Cultural Background of Hasukjip

Korea’s hasukjip culture traditionally emphasizes the idea of “taking care of students from far away and creating a family-like atmosphere.” This is why the term “hasukjip ajumma” feels familiar—these women commonly start hosting after their own children have grown, offering students not only meals but also support in everyday life. From a student’s perspective, this meant daily home-cooked meals and a sense of community that helped alleviate loneliness.

For foreign students, hasukjip provides the perfect opportunity to experience authentic Korean home-style meals and culture. Daily meals become a natural gateway to learning table manners and language expressions, and chatting with the landlady or other boarders can help students adapt more easily to life in Korea.

3) Real-Life Experiences Living in a Hasukjip

One international student shared their initial concern about the possibility of limited privacy. However, once they began living in a hasukjip, they quickly bonded with fellow boarders, exchanging useful information over breakfast. Speaking Korean during mealtimes helped improve their language skills significantly, and watching TV with other residents in the shared living room became an enjoyable way to discuss cultural differences.

Of course, the atmosphere varies by house. Some are strict, with curfews after 11 PM or rules requiring notification if you skip breakfast. Others are more relaxed—especially if run by younger couples or households with diverse family structures, allowing for a more friendly, peer-like environment. It’s crucial to clarify the house rules and atmosphere before signing any agreement.

4) Meal Provision and Menu

One of the defining features of hasukjip living is “meal provision.” Typically, breakfast and dinner are included, while lunch is handled independently—usually on campus or outside. Meals are generally served Korean home-style with rice, soup, kimchi, and a variety of side dishes. For foreign students, eating Korean food daily can be exciting at first, but some may find it difficult to adjust. If you have dietary restrictions (e.g., vegetarian, halal, allergies), it’s essential to discuss these in advance.

Occasionally, the landlady may prepare Western dishes like pasta, but more often you’ll see staples like kimchi stew, soybean paste stew, stir-fried kimchi, bulgogi, or grilled fish. If certain meals are to your liking, satisfaction runs high. If not, it’s okay to request modifications, like “less spicy” or report food allergies. Most landladies are receptive to students’ needs and try to accommodate them appropriately.

5) Pros and Cons Comparison

The biggest advantages of living in a hasukjip are the reduced burden of meal preparation and cleaning. Breakfast and dinner are taken care of by the landlord, and basic cleaning of rooms and communal areas is often included. Getting along well with the owner or other residents can provide helpful support for both study and everyday life. Many students appreciate the emotional warmth of a “home-like” atmosphere.

On the downside, many hasukjips are older homes rather than modern facilities like dorms or share houses, resulting in cramped or outdated bathrooms and kitchens. Freedom is also more limited compared to a studio apartment. Some landlords restrict entrance times, with rules like missing a meal if you’re late or showing displeasure if frequent overnight absences occur. It’s essential to think carefully about whether your lifestyle matches a hasukjip environment.

6) Contract and Cost

Hasukjip costs vary greatly depending on location, facilities, and number of meals offered. In central university areas, prices often range from 500,000 to 600,000 KRW per month, but can be under 400,000 KRW farther from campus. Costs are heavily influenced by meal inclusion and frequency, so be sure to clarify this during the contract process.

Most hasukjips either require no deposit or a minimal one, with the general rule being an upfront payment of the first month’s fee or a small contractual deposit. Agreements are usually informal verbal arrangements or simple documents, but key clauses—such as meal frequency, possibility of room changes, or curfew rules—should be clearly stated in writing. For international students, it’s important to ensure smooth communication with the owner, either in English or basic Korean.

7) Relationship with the Hasukjip Owner

The most crucial aspect of hasukjip life is the relationship with the landlord (ajumma or sajangnim). While these figures once played a parental role in students’ daily lives, the current trend is toward respecting personal privacy. Still, if you maintain basic etiquette—such as greeting properly, being on time for meals, and reporting room issues promptly—relationships generally remain smooth.

International students may find landlords asking “Do you like the food?” or “Are you doing your laundry okay?” This is usually out of care rather than control. If you’re looking to quickly overcome language and cultural barriers, casually chatting with your host can help improve your Korean and enhance your immersion in local life.

8) Checklist When Choosing a Hasukjip

When looking for a hasukjip, you can gather information through real estate agents, online communities, or university bulletin boards. Before visiting, call in advance to ask about meal offerings, monthly fees, curfew rules, and whether bathrooms are shared. When visiting, assess the condition of the room (moisture, mold), shared spaces (cleanliness, kitchen facilities), internet access, and heating or cooling systems.

Double-check details about the meals. If you’re vegetarian or restricted by religion from eating certain foods, be sure to ask whether the owner can accommodate your needs. This is especially critical for those with allergies. If the hasukjip cannot meet your dietary requirements, it’s better to look elsewhere.

9) Hasukjip vs. Other Housing Options

If you’re considering a hasukjip, it’s wise to compare it with dormitories, studio apartments, and share houses. Dormitories are affordable and conveniently located on campus but often don’t include meals and may have curfews. Studio apartments allow the most privacy but require handling all meals and chores yourself. Share houses offer freedom with shared spaces but generally do not include meals.

Hasukjips shine in “meal provision” and “emotional support” but may lack freedom. Your decision should depend on how independent you want to be and how much time you’re willing to dedicate to cooking or cleaning.

10) Conclusion: Finding the Right Hasukjip for You

Hasukjip is a long-standing housing tradition in Korean university culture. For foreign students, it offers a unique chance to experience Korean home-cooked meals and everyday life, serving also as a safety net during their studies. However, as not all hasukjips are the same, it’s vital to speak thoroughly with the owner and visit in person to get a feel for the environment.

If living in a hasukjip suits your personality and lifestyle, you can enjoy warm, homemade meals without worrying about cooking, while easily adjusting to life in Korea. And the memories with the landlady or fellow residents might become one of the most cherished parts of your study abroad journey. Be sure to match your choice with your lifestyle, budget, and expectations for your Korean experience, and don’t hesitate to consider a hasukjip as a meaningful option.

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When people think of Korean food, dishes like kimchi, bulgogi, and bibimbap often come to mind. However, among these, “temple cuisine,” rooted in Buddhist traditions, holds a unique and profound appeal. Temple cuisine refrains from using meat and either excludes or greatly minimizes the use of five pungent vegetables (green onions, garlic, leeks, chives, and onions), respecting the natural flavors and aromas of the ingredients. As wellness, health, and healing have become increasingly important to modern people, temple cuisine is gaining attention. Many foreign tourists also seek to try this style of Korean food, saying, “I’d like to experience vegetarian and vegan-friendly Korean food.” In this article, we’ll explore how temple cuisine developed, its unique characteristics, and how you can enjoy it yourself.

The Relationship Between Buddhist Philosophy and Temple Cuisine

Temple cuisine embodies the principles and beliefs of Buddhism. Based on the precept of non-violence (Ahimsa), it avoids meat, and instead of strong, stimulating flavors, it aims to bring out the pure taste of natural ingredients. The avoidance of the five pungent vegetables originates from the Buddhist view that their strong taste and aroma can disturb one’s meditation and mindfulness. Despite these dietary restrictions, Korean temple food has evolved to create “subtle yet profound flavors” by using a rich variety of ingredients and cooking techniques.

Since ancient times, monks have prepared meals using vegetables grown around the temple, crops from their gardens, and wild greens from nearby mountains. Seasonal herbs and wild vegetables are often used, and fermented foods like pickles, kimchi, soybean paste (doenjang), and chili paste (gochujang) have been developed for long-term storage. As a result, temple cuisine has evolved into a healthy and balanced diet with moderate seasoning and the deep complexity of fermentation and aging.

Representative Dishes in Temple Cuisine

Temple cuisine generally uses minimal seasoning to preserve the ingredients’ natural taste. One of the most iconic dishes is “Sanchae Bibimbap” (vegetable bibimbap). In temples, a variety of mountain greens are cleaned and prepared either as seasoned or stir-fried side dishes, then placed on top of steamed rice and lightly mixed with a sauce. The colors and aromas of each vegetable blend harmoniously, offering complex flavors even without any meat.

“Tofu dishes” are another commonly seen feature of temple cuisine. Tofu captures the essence of soybeans and becomes a hearty meal when combined with pickled vegetables and fermented sauces. Interestingly, even without using pungent aromatic vegetables like garlic or scallions, temples create umami-rich flavors using ingredients like perilla seeds, mushrooms, and nuts. Temple food, created from nature’s bounty, reflects a deep belief that food prepared in this way is truly nourishing for both body and mind.

Health and Healing Perspectives

Temple cuisine is far more than just vegetarian food. Cooking techniques are typically simple, and artificial additives are avoided, allowing the ingredients’ natural colors and flavors to shine while keeping calorie and cholesterol levels low. By incorporating the benefits of traditional Korean fermentation, temple cuisine is believed to support gut health and boost the immune system. Some studies even suggest that regular consumption of temple food can aid in weight management and prevent lifestyle diseases.

Most importantly, the “attitude toward food” makes temple cuisine culturally unique. From the moment ingredients are cleaned and prepared, everything is done with care and respect, avoiding waste or extravagance. During community meals (offering meals), participants are encouraged to eat with gratitude and not leave leftovers. This mindful approach to food resonates with many modern people, connecting with the concept of “mindfulness” and offering not just nourishment but mental wellness as well.

Temple Cuisine Experience Programs

In South Korea, you can find various programs where you can directly experience and even cook temple cuisine yourself. Some temples offer these experiences in tandem with “Temple Stay” programs, where participants can learn about cooking temple food, make fermented sauces, or prepare vegetables. In cities, many temple cuisine restaurants and cooking classes are available, making it easy for foreigners to book and participate.

Typical dishes taught during such programs include seasoned mountain greens, temple-style bibimbap, and braised lotus root. Some classes introduce traditional cooking tools and real fermented sauces, enhancing immersion in the serene atmosphere of hanok (traditional Korean houses). At the end of the class, participants often dine together, sharing and evaluating the food they made. The tips and camaraderie gained from these interactions become another rewarding part of the experience.

Tips for Visiting Temple Cuisine Restaurants

Temple cuisine restaurants are often found in quiet alleys or near temples rather than in bustling city centers. Their menus exclude all meat and seafood, making them ideal for vegetarians and vegans. However, as some dishes may still contain mild forms of the five pungent ingredients, those seeking 100% vegan meals should confirm details in advance. With the rising interest from international visitors, many places now offer English menus or staff who can provide explanations in English, so communication is rarely an issue.

Some restaurants offer multi-course set meals featuring various vegetable dishes, stews, rice, and desserts served in order. While the price point is slightly higher than regular Korean restaurants, diners often find the elegant plating, carefully selected ingredients, and unique preparation techniques well worth it. Especially for travelers accompanied by foreign guests, these meals are often recommended as “a special way to experience traditional Korean Buddhist food culture.”

Conclusion: Finding Balance for Body and Mind at the Table

Temple cuisine is a refined dining culture born from meditation and spiritual practice. As a form of “slow food” that harmonizes with nature, it creates nourishing and wholesome meals using the ingredients’ natural flavors, without excessive seasoning. More than just food, the ethos of gratitude and mindful consumption speaks to people in today’s fast-paced world. As health and healing become central themes in modern life, temple cuisine is emerging not merely as a cultural remnant but as a contemporary lifestyle for wellness, accessible to both Koreans and international visitors alike.

If you’re traveling in Korea and looking for a unique dining experience, we highly recommend visiting a temple cuisine restaurant or joining a cooking program. The subtle broth, refreshing seasoned greens, and savory fermented sides show how fulfilling a meal can be without meat. Along the way, you’ll likely reflect on your eating habits and approach to life, gaining a rare opportunity to restore balance to both body and mind.

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If you’ve come to study in Korea, you’ll need to manage various financial matters such as living expenses, tuition payments, and receiving part-time job wages. To handle these transactions smoothly, having a Korean bank account is essential — it allows you to receive and spend money conveniently and make all kinds of payments with ease. However, at first, you might wonder, “As a foreigner, how do I open a bank account? What documents do I need? Which bank should I choose?” In this article, we’ll walk you through the process of opening a foreign student bank account in Korea, along with important considerations and services offered by different banks.

1) Why Is a Bank Account Important?

First, students often receive tuition or living expenses from their home country, and having a Korean bank account allows for more secure and affordable currency exchange and international transfers. Second, to pay monthly rent, shop online, or use mobile payment services like KakaoPay, a bank account is necessary. Third, to receive wages from part-time jobs or scholarship funds, many institutions require a local bank account — making it virtually essential for student life in Korea.

2) Required Documents and Identification

To open a bank account in Korea as a foreign student, you’ll typically need the following documents:

• Alien Registration Card (ARC) or passport
• Certificate of Enrollment or proof of student status (requirements vary by bank)
• Korean contact information and proof of address (housing contract, dormitory papers, etc.)

Most major banks in Korea have English-language brochures and counters dedicated to assisting foreigners. Some banks may allow account opening with just a passport and temporary stay documents if you’ve been in the country less than 90 days and haven’t received your ARC yet, but others may not — so be sure to check policies in advance.

3) Choosing the Right Bank

Major Korean banks include KB Kookmin Bank, Shinhan Bank, Woori Bank, Hana Bank, and NongHyup Bank, many of which offer services and products tailored to foreigners. For example, Shinhan Bank operates “Global Desks” at major Seoul branches with English, Chinese, and Vietnamese-speaking staff, while Hana Bank provides specialized services for foreign exchange and international transfers.

As an international student, it’s smart to choose a bank with multiple branches near your school and convenient ATM access. Compare ATM fees, overseas transfer charges, and mobile banking language support to make an informed decision. Also, check if your school requires you to pay tuition through a designated bank — some universities only accept tuition payments to certain bank accounts.

4) Preparation and Account Opening Process

Before visiting a bank branch, it’s best to confirm the exact documents required for foreigners through the bank’s website or customer service. Generally, a passport and ARC are required, and some banks also ask for proof of student status (e.g., certificate of enrollment). Having your residence address prepared in both Korean and English will make the application process smoother.

At the branch, take a queue number and wait for your turn. Once called, inform the staff that you’d like to open a bank account. You’ll then complete an application form noting your name, nationality, contact information, occupation (student), and account usage (salary, tuition, living expenses, etc.), and sign the form. If you’re not fluent in Korean, you can request an English-speaking staff member or use translation devices that some banks provide.

5) Account Types: Basic and Time Deposit Accounts

The first account international students typically open is a regular deposit account (checking/savings). You can deposit and withdraw money daily and use a debit card for ATM withdrawals and payments. The interest rate is minimal, but it’s convenient for everyday use. If you have a lump sum to set aside for a longer period, you may consider fixed or installment savings products. Foreigners can open these accounts just like Korean citizens, though considerations such as length of stay or visa duration may apply.

If you plan to stay long-term or you’ve accumulated savings from part-time jobs or scholarships, ask your bank about products offering better interest rates or favorable currency exchange benefits.

6) Debit Card Issuance

When you open a bank account, you can also issue a debit card (check card), which deducts money directly from your account at convenience stores, supermarkets, and online shops — similar to a credit card. Most banks will issue a temporary or permanent card on the spot or have the official card delivered to your address within a few days or available for pick-up at the branch.

As a foreigner, getting a credit card may be more difficult due to credit checks, but a debit card usually has no such hurdles. If the card carries an international brand logo (Visa, MasterCard, UnionPay), you can even use it for overseas purchases and online payments. However, some foreign websites may not recognize debit cards issued to foreigners in Korea, so use them with awareness. Still, for most transactions in Korea, there are no issues at all.

7) Mobile Banking and OTP

Once your account and debit card are set up, downloading your bank’s mobile banking app (e.g., KB Star Banking, Shinhan SOL, Woori WON Banking) will make managing your money much easier. These apps allow you to transfer funds, check balances, and pay bills directly from your smartphone. You’ll need to register an OTP (One-Time Password) device, security card, or a digital certificate to use these services. While initial setup may take time, once done, it’s very convenient.

You might worry that the app won’t support English, but many banks offer English versions or provide basic English guidance within the app. If need be, tools like Google Translate can help you navigate the features.

8) International Money Transfers

There may be times when you need to receive money from your home country or send tuition or pocket money back home. In such cases, you’ll need to use the bank’s international remittance service. While you can visit a branch and fill out a money transfer request, you can also make transfers via internet or mobile banking (although certain requirements regarding ARC registration and limits might apply).

Each bank has different international transfer fees and exchange rate benefits. For example, Shinhan Bank and KEB Hana Bank are known for favorable terms on currency exchange and global transfers, and they often offer “global benefit” products or promotions. Also, services like TransferWise (Wise) can be used for international transfers, although connecting a Korean bank account may involve restrictions, so be sure to check the details carefully.

9) Using ATMs and Related Fees

After opening an account, you can deposit or withdraw cash using the bank’s ATMs. As an international student, you’ll likely use convenience store ATMs often, but be aware that they may charge extra fees when using a bank different from your own. For example, if you have a KB Kookmin Bank account and use a Seven Bank ATM at a CU convenience store, you may be charged 1,000 KRW per transaction. For lower fees, it’s better to use your own bank’s ATM.

Some ATMs don’t operate 24/7. If you need cash late at night, look for 365 corners or 24-hour ATMs. Note that additional nighttime charges may apply, so it’s wise to secure enough cash in advance. In case of lost cards or PIN issues, you’ll need to call customer service or revisit the branch — it’s helpful to know whether your bank offers foreign language support lines.

10) Conclusion

Having a local bank account in Korea simplifies many aspects of student life — from paying tuition, rent, and daily expenses to receiving part-time wages and making overseas transfers. Though the initial paperwork may seem complicated, once you open an account, it will serve you well until you return home. Choosing a bank with a designated foreigner-friendly counter or global desk can also lower language barriers and make the process stress-free.

Consider which branch location you’ll use most, how frequently you’ll make international transfers, and whether the bank supports English in its online services. With just a bit of preparation, securing a bank account early on will make everything — from paying utility bills, tuition, and rent to ordering food — much easier and more efficient during your stay in Korea.

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When a foreigner stays in Korea for an extended period, there often arises a need to send money back home to support family or transfer funds from an overseas account to Korea. In such cases, questions often come up, like: “Are the fees too high?”, “What exchange rate do I get?”, “Are there services other than banks that offer overseas remittance?”
Fortunately, Korea offers a variety of methods for international remittance Korea and currency exchange. From traditional bank transfers to fintech solutions and crypto-based exchange, innovative options continue to emerge. This article compiles essential information and helpful tips to ensure secure and cost-effective international transfers and currency conversions.

Traditional Bank Transfers: Reliability vs. Fees

The most familiar method is using a bank account to transfer funds overseas. By accurately inputting the recipient’s name, account number, SWIFT code (or IBAN), bank name, and branch name, you can send money either at a local bank branch or via a mobile banking app. The primary advantage is reliability. Since the transaction uses secure interbank international payment networks, the risk of funds getting lost is extremely low.
The downside is that fees can be considerable. You may end up paying a combination of domestic bank fees, intermediary bank fees, and recipient bank fees abroad. You can usually choose whether the sender or receiver covers the fees, and any exchange rate discounts can also significantly impact the total cost. In summary, traditional bank transfers are a safe and prompt option, but it may be wise to explore alternatives if minimizing fees is your priority.

Fintech Remittance Services: Hanpass, Wise, Remitalk & More

Recently, Hanpass has been gaining attention. As an innovative fintech company leading Korea’s foreign exchange market, Hanpass meets the needs of individual and corporate clients by offering various mobile-based services including international remittance, mobile payments, and PG (payment gateway) services. A key feature of Hanpass is its ability to send money to more than 200 countries, the most among domestic services. Hanpass is emerging as the standard for fast and affordable international transfers in Korea.

Launched in 2021, Hanpass’s international remittance reception service allows users to safely receive money sent from abroad. With its advanced technology, the sender only needs to know the recipient’s phone number and name, making the process much more convenient. Starting with a service launch in Australia, Hanpass plans to expand into North America, Southeast Asia, and Europe.

Additionally, fintech providers like Wise (formerly TransferWise) are transforming the paradigm of global money transfers. Rather than actually moving money internationally, these services exchange local currencies between regions, reducing fee layers and speeding up transactions. For instance, when sending money from Korea to the U.S., the sender’s KRW is matched domestically with a USD reserve Wise already holds in the U.S., and it’s paid directly from that source.
This method offers clear benefits: transparent fees and fast processing. Wise’s app and website display upfront fees, exchange rates, and estimated delivery time—sometimes even enabling same-day transfers. However, there may be limitations on the amount you can send at one time, or the account setup may be a bit tedious. Not every currency or country is supported, so it’s essential to confirm if your destination is eligible before initiating a transfer.

Using Cryptocurrency for Currency Exchange: High Risk, High Reward?

Some individuals attempt to use cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin or Ethereum to move money across borders. A typical method would involve buying crypto in Korea with KRW, transferring it to a foreign exchange, and selling it for the local currency. In theory, this approach touts reduced transaction fees, speedy delivery, and immunity to traditional exchange rate fluctuations.
In reality, however, the high volatility of cryptocurrencies can lead to significant gains or losses during the transfer process. Additionally, differing government regulations can result in legal or tax issues. In Korea, signing up for a crypto exchange requires rigorous identity verification, and anti-money laundering (AML) rules are becoming stricter. Thus, unless you are well-informed and willing to bear the risks, it’s generally not recommended to use crypto as your remittance method.

Exchange Timing and Preferential Rates: Small Tips, Big Savings

When sending money abroad, exchange is often an unavoidable step, so the exchange rate and any discounts can significantly affect your costs. Korean banks frequently offer promotional events that provide preferential exchange rates. For example, a limited-time offer could grant up to an 80% fee discount when exchanging for USD, or a 50% discount if done through internet banking. Utilizing these can cut down your fees substantially.
Because exchange rates fluctuate constantly, timing your conversion carefully may help you get a better deal. While short-term exchange rate predictions are difficult, keeping an eye on monthly trends or reacting to global events can help. While the difference may not be huge for small transfers, frequent transactions can lead to considerable cumulative savings.

Linking with Mobile Payment & Remittance Apps

Apps like Toss, Kakao Pay, and Naver Pay now offer international remittance features. After linking your Korean bank account to recharge KRW or entering overseas account information, you can easily check exchange rates and fees within the app and initiate the transfer. The main advantages are user-friendly interfaces and less cumbersome identity verification processes.
However, each app may have restrictions on transfer limits and the supported countries or currencies. It’s important to compare their fees carefully with traditional banks. Some apps also provide promotional events or reward points, which can be beneficial if used wisely.

Legal Limits and Tax Reporting

Under Korea’s Foreign Exchange Transactions Act, individuals are required to report to the National Tax Service if they send or receive more than a certain amount overseas annually. Generally, if the total exceeds USD 50,000 in a year, the bank or financial institution becomes obligated to notify authorities. You should also check tax laws in your home country and any applicable double taxation agreements.
This is particularly important when remitting living expenses to family members, as it could potentially be considered a gift, raising concerns about gift taxes. Under typical circumstances, remitting modest amounts for education or living expenses is not problematic, but repeated large transfers could attract scrutiny. If you plan on sending significant funds regularly, it’s best to consult a tax expert or banking professional to ensure compliance with legal procedures.

Case Study: Mr. M’s Urgent Remittance to the U.S.

Mr. M, an American working in Korea, needed to urgently send USD 3,000 to the U.S. for a family medical emergency. While he initially considered using a traditional bank transfer, he was concerned about the high fees and processing time. After hearing recommendations about the fintech service Wise, he checked the exchange rate and fees using the app and found it significantly cheaper than bank rates—with same-day delivery as a bonus.
He transferred KRW equivalent to USD 3,000 from his Korean bank account into the app, entered the U.S. account details and recipient information, and the funds were successfully received within two days—at about half the cost compared to bank transfers. Although larger transfers might have required additional documentation, this amount went through smoothly. “It was comforting to know there’s a solid alternative in emergencies,” Mr. M said.

Conclusion: International Remittance Korea, Choose the Method That Best Suits You

For foreigners living long-term in Korea, international remittance and currency exchange are essential. With multiple options—from traditional banks, fintech apps, and cryptocurrencies to mobile payment services—it’s important to assess the pros and cons of each and pick the one that fits your needs. Your ideal choice depends on what you value most—security, low fees, speed, or convenience.
Also, don’t overlook legal limits and tax issues. Large annual sums may require bank reporting, and you could be liable for taxes either in your home country or Korea. Familiarize yourself with relevant regulations in advance and consult professionals when necessary to avoid any complications.

Ultimately, international remittance isn’t just about moving money—it’s a vital link between your life in Korea and your home country. Whether it’s sending living expenses to parents or family, or bringing overseas assets into Korea for business or property investments, having transparent and cost-effective methods helps you protect your assets and minimize currency loss or fees.

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For international students newly arriving in Korea, the Korea subway map may look like a bewildering spider web. Major cities like Seoul, Busan, Daegu, Gwangju, and Daejeon each have several interconnected subway and urban rail lines, which can be overwhelming at first glance. However, once you get the hang of it, the subway becomes a highly efficient mode of transportation—not just for commuting or attending school, but also for weekend travel. In this post, we’ll cover how to better understand subway maps, tips for finding the quickest routes, and how to navigate transfer stations without getting lost.

1) Using Subway Map Apps and Guides

Gone are the days when people carried paper subway maps. Today, smartphone apps make it significantly easier to navigate. Popular apps like “KakaoMap,” “Naver Map,” “Seoul Metro App,” and “Subway Navi (하철이)” allow users to input a starting station and a destination to instantly get the optimal route, estimated travel time, and number of transfers. These apps even provide real-time information about train schedules and delays, which is a huge plus.

If you prefer a quick visual reference, you can also check the paper maps available at each station or view the wall signs posted inside. Although the lines may initially seem overwhelming, you’ll soon become familiar with the system as you regularly use specific routes, helping you grasp the overall layout naturally over time.

2) Understanding the Structure of Seoul’s Subway System

Seoul’s subway consists of nine main lines (Lines 1–9), alongside additional lines like the Shinbundang Line, Gyeongui-Jungang Line, and Airport Railroad (AREX). Key transfer stations include Seoul Station (Lines 1 & 4, KTX), Yongsan Station (Gyeongui-Jungang Line, Shinbundang Line), Wangsimni (Lines 2, 5, and the Bundang Line), Express Bus Terminal (Lines 3, 7, and 9), and Sindorim (Lines 1 and 2). By understanding the network around these key transfer hubs, it’s easier to comprehend the subway’s overall structure.

For instance, Line 2 is a prominent circle line that loops through central Seoul, while Line 1 functions as a regional (metropolitan) line extending to Incheon, Suwon, Cheonan, and other areas. Line 9 connects with AREX and offers quick access from western regions like Gangseo to Gangnam. Rather than trying to memorize all the lines at once, it’s much more efficient to first familiarize yourself with those relevant to your frequently visited areas.

3) Subway Systems in Busan, Daegu, Gwangju, and Daejeon

Outside the Seoul metropolitan area, cities such as Busan, Daegu, Gwangju, and Daejeon also operate urban rail systems. Although they have fewer lines than Seoul, the subway remains a fast and convenient way to get around. For example, Busan has Lines 1 to 4 and the Gimhae Light Rail, making it easy to travel to popular districts like Haeundae, Seomyeon, and Nampo via subway. Daegu operates Lines 1, 2, and 3, with Line 3 offering a unique monorail experience.

Gwangju and Daejeon currently each have just one line—Gwangju Line 1 and Daejeon Line 1—which connect their respective central areas. Many key destinations with heavy foot traffic are located near subway stations. Using the subway in combination with buses makes getting around these cities even more convenient.

4) How to Navigate Transfer Stations Without Getting Lost

Transfer stations are where multiple lines intersect, requiring passengers to walk through connecting corridors to switch trains. In Seoul, many of these corridors are long and complex—walking blindly through them may leave you confused and disoriented. To avoid this, pay close attention to the signage. Arrows labeled “Transfer to Line ○” are posted throughout stations, and following these cues usually leads you the right way.

Some subway apps also provide details on which train car to board to make your transfer easier. For instance, it may say “On Line 2 inbound, between cars 3 and 4 is closest to the Line 3 transfer corridor.” Knowing this in advance lets you choose your boarding position wisely, shortening the physical distance during transfer and saving time.

5) Finding the Fastest Route: Minimal Transfers vs. Shortest Time

When searching for subway routes, you might notice that “Minimal Transfers” and “Shortest Time” options provide different paths. The former has fewer transfers, making it more comfortable but possibly slower, whereas the latter is faster but may involve multiple transfers, which can be inconvenient. If you’re carrying heavy luggage or dislike switching lines, go with Minimal Transfers. But if you’re commuting during busy hours and speed matters, the Shortest Time route may be the better choice—even with extra transfers.

Some lines also offer express trains. For example, Line 9 and the Bundang Line have express services that skip certain stations, cutting down travel time significantly. However, pay attention—boarding the wrong express train could cause you to miss your stop, so always verify whether you’re on an express or regular service.

6) Avoiding Rush Hour Crowds

Seoul and the surrounding regions experience extreme subway crowding during weekday rush hours (7–9 AM and 6–8 PM). During this time, trains are so packed that it can be difficult to move or even use your phone. If possible, avoid these hours, or at least learn to identify the less crowded train cars.

As an international student, adjusting your class schedule slightly can help. For example, arriving on campus an hour earlier to study in the library, or leaving a bit later, may help you avoid peak congestion. On weekends, trains through central Seoul may be crowded with tourists, so plan accordingly if you want to avoid busy areas.

7) Lost and Found Services and Safety Guidelines

It’s not uncommon to lose items like bags or phones on the subway. In such cases, contact the Lost and Found department operated by the relevant transit authority. For Seoul: Lines 1–8 are managed by Seoul Metro, Line 9 by Seoul Metro Line 9 (a private operator), and lines like Bundang, Gyeongui-Jungang, and AREX by Korail or respective agencies. You can inquire in person or by calling the station office.

In terms of safety, platform screen doors (PSDs) are generally in place, offering protection. However, during busy times, it’s important to be mindful of pushing and overcrowding. Also, practice basic manners: give up priority seats for the elderly or pregnant passengers, be cautious on stairs and escalators, and watch your step on crowded platforms.

8) Connecting Trains and Subways for Intercity Travel

Beyond the greater Seoul area, many regional cities operate subways or are accessible via high-speed trains like KTX and SRT. For instance, you can take a KTX train from Seoul Station to Busan Station, then transfer to Busan Line 1 to reach Seomyeon or Haeundae. This kind of rail-subway connection shortens travel itineraries and also helps save on transportation costs.

In addition, most cities offer partial fare discounts for transferring between subways and city buses using a transportation card. Be sure to review the local transfer policy of each city, as rules may vary slightly from place to place for a smoother travel experience.

9) How to Respond to Emergency Situations

While rare, emergency situations can occur—such as train malfunctions, delays, or sudden incidents. In these cases, always listen to the station or on-board announcements and follow instructions to move to a safe area. If a train stops inside a tunnel, do not attempt to open the doors or step onto the tracks. Korea’s subway system has thorough safety measures and guidance systems in place, so staying calm and following directions usually ensures a safe resolution.

If your train is delayed due to transfer errors or unexpected issues, check your subway app for alternative routes, or consider switching to a bus or taxi for part of the journey. In some instances, buses may even be faster than the subway, so it pays to compare options.

10) Conclusion

Korea’s subway system is known for its vast and interconnected networks. Though it may appear confusing at first, frequent use will help you become familiar with the station names and line structures, making city navigation easier. Plus, transfer discounts via transportation cards provide major cost savings. By using apps and understanding the layout of transfer stations and train schedules, you can move about confidently without the fear of getting lost.

Whether you’re staying in Seoul or exploring other cities like Busan, Daegu, Gwangju, or Daejeon, the subway plays a critical role in student life. Planning weekend trips with KTX or SRT and learning local subway routes will let you discover Korea comfortably and economically. Mastering the subway system is a key step toward expanding your experience of life in Korea.

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