Living in Korea

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.”

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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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If you’re working or starting a business in South Korea, you’ll notice various deductions every month in your payslip. These typically include Korean taxes like income tax and resident tax, along with the “four major insurances”—National Pension, Health Insurance, Employment Insurance, and Industrial Accident Compensation Insurance. For foreigners, it’s natural to wonder, “Why are there so many deductions?” or “Where does all this money go?”

However, with a bit of understanding, it becomes clear how these taxes and insurances play a crucial role in Korean society and why payment is mandatory. Taxes, after all, are essential not only in Korea but in any country for stable governance. Similarly, the four types of insurance serve as a vital safety net in unforeseen circumstances. In this article, we’ll break down the basics of income tax, resident tax, and the four major social insurances you’ll encounter while living and working in Korea.

Income Tax: Where There’s Income, There’s Tax

The most fundamental tax is income tax. In Korea, income is taxed across various categories including earned income, business income, and financial income like interest or dividends. For most office workers, monthly salaries or annual wages fall under “earned income.” Companies calculate the income tax due on payday, deduct it at the source (withholding tax), and submit it to the National Tax Service.

Korean income tax is based on a progressive tax rate, meaning the more you earn, the higher the tax rate. Rates start at around 6% and can go as high as 45% depending on your annual taxable income. However, actual tax liability may be reduced through various deductions and tax credits. Foreigners earning income in Korea are also subject to Korean income tax laws, though double taxation may be avoided or reduced if there is a tax treaty in place between Korea and their home country.

Resident Tax: A Small Portion for Local Governments

Resident tax is calculated as a percentage of your income tax payable. In Korea, it’s generally about 10% of your income tax amount. For example, if 100,000 KRW is deducted as income tax in a month, an additional 10,000 KRW would be taken out as resident tax.
This tax is collected by local municipal governments (cities, counties, or districts) and is used to fund regional welfare and city infrastructure. On your payslip, resident tax may be listed separately or bundled with income tax. For most employees, this tax is automatically deducted at source, so there’s usually no need for concern or additional action.

Overview of the Four Major Insurances: National Pension, Health Insurance, Employment Insurance, and Industrial Accident Insurance

While income tax and resident tax are classified as taxes paid to the central or local government, the four major insurances are essentially types of social insurance. To protect workers and strengthen Korea’s social safety net, participation in the four major insurances is mandated by law. Thus, if you’re employed and receive a monthly salary, a portion of it will be automatically deducted for these insurances.

National Pension: Preparing for Old Age

The National Pension is Korea’s public retirement system. If you contribute for a certain period (typically 10 years or more), you’ll receive monthly pension payments after retirement. For employees, about 9% of their monthly salary is contributed, with the cost split equally between employee and employer. These funds are pooled and invested to generate returns used for future pension obligations.

Foreign employees living in Korea are generally required to enroll in the National Pension. If Korea has a bilateral Social Security Agreement with your home country, your contribution periods may be combined, or you may be eligible for a lump-sum refund when returning home based on specific conditions. These details vary by country, so it’s best to check based on your nationality.

Health Insurance: Reducing Medical Expenses

Korea’s national health insurance system significantly lowers medical expenses when visiting hospitals or pharmacies. Employees pay approximately 7–8% of their salary as premiums, split evenly between employee and employer. As a result, out-of-pocket costs for medical visits, hospitalizations, and prescriptions are greatly reduced. The insurance is also extremely helpful in the event of serious illness or cancer care.
Foreigners working full-time and living in Korea long-term are automatically enrolled in health insurance. In the past, it wasn’t mandatory or easy for foreigners to enroll in the regional plan, but now long-term residents are required to enroll after a certain stay duration. Once registered, a health insurance card allows access to discounted healthcare services at hospitals and clinics.

Employment Insurance: Support for Unemployment, Maternity, and Parental Leave

Employment insurance is a social insurance that provides support when you can’t work due to unemployment, childbirth, or childcare responsibilities. A major benefit is the unemployment allowance (or job-seeking benefit), which provides financial support when you lose your job involuntarily and actively search for a new one. It also covers benefits during maternity leave and parental leave.

If a foreign employee is enrolled in employment insurance, they may become eligible for these benefits if certain conditions (minimum contribution period, visa status, reason for termination) are met. However, if your visa expires during your benefits eligibility period, complications may arise—so it helps to have a long-term visa. Premiums are shared between employee and employer and are relatively low compared to other insurance types.

Industrial Accident Compensation Insurance: Coverage for Work-Related Accidents

Industrial accident insurance provides compensation for medical expenses, disability, or lost wages if an employee is injured, falls ill, or suffers an accident while performing job duties. This is the only insurance among the four that is fully paid for by the employer, with no deductions made from employees’ wages.
In Korea, this insurance covers all industries—not just high-risk jobs like construction—so even office workers are eligible. If a work accident occurs, employees (including foreigners) can receive aid from the Korea Workers’ Compensation and Welfare Service. This insurance is a critical safeguard for employees’ well-being and medical cost relief.

Year-End Tax Settlement: Refunding Excess Deductions

Although income tax is deducted monthly, the final amount owed is determined during the year-end tax settlement. In this process, employers collect supporting documentation (medical bills, tuition fees, charitable donations, insurance premiums, etc.) from employees and report them to the National Tax Service. A recalculation is made, and in January or February of the following year, employees may either receive a refund or pay additional tax. Foreign employees go through the same process and can enjoy tax credits, for example through donation deductions, if they qualify.

What if you resign mid-year or switch to another company? In such cases, a mid-year settlement or filing of a comprehensive income tax return in May of the following year is required. If you’re planning to leave Korea right after resignation, it’s advisable to settle your tax affairs before departure. Understanding the year-end settlement system can reduce your tax burden, so organizing receipts and records in advance is beneficial.

Case Study: How German Employee Mr. U Experienced Korean Taxes and Social Insurances

Mr. U, a German national working at a Korean IT startup, was puzzled every time he saw his payslip. “Why is so much deducted—income tax, resident tax, National Pension, Health Insurance, Employment Insurance?” he wondered. After asking colleagues, he learned that these deductions were all legally mandated taxes and insurance contributions. Curious, he asked his HR representative for a detailed explanation and realized that these weren’t just deductions—they were protective systems for his future.

Thanks to health insurance, he could significantly reduce medical expenses. Employment insurance offered benefits like unemployment assistance and parental leave. The National Pension was a solid resource for retirement planning. During the year-end tax settlement, he submitted receipts for his medical bills in Korea and received a small refund. Though unfamiliar, the structured system gave him peace of mind.

Conclusion: Korean Taxes and Social Insurances Provide Stability for Life in Korea

Income tax, resident tax, and the four major insurances apply to everyone in Korea—including foreigners. At first, it might feel frustrating to see large deductions from your salary, but these systems are important pillars in Korean society and function as personal safety nets. In the face of unexpected events like illness, accidents, or job loss, health insurance, employment insurance, and accident insurance can be powerful sources of support. The National Pension ensures a stable retirement.

Accurate tax payments also contribute to maintaining Korea’s public services and secure your status as a legal resident and worker. Most importantly, once you understand these systems, you’ll find tax return filing, visa extensions, or even handling taxes when moving overseas much easier. If you plan to build a long-term career in Korea, understanding and utilizing these systems effectively is essential.
Taxes might feel burdensome, but when paid with knowledge and foresight, they provide you with protection and assurance as a member of society—regardless of your nationality. Don’t hesitate to seek help from your HR department or a tax professional to better understand Korea’s system. Doing so can make your life in Korea much more stable and comfortable.

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If you’re an international student staying in South Korea for an extended period, it’s essential to understand the healthcare and insurance systems. Without insurance, medical bills can become a significant financial burden if you unexpectedly fall ill or have an accident. Fortunately, the Korean government mandates or recommends enrollment in the National Health Insurance Service (NHIS) for international students who meet certain eligibility criteria, allowing access to medical services at relatively low costs. In this article, we’ll delve into Korea’s national health insurance system, important things to note when visiting a hospital, as well as health checkups, providing an overall understanding of the medical system that international students should be aware of.

1) Overview of National Health Insurance (NHIS)

South Korea operates a public health insurance system called the National Health Insurance. Most Korean citizens and some foreign nationals (long-term residents) are required by law to enroll and pay a monthly premium. In return, a large portion of the cost of hospital visits, such as outpatient treatment and prescription medications, is subsidized under the insurance plan.

International students who stay in Korea for six months or more are considered “long-term foreign residents” and are required to enroll in NHIS by law (although this may change, so it’s best to check the latest information). Premiums are calculated based on income or assets, and students are usually offered a special discounted rate.

2) Enrollment Process

Once you have your Alien Registration Card and your stay in Korea exceeds six months, you become eligible for NHIS. Typically, after receiving your Alien Registration Card from the Immigration Office, you’ll either receive a guide from the National Health Insurance Corporation or you can directly contact them at 1577-1000 to confirm your enrollment. Many schools also provide orientation or assistance in this process through their international offices.

After enrollment, you’ll receive a monthly bill for your insurance premium. These premiums can be paid via bank transfer, at convenience stores, or with a credit card. If you miss a payment, you may lose your benefits when visiting a hospital, and prolonged payment delinquency might affect visa extensions, so it’s important to stay up to date.

3) Basic Guidelines for Using Hospitals

In Korea, medical institutions are broadly divided into primary (local clinics), secondary (general hospitals), and tertiary (university hospitals) care levels. For minor illnesses like colds, local clinics are the most convenient. For major surgeries or advanced tests, university hospitals are appropriate. With NHIS coverage, a significant portion of medical expenses is discounted, though special treatments, certain materials, and non-covered services may still cost more.

During your first hospital visit, present your “NHIS card” or Alien Registration Card at the reception desk to register your patient information (these days, instead of using a physical card, your insurance status can be verified via your resident or registration number). After selecting your department, you’ll receive a medical consultation, and if a prescription is issued, you can purchase medications at a pharmacy. If you have difficulty communicating, consider visiting hospitals with English-speaking doctors or using a Global Help Center service.

4) Utilizing Public Health Centers and Campus Health Clinics

As an international student, you can make use of public health centers operated by each district or your university’s student health center. Public health centers often provide vaccinations, health screenings, and basic treatment at very low or no cost. When in need of tuberculosis or hepatitis shots, or when it’s time for periodic national cancer screenings, they will guide you accordingly.

Some universities operate their own student health centers, offering basic consultations, first aid, and minor treatments. Services such as cold medication, wound care, and vitamin injections may be available, and some centers have resident doctors, making treatments inexpensive or even free. For chronic diseases or major surgeries, outside hospitals are necessary, but minor health issues may be economically handled on campus.

5) Dental, Eye, and Mental Health Services

In addition to general medical care, dental, ophthalmic, and psychiatric services tend to be more expensive. Even with NHIS, many procedures—such as prosthetics, implants, lenses, and counseling sessions—fall under non-covered categories. So much so that many international students are advised to complete dental treatment in their home country due to the high costs. Still, some dental procedures are partially covered, so consult with the clinic to confirm expenses.

For mental health care, services like counseling and psychological tests are often not covered, but some areas might be. Many universities offer free counseling through student centers, so if you’re experiencing stress or emotional challenges, start with on-campus resources.

6) Health Checkup System

In Korea, people over 40 are eligible for government-subsidized free health screenings. While most international students may not qualify due to age, long-term students who meet certain requirements (such as a minimum time after NHIS enrollment) may be eligible for general health checkups. If you’re unsure, check your eligibility on the National Health Insurance Corporation’s website.

If eligible, you can receive blood tests, urinalysis, X-rays, and basic physical exams at assigned hospitals either for free or at a reduced rate. Early detection from these checkups can help uncover and treat hidden conditions in advance.

7) Comparison with Private Insurance

In addition to NHIS, you may also opt for private international student insurance. Some countries recommend insurance from their homeland or suggest international policies upon arrival in Korea. Private insurance may reimburse actual medical expenses, but may not cover full amounts or specific conditions such as dental or psychiatric care. Therefore, some students choose to maintain both NHIS and private insurance, while others pick only one.

If your school offers group insurance for international students, carefully review its pros and cons. Understand what medical situations it covers and whether the paperwork is complicated. If you cannot opt out of NHIS, you may consider customizing your private plan to avoid overlapping coverage and keep premiums low.

8) Using Pharmacies and Medications

Prescription drugs like antibiotics and blood pressure medications require a doctor’s consultation and a valid prescription, which you can then take to a pharmacy. Thanks to NHIS, prescription drug costs are significantly lowered. On the other hand, over-the-counter medications like Tylenol or digestive aids are available without a prescription at pharmacies, but keep in mind that in Korea, even common cold remedies and painkillers are rarely sold in convenience stores, so finding a pharmacy is essential.

International students may find that some familiar medications from their home country are unavailable in Korea. It’s a good idea to bring an appropriate amount of personal medication, though excessive quantities or controlled substances can be restricted at customs—so check carefully. Near your school, if you ask a pharmacist, “Can I use health insurance here?”, they’ll likely explain that it only applies for prescription drugs with a valid script.

9) Communication and Translation Support

At some clinics, the doctor or nurse may not speak any English. In such cases, it’s helpful to write down basic medical terms such as symptoms, pain location, and medical history, or use a translation app. Larger hospitals, like university medical centers, often have international clinics or interpreter coordinators who can assist in English, Chinese, Japanese, etc. When making an appointment, ask whether English interpretation is available.

However, in smaller local clinics, English support may be limited. Prepare a few simple Korean sentences describing your symptoms in advance, and be ready to use gestures when the doctor asks, “Where does it hurt?”. To avoid these challenges, check international student communities online for recommendations on foreigner-friendly hospitals.

10) NHIS for international students, Conclusion

Health and insurance issues are an inevitable part of the international student experience, whether it’s a simple cold or a medical emergency—so being prepared is essential. Joining the Korean National Health Insurance can significantly reduce your medical expenses, and services for international patients are gradually expanding, so there’s no need to worry. Understanding basic procedures such as doctor appointments, prescription issuance, and pharmacy use can help you smoothly navigate Korea’s unfamiliar healthcare system.

Moreover, maintaining a healthy lifestyle through regular health checkups, adequate rest, and exercise is key to a successful study abroad experience. Falling sick in a foreign country can take a financial and emotional toll, so preventive care is crucial. By learning about NHIS, smart hospital visits, and communication strategies, you’ll be equipped for a safe and healthy stay as an international student in Korea.

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