Korean Holidays: A Comprehensive Guide for Foreigners

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Korean Holidays: A Comprehensive Guide for Foreigners

Like many countries around the world, South Korea has a variety of Korean holidays and national celebrations that offer a glimpse into its culture and traditions. These holidays play an important role in the lives of Koreans, and they provide a great opportunity for foreigners to understand and experience Korean culture. In this article, we’ll introduce you to some of the major holidays in Korea, and learn more about their cultural significance and characteristics. Check out the fourth installment of the Complete Guide to Living in Korea for Foreigners, Korean Holidays and National Holidays: A Comprehensive Guide for Foreigners.

Korean Holiday: Lunar New Year (Seollal)

Lunar New Year(Seollal) is one of the most important traditional holidays in South Korea, celebrating the first day of the lunar New Year. This is why the Korean calendar uses both lunar and solar dates, not just the one we’re used to: January 1 falls on the first day of the lunar year, so the date changes every year based on the solar calendar. In order to celebrate the holiday, South Korea has designated the day before, the day of, and the day after Lunar New Year as official public holidays. Many stores and restaurants may be closed during this time, so foreigners traveling or living in Korea should consider this in advance.

Korean Holidays: A Comprehensive Guide for Foreigners

Features and traditions

  • Family gatherings: Koreans have a tradition of spending time with their families and paying their respects to their ancestors.
  • New Year’s food: Koreans celebrate the New Year by eating tteokguk. Eating tteokguk means that you will live another year.
tteokguk
tteokguk

Cultural implications

  • New Year’s wishes: Koreans greet each other on Lunar New Year’s Day and share their wishes for the new year.
  • Traditional games: Koreans get into the spirit of the holiday by playing traditional games such as yut, jumping rope, and flying kites.

Korean Holiday: Chuseok

Chuseok is the Korean fall harvest holiday, also known as Hangawi. Chuseok falls on August 15th of the lunar calendar, which is between September and October on the Gregorian calendar, but the date changes every year. Along with Lunar New Year, it is one of the most important holidays in South Korea. Like Lunar New Year, Chuseok is celebrated on the day before Chuseok, the day of Chuseok, and the day after Chuseok. As with Lunar New Year, shops and restaurants may be closed on Chuseok, so it’s a good idea to plan ahead if you’re traveling during this time.

Features and traditions

  • Harvest thanksgiving: Chuseok celebrates the bounty of the harvest season.
  • Turns and graves: Families gather to give thanks to their ancestors and visit graves.

Cultural activities

  • Make songpyeon: Songpyeon is a traditional Chuseok food. Making songpyeon with your family is an important holiday activity.
songpyeon
songpyeon
  • Folk games: Traditional folk games such as kangangsulae and tug of war are typical Chuseok activities.

Korean Holidays

In addition, South Korea has a variety of public holidays. If a holiday falls on a weekday, it’s good to know that all companies and schools are closed. In addition, there are occasional special sharing days. For example, presidential and parliamentary election days are also irregular sharing days.

  • January 1: The start of the Chinese New Year
  • Samhain Festival (March 1, lunar calendar): Commemorates the mass independence movement that began on March 1, 1919, and spread across the country, demanding independence during the Japanese occupation.
  • Buddha’s Birthday (April 8, Lunar calendar): The day Shakyamuni Buddha was born.
  • Children’s Day (May 5): Celebrated to honor children’s humanity and promote their well-being
  • Memorial Day (June 6): A day to honor those who gave their lives for their country, including those who died in the Korean War.
  • Liberation Day (Aug. 15): Aug. 15, 1945, when Korea gained its independence from Japanese occupation.
  • Gaecheon Festival (October 3): Commemorates the founding of the Korean nation by the founding fathers. Gacheon means the day the sky opened.
  • Hangeul Day (October 9): A day set aside to commemorate King Sejong’s introduction of Hangeul and to encourage the study and dissemination of Hangeul.
  • Christmas (December 25): The day Jesus Christ was born.
  • Sunday
  • Temporary holidays: Days set aside by the government for reasons such as elections, public holidays, and overlapping holidays.

Korean holidays and national celebrations reflect important aspects of Korean culture and help foreigners understand Korean traditions and modern life. We hope these days will help you experience Korean life and culture and enrich your life in Korea.

Korean Currency: A Practical Guide for Foreigners

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Understanding Korean Money: A Practical Guide for Foreigners

Korean Currency: A Practical Guide for Foreigners. For foreigners visiting South Korea or planning an extended stay, an understanding of the country’s monetary system is essential. If you’re traveling to South Korea for a short period of time, you’re expected to use the country’s currency just like you would in any other foreign country, but if you’re planning a longer stay, you’ll need to become more familiar with it and how to use it.

Of course, financial transactions in a new country can sometimes be complicated and difficult, and a basic knowledge of the local currency can greatly simplify the process. In this article, we’ll introduce you to the types of Korean currency, how to use them, and helpful tips to make financial transactions in South Korea more accessible to foreigners. Check out the third installment of The Complete Guide to Living in Korea for Foreigner – equals, Money in South Korea: A Practical Guide for Foreigner, for very basic currency information.

Korean Currency: A Practical Guide for Foreigners
Korean Currency: A Practical Guide for Foreigners

Basics of Korean currency

The basic unit of currency in South Korea is the won (₩). Currency consists of banknotes and coins, each with a different denomination.

Bills

  • Face value: 50,000 won, 1,000,000 won, 5,000,000 won, and 1,000,000 won bills are used. The value of 1,000 won is similar to the value of a US dollar. As of January 2024, 1350 won = 1$.
  • Design: Each bill features famous South Korean figures and cultural symbols, and comes in different colors and sizes. Compared to the size of the US dollar, South Korean bills are slightly larger. The 50,000 won bill has Sinsa Imdang at 154mm * 68mm, the 10,000 won bill has King Sejong the Great at 148mm * 68mm, the 5,000 won bill has Yi Yi at 142mm * 68mm, and the 1,000 won bill has Yi Hwang at 136mm * 68mm.

Coins

  • There are coins of face value: 500 won, 100 won, 50 won, and 10 won. These are actually the four most common coins, although there are also 5 and 1 won coins.
  • Use: They are mostly used for small transactions and are given as change in most stores. You can use bills and get paid in coins as change if you’re buying something.

Top tips for using Korean currency

Cash and cards

  • The ubiquity of card use: Credit cards are widely accepted in most shops, restaurants, and cafes. Visa, MasterCard, and American Express are commonly accepted. South Korea has more credit card penetration than any other country in the world, and most stores accept credit cards. Be aware that there are some shops that only accept credit cards without cash.
  • Need for cash: While credit cards are ubiquitous, there are some places that only accept cash. In general, traditional markets, some small shops, and street vendors prefer to use cash.

Currency exchange and ATMs

  • Use a currency exchange: Currency exchange offices are located at airports, major tourist destinations, and shopping centers and are open during normal business hours.
  • Use an ATM: ATMs are available at banks and convenience stores to withdraw cash. Most ATMs offer English-language instructions. Banks are usually open from 9 to 4, but ATMs are available 24 hours a day.

Microtransactions

  • Utilize coins: You can use coins for small transactions, such as bus fares, public phones, and vending machines.
  • Change: When making small purchases, you’ll receive change if you don’t pay the exact amount.

Money tips and tricks

Beware of fake Korean currency

  • Identify fake currency: Fake currency is very rare in South Korea, but you should be cautious when using high denomination bills. Highly counterfeited 5,000 won, 10,000 won, and 50,000 won bills have a hologram on the front that displays a map of the Korean Peninsula, a taegeuk pattern, and a four-legged stool depending on the angle of view. The serial number has also been changed from Hangul+numbers to Roman+numbers to facilitate investigations when counterfeit bills are found overseas. The map of the Korean Peninsula also shows Dokdo Island alongside Ulleungdo Island.

Understanding South Korea’s monetary system is an important first step for foreigners to get a better start on life in South Korea. We hope this guide will give you the information you need about financial transactions in South Korea and help you be financially proactive in your new environment.

Korea Weather: A Seasonal Guide for Foreigners

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Korea Weather: A Seasonal Guide for Foreigners

Korea Weather: A Seasonal Guide for Foreigners. While most countries have their own unique weather, Korea has four distinct seasons, each with its own charm and weather characteristics. This makes for a very different experience for foreigners coming from, for example, a desert country or a country with a tropical climate, where there is only one type of weather.

However, having four distinct seasons also means that you need to be prepared for all of them when you’re in Korea, so if you’re planning to visit or stay for an extended period of time, it’s important to be prepared for the seasonal weather changes. This guide will introduce you to the weather characteristics of each season in Korea and what you need to prepare for, making it easier for foreigners to adapt to the country’s climate. The Complete Guide to Living in Korea for Expats Check out our third article, The Complete Guide to Living in Korea for foreigners, for very basic information.

Weather in South Korea: A Seasonal Guide for Foreigners

Korea Weather: Spring (March – May)

Spring is one of the most beautiful seasons in South Korea, with warm and pleasant weather. Many Koreans love spring because it’s the best time to be alive.

Korea Weather Features

  • Mild climate: Winter’s chill is gone and warmer weather is here. Statistics show that the average temperature in spring is 12.8°C as of 2021.
  • Flowering season: Cherry blossoms and forsythia are in full bloom, and spring flower festivals are held everywhere. The cherry blossom festivals, especially around the beginning of April, offer a truly spectacular sight.

Preparation

  • Light coat: Since we’ve moved from winter to spring, it can be chilly in the mornings and evenings, so bring a light jacket or cardigan.
  • Prepare for allergies: Spring brings lots of flowers in bloom and lots of pollen. If you’re allergic to pollen, it’s a good idea to have antihistamines on hand. At the very least, bring a mask if you’re allergic.

Korea Weather: Summer (June – August)

Summer in South Korea is characterized by hot and humid weather. In recent years, there have been many days with tropical nights (nighttime lows of 25°C or more) and high temperatures of 30°C or more during the day. Korea’s summer weather is characterized by high temperatures and high humidity due to the rainy season. While the high temperatures are not uncomfortable, the high humidity can make it difficult to stay healthy if you are not prepared for it. However, various summer activities are popular. There are many festivals and festivals where you can enjoy the outdoors.

Korea Weather Features

  • Hot and humid: Temperatures rise significantly, and the high humidity makes it feel muggy. As of 2021, the average summer temperature was 24.2°C.
  • Rainy season: The rainy season starts around mid-July and brings a lot of rain. It can be quite heavy at times, so we recommend avoiding outdoor activities during this time. Also, typhoons occasionally affect South Korea, so it’s a good idea to pay attention to the weather forecast in summer.

Preparation

  • Dress cool: Wear short sleeves, shorts, and lightweight clothing. If you’re outdoors, it can get very hot, so short clothes are fine, but please consider clothing that may offend others.
  • Umbrella and raincoat: It’s a good idea to carry an umbrella or raincoat in case of sudden rain.

Korea Weather: Fall (September – November)

Fall is known for its cooler weather and colorful foliage. Along with spring, it’s also one of the best seasons to live in – it’s a nice, crisp transition from summer to winter. The temperature is perfect for living, and you can easily see autumn colors and fallen leaves everywhere. However, due to the recent weather changes in Korea, there is a feeling that autumn is getting shorter and shorter. If you’re traveling to Korea, I recommend visiting in the fall as well as the spring to enjoy the outdoors.

Korea Weather Features

  • Cool and dry: The heat is gone and the weather is crisp, making it easy to dress light and enjoy whatever you’re doing indoors or out. As of 2021, the average temperature for fall weather is 14.9°C.
  • Fall foliage season: Mountains and parks offer beautiful fall foliage, especially in South Korea, where there are many mountains even close to cities, and many trees in the mountains show their colors at the same time. If you love the changing colors of nature, we recommend going hiking in Korea during this time of year.

Preparation

  • Dress for the cooler months: Long sleeves, thin sweaters, and light jackets are appropriate. When wearing a jacket, it’s also useful to wear short sleeves underneath to help regulate your body temperature, depending on the weather.
  • Take care of yourself: Drink plenty of water during dry weather, and consider using a moisturizer as the weather becomes increasingly dry.

Korea Weather: Winter (December – February)

Winters in South Korea can be very cold and sometimes snowy. Recently, the weather has been very cold and snowy, but you can still have a lot of fun in winter. There are various festivals that utilize ski slopes and frozen ice. If you are a foreigner from Southeast Asia or a desert climate, the cold of Korean winters can be hard to bear, so be sure to pack warm clothes and supplies.

Korea Weather Features

  • Cold temperatures: There are many days with temperatures below freezing, and some days with strong winds. As of 2021, the average winter temperature was 0.4°C.
  • Snowy season: There is a lot of snow, especially in the northern part of the country, and it’s a great time to go skiing and snowboarding. There are many famous ski resorts in Gangwon-do, so take note when planning your winter activities.

Preparation

  • Warm winter clothing: Bring a heavy coat, snowshoes, hat, and gloves, and consider wearing close-fitting clothing like underwear or leggings in the winter, as well as shirts and pants.
  • Thermal gear: A heating pad or hot pack can help in cold weather.

The weather in South Korea has a lot to offer in each season. We hope this guide will help foreigners enjoy the four seasons of Korea and make the right preparations for each season. Korea has four seasons, each with its own charming weather, even from a foreigner’s perspective. No matter when you visit Korea, you’re sure to find something different in each season.

A guide to getting started in Korea for foreigners

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A guide to getting started in Korea for foreigners

Living in Korea can be an exciting adventure for many foreigners, but it also presents a variety of challenges. Adapting to a new culture, language, and way of life may not be difficult for those who have lived abroad before, but proper preparation and information for an extended stay can make the process much easier. The following guide provides the minimum essential information and tips for expats starting life in South Korea. The Complete Guide to Living in Korea for Expats Check out our first article, The Complete Guide to Living in Korea for foreigners, for very basic information.

1. Basic understanding of Korea

If you’re considering moving to or staying in South Korea for an extended period of time, it’s important to have a basic understanding of the country’s culture, traditions, and language. South Korea is a country with a long history and rich culture, blending tradition and modernity.

Official country name

  • The official name of South Korea is the Republic of Korea, or “Korea” for short.

Location and area

  • Located on the Korean Peninsula in the northeastern part of the Asian continent, South Korea has an area of 100,188.1 km², or 45% of the total area of North and South Korea, including the Korean Peninsula and its annexes, of 221,000 km². The Korean Peninsula is slightly larger than Cambodia (181,035 km²) and about two-thirds the size of the Philippines (300,000 km²), Vietnam (331,210 km²), and Japan (377,915 km²). The Korean Peninsula, which encompasses North and South Korea, is bordered by China to the northwest by the Yalu River and to the northeast by the Tumen River, as well as by China and Russia. Surrounded on three sides by the sea, South Korea is bordered by the Yellow Sea to the west, the East Sea to the east, and the Nam Sea to the south. The southern and western parts of the peninsula are largely plains, while the eastern and northern parts are mountainous. The highest mountain on the peninsula is Mount Baekdusan (2,744 meters). The Gaema Plateau in the north is called the “Roof of Korea,” and the Taebaek Mountains, a mountain range that runs along the east coast of the peninsula, are also called the Baekdudaegan. Famous islands include Jeju Island, Geoje Island, Jindo Island, and Ulleung Island, which were formed by volcanic activity. The Hwanghae and South coasts are characterized by rias-style coasts, with large tidal differences (Source: Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, and Transport).
A guide to getting started in Korea for foreigners - Korea Map
A guide to getting started in Korea for foreigners – Korea Map

Population

  • South Korea has a total population of 51,780,579 (2020 Census, Statistics Korea), ranking 28th in the world, and a population density of 516 people/㎢ (MOLIT Cadastral and Statistical Yearbook, Statistics Korea Future Population Projections), ranking 23rd in the world.

Economy size

  • South Korea has a GDP of $1.8102 trillion, the 10th largest in the world, and a GDP per capita of $34,983.70 (Bank of Korea 2021).

Korean culture and traditions

  • A blend of tradition and modernity: South Korea is a country that blends traditional values with a modern way of life. Seoul is home to several historic palaces, including Gyeongbokgung Palace, and cities like Andong offer traditional villages to explore, allowing you to experience both a modern cityscape and a variety of cultural characteristics.
  • Holidays and events: Traditional holidays such as Lunar New Year and Chuseok, as well as regional festivals, are great opportunities to experience Korean culture. These events allow you to experience the importance of family, traditional food, and play.

English and Korean

  • The importance of language: South Korea is a country with its own language, Hangul. However, many South Koreans don’t feel much pressure to speak English, especially the younger generation, who speak English better than other Asian countries. However, if you’re planning to live in South Korea for an extended period of time, it’s very convenient if you can speak Korean. Being able to use Korean in basic situations such as everyday conversations, getting directions, and ordering food will make your life much easier. While many things are labeled in English, place names and such are often translated from Korean into English, so you’ll want to take that as a given.
  • Learn the basics: If you want to learn Korean, simple greetings, basic questions, and numbers are a good place to start. There are many resources available to help you learn basic Korean, including online materials, applications, and language exchange groups. We’ll cover these in more detail in another post.

2. Visas and residency permits

Obtaining the appropriate visa is essential to living in South Korea. Visa types vary depending on the purpose of your stay, so it’s important to choose the right one for your situation.

Visa types and requirements

  • Tourist/Short-stay visa: This is the right visa for you if you’re visiting South Korea for tourism or a short stay. You can get a visa waiver for tourism purposes from most countries.
  • Student visa: This visa is required if you are staying in South Korea for the purpose of studying and requires a letter of acceptance from your educational institution.
  • Work visa: If you want to work in South Korea, you will need to obtain a work visa, which requires an employment contract and sponsorship from your employer.

Residence permit process

  • Apply for a residence permit: After you arrive in Korea, you will need to register as a foreigner. You can do this by visiting your local immigration and alien affairs office or local government. Some administrative matters, such as the certificate of fact of domestic residence, will be explained in detail next.
  • Required documents: You may need a passport, visa, photo, proof of residency, and more; specific requirements may vary by visa type.

3. Find a listing

For short-term travelers, it’s common to stay in hotels or guesthouses, but if you’re planning to stay for at least a month, finding a place to stay is crucial to your stability in Korea. There are many different types of accommodations in Korea, and it’s important to understand the characteristics, advantages, and disadvantages of each.

Housing options

  • Studios and offices: These are small apartments, suitable for individuals or couples. They include a kitchen and bathroom, and may be partially furnished. They are the equivalent of studios in foreign countries.
  • Boarding houses and guesthouses: These are popular with students and short-term residents. Meals are often provided or you can use a communal kitchen.
  • Apartments: A great option for families or long-term residents, these units offer more space and more amenities.

Lease agreements

  • Contract type: South Korea has a unique subletting (Jeonse) system. However, for foreigners, renting is more familiar (paying a minimum deposit and then paying rent each month), and the Korean rental market has recently seen an increase in renting.
  • Contract process: Check the terms of the lease, the length of the contract, the security deposit, and the rent before signing. Before signing a lease, make sure you understand all the terms and conditions, and seek legal advice if necessary. As in many countries, it’s recommended that you sign a lease with a real estate agent in the middle, rather than directly with the landlord, for legal protection. Of course, you’ll pay a fee to the agent, but it’s recommended if you’re paying a large deposit, even if it’s for a sublet or a month-to-month rental. If the rental contract is not large, such as a short-term rental, it is possible to contract directly with the house owner.

4. Adapting to daily life

Everyday life in South Korea is full of new experiences and challenges. Here are some tips to make your life in Korea easier.

Public transportation

  • Convenient public transportation: South Korea’s public transportation system is one of the most convenient in the world, especially in the capital city of Seoul, where subways and buses connect all parts of the city, and transportation cards like T-Money make it easy to use.
  • Use transportation apps: There are a variety of apps that provide real-time traffic information and routes, such as Kakao Maps and Naver Maps. You can check the status of the subway, how long it will take to get from where you are to where you want to go, and if you’re on a bus, where your bus is.

5. Health and medical services

Staying healthy and accessing healthcare when needed is very important while living in South Korea. South Korea has a world-class healthcare system that is accessible and relatively affordable.

Understanding the healthcare system

  • National Health Insurance: Foreigners living or working in South Korea for a certain amount of time are eligible for National Health Insurance. This greatly reduces hospital costs.
  • General hospitals and neighborhood clinics: Large general hospitals provide specialized care, while neighborhood clinics provide simple checkups and prescriptions. We have an amazing system for accessing healthcare, which is quite fast compared to countries like the US.

Handling emergencies

  • Emergency services: In an emergency, you can call an ambulance by dialing 119. Most emergency rooms are open 24 hours a day.
  • Medical interpretation services: Some hospitals offer foreign language interpretation services. You can check with the hospital in advance or use the Medical Assistance Center for Foreigners.

6. Social and cultural activities

We encourage you to participate in social and cultural activities to enrich your life in Korea. Korea offers a wide variety of cultural experiences and activities, which can help you meet new people and gain a deeper understanding of Korean culture.

Build a social network

  • Local communities: Joining a local expat community or club can help you connect with people going through similar experiences. We’ll cover this in more detail later.
  • Language exchange groups: A great way to improve your Korean language skills and make friends with locals.

Cultural experiences

  • Traditional cultural experiences: Hanbok experience, traditional tea tasting, traditional Korean crafts, and more.
  • Attend events and festivals: Experience the colorful culture of Korea by attending local festivals, traditional holiday celebrations, K-pop concerts, and more.

7. Language learning

One of the most important aspects of living in Korea is language skills. Learning Korean is a great way to improve your communication skills and gain a deeper understanding of Korean culture. Here are some helpful tips and resources for learning Korean.

The importance of learning Korean

  • Daily life: Basic communication, directions, shopping, and ordering food rely heavily on Korean language skills.
  • Cultural understanding: Language plays an important role in understanding culture. By learning Korean, you can get closer to the culture and society of Korea.

How to learn Korean

  • Utilize online resources: You can learn basic grammar and vocabulary through a variety of online courses and applications (such as Duolingo).
  • Language Exchange Groups: You can practice your Korean in real life through language exchange with locals. This is a great way to improve your language skills and meet new friends at the same time.

Learning materials and tools

  • Books and training programs: You’ll have access to a variety of learning materials, including Korean language books and online courses.
  • Language schools: You can join regular or intensive courses offered by various language institutes in Korea. These courses offer structured learning.

Practicing language in everyday life

  • Practice everyday conversations: Try to have simple conversations in everyday settings, such as the store, bank, or cafe. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes, and try to say as much as possible.
  • Consume Korean media: Learn the language naturally by watching Korean dramas, movies, music, news, etc. It’s a fun and effective way to learn.

Starting a new life in South Korea can be challenging, but this guide will help you through the initial settling in and adjustment process. If you’re willing to engage with your new environment and keep an open mind, you’ll find that living in South Korea can be a rewarding experience. We’ll be covering more topics to help you get started in the future.

The Complete Guide to Living in Korea for Foreigner

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The Complete Guide to Living in South Korea for Expats

The Complete Guide to Living in Korea for Foreigner. With its unique culture, known as K-Culture, dynamic and safe city life, and rapidly advancing technology in everyday life, South Korea has become a destination for expats from all over the world. In this blog, I’ll be introducing the Complete Guide to Living in South Korea, which provides a wealth of information on what expats need to know about living in South Korea. This guide is designed for expats who are planning to stay in South Korea for an extended period of time, at least six months. Of course, even if you’re just visiting for a short period of time, you’ll still find plenty of information.

The Complete Guide to Living in Korea for Foreigner
The Complete Guide to Living in Korea for Foreigner

A foreigner guide to getting started living in Korea

Start with the basic information you need to know before you start living in Korea. We provide basic information about Korea, including the culture, language, and climate, as well as practical advice for getting started.

Korea Weather: A Seasonal Guide for Foreigners

Korea Weather: A Foreigner’s Guide to the Four Seasons. From spring to winter, here’s everything you need to know to understand and enjoy Korea’s four seasons.

Korean Currency: A Practical Guide for Foreigners

Money in South Korea: A practical guide for foreigners. A guide to using Korean currency for foreigners. Learn about the types of bills and coins, how to use them, and helpful tips to make your financial transactions in South Korea easier.

Korean Holidays: A Comprehensive Guide for Foreigners

Korean Holidays and Public Holidays: A Comprehensive Guide for Foreigners. A guide to Korean holidays and public holidays for foreigners. Gain a deeper understanding of Korean culture with information on the cultural meanings of Korean holidays, traditional events, and public holidays.

Foreigner housing, a guide to housing options for your stay in South Korea

Housing is one of the biggest concerns when living in Korea. We compare different housing options, including apartments, offices, and guesthouses, to help you make the best choice for your short-term stay.

Guide to Entering South Korea for Foreigners: Passport, Visa, and K-ETA Information

Guide to entering South Korea for foreigners: passport and visa information. A complete guide to passport and visa requirements for foreigners entering South Korea. Learn about visa-free countries and information, as well as the Electronic Travel Authorization (K-ETA).

Staying in Korea Long Term: Alien Registration Process and Required Documents

A guide to alien registration for foreigners staying in South Korea for 90 days or longer. Learn about the process, documents required, and what to look out for when registering as an alien.

Long-term stay in Korea: 4 procedures and reporting obligations

For foreigners planning to long-term stay in Korea for an extended period of time, we provide comprehensive information on extending your stay, changing your status of residence, authorizing activities outside your status of residence, re-entry permits, and reporting obligations.

Korea Housing Guide: Buying, Renting, and Leasing

Guide to Korea housing for foreigners. A detailed guide to the different housing options for foreigners in Korea, including buying, renting, subletting, and leasing, and what to look out for when signing a contract.

Opening a bank account in Korea: Start your financial journey

A detailed guide to opening a bank account in Korea. Opening a bank account is an essential first step for foreigners looking to live in Korea. In this article, we’ll walk you through the process of opening a bank account as a foreigner in Korea, the documents you’ll need, and some helpful tips to get you started on your financial journey.

The Ultimate Guide to Korean Public Transportation for Foreigners

The Ultimate Guide to Korean Public Transportation for Foreigners. Buses, subways, and taxis got you confused? From transportation cards to route maps and navigation apps! We’re revealing all the know-how for foreigners to utilize Korean public transportation.

How to navigate the Korean healthcare system for foreigners

Don’t panic if you get sick while traveling or staying in Korea! Here’s how to navigate the Korean healthcare system for international travelers. From how to access primary and tertiary care, emergency room guides, language communication tips, and medical tourism programs, this post will help you stay healthy in Korea.

Adapting to Korean culture: Essential tips for foreigners

South Korean culture is very unique and can be difficult to adapt to. This section provides tips to help you understand and adapt to cultural differences.

Learn Korean: Effective study methods and resources

Learning Korean is essential for life in Korea. Here are some effective ways to learn and useful study materials.

Socializing in Korea: An Expat’s Guide to Networking

Social networking is an important part of adjusting to a new environment. Learn about the different social gatherings and events you can find in South Korea.

Leisure in South Korea: Exploring culture, food, and entertainment

Explores how to make the most of your free time in South Korea. Includes cultural events, dining options, entertainment activities, and more.

Short-term living in Korea: Sharing experiences and advice

Expats who have already lived in Korea share their experiences and advice. Gain insight into life in Korea through real-life stories.

Accessing Financial Services in South Korea: A Foreigner’s Guide

Tips for foreigners on how to use financial services in South Korea, opening a bank account, currency exchange, and remittances.

How to use South Korea’s amenities: A quick guide for foreigners

It covers practical information on how to use various amenities, convenience stores, and public institutions in Korea.

Exploring South Korea’s Food Culture: A Foreigner’s Guide to Eating Out

From traditional to modern Korean cuisine, here’s an expat guide to exploring the country’s restaurants and food culture.

Experiencing Korean Holidays and Festivals: A Foreigner’s Guide

Learn about Korean holidays, traditional festivals, and modern ways to participate in events.

Educational Opportunities in Korea: Study Abroad and Short Courses

Provides information on language study opportunities, short-term training courses and workshops in Korea for foreigners.

Guide to Korean laws and regulations for foreigners

Provides legal information that foreigners need to know, including laws, regulations, and required legal procedures in Korea.

How to handle emergencies in South Korea: Tips for staying safe

Covers what to do in the event of an emergency, essential information and tips for staying safe.

A guide to using public services in South Korea

Guide to using public services, healthcare and education facilities, transportation systems, and more in South Korea.

Enjoy sports and outdoor activities in South Korea

Learn about sports facilities in South Korea and how to get involved in outdoor activities and sports, including hiking, biking, and more.

Explore South Korea’s shopping malls and markets

A guide to exploring South Korea’s large shopping malls, traditional markets, and unique shopping districts.

South Korea’s accommodation options for expats: From hotels to guesthouses

Learn about different lodging options in South Korea, booking tips, and things to keep in mind when staying.

Understanding South Korea’s transportation system: Choosing an effective mode of transportation.

Describe the transportation system in South Korea, how to use public transportation, and how to make effective travel choices.

Your guide to shopping for tech and electronics in South Korea

Electronics shopping tips, popular tech products, and electronics buying guides for South Korea.

Managing health and fitness in South Korea

It covers how to take care of your health in Korea, how to use fitness centers, and how to build a healthy lifestyle.

Understanding Traditional and Modern Korean Culture: Cultural Exploration for Foreigners

Understand Korea’s blend of traditional and modern culture, and introduce cultural experiences that foreigners can enjoy.

This anchor page provides all the information foreigners planning to live in Korea for six months need to know, and will help them get the most out of their stay and successfully adjust to life in Korea. The same can be said for foreigners who are visiting for a short stay or tourism, so check out the detailed pages of the articles you are interested in.