Living in Korea as a Foreigner: Essential Preparations and Things to Be Aware Of

Living in Korea as a foreigner can be an exciting and enriching experience, but it also comes with challenges. To ensure a smooth transition, it's essential to prepare in advance and understand Korean culture and society. This guide will cover what you need to prepare before coming to Korea and things to be aware of while living here.

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1. Essential Preparations Before Moving to Korea

1) Visa and Residence Permit

A valid visa is required to stay in Korea. Depending on your purpose, there are different visa types:

D-2 (Student Visa): For university or graduate school students

E-2 (Teaching Visa): For foreign language instructors

H-1 (Working Holiday Visa): Allows work and travel for eligible countries

F-6 (Marriage Visa): For those married to a Korean national


Make sure to apply for a visa before entering Korea, and remember that you must extend it before expiration to avoid legal issues.

2) Finding a Place to Live

Housing options vary in Korea, and foreigners can choose from:

✅ Goshiwon: Cheap but small rooms, often with shared bathrooms
✅ Officetels: Studio apartments with higher rent but better facilities
✅ Share houses: Living with other foreigners, great for networking
✅ Real estate agents: Help with rental contracts, but be sure to check lease terms carefully

Unlike many other countries, Korea has a deposit-based rental system, and long-term leases often require a large deposit (key money).

3) Opening a Bank Account & Financial Services

A bank account makes it easier to receive salary, pay bills, and use debit cards.

Required documents: passport, foreign registration card, proof of employment or student ID

Popular banks for foreigners: KB Kookmin Bank, Shinhan Bank, Woori Bank, KEB Hana Bank

After opening an account, getting a debit card is recommended for everyday transactions


For international money transfers, services like Wise, Remitly, or traditional bank wire transfers can be useful.

4) Mobile Phone & Internet

Korea has one of the fastest internet speeds in the world, but getting a mobile plan can be tricky for foreigners.

✅ Prepaid SIM cards: Easy to get but can be expensive
✅ Postpaid plans: Require a bank account or credit card but are more cost-effective
✅ Major carriers: SKT, KT, LG U+ (cheaper alternatives: MVNO providers)

While free Wi-Fi is widely available, be cautious when using public networks to protect personal information.

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2. Things to Be Aware Of When Living in Korea

1) Importance of Korean Language Skills

While English is spoken in some areas, basic Korean knowledge is essential for daily life.

In places like restaurants, banks, and hospitals, Korean is commonly used

Navigation apps like KakaoMap and Naver Maps are Korean-based

Recommended apps for learning Korean: Talk To Me In Korean, Duolingo, Papago


2) Korean Culture & Etiquette

✅ Age and Honorifics: Age plays a significant role in social interactions, and using formal speech (존댓말) is important
✅ Business Card Culture: In professional settings, always accept business cards with both hands
✅ Dining Etiquette: Use chopsticks and spoons correctly, and avoid eating before older people

3) Food & Health Management

Korean food is delicious but can be challenging for foreigners due to its spiciness and fermented ingredients (e.g., kimchi, cheonggukjang).

Start with mild dishes and gradually try spicier options

Korea’s healthcare system is efficient, but medical costs can be high without insurance

Major international hospitals (Samsung Medical Center, Severance Hospital) offer English-speaking services


4) Common Daily Life Challenges

✅ Public Etiquette: Talking loudly on public transport is frowned upon
✅ Recycling Rules: Korea has strict recycling laws, and special garbage bags are required
✅ Subway Seat Etiquette: Senior citizen seats should always be kept available

5) Workplace Culture Considerations

The Korean work environment can be quite different, with unique cultural aspects:

Overtime Culture: Late working hours are common, but foreigners should set work-life balance boundaries

Company Dinners (Hoesik, 회식): Attending social gatherings with colleagues is often expected

Hierarchy & Respect: Understanding workplace hierarchy is crucial when addressing seniors and colleagues

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3. Tips for Enjoying Life in Korea

✅ Make Korean Friends: Great for practicing language skills and understanding local culture
✅ Enjoy K-Culture (K-POP, Dramas, Movies): Immersing yourself in Korean entertainment helps with cultural adaptation
✅ Travel Around Korea: Visit cities like Busan, Jeonju, and Jeju Island for unique experiences
✅ Join International Communities: Use platforms like Meetup or Facebook groups to connect with other expats

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4. Conclusion

Living in Korea is both an exciting adventure and a learning experience. With the right preparations and an open mind, you can enjoy a smooth and fulfilling life in Korea.

Now, go out and make the most of your time in Korea! 🚀