Buong Road: Everyday Korea

Everything You Need to Know to Schedule and Complete a Medical Checkup in Korea 1. Why Get a Health Checkup in Korea? Health checkups are affordable, quick, and highly detailed in Korea. Whether you're: Required by your visa or school Applying for certain jobs Monitoring your general health …it’s easy to get screened at clinics, hospitals, or specialized centers . 🩺 Korea offers both basic checkups and full-body diagnostics (검진 or 건강검진). 2. Where to Get a Checkup Options include: Public health centers (보건소) — For visa-related or simple checkups University hospitals — For premium packages and comprehensive tests Private health checkup centers — Fast service, English support often available 📍 Use Naver Map or Kakao Map and search: “건강검진 센터” (Health checkup center) “영어 가능 병원” (English-speaking clinic) 3. How to Book an Appointment Booking methods: Online via hospital website (some offer English pages) By phone — Ask if English-...

Your Foreigner-Friendly Navigation Guide for Korea’s Best Map Apps 1. Why You Should Use Naver Map or Kakao Map in Korea Google Maps doesn't work well in Korea due to government restrictions. Instead, locals use Naver Map (네이버 지도) and Kakao Map (카카오맵) — both offer: Accurate public transit routes Real-time bus and subway tracking Walking and driving directions Restaurant and store reviews in Korean 💡 Both apps now include English interfaces , making them essential for foreigners. 2. How to Download and Switch to English Naver Map Download from the App Store or Google Play: “Naver Map” Open the app and tap the profile icon (top right) Go to Settings → Language Select English Kakao Map Download the app: “Kakao Map” Tap the menu (≡) → Settings (설정) Change language to English 📲 You may need to restart the app for the language setting to apply fully. 3. Searching for Places in English Naver Map accepts English input for major lo...

A Foreigner-Friendly Guide to Proper Waste Disposal with the Right Bags and Labels 1. Why You Need Special Trash Bags and Stickers in Korea In Korea, you can’t just use any garbage bag . Trash disposal is managed through a “pay-as-you-throw” system , using: Standard volume-based trash bags (종량제 봉투) Food waste bags (음식물 쓰레기 봉투) Recycling without bags (but must be sorted) Large item disposal stickers (폐기물 스티커) 🗑 If you use the wrong bag or skip the sticker, your trash won’t be collected — and you might get fined. 2. Where to Buy Official Trash Bags You can purchase them at: Convenience stores (GS25, CU, 7-Eleven) Supermarkets (Emart, Lotte Mart, Homeplus) Local corner shops When buying, ask for: 종량제 봉투 (jong-ryang-je bong-tu) = general waste bag 음식물 봉투 (eum-sik-mul bong-tu) = food waste bag Specify the district and size (e.g., Seoul 10L, Mapo-gu 20L) 🛍 Each district has its own design and pricing, so double-check your residential are...

A Foreigner-Friendly Guide to Getting Fast, Reliable Internet in Korea 1. Is It Easy to Get Internet at Home in Korea? Yes! Korea is known for its ultra-fast and affordable internet . Setting up Wi-Fi at home is simple — even for foreigners — as long as you have: A Korean address An ARC (Alien Registration Card) A Korean phone number (Optional) Korean bank account for monthly billing 📡 Expect speeds of 500 Mbps to 1 Gbps with most standard plans. 2. Major Internet Providers in Korea The top three companies are: KT (Olleh) – Most reliable, widespread coverage SK Broadband – Great for bundle deals with mobile plans LG U+ – Often offers cheaper deals for students or new subscribers 🛜 All offer home Wi-Fi + IPTV bundles if you want TV as well. 3. How to Sign Up for Home Internet You can sign up: At a provider branch (bring ARC and phone number) Through a telecom agent (they often speak some English) Online – Some services have Englis...

A Foreigner-Friendly Guide to Accessing English-Speaking Medical and Dental Care 1. Is It Easy to Find English-Speaking Doctors in Korea? Yes — especially in major cities like Seoul, Busan, and Incheon . Korea has many GPs (general practitioners) and dentists who either speak English themselves or offer interpreter services. These clinics often cater to expats, students, diplomats, or tourists. 🩺 However, smaller local clinics may have limited English support, so it’s important to check in advance. 2. Best Ways to Search for English-Speaking Clinics Use the following platforms: Seoul Global Center (SGC) Website: https://global.seoul.go.kr Directory of English-speaking doctors and dentists HiDoc Korea Website: https://www.hidoc.co.kr Korean interface, but some doctors list English ability Google Maps / Naver Maps Search keywords like “English speaking doctor near me” or “영어 가능한 내과 / 치과” International clinics at major hospitals Severance ...

Everything You Need to Know About Korean Coin Laundromats (셀프 빨래방) 1. What Is a Self-Service Laundry in Korea? Self-service laundries, known as 셀프 빨래방 in Korean, are automated 24/7 laundromats where you can: Wash and dry clothes Use large-capacity machines for blankets or duvets Pay with coins, cards, or mobile apps 🧺 They’re perfect for students, travelers, and people living in one-room apartments without washers. 2. How to Find a Laundry Near You Use these apps or maps: Naver Map or Kakao Map : Search “셀프 빨래방” Common brands: LaundryGo (런드리고) BlueWash (블루워시) Washeria , Coin Wash , B&B Laundry 📍 Most laundromats are located near universities, officetels, and residential areas. 3. What to Bring Before You Go You’ll need: Your laundry (sorted by type/color) Detergent or pods (some machines auto-dispense; check signage) Coins or card (KRW 500, 1000 bills, or credit/debit card) Laundry bag (to carry clean clothes back) 💡 ...

Everything You Need to Know to Access and Use Online Banking in Korea 1. Can Foreigners Use Internet Banking in Korea? Yes! Once you open a Korean bank account, you can use internet and mobile banking services. But it’s not as simple as logging in with a password — Korean banks use multi-step security systems including: Digital certificates OTP (One-Time Password) generators Security apps 📲 You’ll also need a Korean phone number and Alien Registration Card (ARC) to register. 2. What You Need to Set Up Internet Banking To get started, you’ll need: A Korean bank account (e.g., KEB Hana, KB, Woori, Shinhan) Alien Registration Card (ARC) Korean mobile number linked to your account Public digital certificate (공동인증서) Optional: Security card or OTP device 💡 Ask your bank to help you set up “인터넷뱅킹” (internet banking) and “모바일뱅킹” (mobile banking) at the same time. 3. How to Register for Internet Banking (At the Bank) Visit a physical bank branch...

A Step-by-Step Guide for International Students Who Want to Work Legally in Korea 1. Can You Work Part-Time on a Student Visa in Korea? Yes! If you're in Korea on a D-2 (degree) or D-4 (language training) visa, you can legally work part-time — but only with permission . The immigration office requires that you: Hold a valid D-2 or D-4 visa Get approval for part-time work (아르바이트 허가) Meet language or academic performance requirements 💡 Working without permission can lead to visa cancellation or fines . 2. Eligibility Requirements for Part-Time Work To apply for a work permit, you must: Have stayed in Korea for at least 6 months Hold a TOPIK Level 2+ , OR Maintain an academic GPA of C (2.0/4.3) or higher Get a recommendation letter from your school 📌 Exceptions exist for students in intensive Korean programs or those on scholarships. 3. How to Apply for Work Permission (출입국 아르바이트 허가) Steps: Prepare the following documents: Application f...

A Foreigner-Friendly Guide to Getting a Korean SIM Card and Mobile Plan 1. Can Foreigners Sign a Phone Contract in Korea? Yes! Foreigners can sign up for either prepaid or postpaid (contract) mobile plans in Korea — depending on their visa type and stay duration. You’ll need: Alien Registration Card (ARC) Korean address and phone number Korean bank account (for postpaid) 💡 Without an ARC, you're limited to prepaid SIMs (short-term use only). 2. Prepaid vs. Postpaid: What’s the Difference? Plan Type Best For Requirements Payment Prepaid Tourists, short-term students Passport only Recharge before use Postpaid (후불) Long-term residents ARC, bank account Monthly billing 📱 Prepaid is flexible but more expensive per GB. Postpaid offers better rates and perks. 3. How to Get a Prepaid SIM Card Perfect for visitors or short stays: Available at: Incheon Airport booths Convenience stores Online retailers (EG SIM, KT M Mobile, Chi...

A Complete Step-by-Step Guide to Studying in Korea as a Foreigner 1. Why Study in Korea? Is It Worth It? Korea is home to top-ranked universities, vibrant city life, and a growing international student community. Benefits include: Globally respected degrees (especially from SKY universities) Affordable tuition compared to the U.S./U.K. Scholarships for foreigners Easy access to Korean culture and job opportunities 📚 Popular schools include Seoul National University (SNU) , Yonsei , Korea University , KAIST , and more. 2. General Requirements for International Applicants Every university may have its own process, but these are common requirements: Completed high school diploma or equivalent Valid passport TOPIK score (Korean language proficiency) or English test (TOEFL/IELTS) Academic transcripts (translated into Korean/English) Letters of recommendation (usually 1–2) Personal statement or study plan Application fee (varies by school) 📝...

Step-by-Step Guide for Expats, Students, and Workers in Korea 1. Do Foreigners Need to Enroll in Korean National Health Insurance? Yes— if you’re staying in Korea for more than 6 months , you are legally required to enroll in the National Health Insurance (건강보험) . This applies to: Language students (D-4 visa) University students (D-2 visa) Foreign workers (E-2, E-7, etc.) Permanent residents and spouses of Koreans 🩺 Once enrolled, you’ll get access to discounted hospital visits, prescriptions, and insurance-covered treatments . 2. Who Manages National Health Insurance? The National Health Insurance Service (NHIS) is responsible for registration, payments, and services. Website: https://www.nhis.or.kr English Help Line: 1577-1000 → Press 7 3. When and How to Enroll in NHI Enrollment is automatic once: You’ve lived in Korea for 6 months , OR You are issued an Alien Registration Card (ARC) with a qualifying visa 📬 NHIS will mail you a registration...

A Step-by-Step Guide to Navigating Korean Income Tax as an Expat or Worker 1. Do Foreigners Need to File Taxes in Korea? Yes. If you earn income in Korea, you’re generally required to file and pay Korean income tax , regardless of your nationality. You may fall into one of the following categories: Resident foreigner (living in Korea for 183+ days ) – taxed on worldwide income Non-resident foreigner – taxed only on Korean-source income 💡 If you're employed full-time, your employer usually handles tax filing , but you may still need to review or claim deductions. 2. Tax Filing Period in Korea Annual tax filing (종합소득세 신고) : Filing period: May 1st – May 31st Covers income from the previous calendar year Year-End Tax Settlement (연말정산) : For salaried workers only Usually handled by the employer in January–February 📅 If you're a freelancer, self-employed, or earning multiple income types, you'll need to file manually in May . 3. How t...

Step-by-Step Guide for Expats, Students, and Long-Term Residents in Korea 1. Can Foreigners Get a Driver’s License in Korea? Yes! Foreigners living in Korea can apply for or convert a driver’s license , depending on their situation: License conversion – For those with a valid license from their home country New license application – If you don’t have a license or your country isn’t eligible for conversion 📌 You’ll need a valid visa and ARC (Alien Registration Card) to apply. 2. Option 1: Convert Your Foreign Driver’s License If your country has a reciprocal agreement with Korea, you can convert your license. Steps to convert: Visit the Driver’s License Examination Office (운전면허시험장) Submit the following: Valid foreign driver’s license Notarized translation (Korean) Passport & ARC 1 color photo (3.5x4.5 cm) Certificate from your embassy (in some cases) Pay the fee (KRW 10,000–15,000) Take a vision test ✅ If your country is on the ...

Step-by-Step Instructions to Legally Stay in Korea Long-Term 1. What Is the ARC and Why Do You Need It? The Alien Registration Card (ARC) is your official ID in Korea as a foreigner. You need an ARC if you’re staying in Korea for more than 90 days , whether you're: A student A language program attendee A foreign worker A spouse of a Korean citizen 🪪 With an ARC, you can: Open a bank account Sign a mobile phone contract Get national health insurance Travel domestically and re-enter Korea 2. When and Where to Apply for the ARC You must apply within 90 days of arriving in Korea. Visit the local immigration office responsible for your residential district. 💻 First, you must make a reservation through the HiKorea website : 👉 https://www.hikorea.go.kr ⏰ Appointments fill up quickly, so book as early as possible after arriving. 3. Required Documents for ARC Application Here’s what you’ll need (depending on visa type): Passport ...

Step-by-Step Guide for Foreigners to Access Korea’s Most Essential Apps 1. Why You NEED Naver and Kakao Accounts in Korea If you're living or staying in Korea, having accounts on Naver and Kakao is essential for: Naver : Search engine, maps, online shopping, blogs, café communities Kakao : Messaging (KakaoTalk), payments (KakaoPay), taxis (Kakao T), and more Without these, even basic services like ordering food, joining communities, or navigating are limited. 2. What You Need Before Signing Up To create a Naver or Kakao account, you’ll need: A valid email address (Gmail or local) A Korean mobile number (for SMS verification) Korean phone SIM card or virtual number services (for some exceptions) Optional: Alien Registration Number (ARC) for full feature access 💡 Foreign phone numbers often don’t work for verification—get a local SIM first. 3. How to Sign Up for a Naver Account Here’s how to open a Naver account: Go to https://www.naver.com ...

What to Do, Who to Call, and Where to Go When You Need Urgent Medical Help in Korea 1. Emergency Numbers You MUST Know Korea has dedicated emergency hotlines that are available 24/7: 119 – Fire, ambulance, and medical emergencies 1339 – Korea Disease Control medical hotline (COVID, general medical advice) 1345 – Immigration help, may assist with emergency coordination 120 – Seoul City Call Center (multiple languages) 📞 When you call 119, say “Help. I need an ambulance. English, please.” – They will connect you to an interpreter. 2. When to Go to the ER (Emergency Room) Visit a hospital ER if you experience: Chest pain, difficulty breathing Major bleeding or trauma Seizures, unconsciousness Sudden severe pain or high fever Drug or food overdose 🏥 Tertiary hospitals (e.g., Seoul National University Hospital, Severance Hospital) have emergency departments with English-speaking staff. 3. Finding an Emergency Room or Urgent Care Clinic Use ...

A Foreigner-Friendly Guide to Traveling Between Cities in Korea 1. Intercity Travel Options in Korea Korea has one of the most efficient intercity travel systems in Asia. You can travel long distances using: Express & Intercity Buses – Cheap and frequent KTX High-Speed Train – Fastest way between major cities ITX & Mugunghwa Trains – Slower, cheaper alternatives to KTX Choose based on budget, speed, and comfort . 2. Booking KTX Trains Online or In Person Visit the official KORAIL website : www.letskorail.com English option available You can search, book, and pay with foreign credit cards Print or show e-ticket on mobile Use the KORAIL Talk App (Korean only) For faster booking, Korean language required Buy at train stations directly at ticket machines or counters English-speaking staff available at major stations (Seoul, Busan) 🎫 Tip: Book KTX tickets 2–3 days in advance , especially on weekends or holidays. 3. Booking ...

Everything You Need to Know About Waste Separation, Bags, and Local Rules 1. Why Recycling in Korea Feels Complicated (But Isn’t) Korea has strict recycling laws , and improper sorting can lead to fines . Each apartment, building, or neighborhood has its own sorting rules, but there are nationwide standards for: General trash (일반쓰레기) Food waste (음식물 쓰레기) Recyclables (재활용) Large waste (대형 폐기물) It may seem overwhelming at first, but once you get used to it, it becomes second nature. 2. Trash Categories You MUST Know General Trash Everything that can’t be recycled or composted (e.g., used tissues, diapers) Must be thrown away in official designated city trash bags (종량제 봉투) Food Waste Includes leftover food scraps (except bones, shells, or liquids) Requires separate disposal in food bins or special biodegradable bags Recyclables Must be clean and dry Includes: Paper/cardboard Plastic bottles and containers Glass bottles C...

Everything You Need to Know to Get a SIM Card or Phone Plan in Korea 1. Can Foreigners Get a Phone Plan in Korea? Yes! Foreigners can easily get a SIM card or mobile plan in Korea. There are two main options: Prepaid SIM card – Ideal for short stays (tourists, exchange students) Postpaid plan (contract) – Best for long-term residents with ARC Most major carriers welcome foreigners, though having an Alien Registration Card (ARC) is usually required for full plans. 2. Major Korean Mobile Carriers Here are the three biggest telecom providers: SK Telecom (T world) Largest network coverage Good for travel and rural areas KT (Olleh) Strong urban coverage, airport SIM availability Offers tourist-friendly plans and prepaid SIMs LG U+ Popular for affordable data plans Growing English customer service support All three carriers offer both SIM-only and phone+plan bundles . 3. Types of Plans Available Prepaid SIM (유심 선불) Data-only or ...

The Ultimate Guide to Renting on a Budget as a Foreigner in Korea 1. What Is “Wolse” and How Is It Different from “Jeonse”? In Korea, there are two main types of rental contracts: Wolse (월세) – You pay a deposit + monthly rent . This is best for short-term stays and foreigners. Jeonse (전세) – You pay a large deposit only , with no monthly rent . Suitable for long-term residents. Wolse is the most common rental type for students, expats, and travelers staying for a few months to a year. 2. Where to Find Affordable Wolse Listings You can find monthly rental listings on these platforms: Zigbang (직방) Popular Korean app for studio apartments and officetels Simple interface, but limited English support Dabang (다방) Similar to Zigbang with strong filtering options Offers direct chat with agents Craigslist Seoul Listings by locals and expats Mostly in English, good for direct communication Facebook Groups Search “Seoul Apartments,” “Housing in Korea”...

Everything You Need to Know About Grocery Shopping as a Foreigner in Korea 1. Grocery Shopping in Korea: What Are Your Options? In Korea, you can shop for groceries in three main ways: Offline big-box stores : E-mart, Homeplus, Lotte Mart Local markets and convenience stores : For quick, small purchases Online grocery apps : Market Kurly, Coupang, SSG.com Each option suits different needs depending on price, convenience, and delivery preferences. 2. Big-Box Stores: E-mart, Homeplus, Lotte Mart E-mart (이마트) Korea’s largest supermarket chain Offers a wide selection of international and Korean products Some locations include foreign food sections Homeplus (홈플러스) Known for weekly sales and promotions Clean, organized, with big household goods sections Good value for bulk shopping Lotte Mart (롯데마트) Offers fresh produce and imported goods Often located near major transit hubs like Seoul Station 🛍 Tip: Bring a reusable bag or expect ...

Must-Have Apps to Survive and Thrive in Korea Without Speaking Fluent Korean 1. Why You Need Korean Apps (Even If You’re Just Visiting) In Korea, daily tasks like ordering food, calling a cab, or sending money are app-based . Most locals don’t use websites—they rely on apps like Baemin , Kakao T , and Toss . Even if you don’t speak Korean, many of these apps are now partially or fully available in English, and you can survive with simple hacks and translation tools . 2. Top Korean Delivery Apps You Should Know Baemin (배달의민족) Korea’s #1 food delivery app Easy-to-navigate UI, even without English Works best with Korean address input (use Naver Map to copy/paste) Yogiyo (요기요) Great for promotions and discounts Similar interface to Baemin Useful if you want different restaurant options Coupang Eats (쿠팡이츠) Fast, single-order delivery Good UI, often faster than Baemin in busy areas 🛠 Tips : Use Papago app to translate restaurant names or...