Top 10 Tips for Moving to Korea

Top Tips for moving to Korea

We've all been there, being nervous and excited about starting a new life in a different country. Best we can do is to prepare as much as we can to avoid problems. Here are a few tips on what I wish I did when I first came to Korea.

1. Install the right apps

 

 

2. Get a Sim card (or Temporary Wifi Egg)

Moving around Korea without wifi can be difficult, so be sure you have ways to connect to the internet. Having a temporary phone number can also help you in the future when you apply for things (Banks, reservations, etc.)

 

3. Get a Transport card

Paying via card is cheaper and more convenient compared to paying cash. Not to mention, some buses no longer take cash as Korea is pushing for a cashless society. Once you get a bank account, ask for a card that could be used for public transportation. 

 

4. Make a reservation for your ARC as soon as possible

If you are staying in Korea for more than 90 days, you are required to have an ARC or Resident Card. The immigration office is quite busy and slots run out fast, so it would be good to reserve a slot as soon as you can.

 

5. Join Expat Groups

Stay in the loop with the latest buzz by joining expat squads! Connect with fellow expats who've got the inside scoop on all things news, events, and hotspots. This is the fastest ways to learn about the best tips, tricks, or the lowdown on recent tales. Don't miss out – dive into the expat network and unlock a world of insights.

Here are a few facebook groups to join:

-Every Expat in Korea

-Foreigners in South Korea

-Expat Women in Korea

 

6. Make a bank account as soon as you can

 

7. Check free give aways or selling groups 

Embracing a budget-friendly move! Cut down on expenses by embracing the charm of pre-loved treasures. Join the thrifty trend – with new folks arriving and others bidding adieu, it's a non-stop parade of cool stuff up for grabs. 
Here are a few facebook groups to join:

-FB: MONA-Really Free things in Korea

-FB: Free Things and Giveaway Korea

-Expat Women in Korea Buy and Sell

-APP: Karrot 당근마켓

 

8. Daiso is your best friend

More ways to save money. Spend less by visiting Daiso. They have almost everything you need for 5000 won or less.

 

9. Register your Housing Contract

Leaving a huge housing deposit to your landlord can make anyone nervous, especially with all the horror stories about other foreigners not being able to reclaim their money after they move. Register your Housing contract in the nearest Gu (구) to avoid scams and bolster your safety net when things go south with your landlord.

 

9. Learn where to shop 

Korea isn't exactly the cheapest country to live in, so be sure to check and compare prices. Meat and Vegetables are often cheaper at the local or traditional markets. Whereas larger marts have more sales for other items.

 

10. Use your card

Whether it's your check card or credit card, bottom line is use your card. This just make is easier to keep track of expenses for the yearly Tax Adjustment. If you pay by card, you no longer have to keep your receipts to report your expenses.

 

11.  Stay updated with events and discounts

Korea isn't exactly the cheap