Stay Abroad

Author: stayabroad

  • How to Buy a Used Car in Korea as a Foreigner

    Buying a used car in Korea is possible for foreigners and often convenient for long-term residents such as international students, workers, or professors.
    In this guide, I’ll explain how to legally purchase, register, and insure a second-hand vehicle — based only on verified sources and government procedures.

    1. Can Foreigners Buy and Own a Car in Korea?

    Yes. According to the Korea Transportation Safety Authority (TS), foreigners can buy and register a car in Korea if they meet the following conditions:

    • Hold a valid Alien Registration Card (ARC)
    • Have a Korean address
    • Possess a valid driver’s license (Korean or an acceptable international license)

    2. Where to Find Used Cars in Korea

    Use the following officially recognized platforms to find used cars with certified inspection records:

    Encar (encar.com)

    • Korea’s largest online used car platform
    • Offers verified listings with inspection reports (성능·상태점검기록부)
    • Filters by location, price, and vehicle type
    • English interface available via Google Translate

    K Car (kcar.com)

    • Direct ownership model (K Car owns and inspects the vehicle)
    • Transparent pricing and no broker involved
    • Some branches offer services tailored to foreigners

    These platforms also support vehicle delivery and registration assistance if needed.

    3. What You Need to Purchase a Car

    Before proceeding with the purchase, prepare the following:

    • Alien Registration Card (ARC)
    • Korean driver’s license or International Driving Permit (IDP) + home country license
    • Proof of address in Korea
    • Korean mobile number
    • Bank transfer account (car purchases are not made in cash)

    4. Vehicle Registration Process (Based on 국토교통부)

    Once you purchase a used car, registration must be done at the local 차량등록사업소 (Vehicle Registration Office) within 15 days. The required steps are:

    1. Submit required documents (see below)
    2. Pay acquisition and registration taxes (~7–8% of car value)
    3. Receive a new registration certificate and license plate (if changed)

    Required documents include:

    • Certificate of sale (매매계약서)
    • ARC
    • Proof of insurance
    • Valid ID and driver’s license
    • Registration application form

    Source: 국토교통부 차량등록안내

    5. Mandatory Insurance and Inspection

    In Korea, car insurance is mandatory before driving on the road.

    • You must purchase third-party liability insurance
    • Providers include: Samsung Fire, DB Insurance, Hyundai Marine, KB Insurance
    • Annual cost: KRW 800,000 ~ 1,500,000 depending on car model and driver profile

    Regular vehicle inspections (정기검사) are also required every 2 years for most vehicles, as regulated by the Korea Transportation Safety Authority.

    6. Typical Cost Breakdown (as of 2024)

    ItemEstimated Cost (KRW)
    Compact used car3,000,000 ~ 8,000,000
    Acquisition + registration tax~7% of vehicle value
    Yearly insurance800,000 ~ 1,500,000
    Inspection & basic service100,000 ~ 300,000

    Reference: [encar.com], [kcar.com], [TS 정기검사 수수료표]

    7. Important Notes

    • Foreign licenses must be convertible or accompanied by an IDP for legal driving
    • Vehicle inspection report (성능기록부) is mandatory for registration — always request it
    • Be cautious of cars more than 10 years old or lacking inspection history
    • You are legally responsible for updating registration within 15 days of ownership transfer

    Buying a used car in Korea is relatively straightforward, as long as you use trusted platforms and follow legal procedures.
    I recommend using Encar or K Car, as they provide vehicle inspection documents, registration support, and optional insurance packages — all based on clear regulations.

    If you’re unsure about any part of the process, the local 차량등록소 or a bilingual dealership can assist.

  • How to Get a Phone in Korea – Tips for International Students and Travelers

    If you’re new to Korea, one of the first things you’ll need is a local mobile phone number — for banking, deliveries, school registration, and even entering buildings with QR codes.
    As a Korean local, I’ve helped several international friends set up their phones here, so here’s a simple guide with a few tips to save you time and money.

    1. Prepaid SIM vs. Contract Plan – What’s Right for You?

    Option 1: Prepaid SIM (선불 유심)
    Best for short-term stay (less than 6 months)

    • No alien registration card (ARC) required
    • Great for tourists or students waiting for ARC
    • Pay in advance for data and calls
    • Usually available at the airport or online

    Option 2: Monthly Plan (후불 요금제)
    Best for long-term residents (6+ months)

    • ARC required (foreign registration number)
    • Lower cost per month than prepaid
    • Auto-payment with Korean bank account or credit card
    • Comes with a Korean phone number for full use of services

    Tip: If you’re a new student, you can start with a prepaid SIM and switch to a contract after you receive your ARC.

    2. Where to Buy a SIM Card or Phone Plan

    At Incheon Airport:

    • Convenience stores or SIM booths near Arrivals
    • Easy to set up, but prices can be higher than city options
    • Good for immediate use on Day 1

    In the City (Seoul, Busan, etc.):

    • Major carriers: SK Telecom, KT, LG U+
    • SIM providers for foreigners: EG SIM, Chingu Mobile, Woori Mobile, The Arrival Store
    • Some stores offer English support and even online registration

    Tip: Ask if the store offers plans for foreign students — they often include discounts or simpler registration.

    3. Required Documents

    For prepaid:

    • Passport

    For contract (monthly):

    • Alien Registration Card (ARC)
    • Korean bank account or credit card
    • Korean address (dorm or apartment)

    Note: Some providers now allow you to register online even before entering Korea (you pick up the SIM after arrival).

    4. Using a Foreign Phone in Korea

    • Make sure your phone is unlocked
    • Most Korean SIMs work on GSM and LTE bands
    • iPhones, Samsung Galaxy, and Google Pixel phones usually work well
    • If your phone doesn’t work here, you can buy a basic smartphone locally for KRW 100,000–300,000

    5. What Apps to Install Right Away

    Once your phone is working, here are some useful Korean apps:

    • KakaoTalk – Must-have messenger app (everyone uses it)
    • Naver Map or Kakao Map – Better than Google Maps in Korea
    • Papago – Excellent for Korean-English translation
    • Coupang or Gmarket – For online shopping
    • Naver Pay or Toss – Mobile payments and bank transfers (requires Korean phone number)

    Final Tips

    • Don’t rush into a long contract if you’re not sure how long you’ll stay
    • Ask your university if they have mobile partners — some offer group deals for students
    • Keep your passport and ARC safe — they’re needed again if you want to change plans later

  • How to Get from Incheon Airport to Downtown Seoul – A Friendly Guide for First-Time Visitors

    If you’ve just landed in Korea — welcome!
    Whether you’re here to study, work, or travel, your first mission after landing at Incheon International Airport is: how do I get to the city?

    As a local, I’ll walk you through the main transportation options to get from the airport to central Seoul smoothly and safely.

    1. Airport Railroad Express (AREX)

    Best for: Solo travelers / Budget-friendly & reliable

    • Express Train:
      • Goes non-stop to Seoul Station
      • Takes about 43 minutes
      • Around KRW 9,500 (approx. USD 7)
      • Clean, quiet, and has Wi-Fi
      • Buy tickets at B1 level (near AREX entrance)
    • All-Stop Train:
      • Stops at multiple stations (e.g., Hongdae, Gongdeok)
      • Slightly slower (~56 minutes to Seoul Station)
      • Around KRW 4,150
      • Great if your hotel is near one of the stops

    Tip: If you have a T-money card (Korea’s transport card), you can use it directly on the All-Stop Train.

    2. Airport Limousine Bus

    Best for: Those with luggage / Direct access to hotels

    • Runs between Incheon Airport and major areas like Gangnam, Myeongdong, Hongdae, and more
    • Air-conditioned, comfortable seats
    • Price: KRW 17,000 ~ 18,000 (approx. USD 13–14)
    • Travel time: 60–90 minutes depending on traffic
    • Tickets available at airport bus counters on the arrival floor

    Tip: Tell the staff your hotel name and they’ll recommend the closest bus stop.

    3. Taxi

    Best for: 2+ travelers / Late-night arrival

    • Standard Taxi: KRW 70,000 ~ 90,000 to Seoul
    • Deluxe or Jumbo Taxi: more expensive, but roomier
    • Travel time: 50–70 minutes depending on traffic
    • Taxi stands are located just outside the terminal exits

    Tip: Use the International Taxi Service booth (English-speaking drivers, fixed rates)

    4. Private Airport Pickup (Pre-booked)

    Best for: Families or those needing door-to-door service

    • Can be booked online before arrival
    • Prices vary from KRW 70,000 to 120,000 depending on vehicle type
    • Driver will wait with your name sign at the arrival gate

    Websites like Klook, Trazy, or hotel concierge services offer these.

    Which Option Should You Choose?

    OptionTimeCost (KRW)Luggage FriendlyEnglish Support
    AREX Express~43 min9,500✓ Light only✓ Yes
    Limousine Bus~70 min17,000✓✓ Good✓ Basic
    Taxi~60 min70,000+✓✓✓ Excellent✓ With Intl. Taxi
    Private Pickup~60 min80,000+✓✓✓ Excellent✓ Yes

    Final Tip from a Local

    If it’s your first time in Korea, I recommend AREX Express if you’re traveling light and going to Seoul Station, or the Limousine Bus if you’re carrying heavy bags or want a direct stop near your hotel.

    Once you get to Seoul, the subway system is very easy to use and foreigner-friendly — signs are in English, and the T-money card works everywhere.

  • How Much Does It Cost to Study in Korea?

    f you’re planning to study in Korea, one of the first things you might wonder is: How much will it cost?
    As someone who lives here, I’d like to give you a practical breakdown of the typical expenses international students can expect — based on official data and also what I’ve seen in real life.

    1. Tuition Fees in Korea

    The tuition you’ll pay depends on the type of university and your field of study.

    Here’s a rough estimate per semester:

    • Humanities and Social Sciences: KRW 1,600,000 ~ 4,700,000 (approx. USD 1,200 ~ 3,500)
    • Science and Engineering: KRW 1,800,000 ~ 5,200,000
    • Arts and Sports: KRW 2,000,000 ~ 6,000,000
    • Medicine: Often higher, depending on the program

    National/public universities tend to be cheaper than private universities, and most students pay tuition twice a year (per semester).

    2. Admission & Application Fees

    Most universities require:

    • Application fee: KRW 50,000 ~ 150,000
    • Admission fee (once you’re accepted): KRW 100,000 ~ 300,000

    These are non-refundable, so double-check requirements before applying to multiple schools.

    3. Dormitory & Housing Costs

    On-campus dormitories are the most affordable option:

    • Dormitory (shared): KRW 200,000 ~ 600,000 per month
    • Off-campus one-room (studio): KRW 400,000 ~ 800,000 per month
    • Deposit: Off-campus rentals may require a key money deposit of several million KRW

    Some universities provide meal plans with dormitories, which helps reduce daily living expenses.

    4. Daily Living Expenses

    On average, international students in Korea spend about:

    • Food: KRW 300,000 ~ 500,000/month
    • Transportation: KRW 50,000 ~ 100,000/month
    • Phone/Internet: KRW 40,000 ~ 60,000/month
    • Books and supplies: KRW 200,000 ~ 400,000/semester
    • Health Insurance: Around KRW 20,000/month (as of 2023, mandatory for foreigners staying over 6 months)

    Of course, these numbers can vary depending on your lifestyle and the city you live in — Seoul tends to be more expensive than other regions.

    5. Scholarships and Support

    Good news: many Korean universities and government organizations offer scholarships for international students, covering:

    • Tuition (partial or full)
    • Monthly living allowance
    • Airfare and settlement allowance (for some government-funded programs)

    I recommend checking both the university’s scholarship office and the GKS (Global Korea Scholarship) program.

    Estimated Monthly Budget (Average)

    Housing (shared)300,000 – 500,000
    Food400,000
    Transport60,000
    Other expenses100,000 – 200,000
    Total900,000 – 1,200,000
    (USD 650–850)

  • Understanding the Korean Education System – A Practical Guide for International Students

    If you’re thinking about studying in Korea, welcome! As someone who grew up here, I’d love to share how our education system works and what you can expect as an international student.

    Many parts of our system might feel different from what you’re used to, so I hope this post gives you a helpful overview before you apply or arrive.

    1. Korea’s Education System at a Glance

    In Korea, formal education is divided into the following stages:

    • Elementary School: 6 years
    • Middle School: 3 years
    • High School: 3 years
    • University (Undergraduate): 4 years
    • Graduate School: 2 years for a Master’s, 2+ years for a PhD

    After high school, students usually take a national college entrance exam called the Suneung, and then apply to either a university or a junior college.

    2. Types of Universities in Korea

    You’ll find a variety of higher education institutions here:

    • 4-Year Universities – These offer bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral programs. Some have global campuses with English-taught courses.
    • Junior Colleges – These are 2- to 3-year programs focused on practical or vocational training.
    • Graduate Schools – For those pursuing more advanced research or academic paths.

    We also have cyber universities, arts colleges, and special-purpose institutions depending on your interest.

    3. Degree Programs Offered

    Korean universities grant the following degrees:

    • Bachelor’s Degree (Haksa)
    • Master’s Degree (Seoksa)
    • Doctoral Degree (Baksa)

    Some schools offer integrated Master’s–PhD programs too, especially in research-heavy fields.

    4. The Academic Calendar

    Most universities operate on a two-semester system:

    • Spring Semester: March to June
    • Fall Semester: September to December

    You may also take short summer or winter terms between semesters if needed.

    5. Language of Instruction

    Most undergraduate programs are in Korean, but don’t worry — many universities also offer:

    • Full English-language degree programs
    • Korean language institutes (for beginners or prep courses)
    • International graduate tracks with English support

    Depending on your program, you might need to submit a TOPIK score (Korean proficiency) or TOEFL/IELTS if the course is in English.

    6. Tips from a Korean Student

    If you’re planning to study here, here are a few friendly tips:

    • Look for schools that offer support services for international students
    • If you’re unsure about Korean, a language course can really help you adjust
    • Scholarships are available — don’t forget to check each university’s website
    • Student life in Korea is active and vibrant — make time to enjoy it!

  • How to Prepare for Studying in Korea

    If you’re planning to study in Korea, it can feel a little overwhelming at first. I’ve been through the same process, and one thing that helped me was breaking it down into smaller steps.

    Interestingly, the official Study in Korea website (run by the Korean government, https://www.studyinkorea.go.kr) outlines a clear 5-step plan that international students can follow — and I found it very accurate based on my own experience.

    Step 1: Gather Study Abroad Information

    Before applying anywhere, it’s important to understand what studying in Korea is really like.

    Things to research at this stage:

    • How much does it typically cost to study and live in Korea?
    • What is the Korean education system like?
    • What’s the general experience like for international students?

    Step 2: Choose a School and Major

    Next, you’ll want to narrow down your choices.

    Here’s what to check:

    • Language requirements (TOPIK, IELTS, or TOEFL)
    • Program structure and curriculum
    • Whether classes are taught in Korean or English
    • Scholarships available for international students
    • Application schedules and deadlines

    Step 3: Apply for Admission

    Once you’ve chosen your school and program, it’s time to apply.

    Most Korean universities allow you to submit your application online, but some may still require physical documents by mail. Each school has slightly different requirements, so make sure to:

    • Read the guidelines carefully
    • Prepare things like transcripts, a personal statement, and a study plan
    • Double-check all deadlines

    If you’re unsure, don’t hesitate to email their international office.

    Step 4: Receive Your Standard Admission Letter

    If your application is successful, the university will send you an official admission letter.
    This is a key document — you’ll need it to apply for your visa.

    Depending on the school, you might receive it via email or international mail. Make sure all the details are correct when you receive it.

    Step 5: Apply for Your Visa and Prepare to Depart

    Once you have the admission letter, you can apply for a visa (usually D-2 or D-4 depending on your program).

    Also, it’s time to start preparing for your actual move:

    • Book your flight
    • Arrange housing (dormitory or off-campus)
    • Set up things like SIM cards, airport pickup, or medical insurance
    • Double-check what you can bring through Korean customs