Stay Abroad

Category: Stay in Korea

  • Hospitals in Seoul with English-Speaking Services: A Guide for Foreign Residents

    Living in Seoul as a foreigner comes with its challenges, and healthcare can be one of the most stressful. Thankfully, several hospitals offer foreigner-friendly services, including English-speaking doctors, interpreters, and dedicated international clinics.

    Here are five major hospitals in Seoul I’d recommend:

    1. Seoul National University Hospital (SNUH)

    • Location: 101 Daehak-ro, Jongno-gu
    • Website: https://www.snuh.org/english
    • Departments: Internal medicine, dermatology, orthopedics, OB/GYN, etc.
    • Language Support: English, Chinese, Japanese, Russian
    • Notes: Highly professional, trusted by many international patients. Offers online appointment request form.

    2. Severance Hospital (Yonsei University Health System)

    • Location: 50-1 Yonsei-ro, Seodaemun-gu
    • Website: https://sev.severance.healthcare/sev-en/index.do
    • Departments: Cardiology, cancer, surgery, rehabilitation, pediatrics
    • Language Support: English, Japanese, Chinese, Russian, Arabic
    • Notes: Very experienced international patient center. I used it for a health check-up and felt very well cared for.

    3. Asan Medical Center

    • Location: 88 Olympic-ro 43-gil, Songpa-gu
    • Website: https://eng.amc.seoul.kr
    • Departments: Neurology, oncology, cardiovascular, gastroenterology
    • Language Support: English, Japanese, Chinese
    • Notes: One of Korea’s biggest hospitals, ideal for specialized care.

    4. Soonchunhyang Hospital (Hannam International Clinic)

    • Location: 59 Daesagwan-ro, Yongsan-gu
    • Website: https://international.schmc.ac.kr/
    • Departments: General medicine, ENT, pediatrics, dermatology
    • Language Support: English, Chinese
    • Notes: Less crowded, more personal. Located near expat areas.

    5. Korea University Anam Hospital

    • Location: 73 Goryeodae-ro, Seongbuk-gu
    • Website: https://anam.kumc.or.kr/en/index.do
    • Departments: Full general hospital services
    • Language Support: English, Chinese, Japanese
    • Notes: Well-equipped and easily accessible for those living in northeastern Seoul.

    What You Should Know:

    • Appointments are usually required for international clinics — make sure to book in advance online or by phone.
    • Bring your ARC (Alien Registration Card) and health insurance card.
    • Major hospitals are more expensive than local clinics but offer better interpretation and system support.
    • If you don’t have Korean National Health Insurance, ask about pricing for uninsured foreigners — some hospitals offer package rates.

    If you’re living in Seoul long-term, try to establish a regular clinic or hospital you feel comfortable with. It makes a big difference in emergencies or ongoing care. Don’t hesitate to ask the hospital’s international center for help — they are usually very supportive and responsive to foreign residents.

  • Living in Seoul with Kids: Best Neighborhoods for Foreign Families with Elementary School Children

    Moving to Seoul with kids can feel overwhelming, especially when you need to think not just about where to live, but where your child will go to school.
    As a parent myself, I know how much your choice of neighborhood affects not only your child’s school life, but also your own daily routine.

    Here are five areas in Seoul that I would personally recommend for foreign families with elementary school-aged children.

    1. Hannam-dong (Yongsan-gu)

    Hannam-dong is one of the most popular areas for diplomatic and expat families in Seoul. It’s home to several international schools, including Yongsan International School of Seoul (YISS), and close to the Hannam UN Village where many foreign diplomats and executives reside.

    The streets are quieter than Itaewon next door, and the neighborhood feels green, safe, and very walkable. While apartments here are on the higher end, many families find it worth it for the strong expat community and English-speaking support.

    Schools nearby: YISS, German School of Seoul, Chadwick International Bus Service Point
    Best for: diplomatic families, long-term foreign residents
    Subway access: Hangangjin Station (Line 6)

    2. Seorae Village (Banpo-dong, Seocho-gu)

    Seorae Village is known as the French district of Seoul, and it has a long-established foreign community. The Lycée Français de Séoul (LFS) attracts many francophone families, but even for non-French speakers, the area is appealing.

    There are wide sidewalks, family-friendly parks, and a slower pace of life compared to central Seoul. Several reputable Korean elementary schools in Seocho-gu also have experience supporting multicultural students.

    Schools nearby: Lycée Français de Séoul, Banpo Elementary, Seoul International School shuttle stops
    Best for: families seeking a calm, residential environment with international support
    Subway access: Express Bus Terminal (Lines 3, 7, 9)

    3. Ichon-dong (Yongsan-gu)

    Ichon-dong is home to many Japanese and international families due to its proximity to the Japanese School of Seoul. The area is clean, organized, and located along the Han River with great walking paths and playgrounds.

    While it’s quieter than Hannam or Itaewon, Ichon-dong offers easy access to both Korean and international resources, and the local schools are familiar with multicultural families.

    Schools nearby: Japanese School of Seoul, local Korean public schools
    Best for: families looking for a peaceful environment with river access
    Subway access: Ichon Station (Lines 4, Gyeongui–Jungang)

    4. Jamsil (Songpa-gu)

    For those living in eastern Seoul, Jamsil is a modern, clean, and family-friendly area with excellent infrastructure. It’s known for good Korean public schools, and several international school buses operate in the area.

    Apartment complexes here often include playgrounds, daycare centers, and are close to parks like Seokchon Lake and the Olympic Park. I’ve visited families here who say their kids easily made friends and adapted quickly.

    Schools nearby: Local Korean public schools, Korea International School (bus route), Chadwick (bus route)
    Best for: long-term families who want stability and convenience
    Subway access: Jamsil Station (Lines 2, 8)

    5. Daechi-dong & Apgujeong (Gangnam-gu)

    While Gangnam is often associated with high-rises and shopping, Daechi-dong is actually one of Seoul’s top education hubs. Many Korean parents move here specifically for school access, and some international schools offer shuttle stops nearby.

    That said, competition can be intense, and the lifestyle is more fast-paced. If you’re looking for a more academically focused environment and don’t mind a bit of hustle, this area may suit you.

    Schools nearby: Korea International School (shuttle), Daechi Elementary, private afterschool academies
    Best for: education-focused families, dual-working parents
    Subway access: Daechi Station, Apgujeong Station (Line 3)

    As a parent, I’ve learned that choosing the right neighborhood in Seoul is really about your child’s needs and your own lifestyle.
    If you want English-speaking services and international school access, Hannam and Seorae are ideal. If you’re comfortable with Korean schools and want good public facilities, areas like Jamsil or Ichon may be a better fit.

    Wherever you decide, visit the neighborhood in person, talk to other parents, and don’t be afraid to ask the school for help — many are more supportive of foreign families than you might expect.

  • 자동차 검사 in Korea: What Foreign Drivers Should Know

    If you’re a foreigner living in Korea and own a used car, there’s something important you shouldn’t overlook — the periodic vehicle inspection.
    I remember being surprised the first time I got the notification in the mail. I had no idea what to expect, but thankfully, the process was much simpler than I thought.

    Here’s what I’ve learned through experience, and what I’d tell anyone preparing for their first car inspection in Korea.

    1. What Is the Vehicle Inspection?

    In Korea, used cars must undergo regular safety and emissions inspections. The schedule depends on your car type and age:

    • Passenger cars: inspected every 2 years, starting from the fourth year after initial registration
    • Diesel vehicles: subject to additional emissions tests
    • Commercial and business-use vehicles: more frequent inspections required

    The inspection ensures that cars are road-safe and environmentally compliant.

    I was initially nervous, but it turned out to be an organized and efficient process — surprisingly painless.

    2. How to Book Your Inspection

    Online reservation is highly recommended, especially to avoid waiting at busy inspection centers.
    Reservations can be made through the official Korea Transportation Safety Authority (교통안전공단) website.

    Here’s the link to the online reservation system (Korean only):
    https://www.cyberts.kr/cp/pvr/prm/readCpPvrPrsecResveMainView.do

    Although the website is in Korean, it’s fairly straightforward if you follow the steps:

    1. Enter your car registration number
    2. Choose your inspection center and preferred date/time
    3. Fill in your contact information
    4. Confirm and submit

    If you’re not confident in Korean, I recommend using Google Translate browser extension or asking a Korean-speaking friend to help.
    Once the booking is complete, you’ll receive a confirmation and a reminder by text before your appointment.

    3. What Happens During the Inspection?

    On the day of your appointment, you drive your car to the inspection center.
    After checking in, you’ll be guided into a test lane. A staff member takes over while you wait nearby. They’ll test:

    • Brakes
    • Headlights and signals
    • Exhaust emissions
    • Tires and suspension
    • Chassis and underbody condition

    My car passed in about 15 minutes. I received a sticker on the windshield and a printed certificate right away.

    If the vehicle doesn’t pass, they’ll explain what needs to be repaired and how to reschedule.

    4. Cost and Payment

    The fee is usually 25,000–30,000 KRW, depending on your vehicle type.
    Payment is made on-site, by card or cash. If a re-test is required, there may be an additional charge — usually lower than the first inspection fee.

    Considering the thoroughness of the test, I found it to be very reasonable.

    At first, the idea of navigating car inspections in a new country felt overwhelming. But the truth is, Korea’s system is well-organized, and once you’re familiar with the process, it becomes just another part of responsible car ownership.
    Online reservation made it especially convenient, and I appreciated how fast the entire process was.

    Even if the system isn’t fully English-supported yet, it’s absolutely doable with a little preparation.

    If you’re living in Korea and driving regularly, this is something you’ll need to go through — and it’s better to be ahead of the deadline than behind it.

  • Do You Need Cash While Staying in Korea?

    A Foreigner’s Guide to Spending Money in South Korea

    South Korea is widely known for its advanced technology — and yes, it’s true: credit cards, debit cards, and mobile payments are accepted almost everywhere.
    But if you’re a foreigner staying in Korea, you might be wondering: “Do I still need cash?”
    The short answer is: yes, but only in certain situations.

    Here’s a breakdown of when and where you’ll need cash — and how much you should carry.

    1. Where You Usually Don’t Need Cash

    • Convenience stores (GS25, CU, 7-Eleven)
    • Supermarkets and department stores
    • Subway and bus systems (with T-money or credit cards)
    • Restaurants and cafes, especially in urban areas
    • Taxis (most accept cards or KakaoPay)
    • Online shopping and food delivery apps

    In major cities like Seoul, Busan, and Incheon, you can go days without ever opening your wallet.

    2. When You’ll Likely Need Cash

    • Traditional markets (e.g. Namdaemun, Gwangjang)
    • Street food vendors
    • Small local restaurants in rural areas
    • Countryside guesthouses or older shops
    • Some temple stays or cultural workshops
    • Certain coin laundry machines or vending machines

    Cash is also helpful when splitting bills with friends or topping up your T-money transportation card.

    3. How Much Cash Should You Carry?

    It depends on your location and habits, but as a general rule:

    • In Seoul: ₩20,000–₩50,000 KRW (15–35 USD) is usually enough for emergencies or small cash-only places.
    • In smaller cities or rural areas: Consider carrying ₩100,000 KRW or more, just in case.

    4. How to Get Cash in Korea

    • Use international ATMs at:
      • Major banks (Shinhan, KB, Woori)
      • 7-Eleven or CU ATMs (some accept foreign cards)
    • You can withdraw with Visa, MasterCard, or Cirrus cards
    • Note: Some ATMs charge fees and only work during daytime

    Pro tip: ATMs labeled “Global ATM” are more likely to accept international cards.

    5. Can I Live Cash-Free in Korea?

    Almost.
    If you’re in Seoul, carry just a little cash and you’ll be fine 95% of the time.
    But outside big cities, it’s always smart to have some bills on hand — just in case the card machine breaks or Wi-Fi goes out.

    Korea is one of the most card-friendly countries in the world, but having a bit of cash is still useful — especially if you plan to explore local culture beyond the city center.

    A few bills in your pocket could make the difference between enjoying a street snack… or walking past it hungry!

  • How to Get a Residence Card in Korea (Alien Registration Card)

    If you’re planning to stay in Korea for more than 90 days, you are legally required to apply for a Residence Card (commonly known as an Alien Registration Card, or ARC).
    This card is essential — it serves as your official ID in Korea and is necessary for activities like opening a bank account, signing a phone contract, or signing a lease.

    Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the process.

    1. Who Needs a Residence Card?

    Foreigners staying in Korea for over 90 days, including:

    • International students
    • Foreign workers (E-2, E-7, D-10, etc.)
    • Spouses of Korean nationals
    • Long-term residents (F-2, F-6, D-2 visas, etc.)

    If your stay is short-term (e.g. tourist visa, visa waiver), you do not need to apply.

    2. When to Apply

    You must apply for your Residence Card within 90 days of arrival in Korea.
    Failing to register on time may result in a fine.

    3. Where to Apply

    You need to book an appointment and visit your local Immigration Office (출입국·외국인청).
    The office depends on your residential address, not your school or company.

    Appointment reservation: HiKorea website (www.hikorea.go.kr)

    4. Required Documents

    Documents may vary slightly depending on your visa type, but generally include:

    • Application form (available at the office or online)
    • Passport
    • 1 passport photo (3.5cm x 4.5cm, white background)
    • Visa issuance certificate or confirmation number
    • Housing contract or confirmation of residence
    • Fee: KRW 30,000 (cash or card)

    Additional documents may be required depending on your visa (e.g. certificate of admission for students, employment contract for workers, marriage certificate for spouses).

    5. What Happens Next?

    • The immigration officer will take your fingerprints and register your biometric data.
    • You’ll receive a receipt with a tracking number.
    • Your Residence Card will be ready in 2–4 weeks. You can pick it up or request delivery by post.
    • While waiting, the receipt acts as proof of application.

    6. Things You Can Do With a Residence Card

    Once you receive your card, you can:

    • Open a bank account
    • Get a mobile phone contract
    • Register for National Health Insurance
    • Sign up for internet or rent housing
    • Travel in and out of Korea more easily

    7. Important Tips

    • If you change your address, you must report it within 14 days at your local district office (구청).
    • If you lose your card, you must report and apply for a reissue within 14 days.
    • If your visa type or passport number changes, update your information at the immigration office.

    Getting your Residence Card is one of the first and most important steps after arriving in Korea for a long-term stay.
    Though the process may seem intimidating, it’s quite straightforward if you prepare your documents and book your appointment early.

  • 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)