Living and Housing Information
Explore essential information for a smooth study abroad experience in Korea and plan accordingly
Life in Korea
If you decide to study in Korea, it’s important to explore the various housing options available. Find your ideal living environment and contract type through apps that provide detailed information.
Korea’s Climate
Korea experiences four distinct seasons: spring, summer, autumn, and winter.
Spring and autumn are typically clear and dry, summer is hot and humid, and winter is cold and dry.
Coldest Month
Hottest Month
Source : Korea Meteorological Administration Weather Portal https://www.weather.go.kr
※ Based on Seoul, the capital of Korea (Average values over 30 years, including at least 10 years of data)
※ Detailed climate characteristics can be found on the Climate Data Open Portal.
Leisure Activities in Korea
Korea, a Country of Culture and History!
Experience unique and diverse opportunities, such as cultural arts, theme-based healing trips, and historical explorations.
Types of Accommodation
University Dormitories
Most universities operate their own dormitories.
Dormitories are located on campus or within a relatively short distance, making them convenient for commuting and relatively affordable.
Additionally, dormitories are equipped with various facilities such as libraries, computer labs, gyms, and dining halls, offering a range of conveniences for students.
However, dormitories are shared living spaces, so privacy is limited, and strict living rules are enforced.
Rooms are typically categorized into single, double, or quadruple occupancy. The conditions for admission and living costs vary by university, so it is recommended to inquire with your
school’s dormitory office.
Homestays
Homestays involve staying with a local family, where both a room and meals are provided in exchange for a monthly fee.
This type of accommodation offers a great opportunity to experience Korean family culture. Many homestays are available near schools, and it is advisable to visit in person to assess the
living conditions and costs before making a decision.
Rental Deposit
In Korea, a rental deposit is a sum of money that tenants provide to landlords when renting a property. The deposit is fully refunded when the tenant moves out of the property.
Jeonse (Lump-Sum Lease)
A concept of long-term housing where tenants pay a lump-sum amount to the landlord to lease a property for a set period.
Once the lease term ends, the deposit is refunded to the tenant upon moving out. Jeonse requires a larger upfront payment compared to monthly rent, but it has the advantage of not
requiring monthly rental payments during the lease period.
Wolse (Monthly Rent)
A housing type where tenants provide a certain amount as a deposit upfront and pay a fixed monthly rent (rental fee). The deposit is refunded once the lease period ends.
Real Estate Applications
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1 Dabang
Currently the most popular real estate app.
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2 Zigbang
A specialized real estate app for apartments, new developments, studio apartments, officetel, villas, and commercial spaces.
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3 Naver Real Estate
An app that allows users to easily receive notifications about desired properties.
Source : Easy-to-Find Practical Law Information by the Ministry of Government Legislation [Support for International Students, Finding a Home] https://www.easylaw.go.kr/
Types of Housing and Occupancy for International Students
Most international students studying in Korea prefer "private housing or dormitories," with a significant number living in private housing on a "monthly rent" basis.
Types of Housing
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Private Housing
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Apartment
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Dormitories
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Others
Occupancy Types
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Jeonse (Lump-Sum Lease)
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Wolse (Monthly Rent)
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Own Home
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Others
- Source : Statistics Korea / https://kostat.go.kr/ as of May 2023>
Transportation
Buses are available in all regions of Korea, with bus stops located nearby for convenient and quick access.
Understanding the operation schedules makes it easy to travel across most parts of Korea.
Bus
Subway
Taxi
Train
Air Travel
Driver’s License
Foreign nationals legally residing in Korea can obtain a driver’s license by following the required procedures.
Korea’s transportation network is highly developed, allowing access to most regions nationwide as long as you adhere to road traffic laws.
Steps to Obtain a Korean Driver’s License
Information on International Driver’s Licenses for Foreign Nationals
Check Countries Covered by International Driver’s License Agreements
Source : Korea Road Traffic Authority Integrated Safe Driving Services / https://www.safedriving.or.kr
National Health Insurance
Eligibility
International students, overseas Koreans and students of Korean descent
Enrollment Period
| Residency Status | Enrollment Period |
|---|---|
| Study Abroad (D-2), Primary/Secondary School Student (D-4-3) |
Upon initial entry → Date of foreigner registration
Re-entry after foreigner registration → Date of re-entry |
| General Training (D-4) | Six months after the date of entry |
| Overseas Koreans/Students of Korean Descent | Upon school admission after entry (with proof of enrollment) |
Enrollment Process
International students are automatically enrolled in the National Health Insurance without any additional application process. A health insurance card and an enrollment guide will be sent to your registered residence in Korea.
Insurance Premium Calculation
Premiums are calculated on an individual (or family) basis, considering income and property. If the calculated premium is lower than the average premium of all enrollees from the previous November, the average premium is applied.
Premium Reduction
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A premium reduction is available for those meeting the following conditions:
*Residency status qualifies for reduction
*Monthly income of 300,000 KRW or less
*Property tax base value of 135 million KRW or less
*Study Abroad (D-2), General Training (D-4), Overseas Korean (F-4) students, and other international students -
Reduction Rates
1. March 2021 - February 2022: 70% reduction
2. March 2022 - February 2023: 60% reduction
3. March 2023 onward: 50% reduction
Health Insurance Benefits
International students enjoy the same benefits as Korean nationals, including hospital visits and health check-ups.
※ Treatments unrelated to work or daily life, such as cosmetic surgery, are not covered by the insurance.
Source : https://www.nhis.or.kr/nhis/policy/wbhada02500m01.do
Medical Treatment
Medical costs vary depending on your insurance coverage. In some cases, insurance purchased abroad may not be accepted at certain hospitals,
and you may need to pay the medical costs upfront and later request reimbursement. It is important to carefully select a hospital.
Emergency Medical Portal(E-GEN)
Banking Services
Bank Account Opening Procedure
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Step 1 Required Documents
ID(passport, alien registration card,
or resident registration card), seal (signature),
and proof of financial transaction purpose. -
Step 2 Take a queue ticket and wait
Check your number on the display board.
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Step 3 Consult with a bank employee to open an account
If needed, apply for internet banking and an ATM card (for cash withdrawals and deposits).
Remittance
Foreigners can remit money overseas from a nearby bank.
Remittances are possible through foreign exchange banks, with a limit of up to USD 100,000 annually without documentation.
For amounts exceeding USD 100,000, the bank may require additional documentation.
Since transfer fees vary by bank, it is advisable to check in advance.
Financial Products
In Korea, various financial institutions offer a wide range of products and services, including savings accounts, funds, and insurance plans.
However, all financial transactions are subject to relatively strict domestic regulations, which may impose limitations on transactions by foreigners residing in Korea. Please take note of
this.
Currency Exchange
Foreign currency and traveler’s checks can be easily exchanged at banks and currency exchange booths located in airports across Korea.
However, the types of currencies available for exchange may vary by bank. For large sums or currencies other than the US dollar, it is recommended to inquire with the bank in advance.
Additionally, internet banking is generally advantageous for currency exchange rates, so utilizing this service is a good option. When transferring money to foreign bank accounts, telegraphic
transfers (TT) offer a quick and easy solution.
Reference Bank Websites (Add specific bank website details here if necessary.)
Currency Units in Korea
The currency unit in Korea is represented by the symbol ₩, the ISO 4217 code KRW, and the currency name "Won" (in English: WON).
Coins include ₩10, ₩50, ₩100, and ₩500 denominations, while banknotes come in ₩1,000, ₩5,000, ₩10,000, and ₩50,000 denominations.
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50,000KRW -
10,000KRW -
5,000KRW -
1,000KRW -
500KRW -
100KRW -
50KRW -
10KRW
Activating a Mobile Phone
Required Documents for Mobile Phone Activation
Alien Registration Card (for postpaid plans), Passport (for prepaid plans), Student ID
Device Payment
You can pay for the phone or plan using a credit card or cash.
Mobile Network Providers in Korea
Different mobile providers may have varying document requirements, so inquire with your desired provider.
Mobile plans differ across providers and are tailored to diverse lifestyles and usage patterns.
Additionally, budget plans are available through three main telecom companies and post offices, offering affordable data and additional services. For more details, search through online portals.
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SKT
080-011-6000
After calling the customer service number, request a transfer to foreign language support in English, Chinese, or Japanese.
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KT
080-448-0100
Dedicated team for foreigners, offering services in English, Chinese, and Japanese.
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LG U+
1544-0010
After calling the customer service number, request a transfer to foreign language support in English, Chinese, or Japanese.
Safety Tips - Support for Foreigners to Prevent Crimes
Simply remembering basic safety tips can help minimize various risks. In Korea, foreign residents are provided with consultation and educational programs about local laws.
For international students who face language barriers or are unfamiliar with reporting procedures, assistance is available in cases of actual crime victimization.
Consultation for Foreign Residents in Korea
Eligibility
Available to all foreign residents currently staying in Korea.
Application Period and Method
Varies by reception agency; apply in person or by phone at a police station for foreigner crime prevention education.
Support Provided
- Education and Consultation on Local Laws
- Foreign Workers/International Students: Education on basic public order laws.
- Marriage Migrant Women and Their Spouses: Crime prevention education, including domestic violence and child abuse.
- Children of Multicultural Families: School violence prevention education.
Required Documents
Apply for foreigner crime prevention education by visiting or calling a police station.
Contact Information
Police Civil Service Call Center: T.182
Source : Government 24 [Support for Foreign Crime Prevention Classes] https://www.gov.kr/
Specialized 112 Interpretation Service for Foreign Crime Victims
Specialized 112 Interpretation Service
Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency 112 Comprehensive Crime Situation Room: Weekdays 09:00–21:00
※ For nighttime and holiday hours outside regular weekday working hours, the existing interpretation service is available.
Source : National Police Agency [Specialized 112 Interpretation Service for Foreign Crime Victims] https://www.police.go.kr/
Crime Victim Prevention Guidebook
※ As part of multicultural policing activities, the National Police Agency has created and distributed a crime victim prevention guidebook for foreign residents in 14 languages to support their safe settlement in Korea.
Source : National Police Agency [Crime Victim Prevention Guidebook] https://www.police.go.kr/
