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Korean procedures explained in plain language

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Types of scam

Scams targeting foreign residents follow set patterns.

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When you have a dispute with your landlord

Repairs, deposits and contract problems are resolved through certified mail and the dispute committee.

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Travelling within Korea

Book trains and buses, know 1330, and you can go anywhere.

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Map and navigation apps

In Korea, Naver Map and KakaoMap are the accurate ones.

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Booking films and performances

Booking through an app saves you queueing.

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Mobile phone identity verification

Many Korean services require verification through a phone registered in your own name.

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Using a licensed estate agent

Sign through a registered agent. If something goes wrong, their mutual aid insurance offers some protection.

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Essential apps

Install this handful when you arrive and life gets much easier.

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Driving in Korea

You need an international permit or a Korean licence. Never drink and drive.

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Korean public holidays

Seollal and Chuseok are the biggest, and transport and shops change dramatically.

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Tipping (there isn't any in Korea)

No tips are needed at restaurants, taxis, hairdressers or anywhere else.

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Basic Korean etiquette

Greetings, two hands, and order of precedence — knowing these three is enough.

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Online shopping

There is a cooling-off period. Check the seller's details before paying.

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Making the most of convenience stores

Open 24 hours, and they handle bills, parcels and ATMs too.

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Online fraud

Second-hand, shopping and investment fraud can be traced if you report it.

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Using simple payment apps (KakaoPay, Toss and others)

Apps that link your account or card for fast transfers and payments. A phone in your own name is required.

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Traffic fines and penalties

When a notice arrives, pay within the deadline or file an objection.

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Finding lost property

The lost112 site lets you search lost property nationwide.

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Credit card requirements

Income and credit are assessed. For foreign residents, remaining stay period and proof of income matter most.

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Dealing with pests and mould

Tell the landlord first; prevention is ventilation and cleaning.

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Disposing of food waste

Food waste goes separately from general rubbish. Bones and shells are not food waste.

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Setting up electricity, gas and water

When you move, transfer the accounts. Gas is connected only after a safety inspection.

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Gift-giving customs

Suiting the occasion matters more than spending a lot.

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Exchanging currency

Rates differ between banks, airports and private exchange shops. Airports are generally the worst.

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Grocery shopping (supermarkets and markets)

Hypermarkets, local shops, traditional markets and online each have their strengths.

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Dealing with fine dust

Check the level on AirKorea and wear a mask when it is "bad" or worse.

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Using parcel delivery

Send from convenience stores, apps or the post office. Photos and tracking numbers settle damage claims.

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Getting internet installed at home

Apply to a provider and an engineer visits to install it. Always check the contract length and cancellation penalty.

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Rules on keeping pets

Dogs must be registered, and leads and waste bags are required outdoors.

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Understanding Korean addresses

Road name addresses are standard: city, district, road name, building number.

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Second-hand trading

Always check the seller's account before transferring money.

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Using translation apps

Excellent as support, but important matters need a human interpreter.

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Reporting to the police

Call 112 in an emergency; use 182 or visit a station when it isn't urgent.

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Finding food from home

Foreign grocery shops cluster in areas with many foreign residents, and online options exist too.

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Taking express and intercity buses

Buy at the terminal or book by app. Buses reach more places than trains.

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Handling voice phishing

Hang up, verify on an official number, and don't transfer money.

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Buying and registering a car

For used cars, always check the inspection record and whether the car is seized or mortgaged.

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Taking out car insurance

Compulsory insurance is required by law. Driving uninsured is a criminal offence.

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Using the bus

Tap your card both on and off, and press the bell in advance.

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Bicycles and electric scooters

Electric scooters need a licence and a helmet. Riding on pavements is prohibited.

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Protecting your personal information

Never give anyone photographs of your residence card or your account details.

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Checking a lease contract

Before signing, check the property register and the landlord's identity. Signing comes after that.

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Visiting a police station

You have the right to an interpreter. Check the statement before signing it.

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Chuseok and Seollal

Family gathers, memorial rites are held, and food is shared.

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Using food delivery apps

Baemin, Coupang Eats and Yogiyo are the main ones. Check minimum orders and delivery fees.

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Signing up for Korean apps (identity verification)

Most services need a Korean phone registered in your own name.

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Monsoon season and typhoons

June to September calls for preparation against rain and wind.

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Proving your identity

The Alien Registration Card is your main ID. Carry it at all times.

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Work dinners and drinking culture

You can decline. Pressure to drink is not acceptable.

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Separating recycling

Empty, rinse, separate by material and put it out.

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