Stories of Korea, Written by a Korean

Hello everyone, who is about to start a new challenge in Korea! We sincerely welcome those of you who are preparing for your journey to Korea through the EPS (Employment Permit System). Korea is waiting for your skills and passion, and we are writing this article because we want to help you succeed in your life in Korea.

Through this article, we hope you gain insights into what to prepare before coming to Korea, essential tasks upon arrival, and useful tips for adapting to life in Korea.

Before departing for Korea, what preparations should you make?

A new beginning starts with thorough preparation. Check everything carefully and get ready to depart.

• Essential Document Checklist and Preparation
  • Passport, Visa
  • Employment Contract
  • Health Examination Records
  • Other Personal Documents : Home country ID card, Family Relations Certificate, Graduation or Employment Certificate, Driver’s License, Passport Photos etc.

• Basic Korean Language Proficiency
  • Although you may have passed the EPS-TOPIK, basic conversational skills (greetings, asking for directions, shopping, etc.) will greatly help you adapt to life in Korea. Try practicing consistently using Korean language apps or online courses.
  • Recommended Expressions : “Hello,” “Thank you,” “Please help me,” “How much is it?”, “Where is the restroom?” etc.

• Understanding Korean Culture
  • Familiarizing yourself with Korea’s honorific language culture, dining etiquette, and workplace culture in advance can help reduce confusion.
  • Explore everyday life and culture in Korea through various channels like the internet and YouTube.

• Prepare Personal Items
  • Clothing: Korea has distinct four seasons, so prepare appropriate clothing for each season or plan to purchase them after arriving in Korea.
  • Personal over-the-counter medication: Pack a sufficient supply of any regular medications you take, and for common illnesses, we recommend trying a pharmacy in Korea.
  • Currency Exchange: It is convenient to exchange a small amount of Korean Won that you can use immediately upon arrival in Korea.

Have you arrived safely in Korea? What are the first things you need to do upon entry?

Though your heart may be fluttering with excitement, once you’ve arrived in Korea, calmly proceed with the following steps.

• Immigration Clearance and Fingerprint Registration : Go through immigration clearance and register your fingerprints at the airport. Don’t hesitate to ask if you have any questions!
• Alien Registration Card Issuance
  • Foreigners staying in Korea for more than 90 days must obtain an Alien Registration Card.
  • Apply within 90 days of entry by visiting the local immigration office or branch. (Required documents: passport, photo, application form, copy of employment permit, fee, etc.)
  • The Alien Registration Card is an essential ID for life in Korea, so you must always carry it and manage it carefully.
• Mobile Phone Activation
  • Activating a mobile phone is essential for living in Korea. You can do this at telecommunication company booths in the airport or at city-based telecom stores.
  • It’s also a good idea to start with a prepaid SIM card and then switch to a post-paid plan after your Alien Registration Card is issued.
• Bank Account Opening
  • You need to open a bank account to receive your salary and manage living expenses.
  • You can visit a bank with your Alien Registration Card and passport. (However, some banks only allow account opening after your Alien Registration Card has been issued.)
• Visit to the Employment Support Center
  • It is advisable to visit the Employment Support Center after arriving in Korea to confirm your employment registration and enrollment procedures for employment insurance. Employers are obligated to enroll their workers in employment insurance.

I will give you useful information to help you adapt well to life in Korea.

As you gradually get used to work and life in Korea, try to make use of these helpful pieces of information.

• Transportation
  • Korea has an excellent public transportation system. You can use various means such as buses, subways, and taxis.
  • Transportation Card (T-Money/Cashbee) : Usable nationwide, it’s convenient to use after charging. You can purchase and recharge it at convenience stores or subway stations.
  • Navigation Apps : Naver Map, Kakao Map, etc., are essential apps for finding your way in Korea.
• Medical Services
  • Foreign workers are eligible for National Health Insurance. Enrolling in health insurance can reduce the burden of hospital expenses.
  • If you are sick, visit a nearby hospital (internal medicine, surgery, etc.). If communication is difficult, you can request an interpretation service or use a translation app.
• Lifestyle Information Apps
  • Translation App: Papago is specialized for Korean translation and is very useful.
  • Delivery Apps: Baedal Minjok (배달의민족) and Yogiyo (요기요) allow you to order and receive delivery of various foods.
  • Used Goods Trading App: Carrot Market (당근마켓) is a useful app for trading used items with neighbors in your area.
• Utilizing Foreigner Support Centers
  • There are support centers for foreign workers located throughout the country. These centers offer various services such as Korean language education, legal counseling, and cultural experiences.
  • Do not hesitate to visit or contact them if you encounter difficulties or need assistance.
• Safety and Rights Protection
  • Korean labor laws apply equally to both domestic and foreign workers. If you experience unfair treatment or issues such as unpaid wages, you can seek help from the Ministry of Employment and Labor or a foreigner support center. Emergency Numbers: 112 (Police) and 119 (Fire/Emergency) are numbers to use in urgent situations.

A challenge can be both thrilling and daunting, but you can do it!

Life in Korea might initially feel unfamiliar and difficult. However, if you don’t give up and adapt step by step, you will surely achieve wonderful experiences and growth. CapturedKorea will strive to help you with various information for your successful life in Korea!

If you have any questions, feel free to visit CapturedKorea anytime!

We sincerely support your challenge!