03.13
2026
Starting January 2, 2026, the Ministry of Justice of the Republic of Korea has expanded the mandatory employment information reporting system for foreigners to online reporting. Foreigners no longer need to visit the Immigration Office in person. Instead, they can conveniently report their employment information on the HiKorea website operated by the Ministry of Justice. This change will save both time and money. Employment information reporting is required when new employment status is establis
03.06
Waste disposal in Korea is regulated by law and applies equally to foreigners. Unlike countries where trash can be thrown away together, Korea requires strict separation of general waste, food waste, recyclables, and large waste. Korea uses a volume-based waste fee system. General waste must be disposed of in government-designated bags, while food waste and recyclables must be separated. Mixing waste or using non-designated bags can result in fines, especially in apartments where disposal is clo
02.26
Losing a passport, Alien Registration Card (ARC), or bank card can be stressful for foreigners in Korea, but calm and prompt action can resolve most issues smoothly. Regularly checking your visa status is also essential for maintaining legal residency. If you lose your passport, ARC, or bank card, first retrace your steps and visit the nearest police station to file a loss report. The Loss Report Confirmation issued by the police is required for procedures at embassies, immigration offices, and
02.20
Moving is more than changing homes; it is a process of reorganizing daily life. Without preparation, costs rise and time is wasted. Today, combining digital tools with smart space management is key to an efficient move. Start by reviewing your contract carefully. Check special clauses, management fees, and restoration requirements to avoid disputes later. Confirm what is included in the management fee and apply in advance for electricity, gas, and water transfers to reduce stress on moving day.
02.13
Moving in Korea involves contracts, utilities, and administrative procedures. February–March is peak season due to school and job changes, causing studio shortages and moving costs to rise—often 1.5 times higher than off-season. During this period, rushing into contracts can lead to disputes. In Korea, only what is clearly written in the contract is legally valid, so carefully check clauses on deposit refunds, utility settlements, and special conditions. Moving costs vary. Moving trucks usually
02.06
Foreigners earning salary income in Korea are eligible for year-end tax settlements and refunds, just like Korean citizens. However, deductions and procedures differ based on residency status, making it essential to understand the rules and prepare accurately. Foreigners who stayed in Korea for over 183 days are classified as residents and can claim broader deductions. Those who stayed less than 183 days are non-residents and face limited deductions, such as restrictions on medical and education
01.30
Winter break offers international students in Korea a chance to gain experience, earn extra income, and engage more deeply with local life. With fewer academic commitments, students can explore opportunities that are difficult to manage during the semester. Short-term part-time jobs are the most practical choice. Cafes and restaurants often hire extra staff during the holiday season, making them accessible for beginners while helping improve daily Korean conversation skills. Event and exhibition
01.23
As temperatures drop sharply, many people look for ways to stay warm indoors while keeping heating bills low. This is especially relevant for single-person households, students, and studio apartment residents who have limited control over central heating. In such cases, small lifestyle changes and the right items can greatly affect perceived warmth. One popular item is the Daiso heater lamp. Shaped like a light bulb, it can be used in a stand or socket to provide localized warmth under desks or
01.16
For foreigners in Korea, winter heating bills can be a major concern, especially during the first winter. Many high gas bills are not caused by using heating too much, but by misunderstanding how boiler settings work. One common mistake involves the “scheduled 3 hours” mode. This setting does not mean the boiler turns on after three hours. Instead, it runs briefly at intervals to keep the floor warm. This method uses less energy than reheating a completely cold floor and helps maintain a stable
01.09
People in Korea celebrate the New Year twice: on January 1 and again on Seollal, the Lunar New Year. Based on the lunar calendar, Seollal falls in January or February. In 2026, it takes place on February 17, with an official three-day holiday from February 16 to 18. Although Lunar New Year is observed in many Asian countries, Seollal in Korea has its own customs and social atmosphere. As the holiday begins, people travel across the country to visit family, causing transportation to sell out quic
01.02
Winter in Korea may be harsh, but this very intensity enhances the season’s unique charm. Snow-covered mountains, icy seas, seasonal cuisine, and regional festivals transform winter into a peak travel period. Gangwon-do stands out as the leading winter destination. The snowy scenery of Seoraksan and Odaesan offers breathtaking views, while ski resorts in Pyeongchang and Hongcheon function as major centers for winter sports. Festivals like the Hwacheon Sancheoneo Festival and the Pyeongchang Trou
12.26
2025
Halal Food: Finding halal food can be challenging since much Korean food contains pork. Apps: MUFKO (Muslim Friendly Korea) and HalalKorea are great resources for halal restaurants. Restaurants: Uzbek, Arab, and Pakistani restaurants are usually halal and easy to find on Kakao Map or Naver Map. Grocery Delivery: Coupang, Yeshalal, and Koreahalal offer halal ingredients. Halal-Friendly Korean Food: Vegetable bibimbap, seafood pajeon, pumpkin porridge, grilled mackerel, and potato pancakes are goo
12.19
Managing living expenses in Korea can be challenging, but even small savings add up. Here’s how Onnuri Gift Certificates can help: Onnuri Gift Certificates can be used like cash at traditional markets, restaurants, and local shops. Digital versions are available for convenience. https://onnurigift.or.kr/type_card/index How They Help: The app shows nearby participating merchants, making it easy to use, even in unfamiliar areas. Symbiotic Payback: Spend more on your card than last year (Sept-Nov 2
12.11
Winter is fast approaching. If you look carefully, you‘ll find a surprising number of free or affordable winter events. Let’s take a look at some of the most popular events that foreigners visiting Korea for winter might find helpful. Seoul Winter Festa (https://www.winta.co.kr/#) Period: December 2024 - January 2025 Features: Light festivals throughout Seoul, including bell-ringing at Cheonggyecheon, DDP, and Bosingak Pavilion. Achasan Sunrise Festival Period: January 1, 2025 Features: New Year
12.01
Using hospitals and pharmacies in Korea is simple. For those with health insurance, treatment costs range from 5,000 to 20,000 won. Without insurance, it’s about 30,000 to 60,000 won. Colds and body aches are easily treated at local hospitals, and medications can be bought directly at pharmacies. For foreign language support, check if hospitals offer English or Chinese services. University hospitals with international centers, the 1339 Foreigner Counseling Center, and public health centers are h
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