POV: You’re moving to South Korea for Studies!

🎉 Congratulations on Your Admission to a Korean University!

You’ve taken a huge step toward an exciting academic and cultural journey. Once the initial excitement fades, you might be asking yourself: What now? How do you get ready for a completely new country, lifestyle, and academic system?

This updated, practical guide covers everything you need to do before and after arriving in South Korea — from paperwork and packing to settling in, so you can start your studies with confidence and ease.

✅ 1. Finalize Travel Documents and Visa Requirements

Before booking your flight, ensure you’re legally and logistically ready.

✈️ Documents Checklist:

• Valid passport (with at least 6 months before expiration)

• University admission letter

• D-2 Student Visa (for undergraduate or graduate students)➤ Apply via the Korean embassy or consulate in your country

• Visa approval notice or confirmation number (if required)

• Proof of accommodation (e.g. dormitory letter or lease agreement)

• Flight tickets (round-trip may be required for visa issuance in some countries)

💡 Tip: Keep both digital and printed copies of all essential documents and store them in a waterproof folder during travel.

🎒 2. Smart Packing: Essentials to Bring to South Korea

South Korea experiences four distinct seasons, so your wardrobe and essentials must match your arrival season.

👚 Clothing by Season:

• Winter (Nov–Feb): Thermal wear, down jacket, gloves, scarf, snow-resistant shoes

• Summer (Jun–Aug): Lightweight, breathable clothes, sunscreen, umbrella

• Spring/Fall: Layered clothing for temperature shifts

🔌 Essentials:

• 220V plug adapter (Type C or F)

• Universal power strip (Korean plugs often lack grounding)

• Prescription medications (with doctor's note)

• Toiletries and cosmetics (some Western brands may be expensive or unavailable)

• Extra passport photos (for ARC, SIM, ID, etc.)

• Korean phrasebook or translation apps like Papago and Naver Dictionary

🧳 Bonus Tips:

• Luggage weight limits vary by airline so pack accordingly

• Shipping bulky items later can be expensive so pack smart

🏠 3. Secure Your Accommodation in Advance

University Dormitories:

• Affordable and convenient

• Often include basic furnishings and utilities

• Apply early as they fill up fast

Off-Campus Options:

• Goshiwon: Small, budget-friendly rooms for students

• One-room apartments: More privacy but higher cost

• Use apps like Zigbang, Dabang, or Gosiwon Korea to search

Note: Landlords may require a Korean co-signer or large deposit (jeonse). Dorms usually don’t.

💳 4. Open a Korean Bank Account

You'll need this for:

• Tuition payments

• Receiving part-time wages or scholarships

• Everyday expenses

How to Open:

• After receiving your Alien Registration Card (ARC)

• Visit banks like KEB Hana, Shinhan, or Woori

• Bring your passport, ARC, and university enrollment certificate

💡 Tip: Most major banks now offer mobile banking in English.

🛂 5. Apply for Your Alien Registration Card (ARC)

The ARC is your official ID in Korea.

📌 What You Need:

• Passport

• Visa

• University enrollment certificate

• Passport photo

• Application fee (approx. KRW 30,000)

Apply at the nearest immigration office within 90 days of arrival. You’ll need an appointment via the HiKorea website (www.hikorea.go.kr).

Important: You can’t open a bank account or sign a phone contract without your ARC.

📱 6. Get a Korean SIM Card or Mobile Plan

Stay connected from day one.

Options:

• Prepaid SIMs: Great for the first month. Available at Incheon Airport or online

• Monthly plans: Cheaper long term. Offered by KT, SK Telecom, and LG U+

You’ll need an ARC to get a full contract. Until then, use prepaid SIMs or eSIMs.

🚉 7. Learn to Use Public Transportation

Korea’s public transit is top-tier, affordable, and foreigner-friendly.

Must-Haves:

• T-money card (use on subways, buses, taxis, and even some convenience stores)

• Apps to download:

  • KakaoMap or Naver Map (navigation)

  • Subway Korea (real-time metro info)

  • Papago (translation)

  • Kakao T (for taxis)

🏥 8. Health Insurance and Medical Support

From 2021, all international students must enroll in the Korean National Health Insurance (NHI).

Benefits:

• Covers doctor visits, hospitalizations, and prescriptions

• Monthly premium: ~KRW 40,000–60,000 (subject to change)

Most universities automatically register students. You’ll receive a bill by mail or email.

👩‍⚕️ English-Friendly Clinics:

Search “foreign-friendly hospitals” on Naver or check university referrals.

🧑‍🎓 9. Attend Orientation and Join Student Groups

Orientation is your gateway to campus life.

• Learn about academics, cultural etiquette, and student services

• Join student clubs, buddy programs, and language exchanges

Making friends early can ease culture shock and help with everyday challenges.

🇰🇷 10. Embrace Korean Culture and Language

Living in Korea isn’t just about textbooks. It’s also about experiencing the Korean way of life.

Try:

• Local dishes like tteokbokki, samgyeopsal, and bibimbap

• Joining seasonal festivals (Lantern Festival, Cherry Blossom Season, etc.)

• Visiting cultural landmarks like Gyeongbokgung Palace or Jeonju Hanok Village

Language Tip:

• Enroll in Korean language classes (offered at most universities)

• Practice with apps like Talk To Me In Korean, Duolingo, or HelloTalk

Even learning the basics of Hangul goes a long way.

✨ Final Advice: Plan Ahead and Stay Flexible

Your time in Korea will be full of new experiences, occasional culture shock, and personal growth. Don’t worry if you make mistakes. Everyone does.

To Make the Most of Your Journey:

• Stay open-minded and curious

• Be proactive. Seek help from university support centers

• Maintain balance between studies and exploration

🔍 FAQs: Moving to Korea for Studies (2025 Update)

Q: How early should I arrive before classes?A: 1–2 weeks before is ideal. It gives you time to settle in, register your ARC, and attend orientation.

Q: Can international students work part-time?A: Yes. After receiving your ARC and getting permission from immigration, you can work up to 20 hours per week during semesters and full-time during vacations.

Q: What if I don't speak Korean?A: Many classes are offered in English. Learn basic Korean phrases for daily life and use translation apps while you improve.

🧭 Need Help Getting Started?

If you’re looking for personalized support, Korean language courses, or practical help moving to Korea, visit lkwu.in. We're here to guide you every step of the way.