Joanna James
Whichever reason compels you to move to South Korea the Land of the Morning Calm, be it the culture, the people, a new job opportunity or a student hoping to pursue further studies you are not the only foreigner to feel excited as well as a bit uncertain about this life-changing move. It can also be daunting for those who are not attuned to Korean language and culture. However, once you have decided to move this is how you must start rolling out things with your best foot forward.
Multiple types of visas are possible in Korea, be very clear about the purpose of your stay to decide which visa type you must apply for. The three frequently used visas are as follows.
Working Visa – This will only be issued if you have secured employment in South Korea and your employer has applied for the visa on your behalf. Once it is approved, you need to visit the Korean Embassy in your home country with the acceptance letter.
Working Holiday Visa – The onus of obtaining this visa is on yourself. Apply for the visa and find a job after you arrive in Korea as often done by visitors staying at Myeongdong hotels. This visa is granted to a limited number of nationals between 18 to 30 years of age. The maximum stay under this visa type is one year.
Student Visa – This is the most popular visa type, supporting documentation with University Admission Letter must be provided. The duration of the visa is as per the course of study admitted to.
Students are permitted to work during their stay in Korea, however, jobs are limited to part-time ones such as waitstaff at restaurants or part-time teachers and limited to 20 hours per week usually except during semester breaks.
It is wise to not commit to a tenancy before you arrive and see the property yourself. The landlords ask for a deposit in advance of a year’s or 2 year's rent. And monthly rent is collected separately. The deposit is refunded if there is no damage to the property. Committing a lot of money in advance without seeing the apartment or house, and not going through the tenancy agreement with the help of a translator to avoid possible misunderstandings in the agreement should be avoided.
Most aspiring foreigners spend the first few days or weeks at a hotel downtown such as Travelodge Myeongdong City Hall until the accommodation is agreed upon and settled.
Once visa confirmation is in place, apply and obtain the foreigner pass called Alien Registration Card. (ARC). This is easy to obtain with the online system.
This card is important for those staying in Korea for over 90 days. It facilitates getting a monthly mobile phone plan, a local bank account and even an internet facility as needed and is important with Korean immigration if you want to travel out of Korea during your stay.
Whilst some of the practices in South Korea may seem alien to you be open to understanding and appreciating these differences.
Korean Language – Is difficult to learn, learn a few everyday phrases, but you can still get by speaking in English.
Infrastructure, food and entertainment - It is a safe country with loads of natural beauty to explore, a sound public transportation system, and the vibrant capital city Seoul which is home to international fashion brands, Theatres, plenty of restaurants offering delicious Korean food, ornate temples and beautiful churches and an exciting nightlife.
Korean People – Although reticent Koreans are kind and caring people. However, be attuned to being bumped into in dense areas and not receiving an apology. If you find anyone staring just be patient you get used to it.
Clothing – Most shops and boutiques cater to small sizes, especially in local brands, International brands may have larger sizes, hence pack your clothing for different seasons.
Tipping – As VAT or value-added tax is included in your bill, no tipping is expected even at hotels and spas.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
