Living in Korea

Living in Korea: Your Journey Starts Here

     1. Accommodation

Finding the right place to live is essential for a comfortable stay in Korea:

• On-Campus Dormitories:

  • • Most universities offer affordable dormitories with shared or private rooms.

    • Monthly costs range from $150 to $400, including utilities.

    • Facilities often include cafeterias, study rooms, and common areas for socializing.

• Off-Campus Housing:

  • • Options include private apartments, shared housing, or homestays.

    • Rent starts at $400 per month, with additional costs for utilities (~$50 to $100).

    • Ideal for students seeking more privacy or proximity to city centers.

• Tips: Start your housing search early, and consult our LIK Team for guidance.

     2. Cost of Living

Korea offers a balance of modern convenience and affordability:

• Monthly Budget Breakdown (Estimated):

  • • Housing : $150–$600 (depending on dormitory or off-campus living).

    • Food : $300–$500 (varies based on eating out or cooking at home).

    • Transportation : $50–$100.

    • Telecommunication : $20–$50 (depending on plan).

    • Miscellaneous (entertainment, shopping, etc.) : $100–$200.

• Affordable Options:

  • • Student cafeterias and local restaurants provide budget-friendly meals.

    • Public transportation is reliable and cost-effective.

     3. Food and Dining

Korea is a paradise for food lovers, offering diverse dining options:

• Traditional Korean Food:

  • • Try popular dishes like bibimbap, bulgogi, tteokbokki, and kimchi stew.

    • Meals at casual eateries cost $4–$6, while upscale dining ranges from $15–$30.

• Global Cuisine:

  • • Many cities have restaurants serving Italian, Indian, Chinese, and other international cuisines.

• Convenience Stores:

  • • Affordable snacks and instant meals, starting at $2–$5.

• Groceries:

  • • Cooking at home is economical, with local markets and supermarkets offering fresh produce.

     4. Transportation

Korea boasts one of the most efficient and modern transportation systems:

• Subways and Buses:

  • • Cover all major cities and towns.

    • Fares start at $1–$1.50 with rechargeable T-money cards.

    • Apps like "Kakao Metro" and "Naver Maps" provide real-time navigation.

• Taxis:

  • • Starting fare is $3–$4, with ride-sharing apps like Kakao T widely available.

• Intercity Travel:

  • • Use KTX high-speed trains, express buses, or budget airlines for travel across Korea.

    • Affordable tickets make it easy to explore different regions.

     5. Safety and Healthcare

Korea is renowned for its safety and accessible healthcare system:

• Safety:

  • • Low crime rates and well-maintained public spaces make Korea one of the safest countries.

    • Emergency hotlines: Dial 112 for police and 119 for fire and medical emergencies.

• Healthcare:

  • • International students must enroll in the National Health Insurance program (~$50–$80 per month).

    • This covers doctor visits, hospitalization, and medications at significantly reduced costs.

    • English-speaking clinics and hospitals are available in major cities.

     6. Telecommunication

Staying connected in Korea is easy and affordable:

• Mobile Plans:

  • • Prepaid or postpaid plans are available.

    • Monthly fees range from $20–$50, depending on data and call limits.

• Internet Access:

  • • High-speed internet is widely available, costing approximately $25–$40 per month for home connections.

    • Free Wi-Fi is accessible in most public spaces, cafes, and university campuses.

• Sim Cards:

  • • Prepaid SIM cards can be purchased at airports or telecom stores, starting at $10–$20 for basic usage.

     7. Culture and Lifestyle

Immerse yourself in Korea’s rich culture and vibrant lifestyle:

• Traditional Culture:

  • • Visit palaces like Gyeongbokgung and historic sites in Gyeongju and many other places.

    • Participate in local festivals like Chuseok (Harvest Festival) and Seollal (Lunar New Year).

• Modern Lifestyle:

  • • Experience K-pop concerts, shopping districts, and trendy cafes.

    • Explore tech-savvy cities with free Wi-Fi zones and smart conveniences.

• Outdoor Activities:

  • • Many places in Korea or near by wherever you stays for Hiking, Sightseeing, and enjoying your life in Korea.