Life in Korea

Overview

Seoul Global Center (SGC)

The following guidebooks are published by the Seoul Global Center (https://global.seoul.go.kr) and can help you prepare for your life here in Korea and the city of Seoul. The center can also provide various services and counseling during your stay

Korea Tourism Organization (KTO)

You can also check out many books on many topics published by the Korea Tourism Organization (http://visitkorea.or.kr) in various languages. https://english.visitkorea.or.kr/enu/TRV/TV_ENG_3_5.jsp

General Advice

Greetings & Gestures

When meeting someone for the first time in Korea, it is polite to shake their hand with both hands and/or bow your head to them. Use both hands when paying for something, giving, and accepting things from others. A common way to be polite is to support the hand you are using with your other hand.

Gift-Giving

This is a frequent custom in Korea. You may wish to bring some small gifts from your home country to give to friends or classmates as a token of appreciation.

Time

Time is often "flexible" in social situations - you may expect to find people arriving "late" to parties, dinners, dates, etc. Dinners and outings may also be very long so you can develop relationships with group members.

Meeting Others

You may find it difficult to meet new friends - often people are introduced through personal acquaintances and networks - try to join clubs and activities (like the ISO , BUDDY, and ATTI programs) to meet people!

Eye Contact

In formal situations with superiors, it is often impolite to make direct eye contact. When drinking alcohol with peers, it is common to look away when you drink as a sign of respect.

Business Cards

This really won't apply to you as a student, but exchange business cards is a customary way to introduce oneself while working in Korea. You might try asking your professors for their business cards!

Other Advice

Medication

  • If you take prescription medication, please try to bring an adequate supply for your exchange period.

Banking

  • You will be able to open a bank account for free once you arrive in Korea, but make sure you have access to enough cash to support yourself when you arrive.

Mobile Phone Service

  • Obtain a temporary SIM card at the Incheon Airport when you land for instant access. Alternatively, WIFI is readily available and convenient to use throughout Korea.

Shoes

  • Remove your shoes when entering someone’s home, temples, and traditional restaurants (look for the visible area at the entrance for shoes).

Seasons and Climate

  • Korea has four seasons, so pack appropriate clothing and layers. Winters tend to be very cold and dry, while summers are hot and humid. Spring and fall are mild and beautiful, but short.