Guidebook
for Living
in Korea
for
Foreigners
한국생활 가이드북
*
The contents of this book are also available through
the multicultural family support portal site
(www.liveinkorea.go.kr)
C
o
n
t
e
n
t
s
II Foreign Resident Support Services
16
Foreigner Support Services
16
Korean Language Education
16
Education on Korean Culture and Life in Korea
17
ICT Education
17
Counseling
17
How to Use Foreigner Support Services
18
Foreign Resident Support Organizations
18
Multicultural Family Support Centers
20
Korea Migrants’ Center
21
Emergency Support Center for Migrant Women
22
Korea Immigration Service
23
Websites with Support for Multiple Languages
I Introduction to the Republic of Korea
III Residence and Naturalization
8
General Information
8
Official Name of Country: Republic of Korea
26
Residence of Foreigners
8
Location and Area
26
Confirmation of Passport and Visa Expiry Date
8
National Flag
28
Registration of Foreign Residents
9
National Flower
33
Extension of Stay
9
Population
35
Change of Nonimmigrant Status
9
Economy
36Activities Other Than Those Permitted under
10
Administrative Districts
11
Climate
37
11
Spring
38
Obligation of Foreign Residents to Report
11
Summer
39
Denizenship
11
Fall
39
Qualification
11
Winter
40
Marriage Immigrants
12
Currency
41
Loss of Denizenship
12
Festivals and Seasonal Events
42
Naturalization
12
Festivals
42
Qualifications
13
Holidays
42
Marriage Immigrants
the Status
Reentry Permit
47
Social Integration Programs
50Inviting Parents and Relatives of Marriage Immigrants
IV Korean Culture and Life
110
Airlines
112
Use of Public Administration
112
Public Administrative Bodies
112
Police Stations
113
Fire Stations
113
Post Offices
Family Culture
114
Libraries
54
Characteristics of Korean Families
115
Use of Convenience Facilities
55
Language Etiquette
115
Barbershops
60
Important Days of Celebration for Families
115
Beauty Salons
64
Food
115
Public Baths
64
Food that Koreans Usually Eat
65
Korean Food
71
Sauces
73
Housing Culture
120
73
Housing Types, and Matters to be Attended to
120Recommended Checkups for Expecting
77
Electricity
78
Use of Water
120
General Good Practices for Prenatal Health
78
Use of Gas
122
Public Health Centers that Provide Help for
80
Heating
81
Telecommunications
124
Giving Birth
54
V Pregnancy and Childcare
Pregnancy and Childbirth
Mothers
Pregnant Women
86
Garbage Collection System
125
Infant Healthcare
88
Consumption and Economic Life
125
Stages of Infant Development
88
Household Economy
126
Vaccinations
90
How to Purchase and Use Goods
128Vaccinations Available at Public Health
93How to Save Money, and How to Use Banking
Centers
Services
129
Infant Growth Information and Education
97
Transportation in Korea
129
Pre-Primary Education
97
Buses
130
Childcare Subsidy and Financial Assistance
100
Subway
104
Taxis
105
Passenger Vehicles
107
Trains
for Kindergarten
134
Childcare Subsidy for Farmers and Fishers
V Education of Children
170
Fees to Be Charged to Recipients
171
Medical Institutions
138
Educational System of Korea
171
Types of Medical Institutions
138
Overview of the Educational System of Korea
172
Major Services and Major Diseases
Operation of the Educational System
173
How to Use Medical Services
138
139
Primary School Education
174
Coping with Emergency Situations
139
Guide to Elementary School Admission
175
Pharmacy
142
Prepare to Enter School
176
Public Health Centers
176
M
edical Examination and
144Make the Child Familiar with School Life at the
Treatment
Beginning of School Year
149
Middle School Education
149
Academic Programs and Courses
177
Care Service
150
Electives
178
151
Extracurricular Activities
179
156
High School Education
156
Types of High Schools
157
Welfare Services for Students
161
University Education
161
Types of Higher Education
162
Scholarships
VII Health and Healthcare
C
ustomized Home Visit Medical
Free Mental Healthcare Service
First Aids
VIII Social Security System
184Basic Livelihood Security
System
184
Qualifications
185
Types of Aid
186
How to Apply
187
National Pension
187
Qualifications
Amount of Pension
166
National Health Insurance
166
Overview of National Health Insurance
188
166
F
oreign residents who are required 188
Benefits
to subscribe to the national health insurance
190
Emergency Welfare Aid
How to Register
190
Qualifications
167
Benefits
191
How to Apply and Procedures
168
Payment of Insurance Premium
192Criteria for Income and Properties
168
Counseling and Inquiries
169
Medical Allowance System
192
Types of Aid
169
Qualifications
194
Self-Support Services
167
and Eligibility Review Standards
194
Qualifications
194
Working Conditions
195
How to Apply
224
Cultural Spaces of Korea
196
S
upport for Single-Parent
225
Tourist Destinations
Families
225
UNESCO World Heritage Sites
196
Types of Services
228
National Parks
197
How to Apply
229
Major Tourist Destinations by Region
240
Museums and Art Galleries
243
Theme Parks
245
Popular Neighborhoods for Foreigners
IX Employment and Labor
X Enjoy Korea!
200Employment and Vocational
Training
Reference
200
Employment
204
Vocational Training
206
Major Issues Related to Labor
206
Social Insurance
206
Overview of the Labor Standards Law
208
Labor Standards
255
Support Centers for Foreign Workers
210
Salary
256
Korea Immigration Service ☎1345
211
Employment Insurance
211
Unemployment Benefits
213
Industrial Accident Compensation
Insurance
213
Industrial Accidents
215
Basic Safety Rules
216
Safety Signs
217
M
aternity Leave and Childcare
217
Maternity Leave
218
Stillbirth and Miscarriage Leave
219
Childcare Leave
Leave
250
M
ulticultural Family Support Centers
☎1577-5432
255
E
mergency Support Center for Migrant
Women ☎1577-1366
Guidebook
for Living
in Korea
for Foreigners
I
Introduction to the
Republic of Korea
8
General Information
8
Official Name of Country: Republic of Korea
8
Location and Area
8
National Flag
9
National Flower
9
Population
9
Economy
10
Administrative Districts
11
Climate
11
Spring
11
Summer
11
Fall
11
Winter
12
Currency
12
Festivals and Seasonal Events
12
Festivals
13
Holidays
Guidebook for Living in Korea
1>> General Information
1_Official Name of Country
Republic of Korea, usually called Korea.
2_Location and Area
Northeastern part of Asia, 99,000㎢
(Occupying 45% of the Korean peninsula, which has a total area of 221,000㎢)
3_National Flag (Taegeukgi)
The national flag of Korea is called Taegeukgi.
The patterns of the Taegeukgi symbolize the Yin-Yang theory of oriental philosophy,
and represent the harmony and equality of the world.
8
I Introduction to the Republic of Korea
4_National Flower (Mugungwha)
The national flower of Korea is the Mugungwha.
Mugungwha means “eternal flower.” It blooms from July to October.
5_Population
As of October 31, 2007, the total population of Korea is 50,087,307, including foreign
residents, making it the 24th most populated country of the 194 countries in the
world. Its population density is 490/㎢, which is the world’s 3rd highest.
6_Economy
As of 2008, Korea has the world’s 15th largest economy according to the World Bank,
and is a member of OECD. In 2007, Korea recorded a GDP of USD 887.4 billion, and
per capita GNI of USD 18,372. It exports automotives, ships, steel and IT goods.
9
Guidebook for Living in Korea
7_Administrative Districts
Korea consists of 16 self-governing regions.
The self-governing districts include one special
city, six metropolitan cities, eight provinces and
one special self-governing province. The selfgoverning districts are divided into basic local
governments.
The special city consists of self-governing gus,
while the metropolitan cities consist of selfgoverning cities and guns. As of December
2008, the special City and the six metropolitan
cities have a total of 69 self-governing gus. The
six metropolitan cities and eight provinces have
a total of 75 self-governing cities and 86 guns.
Seoul and its vicinities are commonly referred
as the “Capital area”, which includes the cities
of Incheon, Bucheon, Anyang, Seongnam,
Uijeongbu, Gwangmyeong, Siheung, Uiwang,
Gunpo, Gwacheon, Guri, Migeum, Gwangju,
Goyang and Hanam. 50% of the entire Korean
population resides in this area with 10 million
in Seoul, 2.5 million in Incheon and another 10
million in other cities of Gyeonggi-do.
Special City
Metropolitan Cities
2 Busan Metropolitan City
3 Daegu Metropolitan City
1 Seoul
Special City
4 Incheon Metropolitan City
5 Gwangju Metropolitan City
6 Daejeon Metropolitan City
7 Ulsan Metropolitan City
9
4
1
8
10
11
3
12
7
15
5
2
13
16
Provinces
Special SelfGoverning District
8 Gyeonggi-do
9 Gangwon-do
10 Chungcheongbuk-do
16 Jeju Special
11 Chungcheongnam-do
Self-
12 Jeollabuk-do
Governing
13 Jeollanam-do
Province
14 Gyeongsangbuk-do
15 Gyeongsangnam-do
10
14
6
I Introduction to the Republic of Korea
2>> Climate
The climate of Korea is temperate, with four distinct seasons.
1_Spring
Spring is usually warm, though mornings and
evenings can be chilly from March to May.
Trees and flowers bloom. Winter clothes are
still needed in March. People tend to dress
lightly in April, and it sometimes gets very hot
in May.
2_Summer
From June to August, the weather is hot, with
temperatures ranging from 25 ℃ to 35 ℃ .
Heavy rainfalls, called Jangma, frequently
occur between late June and late July. A few
typhoons with heavy rain and wind visit the
country between August and September.
3_Fall
From September to November, temperatures
get colder, ranging from 10 ℃ to 25 ℃ . In
November it is almost as cold as it is in winter.
People prepare winter clothes and heaters in
advance. The autumn leaves are very beautiful.
4_Winter
In winter, the weather stays very cold, ranging
from -10℃ to 10℃ from December to February.
During this period, the weather seems to run
in a cycle of three very cold days followed by four less cold days. Snow and harsh
winds can be expected. Warm clothes and heaters are necessary until it gets a little
warmer in late February. 11
Guidebook for Living in Korea
3>>Currency
• The currency of Korea is KRW (Won, ￦).
• Exchange rate (as of September 2009) USD 1 = KRW 1,204 / EUR 1 = krw 1,766 /
JPY 100 = KRW 1,310
4>>Festivals and Seasonal Events
1_Festivals
There are various festivals and seasonal events in
Korea. The Korean calendar uses both solar and
lunar dates. Festivals usually follow the lunar
calendar.
• Seollal(January 1)
- Meaning: First day of the new year
- Food: Rice cake soup, dumplings
- Characteristics: Wearing new clothes (seolbim),
new year’s greetings to adults, visiting ancestral
graves, and playing a game of yut
• Chuseok(August 15)
- Meaning: Harvest festival
- Food: The year’s new crops and fruits
- Characteristics: Ancestor-memorial services,
visiting ancestral graves, viewing the full moon,
enjoying a Korean circle dance
12
I Introduction to the Republic of Korea
2_Holidays
• Samil-jeol (Samil Independence Movement Day, March 1)
On this day in 1919, a nation-wide independence movement rose up against
Japanese colonialism.
• Seokga Tansil-il (Buddha’s Birthday, April 8 in the lunar calendar)
This is the day on which we celebrate the birth of Buddha.
• Eorini-nal (Children’s Day, May 5)
This is a day dedicated to the happiness and
welfare of all children.
• Hyeonchung-il (Memorial Day, June 6)
This is a day for honoring national heroes,
including those who died during the Korean War.
• Gwangbok-jeol (Independence Day, August 15)
On this day in 1945, Korea was liberated from
Japanese colonialism.
• Gaecheon-jeol (National Foundation Day,
October 3)
This is the day on which the Korean nation was
founded. The legend says that the son of the
heaven-king, Dangun came down from the sky
to build the nation about 5,000 years ago. In
Korean, Gaecheon-jeol means “the day on which
the sky opened.”
• Seongtan-jeol (Christmas, December 25)
This is the day on which we celebrate the birth of
Jesus Christ.
13
Guidebook
외국인을
for Living
in Korea
위한
for Foreigners
생활안내
II
F oreign Resident Support
Services
16
Foreigner Support Services
16
Korean Language Education
16
Education on Korean Culture and Life in Korea
17
ICT Education
17
Counseling
17
How to Use Foreigner Support Services
18
Foreign Resident Support Organizations
18
Multicultural Family Support Centers(☎1577-5432)
20
Korea Migrants’ Center
21
Emergency Support Center for Migrant Women (☎1577-1366)
22
Korea Immigration Service (☎1345)
23
Websites with Support for Multiple Languages
Guidebook for Living in Korea 1>> Foreigner Support Services
The number of foreign residents in Korea, including immigrant workers and marriage
immigrants, is growing, and services to support foreign residents in their adaptation
to life in Korea are being provided at the public and the private levels, including Korean
language and culture education, as well as counseling services. In particular, the diverse
services offered by foreign resident support organizations are extremely useful when
foreign residents have difficulties in communication, are unfamiliar with Korean culture,
and need to build a network with native Koreans during their early stage of immigration.
1_Korean Language Education
For foreign residents, learning Korean is essential to successfully settling in Korea
and gaining a better understanding of Korean culture. Fortunately, there are many
organizations in Korea that provide opportunities for foreign residents to learn Korean
free of charge. Multicultural Family Support Centers, Korea migrants’ Center and Korean
Language School are a few of the leading organizations that provide Korean language
education for foreign residents.
The Multicultural Family Support Centers also operate a Visiting Education Program,
through which Korean language instructors are dispatched to the homes of marriage
immigrants.
With an increasing number of online Korean language education programs being
provided, foreign residents can now easily learn Korean at home.
2_Education on Korean Culture and Life in Korea
Programs for education on Korean culture and life in Korea are being provided in order
to help foreign residents overcome difficulties in Korean life caused by gaps in cultures
and lifestyle. There are lectures and experience programs dedicated to education on
multicultural understanding, law, human rights, marriage, family and adaptation to
Korean society.
16
II Introduction to the Republic of Korea
3_ICT Education
Most Korean households use PCs, and Korea has a highly advanced Internet network.
Users can obtain rich information using the Internet, and enjoy the convenience of various
online services, such as Internet banking and administrative services. Accordingly, many
organizations, including the Multicultural Family Support Centers and the Korea Migrants’
Center, operate ICT education programs to enable foreign residents to learn how to
search for information through the Internet, and how to use diverse applications.
4_Counseling
Counseling services aim to help foreign residents that
are experiencing difficulties in Korea, by providing
them with the advice that they need to solve their
problems. (Family affairs, labor, residence and law)
5_How to Use Foreigner Support Services
Additional services for foreign residents include employment and business start-up
assistance, and translation and interpretation services. For information on these services,
check the programs of the following foreign resident support organizations, and contact
each organization for more details.
.
Useful Information
Translation and Interpretation Service for Marriage Immigrants
• Marriage immigrants who are fluent in Korean and their mother languages provide interpretation and
translation services for new marriage immigrants at Multicultural Family Support Centers.
• This service is offered in 12 languages, including Chinese, Vietnamese, English, Tagalog, Mongolian,
Russian, Japanese, Cambodian, Indonesian, Nepali, Thai and Uzbek. Marriage immigrants can freely
use this service when they require counseling, or when accessing government services at the early stage
of immigration.
• Call ☎1577-5432, and you will be connected to the nearest Multicultural Family Support Center.
17
Guidebook for Living in Korea 2>> Foreign Resident Support Organizations
Foreign resident support organizations are organizations established for the purpose of
providing foreign residents and their families with support during their life in Korea. These
organizations include the Multicultural Family Support Centers, the Korea Migrants’ Center
and the Emergency Support Center for Migrant Women, and are operated through the
support of the government. There are also local or private foreign resident support centers,
such as Global Center. Ansan City, which has a dense population of foreign residents, has
established Ansan Migrant Community Service Center to provide diverse administrative
services for foreign residents. In addition, various organizations providing services for
Korean citizens, such as community centers and local cultural centers, also operate services
dedicated to supporting foreign residents.
1_Multicultural Family Support Centers (☎1577-5432)
The Multicultural Family Support Centers were established to help marriage immigrants and
their families to successfully settle in Korea, and there are a total of 100 Multicultural Family
Support Centers being operated in Korea. The Centers provide Korean language education
for marriage immigrants, education on multicultural understanding, education for families,
counseling for individuals and families, employment and business start-up support services,
and translation and interpretation services. The Centers also operate bilingual classes and
services for language development support (support for Korean language education) for the
children of marriage immigrants.
18
II Introduction to the Republic of Korea
(1) Overview of Programs
Program
Descriptions
• Korean language education
Educational Programs
• Education for families
• Education on multicultural understanding
• Capability development
• Counseling (residence, finance, employment, human rights, domestic violence
Counseling Programs
and sexual violence)
• Counseling on family affairs and marital relations, as well as counseling therapy
• Childcare Information Center
• Programs for the development of children’s learning capability
• Support for children’s language development
Programs for Children
• Bilingual classes
• Support for language education of multicultural children provided by local
childcare centers
• Learning support, through mentoring programs with college students
Programs for the
Development of
Marriage Immigrants’
Capabilities
Improvement of
Awareness and Opinions
of Multiculturalism
• Family volunteer club
• Employment and business start-up programs, as well as cooperation with
industry
• Opportunities to serve as native language instructors, multicultural instructors,
translators and interpreters
• Relationship-building with mothers of marriage immigrants
• Organization of self-reliance groups by nationality
• Visiting childcare support services
Home Visiting Services
• Visiting Korean language education services
• Maternity guidance services
(2) How to Use
• Multicultural Family Support Centers are locally operated. The Centers are open from
09:00 to 18:00 during weekdays.
• As of 2009, a total of 100 Centers are being operated across the nation.
• ☎ Call 1577-5432 to contact the nearest Multicultural Family Support Center.
19
Guidebook for Living in Korea 2_Korea Migrants’ Center
(1) Overview of Programs
Program
Descriptions
• Delays in salary payment
• Change (transfer) of employer
• Immigration and residence
Counseling
• Industrial accidents
• Healthcare and welfare
• Domestic affairs and international marriage
• Fraud and violence
• Korean language education
Education
• ICT education
• Taekwondo lessons
• Special education: law, safety and adaptation to Korean society
• Community events
Events
• Educational events
• Cultural events
Healthcare
• Basic healthcare services for migrant workers who have difficulties visiting
small clinics due to language problems.
• MNTV.NET: Internet broadcasting station for immigrants
Media
• Migrant.kr: Network of officials in charge
• MigrantOK: Monthly newsletter published in multiple languages
(2) How to Use the Programs
• The Center is open from 09:00 to 18:00 during weekdays, and some educational
programs are operated on Sundays.
• For information and counseling in multiple languages, call the Migrants’ Help-line
(1644-0644).
• For help, call 1644-0644 on Sundays (13:00 ~ 19:00) and weekdays, and 02-6900-8000 on
Saturdays.
20
II Introduction to the Republic of Korea
3_Emergency Support Center for Migrant Women (☎1577-1366)
The Emergency Support Center for Migrant Women provides emergency services for
migrant women 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Migrant women may use the Center if
they have become victims of domestic violence, sexual violence and sexual abuse, or if they
need emergency shelter. They can also access the services of the Center if they are having
difficulties or need information, and access the legal counseling services regarding issues
related to immigration and nationality.
Migrant women who can speak Korean, English, Vietnamese, Russian, Thai, Mongolian
and Tagalog serve as counselors. After providing counseling services, the Center connects
women in crisis to related organizations (domestic violence counseling centers, sexual
violence counseling centers, shelters for victims of domestic violence, police stations, law
firms, hospitals, women’s organizations, welfare organizations and one-stop service centers
of hospitals) so that migrant women can solve their problems.
(1) Overview of Programs
Program
Descriptions
• Primary counseling services for migrant victims of violence, provided in their mother languages
Counseling
• Phone counseling service available for 365 days (1577-1366)
• Counseling services provided in eight languages
Collaborative
Emergency
Support
Services
Others
• Emergency shelter services
• Collaboration with shelters for victims of domestic violence, sexual violence and human
trafficking
• Collaboration with healthcare, legal, prosecution and police services
• Living and legal information for successful settlement in the Korean society
• Visiting counseling services provided by local centers
(2) How to Use the Programs
• For counseling services, call ☎1577-1366.
• If necessary, counseling services can be provided through interviews, the website or
e-mail. All information related to the counseling services are not disclosed for protection
of personal information.
• Online counseling services are available in Korean and eight foreign languages
(Vietnamese, Chinese, English, Tagalog, Russian, Mongolian, Thai and Cambodian)
• Local centers in Suwon, Daejeon, Gwangju and Busan offer counseling services through
interviews and visiting counseling services.
21
Guidebook for Living in Korea 4_Korea Immigration Service (☎1345)
The Korea Immigration Service manages affairs
related to foreign resident registration and residence
permits, and operates additional programs for
education and information services for immigrants.
The Service operates the “Happy Dream Happy Start
Program” at 14 offices from 14:00 to 16:00 on the
second and fourth Thursdays of every month (Day of
Support for Marriage Immigrants), in order to provide newly married immigrants with the
information they need for a successful life in Korea.
Overview of “Happy Dream Happy Start Program”
- Introduction to Korean society
- Immigration affairs management, including entry permit, family invitations and
nationality
- Laws and regulations that apply to everyday life
- Medicine, health insurance and legal counseling
- Introduction of programs for social integration
- Introduction of programs supporting marriage immigrants including Korean language
education programs
.
Useful Information
Comprehensive Foreign Resident Support Services (Hi Korea)
Through Hi Korea, applicants can submit online applications for services provided by the Ministry of
Justice, including reservations, reentry permit and visa extensions, in four languages, including Korean,
English, Japanese and Chinese.
• How To Use
- Visit the website (www.hikorea.go.kr)
- Sign up for membership
- Use the services, including e-service, reservations and My Page
22
II Introduction to the Republic of Korea
5_Websites with Support for Multiple Languages
As Korea has an advanced ICT network, foreign immigrants are able to obtain information
on life in Korea through websites, and can use cyber educational programs such as
Korean language programs and Korean culture education. In particular, the websites
operated by organizations supporting foreign residents are very useful, as they support
multiple languages.
Websites with Support for Multiple Languages
Websites
Address
Multicultural Family
www.liveinkorea.
Support Portal Site
go.kr
korea.net
korea.net
KBS World News
world.kbs.co.kr
Broadcasting
Services for
www.mntv.net
Immigrants
e-Learning Services
for Multicultural
ecamp.kdu.edu
Families
Organizer
The Central Office for
Multicultural Family
Support Centers
Korean Culture and
Information Service
KBS World
Services
Korean language education and guide
to life in Korea, integrated multicultural
family support service including
multilingual news
Official website of Korea
Multicultural news, cultural programs
and entertainment programs
Korea Migrants’
News in multiple languages and
Center
Korean, in everyday life
Korea Digital
University
Korea Migrants’
www.migrantok.
Korea Migrants’
Center
org
Center
Korean language education
Counseling and education information
Online applications for services of
Hi Korea
www.hikorea.
go.kr
Ministry of Justice
the Ministry of Justice, including
reservations, reentry permit, and visa
extension
Community services for marriage
Mango Net
www.mangonet.kr
Window to Asia
immigrants, including information on
education, healthcare and employment
Salad TV
korea sparkling
Salad TV
Internet broadcasting station for
Multicultural
foreign residents, multicultural
Broadcasting Station
families and overseas Koreans
www.visitkorea.
Korea Tourism
Information on tourist destinations and
or.kr
Organization
festivals of Korea
www.saladtv.kr
23
Guidebook
외국인을
for Living
in Korea
위한
for Foreigners
생활안내
III
esidence and
R
Naturalization
26
Residence of Foreigners
26
Confirmation of Passport and Visa Expiry Date
28
Registration of Foreign Residents
33
Extension of Stay
35
Change of Nonimmigrant Status
36
Activities Other Than Those Permitted under the Status
37
Reentry Permit
38
Obligation of Foreign Residents to Report
39
Denizenship
39
Qualification
40
Marriage Immigrants
41
Loss of Denizenship
42
Naturalization
42
Qualifications
42
Marriage Immigrants
47
Social Integration Programs
50
Inviting Parents and Relatives of Marriage Immigrants
Guidebook for Living in Korea 1>> Residence of Foreigners
1_Confirmation of Passport and Visa Expiry Date
All foreigners in Korea must be aware of the expiry dates of the passport and their visa, in
order to avoid inconveniences in the event that they require a visa extension.
Passport
Passports are identification documents containing the personal information of the passport
holders, including their nationality. Travelers are required to carry the passport, as they guarantee
the personal status of the passport holders and are used for diverse purposes.
26
III Residence and Naturalization
Korean Visa
•The date of entry is printed
under “ADMITTED.” The
period of sojourn will be
counted beginning this day.
•The period of sojourn is
90 days after the date
of entry. You must apply
The “Expiry Date” printed under the “Period
of Sojourn” is not the expiration date for your
period of sojourn but for your Korean visa.
for an extension of the
sojourn period and alien
registration before the
sojourn period expires.
Certificate of Alien Registration
① Alien registration number
② Name printed in your passport
③N
ationality printed in your
①
②
③
④
⑤
passport
④ Address in Korea
⑥
⑤ Visa status
⑥ Date of issue (top)
⑦
Expiration date (bottom)
※ You must apply for an extension
of the sojourn period before the
sojourn period expires.
⑦ Immigration office of issue
①
②
27
Guidebook for Living in Korea (1) Short-term Residents (Type C – up to 90 days)
The expiry date specified on the Visa is the expiry date of the permitted stay.
(2) Long-term Residents and Denizened Foreign Residents: Holders of foreign
resident registration cards
The dates marked on the right side of the bottom of the Foreign Resident Registration
Card are the expiry dates of the permitted stay. When an extension to the permitted stay
is granted, the dates marked on the back of the card are the expiry dates of the permitted
stay.
(3) Marriage Immigrants
The rules applicable to long-term residents and denizened foreign residents are applied
to marriage immigrants.
2_Registration of Foreign Residents
(1) Qualifications and Period of Foreign Resident Registration
Foreigners who intend to stay in Korea for more than 90 days are required to register as
foreign residents within 90 days from their date of entry.
• If the period of stay is marked as 59 days on the visa of the passport, registration shall
be made within 59 days from the date of entry.
• If the certificate of stay or the permit for changes is granted during the stay in Korea,
registration shall be made immediately after the permit is granted.
(2) Required Documents
• Required Documents for All Foreign Residents
- Passport - Application for foreign resident registration (can be obtained at Korea Immigration
Service)
- Two color ID photos (3 cm X 4 cm) - Supplementary documents (Different supplementary documents are required
according to the status of stay. Please contact the Korea Immigration Service to check
which documents are required. )
- Service charge: KRW 10,000 (Government Revenue Stamp)
28
III Residence and Naturalization
(3) Marriage Immigrants
In addition to the above documents, marriage immigrants are required to submit the
following documents regarding their spouses (Korean husbands or wives).
- Certificate of Family Relations
- Copy of Resident Registration
- Letter of Reference
(4) Application and Issuance of Certificate of Alien Registration
• The competent office of the Korea Immigration Service manages the applications and
issuance of certificates of alien registration. !
Korea Immigration Service (☎1345)
Name of Office
Address
Service Areas
⊙ Seoul, Gyeonggi and Incheon Areas
Seoul
Immigration
Service
121 Mokdong-no, Yangcheon-gu,
Seoul
Seoul Special City; Anyang, Gwacheon,
Seongnam, Hanam and Gwangmyeong of
Gyeonggi-do
Jongno-gu, Jung-gu, Eunpyeong-gu,
Sejongno
Unhyeongung SK Hub Building, 2F, 12
Dongdaemun-gu, Jungnang-gu, Dobong-
Branch Office
Samil-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul
gu, Seongbuk-gu, Gangbuk-gu and
Nowon-gu of Seoul Special City
Incheon
Immigration
Service
Suwon
Immigration
Service
1-31, Hang-dong 7-ga, Jung-gu,
Incheon
Icheon, Anseong, Hwaseong, Gwangju,
gu, Suwon, Gyeonggi-do
Yangpyeong-gun and Yeoju-gun of
Gyeonggi-do
5 Sinjang-dong, Pyeongtaek,
Gyeonggi-do
Osan Branch
Post Office Box No. 3, Songtan Post
Office
Office, Pyeongtaek, Gyeonggi-do
Service
Ongjin of Gyeonggi-do
Gunpo, Euiwang, Suwon Yongin, Osan,
Pyeongtaek
Immigration
Ansan, Bucheon, Siheung, Gimpo and
1012-6 Yeongtong-dong, Yeongtong-
Branch Office
Uijeongbu
Incheon Metropolitan City;
Pyeongtaek Port and Dangjin Port
Osan Airbase
Uijeongbu, Dongducheon, Guri, Goyang,
467-2 Deokgye-dong, Yangju,
Namyangju, Paju, Yangju, Yeoncheon,
Gyeonggi-do
Pocheon of Gyeonggi-do;
Cheolwon-gun of Gangwon-do
29
Guidebook for Living in Korea Name of Office
Address
Service Areas
⊙ Gangwon Areas
Chuncheon
6 Saam-ri, Dongnae-myeon,
Gangwon-do
Immigration Service
Chuncheon, Gangwon-do
Gapyeong-gun of Gyeonggi-do
Dongjin Building, 4F, 847
Donghae, Gangneung, Samcheok,
Cheongok-dong, Donghae,
Taebaek and Jeongsun-gun of
Gangwon-do
Gangwon-do
Donghae Branch
Office
Sokcho Port Support Center,
Sokcho Branch Office
53-3 Dongmyeong-dong, Sokcho,
Gangwon-do
Sokcho, Yangyang and Goseong of
Gangwon-do
Goseong Branch
88 Myeongho-ri, Hyeonnae-myeon,
Immigration affairs between North and
Office
Goseong-gun, Gangwon-do
South Koreas
⊙ Chungbuk, Chungnam and Daejeon Areas
Cheongju
23, Saeteo1-gil, Heungdeok-gu,
Immigration Service
Cheongju, Chungcheongbuk-do
Daejeon Immigration
Mokdong-gil 150, Jung-gu, Daejeon
Chungcheongnam-do;
Service
Metropolitan City
Yeongdong-gun and Okcheon-gun of
Chungcheongbuk-do
Daejeon Metropolitan City;
Chungcheongbuk-do
Daesan Branch
Office
Hanseong Building, 3F, 197-8,
Seosan, Taean-gun, Hongseong-gun,
Daesan-ri, Daesan-eup, Seosan,
Dangjin-gun and Boryeong Port of
Chungcheongnam-do
Chungcheongnam-do
⊙ Jeonbuk, Jeonnam and Gwangju Areas
Jeonju Immigration
213 Hoseong-ro, Jeonju,
Service
Jeollabuk-do
Gunsan Branch
49-32 Jangmi-dong, Gunsn,
Gunsan and Janghang Port of
Office
Jeollabuk-do
Jeollabuk-do
Yeoju Immigration
267 Museon-ro, Yeosu,
Yeosu, Suncheon and Gwangyang of
Service
Jeollanam-do
Jeollanam-do
Gwangyang Branch
1359-5 Jung-dong, Gwangyang,
Office
Jeollanam-do
Gwangju
Immigration Service
Mokpo Branch Office
30
Jeollabuk-do
Gwangyang Port
Gwnagju Metropolitan City and
196 Hwajeong-ro, Seo-gu, Gwangju
Jeollanam-do (excluding Yeosu,
Suncheon and Gwangyang)
982-2 Ogam-dong, Mokpo,
Jeollanam-do
Mokpo, Wando-gun, Sinan-gun, Muangun, Jindo-gun, Yeongam-gun and
Haenam-gun of Jeollanam-do
III Residence and Naturalization
Name of Office
Address
Service Areas
⊙ Gyeongbuk, Gyeongnam, Daegu and Ulsan Areas
Busan Immigration
Service
Busan Metropolitan City; Gijang-gun and
14 Chungjang-ro, Jung-gu, Busan
Gyeongsangnam-do (Gimhae, Yangsan
and Miryang)
Ulsan Branch
139-16 Maeam-dong, Nam-gu,
Office
Ulsan Metropolitan City
Daegu
Ulsan Metropolitan City and Ulju-gun
117 Ansim-ro, Dong-gu, Daegu
Daegu Metropolitan City and
Metropolitan City
Gyeongsangbuk-do
Pohang Branch
58-13 Hanggu-dong, Buk-gu,
Pohang, Uljin-gun, Yeongdeok—gun and
Office
Pohang, Gyeongsangbuk-do
Uleung-gun of Gyeongsangbuk-do
Immigration
Service
Masan
Immigration
Service
260 Haean-ro, Masan,
Gyeongsangnam-do (excluding Gimhae,
Gyeongsangnam Province
Yangsan and Miryang)
Tongyeong Branch
17`1-10 Dongho-dong, Tongyeong,
Office
Gyeongsangnam-do
Sacheon Branch
44-5 Donggeum-dong, Sacheon,
Sacheon, Namhae-gun and Hadong-gun
Office
Gyeongsangnam-do
of Gyeongsangnam-do
Geoje Branch
535-5 Majeon-dong, Geoje,
Office
Gyeongsangnam-do
Tongyeong
Geoje of Gyeongsangnam-do
⊙ Jeju Areas
Jeju Immigration
277 Imhang-no, Jeju, Jeju Special
Service
Self-Governing Province
!
Jeju Special Self-Governing Province
Issuance Procedure of Certificate of Alien Registration The issuance period of the certificate of alien registration may vary according to
the competent office. In general, applicants can pick up their certificate of alien
registration from the office seven to ten days after the date of application, or can
receive it through home delivery by prepaying a delivery charge of KRW 3,000.
31
Guidebook for Living in Korea (5) Management of Certificate of Alien Registration
The certificate of alien registration is necessary for identification of foreign residents.
Foreign residents are mandated to carry it.
• Reissuance of the certificate of alien registration : In the below cases, foreign residents
shall apply for reissuance of their certicate of alien registration at the competent Korea
Immigration Service within 14 days.
- When the certificate of alien registration is lost
- When the certificate of alien registration is worn-out
- When there is no room to mark information
- When there is any change of information (name, sex, date of birth or nationality)
!
Required Documents • Application for reissuance of the certificate of alien registration
• Letter specifying the reason for application (in the case of a lost card). (There is no
fixed form, and the letter should simply detail the circumstances that led to the loss
of the card) • Color photo (3 cm X 4 cm)
• Service charge: KRW 10,000
• Return of Certificate of Alien Registration : You must return your certificate of alien
registration in the following cases.
Cases
When you leave the
country permanently
When to Return the Card
At the airport before departure
Required Documents
None
Certificate of Korean
When you achieve Korean
Within 14 days of becoming a Korean
nationality acquisition
nationality
citizen
and certificate of foreign
nationality loss
Within 14 days from announcement
In the event of your death
of death or within 30 days from the
occurrence of death
32
Death certificate
III Residence and Naturalization
3_Extension of Stay
(1) Qualification and Period of Extension
If foreign residents intend to stay for a period longer than the permitted stay, they must
apply for an extension of stay during the period from two months before the expiry date to
the expiry date itself. The foreign resident will be fined if an application is made after the
expiry date.
While a foreign resident may submit an application for an extension of stay up until the
expiry date of the current stay, it is highly recommended to submit such applications in
advance, as foreign residents whose applications are not granted within the period of
permitted stay may become illegal immigrants.
(2) Procedure of Extension of Stay
Permit
Applications for
Extension of Stay
(Competent Korea
Immigration Service
or branch offices)
(Information
about permit is
marked on the
passport and
certificate of alien
registration)
Review
Denial
(Notice of denial
and order for
leave)
(3) Required Documents
• Application for extension of stay
• Passport and Foreign Resident Card (if applicable)
• Attached documents, according to status of stay
• Service charge: KRW 30,000
33
Guidebook for Living in Korea (4) Marriage Immigrants
• In addition to the above documents, marriage immigrants are required to submit the
following documents.
- Certificate of Family Relations of Korean spouse
- Copy of Resident Registration of Korean spouse
- Letter of Reference regarding Korean spouse
!
If marriage immigrants are unreasonably treated by their Korean spouses or have
difficulties in submitting a good reference regarding their Korean spouses due to
unilateral withdrawal, they may visit and seek the help of the nearest immigration
counseling centers, counseling centers for women or Multicultural Family Support
Centers.
• It is recommended that marriage immigrants who divorce due to unreasonable
treatment by their Korean spouses counsel with experts, as divorces by mutual
agreement do not clarify where the responsibility lies.
• If marriage immigrants are filing for divorce, the period of stay may be extended once
until the procedure is closed. The length of such an extension is limited to three months.
34
III Residence and Naturalization
4_Change of Nonimmigrant Status
(1) Qualification and Period of Change of Nonimmigrant Status
If foreign residents in Korea intend to cease the activities permitted under their current
status and undertake activities permitted under another status, they shall apply to the
competent Immigration Service for a permit before undertaking the activities.
• If foreign residents with C-2 Visa make investments in Korea (D-8)
• If foreign residents intend to attend university (D-2) after completing language courses
(D-4)
• If foreign residents with another status get married to a Korean (F-2) (2) Required Documents
• Application for change of status of stay
• Passport and certificate of alien registration
(if applicable)
• Attached documents, according to status of
stay
• Service charge: KRW 50,000
(3) Approval
If the changes are permitted, the permit is
stamped on the passport, and information on
the permit is marked on the Foreign Resident
Card. If changes are not granted, the reason
for denial is provided to the applicant.
35
Guidebook for Living in Korea 5_Activities Other Than Those Permitted under the Status
(1) Qualification and Period
If long-term foreign residents of Korea who stay for more than 90 days intend to maintain
their current status and undertake activities permitted under another status, they shall
apply for a permit for said activities before undertaking the activities. (Short-term foreign
residents who stay for 90 days or less shall not apply for such permit)
• If foreign students with a D-2 visa continue their studies while working in part-time jobs
(S-3)
• If missionaries with a D-6 visa deliver lectures at universities (E-1)
(2) Required Documents
• Application for change of status of stay
• Passport and certificate of alien registration (if applicable)
• Attached documents, according to status of stay
• Service charge: KRW 50,000 (KRW 30,000 for part-time workers with D-2 or F-2 status)
(3) Approval
If the changes are permitted, the permit is stamped on the passport, and information on
the permit is marked on the certificate of alien registration. If changes are not granted,
the reason for denial is provided to the applicant.
36
III Residence and Naturalization
6_Reentry Permit
(1) Qualification and Period
If long-term foreign residents who stay for 90 days or longer intend to leave and reenter
Korea during their period of stay, they shall first obtain a reentry permit from the
competent office of the Korea Immigration Service.
• On the day of departure, foreign residents leaving Korea may purchase a single reentry
permit at the airport or the port, regardless of the competent office of the Korea
Immigration Service.
• If foreign residents leave Korea without first obtaining a reentry permit, or fail to reenter
during the reentry period, their existing status of stay will be invalidated.
(2) Type
• Single reentry permit: allows foreign residents to reenter Korea once in a year
• Multiple reentry permit: allows foreign residents to reenter Korea more than twice in
two years
(3) Required Documents
• Application for reentry permit
• Passport and certificate of alien registration (if applicable)
• Attached documents, according to status of stay
• Service charge - Single reentry permit: KRW 30,000; Multiple reentry permit: KRW
50,000 (4) Marriage Immigrants
Spouses of Korean citizens (F-2-1) may apply for a multiple reentry permit during the
period of stay. For a marriage immigrant with an F-2-1 visa who is filing for divorce, and
whose period of stay is being extended by three months, a single reentry permit is given.
(5) Extension of Reentry Permit Period
If foreign residents who have left the country with a reentry permit are unable to reenter
Korea due to unavoidable circumstances, they may apply for extension at the local
embassy or the local consulate of Korea during the permitted period.
37
Guidebook for Living in Korea 7_Obligation of Foreign Residents to Report
Should any of the following changes occur to a foreign resident during his/her stay in
Korea, the foreign resident is obliged to report the change to the competent office of the
Korea Immigration Service. Penalties and disadvantages may be imposed upon foreign
residents who do not observe the obligation to report.
(1) Obligation to Report Changes in Foreign Resident Registration Status • Qualification and Period
Foreign residents who have been registered in Korea shall report the following changes
of foreign resident information to the competent office of the Korea Immigration Service
within 14 days from the date of such change.
• Items to Be Reported - Changes in name, sex, date of birth and nationality
- Changes in passport number, date of issuance and passport expiry date
- Changes in foreign resident’s organization, or name of the organization
!
Required
Documents
• Report of changes in foreign resident information
• Passport and certificate of alien registration
• Reference of changes
(2) Obligation to Report Changes in Location of Residence
• Qualification and Period
If a foreign resident changes his or her place of residence, the foreign resident must
give moving-in notification to the new competent office of the Korea Immigration
Service or the head of cities, guns or gus of their new addresses within 14 days from
the transfer.
!
38
Required
Documents
• Report of changes of residence
• Passport and certificate of alien registration
III Residence and Naturalization
2>> Denizenship
Foreign residents who meet the following qualifications may apply for denizenship at the
competent office of the Korea Immigration Service by submitting the required documents
according to status of stay.
1_Qualification
① Foreign residents who have stayed in Korea for more than five years
② Spouses of Korean citizens, or underage children of Korean denizens
③ Foreign residents who have invested USD 0.5 million or more
④ Overseas Koreans
⑤ Chinese Koreans who were born in Korea
⑥ Doctoral degree holders in high-tech industries
⑦ Bachelor’s degree holders and license holders in high-tech industries
⑧ Experts in specific areas
⑨ Special contributors
⑩ Pension subscribers
39
Guidebook for Living in Korea 2_Marriage Immigrants
Marriage immigrants who meet the following qualifications may apply for denizenship by
applying for a permit for change of the status of stay, if they have stayed in Korea for two
or more years.
(1) Qualification
• Marriage immigrants who maintain marital relations with their Korean spouses
• Marriage immigrants whose Korean spouses are dead or missing according to the
adjudication of the Court
• Marriage immigrants who are divorced or separated from their Korean spouses, and
can prove that they are not responsible for the dissolution of the marriage
• Marriage immigrants who had children with Korean spouses and are raising underage
children, regardless of the marital status
(2) Required Documents
• Application for change of status of stay (F-2 → F-5)
• Passport and certificate of alien registration
• Certificate of family relations and copy of resident registration of Korean spouses
※ Adjudication of disappearance (if Korean spouses are missing), death certificate (if Korean spouses are
dead), or court decision specifying that Korean spouses are responsible for dissolution of marriage (if
marriage immigrants are divorced or separated from Korean spouses)
• References proving financial ability (one of the following documents)
- A bank statement with the savings of KRW 30 million or more deposited in the name
of the foreign resident or a family member living together with the foreign resident
- A copy of real estate registration or a copy of a lease agreement
- References proving the income of the foreign resident or their spouse, including the
certificate of employment
• Personal reference
※ Persons other than the Korean spouse may provide a personal reference. The referrer shall submit a
certificate of employment, certificate of tax payment and certificate of property tax payment to prove the
ability to give a reference. • Service charge: KRW 50,000
40
III Residence and Naturalization
(3) Benefits
• Marriage immigrants do not have to give up their original nationality.
• Marriage immigrants may maintain denizenship even when they divorce Korean
spouses.
• Marriage immigrants may vote in local elections, beginning three years after the date of
denizenship.
• Marriage immigrants do not have to apply for a reentry permit if they reenter Korea
within one year from the date of leave.
3_Loss of Denizenship
Denizened foreign residents may lose denizenship for the following reasons.
• Failure to reenter Korea within the permitted reentry period
• Committing a crime of rebellion or foreign troubles in accordance with the Criminal Law
• Committing a crime such as murder, burglary, drug trafficking, violation of the national
security law, rape, sexual violence and indecent assault
• Giving false information on the application for denizenship, or attempting to subvert the
application process in another manner
• Marriage to Korean spouse has been determined to be a marriage of convenience
• Entering Korea with a forged, modified, or transferred passport
※ A marriage of convenience is a marriage reported solely for immigration purposes, without the intention
of living in a married relationship with the spouse, and is subject to criminal punishment. Paying a service
charge to a marriage broker does not meet the condition of a marriage of convenience.
41
Guidebook for Living in Korea 3>> Naturalization
1_Qualification
Foreign residents who meet one of the following qualifications may apply for naturalization
at the competent office of the Korea Immigration Service.
• To ensure that the detailed qualifications are met, it is recommended to carefully
prepare documents after consulting with experts.
① Foreign residents who have lived in Korea for five or more years
② Foreign residents whose father or mother was a citizen of Korea or was born in
Korea, who were born in Korea and who have lived in Korea for three or more years
③ Foreign residents who are married to Korean citizens and have lived in Korea for two
or more years
④ Foreign residents whose father or mother is a citizen of Korea
※ Foreign residents whose father or mother was naturalized may apply for a special permit for
naturalization, regardless of age, marital status or period of stay in Korea.
⑤ Foreign residents who have made a special contribution to Korea
2_Marriage Immigrants
(1) Qualification
• Marriage immigrants who entered Korea, were registered as foreign residents, and who
have legally stayed in Korea for two or more years
• Marriage immigrants who have been married to Korean citizens for three or more
years, and who have lived in Korea for one or more years
• Marriage immigrants who have failed to maintain normal marital relations for a reason
attributable to the Korean spouse, including death, disappearance and other reasons,
and who have stayed in Korea for two or more years
• Marriage immigrants who have had children with Korean spouses and who are raising
the underage children, or who will raise underage children
42
III Residence and Naturalization
(2) Required Documents
• Application for Naturalization (attached: one color photo, 4 cm X 5 cm)
※ A copy of the first page of the application
• Statement of intention of naturalization
• Statement of reference (attached photo)
• A copy of passport
• Certificate of family relations and a copy of the resident registration of Korean spouses
• References proving financial ability (one of the following documents)
- A bank statement with the savings of KRW 30 million or more deposited in the name of the
foreign resident or a family member living together with the foreign resident
- A copy of real estate registration or a copy of a lease agreement
- References proving the income of the foreign resident or their spouse, including the
certificate of employment
• References proving the suspension of marital relations with the Korean spouse (if
applicable)
※ The adjudication of disappearance (if Korean spouses are missing), the death certificate (if Korean spouses
are dead) or the court decision specifying Korean spouses are responsible for the dissolution of the
marriage (if marriage immigrants have divorced or are separated from Korean spouses)
!
Additional documents that marriage immigrants need to submit for extension
of stay, application for denizenship and application for naturalization (if marriage
immigrants are not the responsible parties, one or more of the following documents)
• Criminal sentences or decision of divorce (specifying responsibilities of Korean spouses)
• If marriage immigrant filed a lawsuit due to violence of Korean spouse: Prosecutor’s decision
of non-prosecution (suspension of indictment or absence of the right of arraignment)
• If marriage immigrant was beaten by Korean spouse: Medical certificate (specifying
detailed injury caused by violence of Korean spouse) and image of injury
• If Korean spouse of marriage immigrant is financially incompetent: Decision of
bankruptcy of Korean spouse
• If Korean spouse is missing: Declaration of Korean spouse as a Missing Person
• Statement specifying the reason for suspension of the marital relations written by
relatives who are cousins or closer relatives of the Korean spouse
• Statement specifying that Korean spouses are responsible for suspension of the
marital relations written by the head of the competent tong (ban). (The statement shall
include the detailed reasons and the courses of suspension of the marital relations.)
• Other documents: Certificates of certified women’s organizations
43
Guidebook for Living in Korea .
Useful Information
If a marriage immigrant has difficulties in maintaining marital relations due to unreasonable
treatment by the Korean spouse, and can prove that he or she is not responsible for the difficulties,
the marriage immigrant may be naturalized in Korea even before a divorce is finalized. It is
recommended to consult with an expert on the details of this procedure.
• If a marriage immigrant is raising Korean children after divorcing a Korean spouse, the
marriage immigrant shall submit a certificate of family relations of Korean children, and
references proving that the marriage immigrant is raising children or is responsible for
raising children.
• Service charge: KRW 100,000
(3) Naturalization Procedure
① Naturalization Permission
Applications for naturalization are only accepted at the offices of the Korea Immigration Service
that offer naturalization services. Your Korean spouse must accompany you to your local office.
② Applicant Qualification Examination and Interview
• If you apply for naturalization, it will take over one year to have an interview,
including document screening and site survey.
• As notification of your interview will arrive two to four weeks before the day of your
interview, you must inform your local office of your new address if your address
changes after your application for naturalization.
• Foreign spouses are exempt from taking the written test, and only need to
be interviewed. Interviews will be graded based on the applicant’s Korean
communication ability and other basic qualifications as a Korean national.
• If applicants fail the first interview, they will be given two more chances to pass the
interview.
③ Naturalization Permit Granted
Once granted a naturalization permit from the Minister of Justice, you must register
your name in the family register, report renunciation of your foreign nationality, apply for
issuance of a resident registration card, and return your certificate of alien registration.
44
III Residence and Naturalization
④ Registering Your Name in Family Register
• You must visit your (eup, myeon, or dong) office to register your name in your family
register within a month of receiving notification of permission of naturalization.
• You must take your alien registration card and the notification of permission of
naturalization with you.
⑤ Renunciation of Foreign Nationality
• Within six months of receiving notification of permission of naturalization, you must
notify the embassy of your native country or the consulate office of the renunciation
of your original nationality, and receive a written confirmation of foreign nationality
renunciation. You must then submit this to the person in charge of nationality at
your local office of the Korea Immigration Service to receive your foreign nationality
renunciation confirmation.
• You will automatically lose your Korean nationality if you do not receive a “written
confirmation of foreign nationality renunciation” from the embassy within six
months.
• If you cannot issue a “written confirmation of foreign nationality renunciation” in
time due to the immigration laws in your native country or because the embassy
of your native country does not exist in Korea, you may submit a “written pledge
of foreign nationality renunciation,” and receive a written confirmation of foreign
nationality renunciation reserve confirmation at your local office of the Korea
Immigration Service. You must submit this to apply for issuance of a resident
registration card.
⑥ Application for Resident Registration Card Issuance
• You must take your notification of permission of naturalization, a copy of family
register, and a written confirmation of your foreign nationality renunciation to
your local town, myeon, or dong office, and apply for the issuance of a resident
registration card.
⑦ Return of Certificate of Alien Registration
• You must return your certificate of alien registration to your local office of the Korea
Immigration Service within 14 days of receiving a resident registration card. Be sure
to take your notification of permission of naturalization, a copy of family registration,
your resident registration card, and your certificate of alien registration.
45
Guidebook for Living in Korea (4) Issuance of Resident Registration Card
You will receive a resident registration card after you register your residence. Resident
registration cards prove that you have Korean nationality. Resident registration cards are
used when using administrative agencies and services, and when issuing civil documents.
!
Be sure not to lend your resident registration card, or tell your resident registration
number to another person. Your resident registration information could be used to
implicate you in a crime.
• Reissuance of a Resident Registration Card : If you lose your resident registration card,
you may have it reissued at your eup, myeon, or dong office by preparing a photo (3x4cm)
of yourself taken within the previous six months.
• In the Event of Change in Residence : You must report your new residence to your new
eup, myeon, or dong office within 14 days. !
46
If you do not report your new residence, your resident registration could be cancelled
after an inspection.
III Residence and Naturalization
3_Social Integration Programs
“Social Integration Programs” refer to the educational programs on the Korean language
and Korean society that have been standardized for immigrants. Immigrants who have
completed the programs at the organizations designated by the Ministry of Justice will be
given advantages during the naturalization process. • Purpose of programs: To promote the early adaptation and successful settlement of
immigrants in Korean society
• Educational programs: ① Korean language courses ② Courses on Korean society
• Program hours: From 50 to 450 hours per person
- Up to 400 hours of Korean language courses, plus 50 hours of courses on Korean
society
- Frequency: Korean language courses – twice per year; Courses on Korean society –
three times per year
※ Required program hours may vary according to the learner’s Korean ability. Marriage
immigrants may skip Levels 3 and 4 of the Korean language courses (please refer to the
detailed map of the Social Integration Program)
• Organizations operating programs: 20 organizations (one per region and two or three
organizations in the Seoul Metropolitan area, as of 2009)
• Advantages for immigrants completing the programs
- Marriage immigrants: Waiting period for review for naturalization is shortened, and
the results are reflected in the interviews for naturalization.
- Other immigrants: Exemption from written examination for naturalization, shortened
waiting period for review for naturalization, and results reflected in the interviews for
naturalization.
※ At the request of learners, diverse counseling services can be provided during the
education.
47
Guidebook for Living in Korea Detailed Map of the Social Integration Program
Level 1
Level 2
Korean Language Courses
Level
Beginner 1
Beginner 2
Intermediate 1 Intermediate 2 Advanced
Level 3
Level 4
Program Hours
100 Hours
100 Hours
100 Hours
100 Hours
Level 5
Exempt
General
Courses on Korean Society
Education
(50 Hours)
Evaluation
Marriage
of Basic
Immigrants
Understanding
Other
(Grade)
Immigrants
29 or lower
30~49
-
-
50~100
29 or lower
30~49
50~69
70~89
90~100
Organizations Operating Social Integration Programs (as of 2009)
Area
Organization
Tel
Seoul National University of
Education
(Research Center of
Seoul National University of
82-2-3475-2324
Dongdaemun-gu Multicultural
Family Support Center
Hwawon Community Welfare
Center
Suwon Multicultural Family
Support Center
82-2-957-1073
82-2-837-0761
82-31-257-8504
International Unity Network
Gyeonggi-do
(Pocheon Multicultural Family 82-31-544-0611
Support Center)
Ansan Migrant Community
Service Center
Incheon
Incheon Nam-gu Multicultural
Family Support Center
82-31-481-3297
032-440-6545
Dong-Eui University
Busan
(Busan Center of Multiculture
(Ulsan)
and Social Integration)
Yeongdo-gu Office of Busan
Metropolitan City
48
Education, 1650 Seocho1-dong,
Seocho-gu, Seoul
Multicultural Education)
Seoul
Address
82-51-890-1038
82-51-419-4631
Kyung Hee University, 1 Hoegidong, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul
476-134 Gurobon-dong, Guro-gu,
Seoul
102-1 Hwaseo-dong, Paldal-gu,
Suwon, Gyeonggi-do
191-5 Songwu-ri, Soheul-eup,
Pocheon, Gyeonggi-do
67 Sincheon-gil, Danwon-gu,
Ansan, Gyeonggi-do
16 Yeoseonghoegwan-gil, Namgu, Incheon Metropolitan City
995 Eomgwang-ro, Busanjin-gu,
Busan Metropolitan City
1151 Taejong-ro, Yeongdo-gu,
Busan Metropolitan City
III Residence and Naturalization
Area
Daegu
Organization
Hanuri Family Love
Center
Tel
82-53-553-2780
Address
285-23 Sincheon4-dong, Dong-gu,
Daegu Metropolitan City
Gumi Multicultural
Gyeongsangbukdo
Family Support Center
(Building Beautiful
82-54-464-0545
314-3 Hyeonggok-dong, Gumi,
Gyeongsangbuk-do
Families)
Chinju National
Gyeongsangnamdo
University of Education
(Research Center of
82-55-740-1209
380 Sinan-dong, Jinju,
Gyeongsangnam-do
Multicultural Families)
Gwangju Buk-gu
Gwangju
Multicultural Family
3F, 3 Dongmun-ro, Wusan-dong,
82-62-363-2963 Buk-gu, Gwangju Metropolitan
Support Center
City Jangseong-gun
Jeollanam-do
Multicultural Family
1083-9 Yeongcheon-ri, Jangseong82-62-944-9225 eup, Jangseong-gun, Jeollanam-
Support Center
do
Wanju-gun Multicultural
Jeollabuk-do
Family Support Center
Woosuk University, 409 Hujeong-ri,
82-63-290-1036 Samrye-ro, Samrye-eup, Wanju-
(Woosuk University)
gun, Jeollabuk-do
Mokwon University
Daejeon
(Center of Research and
Education on Multiculture
Mokwon University, 21 Mokwon82-42-829-7288 gil, Seo-gu, Daejeon Metropolitan
City
and Social Integration)
Chungcheongnamdo
Chungcheongbukdo
Gangwon-do
Jeju Province
Sangmyung University
(Korean Culture Center)
Sangmyung University, San
82-41-550-5391 92 Anseo-dong, Dongnam-gu,
Cheonan, Chungcheongnam-do
Chungcheongbukdo Women’s Group
2F Gijeong Building, 16-4
82-43-223-5253 Bukmunro 2-ga, Sangdang-gu,
Association
Kangwon University
(Korean Culture Center)
Jeju Immigration Center
Cheongju, Chungcheongbuk-do
Kangwon University, 1
82-33-250-8137 Kangwondaehak-gil, Chuncheon,
Gangwon-do
82-64-712-1140
6F Eunhye Building, #47, Gwawon
3-ro, Nohyeong-dong, Jeju
49
Guidebook for Living in Korea 4>> Inviting Parents and Relatives of Marriage Immigrants
Your parents and relatives must apply at a Korean Embassy or Consulate abroad for you
to invite them to Korea. Required documents and the number of guests you may invite will
differ based on the Korean Embassy or Consulate abroad. Please consult with an agent at
a Korean Embassy or Consulate abroad.
Contact Information of Foreign Official Residences
Foreign Official Residence
Contact Information
Consulate General of Guangzhou, China
86-20) 3887-0555
Embassy of Thailand
66-2) 247-7537
Embassy of Vietnam (Hanoi)
84-4) 3831-5110
Consulate General of Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam
84-8) 3822-5757
Embassy of Mongolia
976-11) 32-1548
Embassy of the Philippines
63-2) 811-6139
Embassy of Indonesia
62-21) 520-1915
Embassy of Cambodia
855-23) 211-900/3
Embassy of Bangladesh
50
8802) 881-2088
III Residence and Naturalization
Me mo
Guidebook
외국인을
for Living
in Korea
위한
for Foreigners
생활안내
IV
Korean Culture and Life
54
Family Culture
90
How to Purchase and Use Goods
54
Characteristics of Korean Families
93
How to Save Money, and How to
55
Language Etiquette
60
Important Days of Celebration for
97
Transportation in Korea
Families
97
Buses
64
Food
100
Subway
64
Food that Koreans Usually Eat
104
Taxis
65
Korean Food
105
Passenger Vehicles
71
Sauces
107
Trains
73
Housing Culture
110
Airlines
73
Housing Types, and Matters to be
112
Use of Public Administration
Use Banking Services
Attended to
112
Public Administrative Bodies
77
Electricity
112
Police Stations
78
Use of Water
113
Fire Stations
78
Use of Gas
113
Post Offices
80
Heating
114
Libraries
81
Telecommunications
115
Use of Convenience Facilities
86
Garbage Collection System
115
Barbershops
88
Consumption and Economic Life
115
Beauty Salons
88
Household Economy
115
Public Baths
Guidebook for Living in Korea 1>> Family Culture
1_Characteristics of Korean Families
Family life in Korea is unique. Marriage immigrants who understand the characteristics
of Korean families can more easily adjust themselves to their new families, and
understand the culture of Korea. Family culture can vary by family and by region. Korean
culture is based on Confucianism. The family culture of Korea has some similarities
to that of countries with Confucian culture, but it has changed in the course of rapid
industrialization.
(1) Family Relations
• A harmonious family is just as important as each member’s happiness.
• Hierarchy is important within the family. Children should be taught to respect their
elders and to express their opinions in a polite manner.
• Parent-child relationships are special. Korean parents place great emphasis on
providing love and care for their children. Sometimes, they can overly indulge their
children and cause them to become extremely dependent.
• Filial piety is greatly emphasized. This refers to the children’s duty to take care of their
parents in their old ages.
54
IV Korean Culture and Life
(2) Husband and Wife Relations
• Husband and wife relations are important, but your role as a son or daughter and a
parent plays a large part as well.
• Housework and bringing up children have traditionally been considered the woman’s
job. But recently more men are starting to help out at home.
• Korean men are not used to showing affection in public. As a husband praising his wife
in front of other family members is generally frowned upon, they take a prudent attitude
about it.
(3) Adapting to Family Life
In order to have a happy marriage in Korea, it is important to overcome the cultural
differences. It can be difficult to adapt to family life and culture in Korea. If you are
experiencing problems, consider the following recommendations.
!
• Try to understand each other’s family culture
• Learn more about family tradition from your husband and in-laws
• Respect and follow the family culture
• Solve problems through communication
• Seek help from others
※If you are still facing difficulties, contact your nearest Multicultural Family Support Center (☎1577-5432) or the Migrant Women’s Hotline 1366 Center (☎1577-1366).
2_Language Etiquette
“Title” is used when we call someone, and “Designation” is used when we speak of the
person. In Korea, we often use diverse titles or designations to call or refer to the same
person. Korean names and names in Chinese characters are mixed and used as titles and
designations. The use of an incorrect title or designation may give offense to others.
55
Guidebook for Living in Korea (1) Titles and Designations of Family Members
In Korea, there are specific titles for each family member. The family trees* below show
the titles and designations used by the husband and wife within the family. The wife
usually uses the honorific level towards the husband’s family, regardless of age. The
husband uses the honorific towards the wife’s family if they are older in age, and less
formal language if they are younger. These customs differ according to the household, so
you should discuss this matter with your husband or in-laws beforehand.
✽ Family tree: Connecting lines are used to explain family relations. A horizontal line
indicates ties by marriage, while a vertical line refers to parent-children relationships.
Titles of Husband’s Family called by the Wife
Husband’s Family Tree
Father
Elder brother
You-siabeonim
Children-harabeoji
Elder brother’s
wife
You-ajubeonim You-hyeongnim
ChildrenChildrenkeunabeoji
keuneomeoni
You-sieomeonim
Children-halmeoni
Elder sister
Elder sister’s
Husband
You-hyeongnim You-ajubeonim
Children-gomo Childrengomobu
Youngersister
You-agassi
Childrengomo
You-joka
Childen-eonni, obba, hyeong, nuna
Youngersister’s
Husband
Youngerbrother’s
wife
You-seobangnim You-doryeonnim, You-dongseo
Children-gomobu seobangnim
ChildrenChildrensungmo
samchon
You-yeobo, OO abba
Children-abeoji, abba
Husband
You
Your children
56
Youngerbrother
Mother
IV Korean Culture and Life
(2) Titles and Designations Used by the Wife in Addressing the Husband’s
Family Tree
Relation
Title
(hoching)
Designation (jiching)
Husband
Parents-in- Husband’s
law
family
Others
Children
Father-in-law abeonim
abeonim
abeonim
abeonim
siabeonim
harabeoji
Mother-in-law eomeonim
eomeonim
eomeonim
eomeonim
sieomeonim
halmeoni
yeobo
OOabba
abeom, aebi,
abeom,
geusaram,
aebi
geui
nampyeon,
geui, aeabba
abeoji,
abba
Elder brother ajubeonim
ajubeonim
ajubeonim
siajubeonim
keunabeoji
Elder sister/ hyeongnim/
younger sister agasi
hyeongnim/ hyeongnim/ hyeongnim/ sinui,
agasi
agasi
agasi
sidongsaeng
Husband
Younger
brother
yeobo
OOabba
ajubeonim
doryeonnim, doryeonnim, doryeonnim, doryeonnim, doryeonnim,
seobangnim seobangnim seobangnim seobangnim seobangnim
gomo
samchon
(unmarried),
jageunabeoji
Elder
hyeongnim
brother’s wife
hyeongnim
Sister’s
husband
seobangnim,
seobangnim seobangnim gomobu
gomobu
gomobu
dongseo
jageuneomeonim
seobangnim
Younger
dongseo
brother’s wife
hyeongnim
dongseo
hyeongnim
dongseo
hyeongnim,
keuneomeonim
keun dongseo
dongseo
✽ Title : Used to call someone
✽ Designation : Used to refer to someone
OO> Son & daughter’s name, O> Family name
57
Guidebook for Living in Korea Titles of Wife’s Family called by the Husband
Wife’s Family Tree
Father
Brother
You-jangin, abeonim
Children-oeharabeoji
Brother’s wife
You-hyeongnim You-ajumeoni
ChildrenChildrenoesamchon
oesungmo
You-jangmonim, eomeonim
Children-oehalmeoni
Elder sister
Elder sister’s
husband
Younger sister
Youngerister’s
husband
Younger
brother
Younger
brother’s wife
YouYou-dongseo
You-cheonam
You-hyeongnim, You-cheoje
cheohyeong dongseo
Children-imo Children-imobu ChildrenChildren-imo Children-imobu
oesamchon
You-joka
Children-eonni, obba, hyeong, nuna
You-yeobo, OO eomma
Children-eomeoni, eomma
Wife
You
Your children
58
Mother
You-cheonamdaek
Childrenoesungmo
IV Korean Culture and Life
(3) Titles and Designations Used by the Husband in Addressing the Husband’s
Family Tree
Relation
Mutual
Destinations
(hoching)
Title (jiching)
Husband
(Wife)
Wife’s parents Wife’s family
Others
Chillren
Father-in-law
jangin,
abeonim
abernim, abernim,
abernim,
oeharabeoji,
oeharabeoji
jangineoreun jangineoreun jangineoreun jangineoreun Mother-inlaw
jangmo,
eomeonim
eomeonim,
jangmonim
eomeonim,
jangmonim
eomeonim,
jangmonim
00 oeharabeoji,
oehalmeoni
janomonim
Wife
yeobo,
00 eomma
dangsin,
00 eomma
00 eomi,
jipsaram
00 eomi,
jipsaram
00 eomma,
eomeoni,
cheo, anae 00 eomma
Elder brother/
hyengnim/
younger
cheonam
brother
hyengnim/
cheonam
hyengnim/
cheonam
hyengnim/
cheonam
cheonam
oesamchon,
oesukbu
Elder sister/ cheohyeong, cheohyeong, cheohyeong, cheohyeong, cheohyeong,
imo
younger sister cheoje
cheoje
cheoje
cheoje
cheoje
Elder
ajumeoni
brother’s wife
cheonamdaek cheonamdaek cheonamdaek cheonamdaek oesukmo
Younger
cheonamdaek,
cheonamdaek cheonamdaek cheonamdaek cheonamdaek
oesukmo
brother’s wife
00 oesukmo
Elder sister’s
hyeongnim,
dongseo
hyeongnim,
dongseo
hyeongnim,
dongseo
hyeongnim,
dongseo
dongseo,
imobu
imobu
Younger
sister’s
husband
dongseo, 0
seobang
dongseo,
0 seobang
dongseo,
0 seobang
dongseo,
0 seobang
dongseo,
00 imobu
imobu
✽ Title : Used to call someone
✽ Designation: Used to refer to someone
OO> Son & daughter’s name, O> Family name
59
Guidebook for Living in Korea (4) Honorific and Casual Expressions
In Korea, there are slight differences in language style depending on the difference in age,
relation, and social status between the speaker and the listener. These differences can be
broadly described as two speaking styles: honorific and casual.
• The honorific level is used towards elders and less formal language for younger people.
• Speak at a casual level when speaking to a friend or someone younger than you.
3_Important Days of Celebration for Families
In family life, many significant events take place, such as the births, marriages, or deaths
of family members or friends. These are important to both the individual and the family,
so you should spend time with members of your family on such occasions.
(1) Birth
• Baekil (One Hundredth Day): In Korea, the hundredth day following the birth of a child is
cause for a big celebration. Typical foods served at a hundredth day celebration include
steamed rice cakes, honey cakes made from red bean, and seaweed soup. The child is
dressed in new clothes to celebrate this special day.
• Dol (First Birthday): Relatives and friends are invited to the child’s first birthday party.
The child is dressed in a traditional Korean costume, known as hanbok. Traditionally,
a table is laid in celebration, with steamed rice cakes, honey cakes, fruits, thread, rice,
money, a pencil, and a book. The child selects an object from the table, and he or she is
given words of wisdom from his or her elders. Recently, some restaurants have begun
to offer a first birthday table preparation service. Traditional First Birthday Table
60
Modern First Birthday Table
IV Korean Culture and Life
.
Useful Information
Significance of the objects placed on the first birthday table
• Thread – long life
• Money, rice – wealth and good fortune • Soccer ball – a career as a soccer player • Gavel – a career as a judge • Pencil, paintbrush, book – becoming a scholar, or studying well
• Birthday: With regards to one’s elders, birthdays are referred to as saengshin. In Korea,
seaweed soup is cooked for breakfast on birthdays. Sometimes, relatives and friends
are invited to celebrate together. The invited guests prepare birthday gifts, or give money.
(2) Marriage
In Korea today, most weddings are performed in the modern instead of the traditional
style. Modern style weddings can be held in wedding halls, churches, or temples. During
the ceremony, the groom wears a suit, and the bride wears a dress. After the ceremony,
the bride and groom change into traditional Korean outfits for Paebaek* to the groom’s
parents.
✽ Paebaek: Special food prepared for the bride’s parents-in-law during the first visit
61
Guidebook for Living in Korea (3) Hoegap and Gohiyeon (Banquets to wish for longevity)
• Hoegap: 60th birthday. As life spans
were shorter in the past, children
would offer congratulations to their
parents on their 60th birthdays,
to wish them good health and
longevity. Although big parties
were thrown in the past, these are
now often replaced with gifts such
as travel packages or money.
• Gohiyeon: On one’s 70th birthday, a party is held on a larger scale than for a typical
birthday.
(4) Funeral
The family wears mourning clothes and dresses the deceased in garments. In general,
the garments are prepared in advance for the elderly while they are alive. These garments
will differ depending on the household and the region. In some cases, the deceased is
dressed in hemp clothes, in black or white. Guests attending a munsang* should avoid
wearing bright colors, and dress in black or white. During munsang, you should pay your
respects and pray together with the family. Money is also offered to the family, as a means
of showing condolences.
✽ Munsang: Visiting the family of the deceased to offer condolences
62
IV Korean Culture and Life
(5) Ceremonies
Korean rituals help you to gain a sense of belonging and identity while remembering your
ancestors.
• Death Memorial Service: Performed on the night of the anniversary of a death. Usually
the service is performed for ancestors in the two preceding generations.
• Family Memorial Service: Performed at festivals such as the New Year’s Day, Hansik,
and Chuseok.
Comparison of Services
Form
Death Memorial Service
Family Memorial Service
Order
Three cups of wine and a memorial address
One cup of wine
Time
Night of the anniversary of a death
Morning of the festival
Plain clothes
Bright and fancy clothes
Food
Rice, soup, etc.
Festival food
Other
Candles are lit
No candles
Clothing
63
Guidebook for Living in Korea 2>> Food
1_Food that Koreans Usually Eat
Koreans enjoy sharing food with family and friends. Perhaps reflecting this enjoyment
of sharing, there is a tendency in Korean culture to prepare better food when there are
guests for the meal.
In general, Korean food consists of rice, soup, and side dishes. Similar to soup, various
hot stews are also popular, as well as side dishes such as vegetables, steamed foods,
hardboiled foods, roasted meat, stir-fried foods, and pan-fried foods. One of the main side
dishes is kimchi. As a substitute for rice, people will sometimes eat hot or cold noodles,
wheat flake soup, and rice cake.
.
Useful Information
Getting Familiar with Korean Food
You may find it easier to become familiar with Korean food when you enjoy it with your Korean
friends. Getting used to Korean food is one of the best ways to adapt to Korea more quickly. When
you learn to like Korean food, life in Korea will become much more enjoyable.
Drinking Water
You don’t need to worry about the drinking water in Korea. The tap water is quite drinkable. Still,
most Koreans use a water purifier, or boil water to make a weak tea, which they drink cool. The
first time you try the tap water, it may taste slightly strange, and in the worst case could cause a
stomachache. If such symptoms persist for several days, you are recommended to see a doctor.
Water is provided for free at restaurants and snack bars. Bottled water can be easily bought in any
store.
64
IV Korean Culture and Life
2_Korean Food
(1) Bap (Boiled Rice)
Korean rice is stickier than Southeast Asian rice. First
tries may be difficult to digest and could give you a
stomachache. Usually it takes a bout a week to get
used to Korean rice.
.
Useful Information
Bibimbap Rice mixed with assorted vegetables, beef and sauce
made of sesame oil and red pepper paste. It is one of representative
foods of Korea and many world famous stars like it.
65
Guidebook for Living in Korea (2) Guk (Light Soup), Tang (Soup with Meat or Fish),
Jjigae (Stew) and Jeongol (Chowder)
These four kinds of food are cooked by boiling vegetables and meat or fish in water. They
are named differently according to the ingredients and how they are prepared: ○○guk,
○○tang, ○○jjigae, or ○○jeongol.
• Bukeokuk: Dried pollack soup. A famous hangover cure
• Kongnamulguk: Bean sprout soup
• Miyeokguk: Brown-seaweed soup.
• Seolleongtang: Beef soup with rich flavor and slices of beef
• Galbitang: Soup made by boiling beef ribs long. Salt or soy sauce is added to season it.
Noodles are added according to tastes.
• Gamjatang: Stew with pork bones, potatoes and other vegetables
• Dakdoritang (Dakbokeumtang): Chicken stew with vegetables and spicy sauce
• Gimchijjigae: Gimchi stew usually with pork
• Doenjangjjigae: Doenjang stew with tofu, zucchini, mushrooms and onions.
• Budaejjigae: Stew with gimchi, ham and assorted vegetables
• Dongtaejjigae (Saengtaejjigae): Pollack stew with radish, tofu and zucchini
Dongtaejjigae
66
Seolleongtang
IV Korean Culture and Life
(3) Gimchi
One of the most requisites to Koreans is gimchi (usually written as kimchi). It is excellent
in favor and nutritive value, and is easy to store. Radishes, Chinese cabbages, and
cucumbers are preserved with salt and prepared with Korean fish sauce and several
spices including red pepper powder, ginger and garlic. And then they are fermented in a
low temperature. As vegetables such as Chinese cabbages and radish cannot be raised in
the winter, people pickle vegetables for the winter called Gimjang between late November
and early December. When Gimjang gimchi is prepared, intimate friends help each other.
Chinese cabbage gimchi
Bossam gimchi
Gat gimchi
Baek gimchi
Chonggak gimchi
Ggakdugi
67
Guidebook for Living in Korea (4) Dishes with Meat
• Bulgogi: Sliced beef seasoned and barbequed. Sweet and tasty.
• Galbi: Grilled rib of pork or beef
• Samgyeopsal: Roasted pork. Eaten wrapped in various vegetables including lettuce.
• Dakgalbi: Stir-fried chicken with vegetables. Rather hot and spicy.
• Jeyukbokeum: Pork stir-fried with vegetables.
Galbi Bulgogi
(5) Dishes with Fish
• Saengseonhoe (Sliced raw fish): Raw fish slices usually enjoyed with vinegared pepper
paste or wasabi
• Saengseon-gu-i (Grilled fish): Grilled fish either salted or spiced
• Saengseonjjim (Steamed or boiled fish): Spiced fish steamed or boiled
• Saeseonjorim (Hard-boiled fish): Fish and vegetables hard boiled in soy sauce
• Ojinheobokeum (Stir-fried squid): Squid stir-fried with vegetables. Hot and spicy.
Saengseonhoe
68
Saengseongui
IV Korean Culture and Life
(6) Snacks
• Lamyeon (Ramen): One of the most common snacks in Korea. You can prepare it within
minutes just by poring water and bring it to a boil. They have both spicy and mild ones.
Cup Lamyeon comes in a paper container where you can pour hot water and enjoy.
• Gimbap (Rice roll): Rice rolled in a sheet of dried seaweed. It is stuffed with yellow
pickled radish, ham, eggs and vegetables. If you don’t like to eat pork, ask the cook to
prepare yours without ham. Gimbap is cheap and quick to make, and makes feel full
soon.
• Guksu (Noodle): Noodle dishes such as noodle soup or sauce-mixed noodle
• Mandu (Dumpling): Dumpling filled with vegetables, tofu and usually pork. Mulmandu is
served in gravy and Tuigimmandu means fried dumpling.
• Ddeokboggi: Broiled dish of sliced rice cake, fish paste, vegetables, and seasoning
• Sundae (Sausage): Sausage with Chinese noodles and clotted blood of cattle stuffed in
pig intestine
Lamyeon (Ramen)
Gimbap (Rice roll)
Mandu (Dumpling)
69
Guidebook for Living in Korea (7) Seasonal Fruits
Korea has four distinct seasons and each season has its popular fruits. These days, fruits
are grown in greenhouses all year round, but still seasonal fruits are the best. Tropical
fruits are available at big markets and department stores, but they may not be as delicious
as you had them in your country. Try fresh and healthy Korean fruits instead.
• Spring: Cherries, strawberries (Early May to early June)
• Summer: Peaches (July to August), yellow melons (June to July), watermelons (June to
August), plums, tomatoes
• Fall: Persimmons (September to October), pears, apples, dates, chestnuts, grapes
(September)
• Winter: Tangerines, oranges
70
Strawberries
Peaches
Apples
Tangerines
IV Korean Culture and Life
3_Sauces
• Maneul (Garlic)
It is usually hot, but it is less hot and sweet when roasted. Chop it up fine to use it as a
dressing material, and put it all to use it as a spice. • Ganjang (Soy sauce)
It is a black liquid sauce made from beans. It is salty and used to season food. There are
two types of soy sauce: Gukganjang and Yangjoganjang. Gukganjang is used to season
soup or greens and Yangjoganjang is used as a dipping sauce for raw fish. • Gochujang (Red pepper paste)
Spicy hot paste made of red pepper powder, fermented soybean and salt. It tastes nice as
delicate taste of fermented soybean, hot taste of red pepper powder, and salty taste of salt
are well harmonized.
• Doenjang (Bean paste)
It is made of beans and salt, and it is a sauce native to Korea. It is usually used to make
soup.
Maneul (Garlic)
Ganjang (Soy sauce)
Gochujang (Red pepper paste) Doenjang (Bean paste)
71
Guidebook for Living in Korea • Seoltang (Sugar)
Sweet powder in either white, yellow or brown color.
• Sikcho (Vinegar)
Yellow and sour liquid. Its bottle looks very similar to cooking oil. Check the picture of an
apple or rice on the cover.
• Sogeum (Salt)
White powder that tastes salty. Make sure to see whether it is salt or sugar as they are
very similar.
• Jomiryo (Synthetic flavoring)
Flavoring powder. Most common is Miwon and Dasida. Miwon is white powder, and may
be confused with salt or sugar. Too much of flavoring ruins your food, and is not good for
your health.
• Sikyongyu (Cooking oil)
Yellowish liquid used to panfry or fry food. Its bottle has a picture of corn or bean on the
cover.
• Camgireum (Sesame oil)
Brownish liquid made of sesame.
• Aekjeot (Fish sauce)
Traditional sauce made of fish salted and fermented. There are Myeolchi (anchovy)
Aekjeot, and Kkanaria (sand lance) Aekjeot, etc. Kkanaria Aekjeot has the same flavor as
Thai or Vietnamese fish sauce.
Seoltang
(Sugar)
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Sikcho
(Vinegar)
Sogeum
(Salt)
Jomiryo
Camgireum
(Synthetic flavoring) (Sesame oil)
Aekjeot
(Fish sauce)
IV Korean Culture and Life
3>> Housing Culture
In Korea, there are detached houses, townhouses, apartments, and office-tels. Many
people prefer living in apartments in cities for the sake of convenience. Owning a house
is extremely meaningful for Koreans. Housing is very expensive in Korea, and the gap
between house prices in rural and urban areas is large.
1_Housing Types, and Matters to be Attended to
(1) Jeonse (Lease)
Unique to Korea, Jeonse is a lease based on a lump-sum deposit. By paying a deposit, you
make a contract with the landlord to borrow his/her house to live in for a certain period of
time, and to retrieve the deposit when the contract expires. A contract can be made for a
single room, part of a house, or the entire house. To rent an entire house, you will typically
need a deposit of around 60 to 70 % of the house’s selling price. A lease contract is usually
for a two-year term, and the law does not allow the landlord to cancel the contract before
the contract expires without the renter’s consent. (2) Wolse (Monthly Rent)
You can also get accommodations on a monthly rent basis. You will still have to pay a
small deposit, much smaller than that of a lease, but you will have the advantage of being
able to negotiate the deposit depending on the period of your contract. If you can afford a
higher monthly rent amount, the deposit can be smaller, and vice versa. Wolse conditions
depend on the size and number of rooms, and other facilities.
Neither a lease nor a monthly rent arrangement will include the cost of utilities. You will
need to make your own arrangements to pay the electricity, water supply, gas, phone,
Internet, and TV charges. Apartments do not include furniture or home appliances.
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Guidebook for Living in Korea (3) Gisuksa (Dormitory)
This is lodging provided by companies or schools. Industrial trainees (D-3 visa) are
guaranteed a space in a dormitory. If you are in Korea for employment training (E-8 visa)
or working under the Employment Permit System (E-9 visa) you may be given a space in a
dormitory, but your company is not obliged to do this.
(4) Check with Your Own Eyes
There are many ways to find a place to stay. Some may find an attractive advertisement
for a room on the street or at a restaurant near their workplace, and go to take a look. But
most people prefer to have the help of a real estate agent. An agent’s job is to show you
the options, check the legal or maintenance conditions for the candidate houses on your
behalf, and prepare the legal documents for your contract. You will need to pay the real
estate agent a fee for his or her services.
(5) Contract
• Contract Counterpart
A contract should be made only with the landlord concerned, and with no one else. Under
no circumstances should you make a contract or pay a deposit to someone who is not
the landlord, such as a current or prior tenant. If you make this type of arrangement, you
expose yourself to risk, as the landlord may not acknowledge your contract as valid, and
you may end up losing your deposit. When you make a contract with someone, be sure to
check that he or she is indeed the rightful owner of the building. You can confirm this by
referring to a copy of the register.
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• Register
Consulting a copy of the register before making a contract is as important as checking the
inside of the place by yourself. The register contains the address of the place, the name
of the landlord, and the floor space and structure, and also gives information regarding
whether the landlord owns the building outright or is paying a mortgage. A copy can be
issued at the registry office, or through the Internet.
• Down Payment and Deposit
Generally, 10% of the deposit is paid in advance when the contract is signed. For example,
if you are leasing a place with a deposit of 2 million, your down payment when the contract
is signed will be 0.2 million. You must pay the remaining 1.8 million on the day you move
in. Don’t forget to get a receipt.
!
Items to be included in a rental contract
• Address of the rental unit (The address on the contract should match the one on the
register.)
• Contract payment (Deposit and monthly rent)
• Due dates for the down payment and the balance payment(s) (It is safe to pay up to
10% of the deposit as a down payment.)
• Term
• Signatures or thumbmarks of the landlord and the renter
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Guidebook for Living in Korea (6) Expiration of Contract and Deposit Return
You may wish to leave your housing before your rental contract expires. In this case, your
landlord will deduct the rent for the remaining months in the contract from your deposit,
and will refund the remainder to you.
For example, suppose that your contract included a deposit of 2 million won and monthly
rent of 150,000 won, and you want to end your contract three months ahead of the
expiration date. If your landlord finds a new tenant right away, you can leave the place with
no responsibility. If not, however, your landlord can claim the remaining three months’
rent (150,000 won X 3 = 450,000 won) from your deposit, and pay you the remaining 1.55
million won.
If you do not wish to renew your contract, you should inform your landlord that you intend
to move out upon the expiration of the contract at least one month in advance. If you have
informed your landlord of your intentions in this manner, it is illegal for your landlord to
withhold your deposit. If your landlord wrongfully withholds your deposit, you can seek
redress through a civil action. This may take some time, and requires some complex
procedures. Should such a situation occur, there are various support centers from which
you can seek help. !
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Things to do before moving out
At least one month before your contract expires, you must inform your landlord of
whether you intend to leave on the expiration date, or wish to stay for longer. If you do
not discuss this with your landlord, your contract is automatically renewed, and you
may lose the chance to move out when you want to. Many people forget and make this
mistake.
IV Korean Culture and Life
2_Electricity
(1) 220 Voltage
Most houses in Korea use 220-volt electricity. If you want to use a 110-volt appliance, you
will need a transformer to convert from 220 volts to 110 volts.
(2) Earth Leakage Circuit Breaker
Every house has an earth leakage circuit breaker to prevent the risk of fire due to leakage
of electricity. When too much electricity flows in or a problem occurs in the flow of
electricity, the circuit breaker will automatically switch off the flow. If the breaker is not
working properly, it may cause danger. Make sure to check that it is working properly
before moving in. To check a circuit breaker, simply press the test button (usually a red
button). Pressing the test button should cause the switch lever to go down. If it does not,
the breaker is broken.
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Guidebook for Living in Korea 3_Use of Water
In winter, there is the risk of water supply pipes freezing. The following are some
instructions that can help prevent this problem. • Check whether or not there are water leakages in the container of the water meter, and
whether the water meter is protected with a heat insulation material (Styrofoam). Take
action immediately if there are problems.
• If the water meter is exposed, as in aisle-type apartments and townhouses, protect the
meter by covering the top with vinyl, or rolling it up with hot wires. Turn the tap on to let
a small quantity of water trickle if you are planning a long-term absence, or at night if
the temperature is very low.
• If the water meter is frozen, melt the ice with warm water at first, and then with hot
water, to prevent the glass cover of the meter from breaking.
4_Use of Gas
(1) Cooking Gas
Cooking gas fittings may cause an explosion when not used carefully. After every use,
make sure to check if the fire is extinguished and the safety valve is closed.
(2) Butane Gas
Butane gas canes are used for portable gas burners. If a can is put in the
wrong way, the fire may be small or you may smell the gas leak.
Turn the burner off and check the can at once to avoid
any accident. A used-up can should be
punctured and put in a recycle bin.
Butan Gas Burner
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Butan Gas Can
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(3) LPG/LNG City Gas
To light a fire on a gas range, open the safety valve
and ignite. When finished using, make sure to close
the safety valve.
Check every joint in the piping for leakage by
painting it with soapy water and observing for bubble
formation. If there is no leaking part, you will se no
bubbles forming. Ask and get an engineer’s contact
number to prepare for an emergency.
In case of city gas, you will receive a safety checkup visit every month. Try not to leave
home and get the checkup. If you cannot stay for the checkup, you may ask your neighbors
to be there for you.
(4) Prevention of Gas-Related Safety Accidents
Most gas-related safety accidents occur when gas leaks due to the careless management
of gas facilities. The most common accidents are suffocation and explosion. If a gas
leakage is detected through a safety check, the following actions should be taken
immediately.
!
• Close the gas valve.
• Open the windows and the doors for ventilation.
• Turn off any electronic devices, because sparks may cause a gas explosion.
• Contact the gas provider to request a safety check.
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Guidebook for Living in Korea 5_Heating
(1) Boiler
There are many types of boilers and they may consume
briquettes, oil, LPG or LNG city gas. Briquettes are cheap
but should be checked on every several hour to maintain
the fire. Oil and LPG are expensive and need to be refilled
after several weeks. LNG city gas is cheap and guaranteed
for continuous supply through a pipe. It can be used for both
cooking and heating. A place with an LNG city gas is a little
more expensive than a place without it, but the place is worth
the money, considering how much you can save for your
heating fuel.
(2) Electric Heater and Electric Mattress
Electric heaters and electric mattresses are commonly used for household heating.
However, do not use them more than necessary as they consume a lot of electricity.
(3) Gas Heater
Gas heaters are commonly used indoors but require particular care of ventilation.
Sleeping with a gas heater on can cause oxygen deficiency and thus a very fatal accident.
Frequent ventilation is a must.
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6_Telecommunications
(1) Telephone
To get a phone line installed, call 100 from anywhere in the country and you will be
connected to a local telephone office. The voice instruction will come in Korean first and
later in English. If you are comfortable with either language, there is no need to bother to
go to the telephone office by yourself.
It is convenient to arrange the monthly charges to be automatically withdrawn from your
bank account. In case of a breakdown, call 100 to report the troubles.
(2) Mobile Phone
They do not sell expensive mobile phones by monthly installment to non-Korean citizens.
You may find it easy buy one in cash on the spot. You need an alien registration card to get
a phone number issued for you.
If you don’t have a registration card, you can still use a pre-paid service called, “card
phone.” This service incurs no registration fee and charges no basic fare, but it charges
a little higher rates than usual mobile phone services. You can recharge your phone with
pre-paid phone cards that are available in various amounts starting from 10,000 won. At
least one recharge is required a month to continue the service and the unused amount
of money will be expired at the end of the month. A brand-new mobile phone costs from
300,000 won to 600,000 won while second-hands are available at the price ranging from
30,000 won to 200,000 won. Pre-paid card are available at any mobile phone shops and
foreign grocery stores frequently used by migrants.
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Guidebook for Living in Korea .
Useful Information
Ad Calls/Ad Messages
Mobile users are frequently exposed to ad calls and ad messages. It is recommended to ignore
such calls and messages unless they are necessary. Calling back numbers out of curiosity may
lead to an unexpectedly large phone bill. In particular, answering adult ads or adult messages may
lead to massive financial damages.
.
Useful Information
Area Codes
There are 16 area codes altogether. The area code of the destination you are calling should be
entered before the phone number you are about to call. Area codes are not needed for calls made
within the same area.
Area Codes
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Area
Number
Area
Number
Area
Number
Area
Number
Seoul
02
Incheon
032
Gangwon
033
Gyeongnam
055
Busan
051
Gwangju
062
Chungbuk
043
Jeonbuk
063
Daegu
053
Daejeon
042
Chungnam
041
Jeonnam
061
Ulsan
052
Gyeonggi
031
Gyeongbuk
054
jeju
064
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(3) Pay Phone
A Pay phone on the street requires coins or a telephone card. A local call costs 70 won
per 180 seconds and a long distance call 70 won per 43 seconds. There are certain hours
during the day when international calls made from a pay phone are discounted.
Pay Phone (Card)
Pay Phone (IC Card or Coin)
(4) Emergency call / Collect Call
Every pay phone has a red emergency call button. You can make a police report or fire
report by pressing the red button followed by a service number without any coins or phone
cards. Remember the following two numbers for emergency.
!
• Police report: Emergency button +112 • Fire report: Emergency button +119
When you have to make a call to other numbers and
you don’t have any money with you, try the collect
call service. The particular call will be charged to
your recipient on a slightly higher rate. To make a
collect call, press in the following order: Emergency
button + 1541 + phone number to call + #
button
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Guidebook for Living in Korea (5) International Calls
In order to make an international call form a pay phone, you are recommended to buy a
phone card on the Internet, or at a foreign grocery store or a convenience store
!
How to Call
Enter access number > Enter card number > Enter country code + area code +
phone number
Country
Country
Code
Country
Country
Code
Country
Country
Code
Country
Country
Code
Argentina
54
Hongkong
852
Malaysia
60
Singapore
65
Bangladesh
880
India
91
Mexico
52
Sri Lanka
94
Brazil
55
Indonesia
62
Myanmar
95
Sudan
249
Mongol
976
Iran
98
Nepal
977
Thailand
66
China
86
Iraq
964
Nigeria
234
Vietnam
84
Colombia
57
Syria
963
Pakistan
92
Japan
81
Egypt
20
Turkey
90
Peru
51
Angola
244
Kazakhstan
7
Russia
7
Philippines
63
Chile
56
.
Useful Information
How to Use International Call Services
International calls, or calls between countries, are much more expensive than domestic calls. You
can save money by making international calls during discounted times, which are usually during
evening and holidays. It is recommended to check charges in advance, as rates vary by country and
by service provider.
You can also international calls at lower rates by using Internet phone services or international
calling cards.
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(6) Cable TV and Internet
In Korea you can access cable TV services and SkyLife, a nation-wide satellite TV service,
as well as the terrestrial broadcasting systems KBS, MBC, and SBS. Some cable TV
providers offer High-Speed Internet service as a package deal, which can be economic if
you need both services.
If you are interested in getting an Internet connection only, compare the services and
their rates offered by each telecommunications service provider. If you cannot afford a
personal Internet connection at home, the many conveniently located PC rooms offer an
economical alternative. PC rooms are open 24 hours, and cost 1,000 won to 1,500 won an
hour.
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Guidebook for Living in Korea 7_Garbage Collection System
Garbage is separated by type and collected at certain days and times. It is important to
separate and package your garbage according to the guidelines in your district. Garbage
is usually collected early in the morning, so it is recommended to put your garbage out
after 10 pm the night before garbage day.
(1) General Waste
Put in a bag specially designed for “general use.”
.
Useful Information
Standardized garbage bag
Garbage bags are available at nearby supermarkets and discount
stores. Each district has its own type of bag and do not accept garbage
in the bags other than their own standardized bags.
Bags for general waste have different volumes: 5, 10, 20, 30, 50, 75 and
100 liters. For household use, 10 or 20 liter bags are commonly used.
Food garbage bags come in 2 to 5 liters as they should be disposed of
every few days. Some villages use a container to collect food remains.
Ask your neighbors to details.
(2) Food Remains
Drain out liquid and put in a bag designated for “food
remains”, or put in a container to collect food garbage.
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(3) Recyclables
Paper, glass, steel, plastic and fabric
are recyclables. Cans and plastic bottles
need to be dried and flattened before
discarding.
(4) Nonflammables
Shoes and chinaware are nonflammables. They
are separated in a bag for nonflammables.
(5) Large-sized Materials
Broken furniture pieces and electric appliances should bear a specially designed sticker
that indicates that the item bearing the sticker is being disposed of with duties paid.
Their prices differ by size and type of the item. The sticker is available at your community
service center or designated supermarkets.
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Guidebook for Living in Korea
4>> Consumption and Economic Life
1_Household Economy
(1) Household Economy
Household economy (household budget) refers to the status of your income and
expenditures.
Depending on how you budget, your household economy may show a loss or a surplus,
even when your income is low.
(2) Monetary Value
In Korea, we use coins (KRW 10, KRW 50, KRW 100 and KRW 500) and paper money
(KRW 1,000, KRW 5,000, KRW 10,000 and KRW 50,000). Bank checks with a value of KRW
100,000 or higher are also widely used.
• Coins
KRW 10 (Ship Won)
KRW 50 (Oh-Ship Won)
KRW 100 (Baek Won)
KRW 500 (Oh-Baek Won)
• Paper Money
KRW 1,000 (Cheon Won)
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KRW 5,000 (Oh-Cheon Won)
IV Korean Culture and Life
KRW 10,000 (Man Won)
KRW 100,000 (Ship-Man Won)
KRW 50,000 (Oh-Man Won)
※ (Bank checks with a value of KRW 100,000 are
widely used, and are as readily accepted as cash. To
use a check, present the check with your ID card,
and endorse (sign) the back of the check.)
Consider what we can buy with KRW 1,000, KRW 5,000, KRW 10,000 and KRW 50,000.
Now, compare the value of Korean won with the currency of your mother country, and
compare the consumer prices in Korea.
.
Useful Information
What can we buy?
It costs KRW 300 or KRW 500 to buy a cup of coffee from a vending machine. We can buy a
bag of snack food or an ice cream cone at a supermarket with KRW 1,000. We can have a
meal such as baekban, bibimbap or naengmyeon at a restaurant with KRW 5,000, and buy
600g of pork with KRW 10,000. We can buy 20kg of rice with KRW 50,000.
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Guidebook for Living in Korea
2_How to Purchase and Use Goods
If you shop without planning, it can lead to the purchase of unnecessary goods and
difficulties in financial management due to large expenditures. It is important to make a
plan before you go shopping.
(1) Make a List
Make a list in advance before go shopping.
(2) Decide Where to Shop
Decide where and how much to shop.
Convenience Store
Convenience stores are open 24 hours, and sell a diverse
range of goods, including foods. As these stores are small, it’s
easy to find what we want. They can be useful when we need
to buy one or two products immediately.
Conventional Market (5-Day Market)
Foods, clothing and commodities sellers gather at the
conventional markets. They provide goods at cheap prices, and
allow for negotiation on price and quantity. We can witness the
lives of Korean people at the markets.
Local Supermarkets
Supermarkets offer snacks, vegetables, meat and beverages,
and are easy to access since there are usually several in every
neighborhood.
We can often buy goods here at discounted prices (about 10%).
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Department Stores
Department Stores handle diverse types of items, including
clothing, foods, electronics, cosmetic products and jewelry. The
facilities and services are excellent and the quality of products
is superior, making the prices expensive. As Department Stores
frequently run sales, we can buy goods at discounted prices
during the sales period.
Large Discount Stores
Like department stores, large discount stores offer diverse
items, including food, clothing, electronics and commodities.
The quality of products is excellent, and the facility and the
services are good.
TV Home Shopping
With TV home shopping, we can place orders via phone while
watching advertisements on TV. Diverse items are available,
including clothing, foods, cosmetic goods, electronics and
insurance products. While home shopping can be convenient,
we need to be careful to prevent impulse buying.
Online Shopping Mall
Through an online shopping mall, we can place orders online,
and buy a wide range of items. Take note that items may look
different on the screen than in real life. You will need to provide
personal information to shop online, including your resident
registration number.
(3) Method of Payment
We can make payments with cash, checks, credit cards and gift certificates.
credit cards
gift certificates
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Guidebook for Living in Korea
(4) Purchasing Goods
Compare the price and quality of goods, and check the expiration
date of food products.
We need to check whether or not the prices are fair. Make sure
that you receive and keep the receipt after the purchase, as you
will need to present it for an exchange or refund.
(5) Before Using the Goods
• Keep the warranty card: Collect warranty cards and keep them
in a fixed location.
• Read the user manual: Read the manual to ensure that you use
the product correctly. .
• Check notes and instructions: Check notes and instructions for
safety and health.
(6) Refund and Returns
• Do not use or damage products, and keep them in a good condition.
• Most vendors will require you to return goods within 7 days or 14 days in order to receive
a refund, so ask family members or neighbors for assistance immediately.
• If you encounter difficulties getting a refund or experience other damages in a consumer
transaction, you can seek help from the Korea Consumer Agency or consumer-related
organizations.
!
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Korea Consumer Agency 82-2-3460-3000, www.kca.go.kr
Consumers Korea 82-2-739-5441, www.cacpk.org
IV Korean Culture and Life
3_How to Save Money, and How to Use Banking Services
(1) Necessity of Savings
We need to save money to build security, prepare for unexpected events, prepare for our
old age, buy a house, and educate our children. To start saving money, open an account at
a bank.
(2) Types of Bank Accounts
• Savings: We can freely deposit and withdraw money. The interest rate is low.
• Term Deposit: We deposit a large amount of money for a long term, which is paid a high
interest rate.
• Installment Savings: We deposit a fixed amount of money every month, and withdraw a
large amount of money after the fixed period expires. The interest rate is high.
• Free Deposit and Savings: This new method of savings offers a high interest rate for
long-term savings, and aims to apply preferential rates to household savings.
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(3) How to Use Banking Services
• How to Open a Bank Account
- Items to Prepare: ID Cards (Passport, Certificate of Alien Registration, Resident
Registration Card, Seal and Money to Save)
- Instructions
① Upon entering the bank, take a number, and wait until the number is called.
② Go to the desk when the number is displayed on the display board.
③ Clarify your purpose of visiting the bank to the bank teller (bank account opening,
remittance or deposit). Ask for a debit card if necessary.
※ Debit card: With a debit card, we can deposit or withdraw money at an ATM, even when we do not have
our bankbook and/or seal.
④ Fill in the forms and submit them as directed by the bank teller.
⑤ Keep your bankbook and debit card in a safe place.
※ Do not disclose your password to others.
• Bank Hours
- Monday through Friday: 09:00~16:00
- Outside of Bank Hours: Use ATM located in a bank
lobby
• Deposit and withdrawal, with a bank teller and with an
ATM
- Prepare the application for deposit or withdrawal, and
go to the teller’s counter. We don’t have to provide our
PIN to make a deposit, but we are asked to provide our
PIN and our signature (seal) to make a withdrawal.
- We can use deposit and withdrawal services at ATMs using our bankbooks or debit
cards. We will need to enter our PIN. Please note that deposit and withdrawal services
will be blocked if we enter an incorrect PIN three times. We need to pay a service
charge when we use the ATM during non-bank hours, or use the ATM of another bank.
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• Internet Banking
- Internet banking refers to banking services provided via the Internet.
- With internet banking, we can check account balances, check the history of deposits and
withdrawals, and make remittances using our own bank accounts.
- To use internet banking services, you need to receive a certified authentication certificate
issued by Korea Financial Telecommunications and Clearings Institute, which you should
store on your own PC, and a special security card issued by your bank. For help, contact
your bank.
.
Useful Information
Telebanking
You can also use banking services via phone. Like Internet banking, telebanking requires a PIN and
a security card. You can use the telebanking service more conveniently if you subscribe for Internet
banking and the telebanking services at the same time.
• How to Pay Utility Bills
- Direct payment
This way you visit a bank to pay the bills by yourself. At some banks, tellers do not
assist paying utility bills and instead, machines are equipped for the services. These
machines can be used by customers holding an account of the certain bank. If you have
difficulties finding a bank to pay your bills, go to a post office. Every post office handles
utility bills.
- Automatic withdrawal
You can arrange your bills to be paid directly from your bank account without bothering
yourself. Set a date for each bill when it will be charged from your account. You can
arrange it at your bank or by calling your service provider. Remember the withdrawal
date and leave enough money in your account at the date.
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• Remittance
- Have an account made in your home country by your family.
- Prepare the following information accurately: name of the recipient, address, phone
number, name of the bank, and his/her bank account number, and visit the foreign
exchange section at your bank and present your ID card to the teller.
- Keep the recipient of remittance.
.
Useful Information
Safe Remittance
You can remit money most safely using public banking agencies such as banks and post offices.
Many people use private service providers (or brokers) rather than banks to make remittance.
Their service is faster and simpler, but you use the services at your own risk. Cases of brokers
disappearing with the remittance money are not rate. Once such an accident breaks out, there is no
way to get back your money. You are recommended not to use private service providers.
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5>> Transportation in Korea
1_Buses
There are city buses, distance buses and express buses. To use distance buses and
express buses, you will need to buy tickets in advance. Check the time of departure and
the destination before getting on a bus.
(1) City Buses
• Using City Buses
- Bus fare can be paid in cash or with a transportation card.
- Transportation cards can be purchased from convenience stores located near subway
stations.
- You may recharge your card in 1,000 won units, from a minimum of 1,000 won to a
maximum of 90,000 won.
- All fares are discounted if you use the transportation card. Transfer fare will apply
when you transfer to a bus or a subway.
• Fares and Characteristics of Urban Buses
Fare
Characteristic
General bus
1,000 won
Stops at all bus stops
Seated bus
1,500~1,700 won
Stops at main bus stops
Town bus
600~800 won
Circulates within a limited area
※ Buses and fares differ by region. Please refer to the traffic information sites of individual cities and gus for
detailed information.
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Guidebook for Living in Korea
.
Useful Information
Urban Buses of Seoul
Blue Bus: Connects the suburban areas and
Green Bus: Connects major subway stations
the Seoul downtown areas by traveling in
and bus terminals in the Seoul downtown
the central bus lanes.
areas.
Red Bus: Connects the Seoul downtown
Yellow Bus: Travels the Seoul downtown
areas and neighboring cities for commuters.
areas and stops at major railway stations,
commercial districts, tourist destinations
and shopping destinations.
(2) Distance Buses and Express Buses
• How to Use the Bus
- You can board the buses listed below at bus terminals to visit cities in other regions.
- Intercity buses will stop at several cities on a route, and will involve longer travel time
than express buses.
- Express buses have a single destination, and can be classified as general or deluxe
buses. Deluxe express buses come with first-class seats, and are more expensive than
general buses.
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• Bus Terminals in Major Cities
We need to go to the bus terminals of each city to use distance buses or express buses.
For information on bus schedules and ticket reservations, visit the website of KOBUS (www.
kobus.co.kr) or G Bus (www.gbus.co.kr).
Bus Terminal
Tel
Bus Terminal
Tel
Seoul Express Bus Terminal
1688-4700
Ulsan Bus Terminal
052-268-1556
Dongseoul Bus Terminal
1688-5979
Gangneung Bus Terminal
033-647-3181
Seoul Nambu Bus Terminal
02-521-8550
Sokcho Bus Terminal
033-631-3181
Suwon Bus Terminal
1688-5455
Chuncheon Bus Terminal
033-256-1571
Incheon Bus Terminal
032-430-7114
Cheongju Bus Terminal
1688-4321
Ansan Bus Terminal
031-403-8251
Mokpo Bus Terminal
061-276-0221
Euijeongbu Bus Terminal
1688-0314
Jeonju Bus Terminal
063-277-1572
Daejeon Seobu Bus Terminal
042-584-1616
Gwangju Bus Terminal
062-360-8114
Cheonan Bus Terminal
041-551-4933
Yeosu Bus Terminal
061-652-1877
Daegu Dongbu Bus Terminal
053-759-6162
Busan Bus Terminal
051-508-9200
Daegu Seobu Bus Terminal
053-656-2824
Masan Bus Terminal
055-256-1621
.
Useful Information
Transfer System
The transfer system is applied to all areas where subways and transit vehicles are operated. The
discount program is applied when we transfer between buses, or from a bus to a subway or vice
versa.
For example, we need to pay KRW 1,000 when we get on a bus if we do not use the transfer system
and transfer to a bus with cash. However, we do not have to pay the additional fare when we
transfer to a bus or a subway and pay the fare with the transportation card, as long as our total
distance does not exceed 10 km. For each additional distance of 5 km, we need to pay an additional
fare of KRW 100. Discount programs may vary by region.
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2_Subway
Subway lines are operated in Seoul, Busan, Daegu, Gwangju and Incheon.
There are nine subway lines and KNR lines in Seoul. Lines are numbered and color-coded
for ease of identification, and suburban areas of Seoul, satellite towns and stations of
transfer are clearly marked on the subway system map.
Subway trains run at 2.5 to 3 minute intervals in rush hours, and at 4 to 6 minute intervals
outside of the rush hours.
(1) Subway Ticket and Fare
Type of Passenger
Adults (Age 20 and up)
Basic Fare: KRW 900 for up to 10km
Students (Ages 14 ~ 19 )
Transportation card: 20% discount (Basic fare of KRW 720)
Children (Ages 8 ~ 13)
Transportation card: 50% discount (Basic fare of KRW 450)
Single tickets: 50% of adult fares (KRW 500)
Seniors, Disabled and Social Benefit
Recipients
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Fare (for Transportation Card Users)
100% discount (free)
IV Korean Culture and Life
(2) How to Use the Subway
• The basic fare is 1,000 won, and the price increases according to the distance traveled.
• Subway trains run every 2~10 minutes, and operate from 5:30 a.m. to midnight.
• There are several subway lines, and the map is easily visible at various locations in the
subway station. You can also obtain a pocket-sized map at the subway ticket office.
• Transfer fares apply in all subway areas if you pay using a transportation card. Discounts
vary depending on your region.
• You may also pay with cash, but if you pay with cash you will receive no discount for
transfers. For this reason, it is highly recommended to purchase a transportation card. If
there is no money left on your card, approach the ticket office to recharge your card.
.
Useful Information
Automatic Ticket Issuance Machine
① Select from transportation card prepayment, issue
single ticket and issue free ticket.
② Select the destination (fare).
③ Press the number of tickets desired, if purchasing
two or more tickets.
④ Insert money.
⑤ Receive the tickets and the change.
※ We need to pay a deposit of KRW 500 when we buy a single ticket, and the deposit is returned at the
deposit return machine after getting off the train.
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(3) Subway Map
For information on the first trains, last trains, stations, operation schedule and the
shortest routes, visit the websites of the local subway operators.
Seoul
Seoul Metro, www.seoulmetro.co.kr
Seoul Metropolitan Rapid Transit Corporation, www.smrt.co.kr
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Busan
Busan Transportation
Corporation
www.humetro.busan.kr
Daegu
Daegu Metropolitan Transit
Corporation, www.dtro.or.kr
Gwangju
Gwangju Metropolitan Rapid Transit
Corporation, www.gwangjusubway.co.kr
Daejeon
Daejeon Metropolitan Express Transit
Corporation, www.djet.co.kr
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3_Taxis
Taxis are available 24 hours. They can be easily distinguished from regular cars by their
signs on top of the car roof. You can get a taxi at a taxi stand, or hail one on the street by
waving at one.
You can call a taxi to pick you up at your location, and an extra fee of 1,000 won is typically
charged for this service. There are many call taxi dispatch operators in cities. Please ask a
Korean friend for the call service number.
(1) Regular Taxi
One taxi can carry up to four customers at once.
Basic fare can be 2,000 won to 3,000 won according
to the region. Various surcharges are applied
according to the time of day. There is a night charge
between midnight and four o’clock in the morning, or when crossing regional boundaries,
which may amount to 20 % of the metered fare.
(2) Deluxe Taxi
These taxis are slightly larger vehicles than
standard taxis, and are usually black in color. They
operate around the Metropolitan area and are
much more expensive. Basic fare starts from 4,500
won and there applies no surcharge for time or region-crossing.
(3) Van Taxi
These taxis are big enough to carry up to 9 people,
and can be very convenient when you have many
pieces of baggage. You can call the van service to
pick you up as every van is installed with a radio.
Basic fare is 4,500 won, and you can sometimes
negotiate the total fare.
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4_Passenger Vehicles
Passenger vehicles are cars owned by ordinary households.
There are diverse types of passenger vehicles, ranging from small cars to large cars. The
prices range from millions of won to tens of millions of won.
✽ How to Get a Driver’s License
There are organizations that provide free assistance to foreign residents and marriage
immigrants interested in obtaining a driver’s license, including Multicultural Family Support
Centers and police stations. For detailed information, contact a local Multicultural Family
Support Center or police station.
How to get a driver’s license:
① Transportation Safety Education
The Transportation Safety Education Center of the driver’s license examination center or
locations designated as transportation safety education organizations (institutions) operate
the transportation safety education program.
② Physical Check-Up
③ Application for Written Test
Required documents
Service charge
Application with three photos, felt-tip pens for computers,
resident registration card (or other ID card), ID card of
proxy and the letter of proxy of candidate (if applicable)
• Class 1 Regular & Class 2
Regular: KRW 6,000
• Motorcycle: KRW 4,000
• Class 2 Small: KRW 6,000
④ Paper test
40 multiple choice questions are given.
⑤ Application for Functional Test
Candidates who have passed the paper test or candidates who have previously failed the
practical test are qualified to take the functional test.
Required documents
Service charge
Application, resident registration card (or
other ID card), ID card of proxy and letter of
proxy of candidate (if applicable)
•C
lass 1 Regular & Class 2 Regular: KRW
15,000
• Class 1 Large & Class 1 Special: KRW 15,000
• Motorcycle: KRW 5,000
• Class 2 Small: KRW 6,000
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⑥ Functional test
To take the test, candidates must complete diverse courses by directly driving cars in the driving
institutions.
※Before applying for the Class 1 Regular Test or the Class 2 Regular Test for the first time, candidates
are required to have completed three hours of functional practice.
⑦ Issuance of test driver’s license
A test driver’s license is issued to successful candidates who have passed the functional test, so
that they can complete the field driving practice.
⑧ Field driving practice
Candidates for the field driving test shall complete ten hours of field driving practice,
accompanied by persons who have held a full driver’s license for two or more years, after
obtaining the test driver’s license.
⑨ Application for field driving test
After completing ten hours of field driving practice, test driver’s license holders shall submit the
application for the field driving test, and the date and the time of test are assigned.
⑩ Field driving test
Candidates take the field driving test at the test center on the test date that is determined when
submitting their application for the field driving test.
⑪ Issuance of driver’s license
If the candidate passes the field driving test, they are granted a driver’s license (Class 1 Large,
Class 1 Regular, Class 1 Special, Class 2 Regular, Class 2 Small, Class 2 Motorcycle).
!
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For detailed information, contact Driver’s License Agency
http://www.dla.go.k ☎1577-1120
IV Korean Culture and Life
5_Trains
Trains are very fast, and can take you to almost all major cities in Korea. They also are
well connected to buses and subways, enabling you to reach your final destination with
ease. The KTX (Korea Train Express) is fastest and the most expensive, followed by the
Saemaeul and the Mugunghwa.
(1) KTX
KTX tickets can be reserved through ticket boxes at stations, travel agencies, automatic
ticket issuance machines and the website (www.korail.com). Reservations and ticketing
services are available from 09:00 a.m. and reservations can be made from two months
to one hour before the time of departure. If the party making reservations is different
from the party who will use the train, the party making reservations is responsible for the
payment of the fare.
.
Useful Information
KTX is operated at Gyeongbu Line and Honam Line.
• Gyeongbu Line: Seoul – Yongsan – Gwangmyeong – Cheonan Asan – Daejeon –
Dongdaegu – Miryang – Gupo - Busan
• Honam Line: Seoul – Yongsan – Gwangmyeong – Cheonan Asna – Seodaejeon – Nonsan
– Iksan – Gimje –Jeongeup – Jangseong (Gwangju) – Songjeong-ri – Naju – Mokpo
• Contact ☎1544-7788
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(2) Saemaeul Train
Saemaeul trains are better passenger trains and travel faster than Mugungwha trains,
as the number of stops is fewer. For reservations, visit the ticket box of the stations, travel
agencies, automatic ticket issuance machines or the website (www.korail.com).
(3) Mugungwha Train
Mugungwha trains are operated on every Korail route. Not every train stops at every
station, and a selective stop system is used to reduce travel time while maximizing the
number of stations served.
(4) Major Railway Line
• Gyeongbuk Line: Yeongju-Yecheon-Jeomchon-Sangju-Gimcheon
• Gyeongwon Line: Sintalli-Yeoncheon-Hantangang-Soyosan-Uijeongbu-Yongsan
• Gyeongui Line: Dorasan-Munsan-Ilsan-Seoul
• Gyeongjeon Line: Samrangjin-Changwon-Masan-Jinju-Hadong-Suncheon-BeolgyoBoseong-Hwasun-Gwangju-Songjeongni
• Gyeongchun Line: Seongbuk-Maseok-Cheongpyeong-Gangchon-Chuncheon
• Donghaenambu Line: Pohang-Gyeongju-Ulsan-Haeundae-Busanjin
• Yeongdong Line: Yeongju-Bonghwa-Buncheon-Seungbu-Tongni-Dogye-DonghaeJeongdongjin-Gangneung
• Janghang Line: Janghang-Seocheon-Ungcheon-Daecheon-Gwangcheon-HongseongYesan-Onyangoncheon-Cheonan
• Jeolla Line: Iksan-Jeonju-Jungnioncheon-Namwon-Gokseong-Gurye-SuncheonDeogyang-Yeosu
• Jungang Line: Cheongnyangni-Paldang-Neungnae-Yangpyeong-Yongmun-WonjuBongyang-Jecheon-Danyang-Punggi-Yeongju-Andong-Uiseong-Yeongcheon-Gyeongju
• Chungbuk Line: Bongyang-Chungju-Cheongju-Jochiwon
• Taebaek Line: Jecheon-Yeongwol-Jeungsan-Ggohan, Chujeon, Taebaek-Baeksan
• Honam Line: Daejeon-Seodaejeon-Nonsan-Iksan-Gimje-Jeongeup-Jangseong
(Gwangju)-Songjeongni-Naju-Mokpo
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Sintalli
e
Lin
un
h
Chuncheon
c
ong
Gye
Munsan
Dongducheon
Gangneung
Daeseongni
Uijeongbu
Neunggok
Cheongnyangni
Jun
gan
g Li
ne
Gwangmyeong
Cheonan
Dangyang
Punggi
Cheongju
Lin
e
Jan
gh
an
g
Gye
ong
bu
Yeongju
Mungyeong
Jeomchon
Daejeon
e
Lin
uk
b
ng
eo
Gy
Andong
Lin
e
Okcheon
Pohang
Yeongcheon
Gimcheon
Gunsan
Dogye
Tongri
Taebaek
Gaemun
Nonsan
Pangyo
Janghang
Jeongseon
Yeongwol
Ye
on
gd
on
gL
ine
Pyeongtaek
Daecheon
Wonju
Jecheon
Suwon
Yesan
Donghae
Gujeolli
Seoul
Daegu
Iksan
Gyeongju
Jeonju
Hona
m Lin
e
e
Lin
lla
Jeo
Gimje
Jeongeup
Masan
Jinju
Jeonju
Hwasun
Suncheon
Ulsan
Samnangjin
Namwon
Songjeongri
Mokpo
Miryang
Hadong
ine
on L
ngje
Gyeo
Changwon
Haenudae
Jinhae
Busan
Yeosu
Boseong
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6_Airlines
Traveling by air saves time when traveling long distances, but is more expensive
compared to other forms of transportation. Domestic airlines include Korean Airlines,
Asiana Airlines, Jeju Air, Eastar Air, and Jin Air. These airlines operate along the following
routes: Seoul/Incheon-Busan, Seoul/Incheon-Jeju, Seoul/Incheon-Daegu, Seoul-Ulsan,
Seoul-Gwangju, Seoul-Jinhae, Seoul-Gangneung, etc.
However, Jeju Air, Eastar Air, and Jin Air offer fewer routes.
Tickets can be purchased at airports, or booked in advance by phone, internet, or through
travel agencies.
Korean Air
Asiana Airlines
International Airports
Name of Airport
Incheon International Airport
110
Tel
Website
1577-2600
www.airport.kr
Gimpo International Airport
82-2-2660-2114
www.airport.co.kr/doc/gimpo
Jeju International Airport
82-64-797-2114
www.airport.co.kr/doc/jeju
Gimhae International Airport
82-51-974-3114
www.airport.co.kr/doc/gimhae
Cheongju International Airport
82-43-210-6114
www.airport.co.kr/doc/cheongju
Daegu International Airport
82-53-980-5290
www.airport.co.kr/doc/daegu
Yangyang International Airport
82-33-670-7114
www.airport.co.kr/doc/yangyang
Muan International Airport
82-61-455-2114
www.airport.co.kr/doc/muan
Gwangju International Airport
82-62-940-0214
www.airport.co.kr/doc/gwangju
IV Korean Culture and Life
Domestic Airports
Name of Airport
Tel
Website
Gunsan Airport
82-63-469-8345
www.airport.co.kr/doc/gunsan
Yeosu Airport
82-61-689-6300
www.airport.co.kr/doc/yeosu
Pohang Airport
82-54-289-7399
www.airport.co.kr/doc/pohang
Ulsan Airport
82-52-288-7011
www.airport.co.kr/doc/ulsan
Wonju Airport
82-33-344-3311
www.airport.co.kr/doc/wonju
Sacheon Airport
82-55-831-9300
www.airport.co.kr/doc/sacheon
Major Overseas Airlines
Name of County
Name of Airline
Tel
China
Air China
02-774-6886
China
China Southern Airlines
02-775-9070
China
China Eastern Airlines
02-778-0375
Indonesia
Garuda Indonesia Airways
02-773-2092/4
Thailand
Thai Airways
02-3707-0114
Mongol
Mongolian Airlines
02-756-9760/1
Philippines
Philippine Airlines
02-774-3581
Vietnam
Vietnam Airlines
02-757-8920
Nepal
Royal Nepal Airlines
02-756-2161
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6>> Use of Public Administration
1_Public Administrative Bodies
The main public administration offices
include Eup Office, Myeon Office, Dong
Community Center, City Office, Gun
Office and Gu Office. These offices
manage affairs related to the health and
welfare of residents, the management
of public facilities, the issuance of
diverse certificates and the registration
of diverse issues. Eup Offices, Myeon Offices and Dong Community Centers operate a
wide range of programs, including cultural lectures for local residents.
We can use the document issuance services at the automatic certificate issuance
machines located at major subway stations or online (www.egov.go.kr). However, not
every required certificate can be issued through the Internet or the automatic certificate
issuance machine. In some cases, we cannot issue a document online without a printer
and a certified authentication document. If you need to have an official document issued,
please check the requirements in advance.
2_Police Stations (☎ 112)
You can call 112 or visit a police station if you are a victim of
fraud, violence, or burglary, are involved in a traffic accident, or
witness an accident or crime. At public phones, simply press the
red emergency button and dial 112, or dial 112 without the local
code from a fixed line phone or a mobile phone.
When reporting a crime, you must do your best to accurately
report the address, the name and the contact information of the reporter (you) and
the detailed circumstances of the event. Giving information on the appearance,
characteristics, direction and method of the criminals’ flight may help.
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3_Fire Stations (☎ 119)
You can call 119 when there is a fire, when you have to take
someone to the hospital for emergency care, or when you
witness a similar situation. At public phones, simply press the
red emergency button and dial 119, or dial 119 without the
local code from a fixed line phone or a mobile phone.
When reporting a fire, you should describe the location, floor, type of fire and any useful
landmarks. When you have to take someone to the hospital, you will need to provide basic
information on the sick person. You should maintain contact with the service crew until
the 119 emergency team arrives, and respond to any emergency situations that may
occur.
4_Post Offices
You can send letters or packages from post offices,
which are located in all neighborhoods. Post offices
handle domestic postal services and international
postal services, and also provide some banking services, such as bill payment. For quick
international postal services, you can use EMS.
For detailed information on postal services, call 1588-1300. For detailed information on
the banking services offered at post offices, call 1588-1900.
(1) Domestic Postal Services
Packages delivered through the home delivery services of post offices generally reach
their recipients on the following day, but may take longer in islands or mountains.
Service charges may vary by region. Additional charges are imposed if the packages are
heavier or larger than the standard.
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(2) EMS
EMS enables the prompt and safe delivery of letters, documents and goods up to 30 kg
to more than 130 countries across the world. Letters, documents, L/C, books, checks
of financial organizations, product samples, cassette tapes, video tapes and other
commodities may be delivered through EMS. For some countries, the package weight
is limited to 20 kg, including Australia, the Philippines, Argentina and Bangladesh. As
the delivery of certain items is prohibited in some countries, you are recommended to
investigate this before using the service.
5_Libraries
Libraries support the learning, cultural studies and continuing education of local residents
by providing access to diverse materials, including books and AV media. Most cities, guns
and gus operate libraries. Users can borrow the materials from the libraries for free, and
use diverse AV materials. For information on the nearest libraries, contact the offices of
your city, gun or gu.
.
Useful Information
The National Library of Korea
• Hours of Operation
Archive: Monday through Sunday, 09:00 through 18:00 (Night
Libraries 18:00~22:00)
• Closed : Second and Fourth Monday of every months,
Holidays excluding Sundays, and other days approved by
the President
• With the exception of pens and notebooks, visitors shall put personal belongings in lockers.
• User registration (website) > Application for entrance card > Issuance of entrance card >
Entrance > Use of archive > Completion of use of materials > Returning home
• Location: Subway: 15 minutes’ walk from Exit No. 6, Seocho Subway Station, Subway Line No. 2
10 minutes’ walk from Exit No. 5, Express Bus Terminal Subway Station, Subway Line No. 7 & 9
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IV Korean Culture and Life
7>> Use of Convenience Facilities
1_Barbershops
A barbershop is called ‘Ibalso’ in Korean. A hair cut may cost from 5,000 won to 10,000
won, though some downtown barbershops are more expensive.
2_Beauty Salons
Beauty salons are called ‘Miyongsil’ or ‘Mijangwon.”
Once they were exclusively the domain of women,
but many male customers can be found in beauty
salons these days. The salons provide a range
of services, including hairdressing, makeup and
manicure. In general, a simple haircut costs 8,000
won, though the price may vary. The cost of a perm
can range from 20,000 won to 100,000 won, or more.
3_Public Baths
Public baths are called Mogyoktang, Sauna, or Jjimjilbang.
- Mogyoktang: A place that is equipped with hot tubs and showers. It costs around 4,000
won to 6,000 won per person.
- Sauna: A place that is equipped with steam rooms, hot tubs and showers. It costs
around 5,000 won to 7,000 won per person.
- Jjimjilbang: A place that is equipped with a sleeping room as well as hot tubs,
showers, and steam rooms. Except for the baths and showers, the rest of the facilities
are used while wearing clothes, and shared by both men and women. It costs 7,000
won to 12,000 won per person.
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The admission fee for Sauna and Jjimjilbang includes a rental fee for the steam rooms,
sleeping rooms and sports goods. Men will typically use the soap that is provided,
while most women will bring their own requirements, such as shampoo and lotions.
You must pay extra money to buy food, or to get a massage or beauty service. You can
also get the service for a cleaner to wash your body if you pay an extra charge.
- In the hot tub, a temperature of 43 to 45℃ is maintained, while the temperature in
steam rooms is between 70 and 100℃, and in sweating parlors is from 70 up to 130℃.
When properly used, hot baths and sweating can help you sweat out toxins, reduce
stress, and ease muscular pains.
.
Useful Information
Public Baths
Korea has a well developed bathing culture. Every week or two, most people like to go to a public
bathhouse to relax in a hot tub and wash themselves.
Since people get entirely naked at a bathhouse, Koreans go to the baths together when they
become friends. This may feel uncomfortable for foreigners who are not used to bathing with their
colleagues or friends. Some foreigners insist on wearing clothes, even in the hot tub, which makes
the Koreans feel uncomfortable. Proper etiquette is important for ensuring the comfort of other at
the public baths, as many people must share the facility together. If it is uncomfortable for you, you
may want to wait and try it some other time.
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.
Useful Information
Please observe the following cautions in the use of public baths:
Staying too long in a steam room is not recommended, even for healthy people. Pregnant women
and people with heart problems should avoid steam rooms entirely.
Drink a glass of water every 30 minutes in order to avoid dehydration from sweating. Drinking
water is provided free of charge, and you can also buy sodas and other drinks.
After a late night of drinking, you may be challenged by a Korean friend to stay overnight at a
Jjingjilbang, and go to work straight from there the next morning. Please remember that alcohol
makes your body lose water, and sweating in a steam room after drinking is a very dangerous idea.
People with skin diseases or other infectious diseases should not use public baths.
Bathing in the Public Baths The following are some instructions in the use public baths.
① Take a shower and wash your hair before sitting in a hot tub.
② Stay in the tub for 5 to 10 minutes to sweat.
③ Take a seat outside the tub and scrub your body off with a bath towel.
④ Try some steam rooms or a cold tub if you want.
⑤ Take another shower before leaving.
Three Don’ts for Public Baths
• Don’t wear underwear in the tub.
• Don’t scrub your body off in the tub.
• Don’t wash your clothes outside the tub.
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V
Pregnancy and Childcare
120
Pregnancy and Childbirth 120
Recommended Checkups for Expecting Mothers
120
General Good Practices for Prenatal Health
122
Public Health Centers that Provide Help for Pregnant Women
124
Giving Birth
125
Infant Healthcare
125
Stages of Infant Development
126
Vaccinations
128
Vaccinations Available at Public Health Centers
129
Infant Growth Information and Education
129
Pre-Primary Education
130
Childcare Subsidy and Financial Assistance for Kindergarten
134
Childcare Subsidy for Farmers and Fishers
한국생활for
가이드북
Guidebook
Living in Korea 1>> Pregnancy and Childbirth
1_Recommended Checkups for Expecting Mothers
The common checkups that an expecting mother should take for healthcare are listed as
follows. In addition to these, the obstetrician may require additional tests, depending on
the health of the expecting mother or the baby.
Common Tests Pregnant Women Must Take
Normal blood test
Blood
test
Blood-type test
Test for anemia, AIDS, German measles, etc. by testing
the number and size of hemoglobin, red blood cells, and
leukocytes in the blood
Test for ABO blood types and Rh factors
Syphilis examination
Test for syphilis, which can cause fetal death or miscarriage
Hepatitis examination
Test for hepatitis. If the mother has hepatitis, chances are
high that the baby will contract it as well
Urinalysis
Test for gestosis or diabetes by testing sugar and proteins,
and test for urinary tract infections
Ultrasound examination
Examination of growth development, location, size of the
fetus and test for deformities by looking into the uterus
2_General Good Practices for Prenatal Health
• A healthy child needs a healthy mother.
If you are planning to conceive, be sure
you are healthy. If you are sick, consult a
doctor and receive treatment.
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II 외국인지원서비스
• Do not take medications.
Medications can be fatal to a baby. The early period of pregnancy is when the baby’s
hands, feet, heart and nervous system develops. For this reason, it is important to take
special caution during that period of time. If you are pregnant, consult with your doctor
even before taking simple cough or cold medications.
• Avoid alcohol and cigarettes.
Alcohol and cigarettes can adversely affect fetal development, and may even cause
mental retardation or deformities. For this reason, you should even avoid small
quantities of alcohol, or brief exposure to cigarette smoke. For men who hope to be
fathers, avoidance of excessive drinking is also recommended, as this will promote
better sperm health.
• Consume enough calories, proteins, minerals, and vitamins.
If you eat regularly, you will not need to take in additional nutrients during your
pregnancy. If you have no nutritional problems, you should gain 1 kg per month during
the first 4 months of your pregnancy, and 2 kg per month during the last 6 months, for a
total weight gain of 13 kg. However, it is necessary to take iron supplements beginning
in your 5th month of pregnancy.
• Avoid strenuous activities.
You should avoid hazardous activities, such as climbing to high altitudes or heavy labor.
Continue your everyday activities, with regular light exercise.
• Receive regular medical examinations.
Receive regular medical examinations as advised by your doctor. You should receive
prenatal care during pregnancy through medical institutions. By doing this, you can
detect and prevent dangerous factors that could affect you and your child.
.
Useful Information
Korean Prenatal Care Koreans have long believed that the behavior and mentality of the mother
during pregnancy affects the baby mentally, emotionally and physically. This approach to prenatal
care is called Tae-gyo. Traditionally, the pregnant mother should take caution in every action she
takes, refrain from foul thinking and harsh actions, and talk and act in a relaxed manner for the
birth of a healthy descendant. There are many limitations on what one can eat and how one should
think and act. From the perspective of an expecting female immigrant, advice on prenatal care from
the husband’s family may seem like an invasion of privacy, and may also be very stressful.
However, this stress may come from cultural differences, so it is useful to talk with each other and
build a better understanding.
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Living in Korea 3_Public Health Centers that Provide
Help for Pregnant Women
If you are a pregnant married female immigrant, you
can obtain free medical care from a public health
center. You should bring your alien registration card
when you visit. High-risk expecting mothers* should
receive care from a public health center or other
medical facility.
✽ High-risk expecting mothers are young or older expecting mothers (less than 20 years and more
than 35 years old), expecting mothers with high-blood pressure, diabetes, or another illness,
and women who have previously given birth to immature infants or infants with congenital
anomalies. These expecting mothers require special care.
(1) Free prenatal examinations
As an expecting mother, you can receive early pregnancy examinations, urinalysis
(diabetes, protein tests) and blood tests (hemoglobin, red blood cell, leukocytes, syphilis,
hepatitis, blood type). You can receive prenatal examination benefits as long as you
register at the health center.
(2) Childbirth preparatory classes and education
• Classes on breastfeeding, exercise for pregnant women, childbirth preparation, baby
massage and other topics are available.
• Pregnancy, prenatal care, delivery-related books, CDs and videos are available for rent.
(3) Iron pills and folic acid pills available
Iron and folic acid pills are given to women who are 5 months pregnant or more.
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(4) Supplementary nutrition aid for pregnant women and infants
Married immigrant women in the lower-income classes who are pregnant and babies
with poor nutrition can receive education on health and balanced nutrition, and receive the
necessary supplements.
Type
Aid Information
Eligible Subjects
• A family with an income of less than 200% of the minimum cost of living
• Pregnant women, women up to 6 months after childbirth, women who are in
the nursing stage, and infants
• People who are suffering from anemia, underweight, poor growth, or
malnutrition
Aid Information
• Supplementary nutrient packages are given free of charge
- Rice, potatoes, eggs, carrots, milk, black beans, seaweed, brown seaweed,
canned tuna, mandarins, etc. are given according to the applicant’s nutrition
state
• Free nutrition education
- Personal counseling and group education, home visits
- You must meet at least once each month.
- For busy employees, evening or weekend visits are possible.
How to Apply
• Reception office: public health centers
• Required documents
- Documents to verify residence: certificate of residence or alien registration
card, copy of family register card, or copy of health insurance card
- Income verification papers: Health insurance fee receipt, national basic
livelihood recipient verification, medical aid* recipient verification, etc.
!
The Supplementary Nutrition Care service is only offered at selected public health
centers. You are recommended to contact your local center to find out where the
service is available.
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Living in Korea 4_Giving Birth
Pregnant women can give birth at an OB/GYN office or a hospital. Women who have been
receiving care at a public care center also need to give birth at an OB/GYN hospital as well.
Preparations must be done before delivery so as to avoid any type of “panic situation.”
Two of the most common ways are natural childbirth and c-section.
(1) Natural Childbirth
• Natural childbirth is giving birth the natural way through the vagina, without the help of
medication or machines. The perineal region may be cut to make birth easier.
• If the baby is not delivered after a long period of time, a stimulant that induces birth is
given. With your first baby, labor may take about 10 hours, while labor for a subsequent
baby usually takes up to 5 hours.
• Giving birth the natural way may be painful, but the pain disappears immediately after
giving birth, and this is known to be the best method. Also, the hospitalization period is
shortest, usually only 2~3 days, and it is also the most economical.
(2) Caesarian Section (C-Section)
• When natural childbirth is not an option, a c-section must be performed. This procedure
is used in dangerous situations such as advanced-age birth, narrow pelvis or inverted
babies.
• A c-section is a type of surgery, and may lead to complications. For this reason, it
is recommended to go through natural childbirth unless a c-section is completely
necessary.
• A c-section requires hospitalization of approximately one week after giving birth, and is
more costly than natural childbirth.
!
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For translation and interpretation services, contact the nearest Multicultural Family
Support Center, health center, Korea Migrants’ Service and Emergency Support
Center for Migrant Women.
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2>> Infant Healthcare
Children go through rapid physical development during infancy, and can easily contract
diseases due to a significant drop in the immunity acquired from their mother. During this
period, infants can obtain healthcare and essential vaccinations for free at public health
centers.
1_Stages of Infant Development
(1) Weight
3 kg at birth - 6 kg after 6 months, 9 kg after a year
(2) Height:
50 cm at birth, 75 cm after a year
(3) Physical Development
4months
can control head and can twist from side to side while lying down
5months
can turn over (from stomach to back)
6months
can turn from back to stomach and can sustain weight with both arms
while lying flat
7months
can sit with assistance
8months
can sit without assistance
9months
crawls
10months
can stand up with support (e.g. furniture)
12months
can walk with support
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Living in Korea .
Useful Information
Infant conflict
In raising a child, you may experience conflict with family members due to differences in opinions
on child-rearing. These conflicts are common between parents-in-law and young couples. Talk
through the conflict with your parents-in-law.
Examples of conflicts
• Feed when the child is hungry. <> Feed at regular times.
• Feed a lot, even if the child becomes chubby. <> Always feed the correct amount.
• Carry child on your back if he or she cries. <> Carrying the child on your back brings bad habits.
• Feeding cold milk makes the intestines stronger. <> Cold food irritates the intestines.
2_Vaccinations
Vaccinations protect your baby from communicable diseases by developing the baby’s
immunity.
(1) Precautions before Vaccination
• Make sure vaccinations are received before noon, as this will make it easier to return to
the hospital if there are problems.
• Take your infant-diary with you. You must keep track of the vaccines your baby has
received.
• Make sure that your child does not have a fever.
• Give your child a bath, and take him or her in clean clothes.
• Make sure the parent who is best aware of the state of the child’s health takes the child.
(2) Precautions after Vaccination
• Rub the vaccinated area for more than 5 minutes, so that
the vaccine spreads evenly.
• Do not give the child a bath after he or she is vaccinated.
• Keep the vaccinated area clean.
• Observe the child for 3 hours after the vaccination.
• If the child develops a fever or experiences convulsions, go to the doctor immediately.
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(3) Types of Vaccination, Vaccinations Dates, and Frequency
National mandatory vaccinations
Target communicable
disease
Vaccine
Vaccination
frequency
Tuberculosis
BCG
Once
Hepatitis B
HepB
Three times
Dyphtheria, tetanus,
pertussis
DTaP
4 times, once additional
2-4-6- months (3 times)
Additional : 15~18
months, 4~6 years old
Td
Once additional
Additional : 11~12 years
Polio
IPV
3 times, once additional
2-4-6 months (3 times)
Additional : 4~6 years
Measles, epidemic
mumps, German measles
MMR
Once, once additional
12~15 months (once)
Additional : 4~6 years
Japanese encephalitis
JEV
Three times, twice
additional
12-24 months (twice),
third vaccination 12
months later
Additional : 6, 12 years
Chicken pox
Var
Once
12~15 months (once)
Flu
Twice for children of 6
months ~ 9 years, once
every year after
older than 6 months
Oral
3~4 times
older than 6 months
Injection
Once, once additional
Influenza
Priority
group to be
vaccinated
Typhoid
fever
Limited to
high-risk
babies
Epidemic hemorrhagic
fever with renal syndrome
Vaccination
date
Within 4 months from
birth (once)
0-1-6 months (three times)
older than 2 years
Additional vaccinations
Three times
0 months
2-4-6 months, 12~15 months
Hemophilus Influenza B
Hib
Four times
Hepatitis A
HepA
Once, once
additional (6~12
months after first)
Pneumonia due to
streptococcus pneumonia
PCV
1~4 times
1~16 years
2-4-6 months
Additional 12~15 months
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Living in Korea 3_Vaccinations Available at Public Health Centers
Mandatory vaccinations are available for free at public health centers. Take your motherand child health diary (vaccination diary, infant diary) with you when you visit the health
center.
• Prevention of Vertical Transmission of Hepatitis B Program
Babies born from mothers with hepatitis B have a higher risk of getting infected. In these
cases, financial aid for immunoglobulin vaccination (once), hepatitis B vaccination (three
times) and antigen-antibody examinations for the infant are available free of charge.
!
How to Apply
• The government distributes a ‘Hepatitis B vaccination diary’ through gynecologists across
the nation. This diary contains coupons that can be used for vaccinations.
• Pregnant women can obtain this diary by submitting positive hepatitis B antigen
examination results.
• Pregnant women with hepatitis B can obtain a free vaccination for their child by submitting
this coupon to a medical center.
• Other Services
Additional service programs are offered, including infant health checkup*, infant
development checkup, dental checkup, eyesight checkup, baby massage classes, first aid
classes, and others. Each public health center runs different programs, so please consult
the health center in advance.
✽ Through infant health examinations, 6-month to 18-month old infants are given blood tests and
urinalyses.
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3>> Infant Growth Information and Education
1_Pre-Primary Education
Children may attend child-care centers or kindergartens before entering elementary
school.
(1) Childcare Facilities
• Childcare centers look after and educate children
aged five or younger. They are usually called “ㅇㅇ
Children’s Home.”
• The opening hours of childcare centers are from 7:30
a.m. to 7:30 p.m. Some childcare centers are open
at night, or are open 24 hours.
• Childcare centers offer education related to health,
society, language, expressions, and exploration, to promote balanced development.
• Monthly fees vary depending on the hours of service and the age of the child. Generally,
the fee will range from 170,000 won to 380,000 won.
(2) Kindergarten
• Kindergartens are offered to children between ages three and five.
• Opening hours are from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. For dual-income families, some
kindergartens are open from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
• Generally speaking, kindergartens do not teach classes offered at the primary school
level, such as Korean language arts, mathematics, physical education, music, and arts.
Kindergartens mainly offer fundamental education necessary for civic life.
• Public kindergartens charge 20,000 to 50,000 won per month. Private kindergartens
charge 180,000 to 250,000 per month.
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Living in Korea 2_Childcare Subsidy and Financial Assistance for Kindergarten
Children under the age of five may go to day-care centers and kindergartens before
entering elementary school. If you want to send your child to a day-care center or a
kindergarten, you may qualify for a childcare or education subsidy depending on your
family income.
(1) Childcare Subsidy
Childcare centers, including day-care centers, look after children under the age of five. If
you send your child to a childcare center, you may qualify for financial support from the
government. The amount of financial aid offered will vary depending on your total income.
• Eligible Subjects
Your child must be under the age of five, and attend a childcare center. Applicants must
meet the eligibility criteria below.
- Parents with an accredited monthly income (Accredited monthly income denotes the
standard amount of household income accredited by the government) that is less than
70% of the average monthly income of households with infants are eligible.
※ Children of married immigrant women may be equally supported if they have Korean nationality.
- Disabled children who are under the age of 12, and who attend childcare centers rather
than elementary schools or special schools, may be provided the full amount of the
childcare allowance, regardless of the parents’ total income.
• Application Procedure
Eup, myeon,
dong office
Parents
Apply
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Childcare
facility
Parents
Confirmed
Support for the
childcare fee
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- Guardians (parents or other guardians) may submit the application form and
documentary evidence to their local city, county, or district office or eup, myeon, or dong
office.
- Required documents: documents showing employment and property relations
!
An eligible subject is given a Aisarang Card. Guardians can settle the childcare fee with
the card (Government subsidiary is given to the card account)
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Living in Korea (2) Subsidy for Kindergarten Tuition
If children between the ages of three and age five attend kindergarten, the government
will support kindergarten tuition according to the income level of the parents.
• Qualifications
Children aged five or younger who are attending kindergarten will qualify for the
government subsidy when the family meets the following standards.
- Households with income in the bottom 70%
- The subsidy for children aged five is flat, while support for children aged three and four
is graded according to age and income levels. - 100% of kindergarten tuition is supported for disabled children, regardless of the income
levels of the parents.
• Amount of Support
Kindergarten subsidies may vary according to the age of the children and the type of
kindergarten attended.
① For children aged three or four
- The graded kindergarten subsidy is granted to children aged three and four whose
parents earn income in the bottom 70%, and the amount of subsidy may vary
according to the income levels of the parents. - Beneficiaries of basic livelihood subsidy, children of low-income households headed
by a single mother, and children of parents whose average monthly income is within
the bottom 50% of households with pre-school children are qualified for a 100%
tuition subsidy for national and public kindergartens.
② For children aged five
- Children aged five of parents whose average monthly income is within the bottom 70%
of households with pre-school children are qualified for free kindergarten education
(low-income classes defined by law, and other low-income households with belowaverage monthly income)
- Children aged five who do not attend kindergarten may reapply for free kindergarten
education (limited to applicants who submit a certificate of delay in kindergarten
enrollment)
- Children who will attend primary schools early (aged four) do not qualify for free
kindergarten education for children aged five.
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③ If two or more children in a household attend childcare centers or kindergartens
- For parents whose average monthly income is within the bottom 70% of households
with pre-school children, all children attending kindergarten qualify for the subsidy
specified in article ①.
- If the parents’ average monthly income is within the range from the bottom 70% to
the bottom 60% of households with pre-school children, an additional subsidy for
the kindergarten tuition of the second child, which is between 40% and 50% of the
government subsidy, may be granted.
• How to Apply
- The kindergarten subsidy is not given to parents, but it directly paid by the government
to the kindergartens attended by qualified children.
- Parents (supporters) shall submit the application for kindergarten subsidy and the
required documents (income certificate and financial documents) to the competent city
hall, gun office, gu office or community centers.
• Application Procedure
- How to Apply: Parents (supporters) shall submit the application for kindergarten subsidy
and required documents to the competent city hall, gun office, gu office or community
centers.
- Required Documents: income certificate and financial documents
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Living in Korea 3_Childcare Subsidy for Farmers and Fishers
Farmers or fishers whose children aged five or younger attend childcare centers or
kindergartens may apply for the childcare subsidy. If children do not attend childcare
centers or kindergartens, they may apply for a home childcare subsidy.
• Qualifications
The childcare subsidy for farmers and fishers is granted to persons who meet all of the
following conditions.
- Residents whose addresses are registered at fishing or agricultural villages, or who live
in semi-agricultural or semi-fishing villages.
- Households with farmlands with an area of less than 5 ha and children who are aged five
or younger, or children who are aged six and are not attending primary schools
- Parents or supporters of children with full-time jobs in the agricultural or fishing sectors
- Households whose annual income other than income from agricultural or fishing
activities is less than KRW 35 million
!
Children who are beneficiaries of a similar government subsidy or childcare subsidy
from businesses that are mandated to install internal childcare centers are not
qualified for the childcare subsidy.
• Application Procedure
Qualified members of agricultural and fishing villages shall submit the application
approved by the village head or the head of the dong and two neighbors of the village to
the competent community center.
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Me mo
Guidebook
외국인을
for Living
in Korea
위한
for Foreigners
생활안내
VI
Education of Children
138
Educational System of Korea 138
Overview of the Educational System of Korea
138
Operation of the Educational System
139
Primary School Education
139
Guide to Elementary School Admission
142
Prepare to Enter School
144
Make the Child Familiar with School Life
at the Beginning of School Year
149
Middle School Education
149
Academic Programs and Courses
150
Electives
151
Extracurricular Activities
156
High School Education
156
Types of High Schools
157
Welfare Services for Students
161
University Education
161
Types of Higher Education
162
Scholarships Guidebook for Living in Korea 1>> Educational System of Korea
1_Overview of the Educational System of Korea
The educational system of Korea consists of six grades of primary school, three grades
of middle school, three years of high school and four years of university (or two years
of college). The six-year curriculum of primary schools and the three-year curriculum
of middle schools are operated as mandatory education, and tuition is free during this
period.
2_Operation of the Educational System
A school year is divided into two semesters. After the spring semester ends, there is
about a month of summer vacation. After the fall semester ends, there are two months of
winter vacation and a year-end holiday before the new academic year begins. The spring
semester begins at the end of February or in early March, and the fall semester begins at
the end of August or in early September.
.
Useful Information
International Schools
International schools provide educational services for the children of foreign residents in Korea and
the children of Korean citizens who have lived in a foreign country for a certain period of time. Most
of the international schools in Korea are located in the Seoul, Incheon and Gyeonggi areas. The
tuition of international schools is higher than that of regular schools, and students must meet the
requirements to be admitted to the schools. Many international schools require candidates to take
entrance examinations. •Q
ualifications Students must meet at least one of the following requirements to be admitted to
an international school.
- Foreign resident - Foreign denizen
- Korean who has lived in foreign countries for three years or more
- Child whose father or mother is a foreigner
•R
equired documents In general, an application form, an academic transcript from the student’s
previous school and letters of recommendation are required to apply to an international school.
You should learn which documents are required in advance, as requirements may vary by school.
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VI Education of Children
2>> Primary School Education
The primary school curriculum consists of a six-year program. Students age six and up
may attend primary school. Subjects in the curriculum can be divided into the categories
of Korean, Mathematics, Ethical Life, Wise Life (social studies and natural sciences)
and Fun Life (music, arts and P.E.). Primary education is provided as a mandatory, free
educational service. Parents may be penalized if they do not allow their child to attend
primary school.
1_Guide to Elementary School Admission
(1) Candidates for Elementary School Admission
- Children who will reach the age of 6 in the same calendar year as the year of admission
- Including: children who reached the required age in the previous year, but for whom
mandatory education was postponed
- Excluding: children already enrolled through early admission
※ Children who were born between Jan. 1, 2003 and Dec. 31, 2003: admission as new students for 2010
Children who were born between Jan. 1, 2004 and Dec. 31, 2004: admission as new students for 2011
139
Guidebook for Living in Korea (2) Admission Process for Elementary School
The elementary school admission process can be summarized in the five following steps.
Prepare a list
of children
entering
Apply for early
admission or
admission
postponement
Set an admission
date and school
district
Enter school
Preliminary
summoning
National elementary schools are elementary schools annexed to teachers’ colleges or
colleges of education. The admission process for national and private elementary school
is somewhat different from that for public schools. As national and private elementary
schools select new students earlier than public schools, students who do not wish to
enter national and private schools may choose to attend public schools.
!
140
For the curriculum and schedule of national and private elementary schools, please
contact the schools directly or refer to their homepages, as it may differ between
schools.
VI Education of Children
(3) Early Admission · Postponed Admission · Additional Admission
- Early Admission: Children who reach the age of 5 from Jan 1 to Dec 31, and wish to be
admitted early (1 year early admission only)
※ Children born between Jan. 1, 2004 ~ Dec 31, 2004 can apply for admission in 2010.
- Postponed Admission: Children reaching the age of 6 during the calendar year, but who
wish to postpone admission to the next year
※ For the new class of 2010, children who were born between Jan. 1, 2003 ~ Dec 31, 2003, and who wish to
postpone admission to 2011 (enroll on March 1, 2011) are eligible.
- Application process: The parent or guardian of the child must submit the application for
early admission or postponed admission to the head of the competent eup, myun, or
dong.
- Application Period: October 1 ~ December 31 every year
!
Please deliberate carefully, as early and postponed admissions are both decisions that
can be made solely by the parents, not by the school authorities.
- Additional admission: This term refers to the admission of a child who reached the age
of admission, but who was exempted or omitted due to special circumstances such as
illness, unavoidable cause (disappearance, missing, etc.), residing outside of Korea, or
being a child of Korean nationals living abroad.
!
Admission of a child whose registration is cancelled, who is not registered, or
who is illegally residing in Korea
• The heads of all eups, myuns, and dongs work closely with school principals to
provide mandatory education for all children, regardless of their visa status. Therefore,
children with cancelled registration, or who are not registered, or who are illegally
residing in Korea, are still eligible for education.
• Preschool children are granted admission after confirming the fact of residence with
basic livelihood security number, rental contract, written confirmation of residence,
certificate of family relationship, verification of immigration, verification of foreigner
registration, etc.
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Guidebook for Living in Korea 2_Prepare to Enter School
Entering school can be both a joyful and a stressful event for a child. At home, parents
should encourage the child to become prepared for school life with a joyful heart.
• Clothing (Garment)
Dress the student in plain and casual clothing that will make his or her school life
comfortable, and send him/her to school.
• Backpack
The child’s backpack should not be too big, and should be easy for the child to wear on the
shoulder. It is better to prepare a backpack that is simple and neat, rather than one with
complex patterns or that is in fashion momentarily.
• Pencil, Pencil Case and Eraser
A pencil case should be simple rather than complex, and cases that include a game
player should be avoided. At the beginning of the school year, a 2B pencil (dark lead)
is recommended. Prepare two or three pencils and one eraser. In the upper years, it is
advised to use a mechanic pencil.
• Notebook
Prepare a notepad for 1st ~ 2nd graders. Prepare a home notice notebook and a general
book in advance, and follow the guideline of the classroom teacher regarding other
notebooks (Dictation notebook, home notice notebook, general book, etc.)
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VI Education of Children
• Crayons and Color Pencils
Twelve color crayons are suitable for 1st graders.
• Shoe Bag and Indoor Shoes
The shoe bag should be large enough to fit running shoes in. There are many kinds
of indoor shoes, in colors such as pink, sky blue, etc. Avoid indoor shoes that are
uncomfortable to walk in or are too big. Shoes can be bought in the shoe store or at the
stationery shop in front of the school (No shoe bag is required if the student keeps his/her
indoor shoes in the locker.)
.
Useful Information
To Learn before Starting School
• Learn the school name and how to say it.
• Learn to write your own name, and the
names of members of your family.
• Study Korean consonants and vowels.
• Learn simple numbers (1~10)
• L earn how to use a pencil, crayons,
scissors and an eraser.
• Learn to draw circles, horizontal lines and vertical lines with a color pencil.
• Learn the names of colors.
• Be able to distinguish your own things from those of others.
• Know your home address and phone number, and how to make and receive calls.
• Learn basic manners while eating.
143
Guidebook for Living in Korea 3_Make the Child Familiar with School Life at the Beginning of
School Year
• Giving a Good Impression of School
- Some children may be afraid of school. For these children, let them know that school
is a fun place by visiting the school and taking a tour around the 1st grade classrooms
and other places.
- Tell them in advance of the rules to observe at school.
- Tell them that he/she can make many friends in school.
• Teacher, who Provides Aids in School Life
- Tell the child that a teacher is someone who tells the child what they want and need to
know.
- Tell the child what kind of children the teacher likes (children who keeps rules,
promises, etc.)
• Doing Your Own Things
- Give a list of objects to the child, and let him/her put them in the backpack in order.
Have him/her practice how to arrange school supplies and backpack, giving the child
a sense of independence and autonomy.
(Wash face, arrange things on own, know how to use the restroom, etc.)
• Attend School in Good Health
- Get teeth, eyes, ears etc. checked, and treated for any illness in advance.
- It is advisable to inform the classroom teacher in advance if the child has any food
allergies or illness (milk allergy, atopic skin, enteritis, etc.)
144
VI Education of Children
• Know the Safe Way to School
- It’s best to walk to school. Check the route to school a number of times.
- Make sure to walk on the left side of the road, use the crosswalk, and understand
traffic signals in order to commute to school safely.
- Get on the bus in an orderly fashion.
- Don’t walk in front of or behind the bus after getting off the bus.
- Cross the road using the overhead bridge or underground passage in areas where
there’s an overhead bridge or underground passage.
- Don’t run on crosswalks.
- Follow the instructions of the traffic controller if there is one present.
- Return to your original position if the signal switches when you start to cross. Cross
quickly if you are already beyond the center line.
145
Guidebook for Living in Korea Support for Extra-Curricular Activities
After-school childcare and educational services are operated for children of low-income families
or double-income families. Students or primary schools may attend the after-school classes, local
children’s centers, after-school academies for teenagers and after-school childcare facilities, and
students of primary, middle and high schools may use the after-school educational programs and
home assignment support services.
After-School Child Care and Education Service Centers
Classification
Local Childre’s
Center
Subjects
Centered on the children
who come from lowincome families
Children under
- Elementary school
age 18
students (grades 4 to 6)
- Middle school students
(grades 1 to 2)
Fee
After-School
Chidld Care
Elementary
students who
come from
low-income
families
• Weekdays: 15:00 ~22:00
• Saturday: 12:00 ~19:00
• Saturdays with no class
: 09:00 ~ 16:00
Operated by
metropolitan and
provincial offices of
education
4 hours or
more per day
Care,
education,
counselling,
etc.
Talent and aptitude
education, supplementary
study, meal sevice, etc.
Homework and play,
Child care and
counseling, aptitude
development, character study
education, etc. Free
Youths that are Recipient of
Contact metropolitan
National Basic Livelihood
Security System (NBLSS): Free and provincial offices
Youths that are nonrecipients of education
of NBLSS: Charged
Home page
of Children’s
Welfare
Contact
Center,
Information
Studying Room
☎02-732-7979
www.jckh.org
146
After-School
Education
Elementary,
middle and high
school students
5 days per
Operating week, 8 hours
Hours
or more per
day
Services
Youth Academy
Nationwide youth training
centers, Youth Academy
☎02-6430-0908
www.youthacademy.or.kr
Metropolitan and
provincial offices of
education
Contact local
child
care centers
Central
Childcare
Information
Center
☎02-7010431~2
www.educare.
or.kr
VI Education of Children
Internet Learning Website
Cyber learning websites support home study, and enable students to freely study the subject
of their choice at any time and from any place. The following are some of the free cyber home
learning websites operated by offices of education, and the charged home learning websites
operated by private corporations. Cyber Home Learning Websites Operated by Offices of Education
Region
Website Name
Web Address
Seoul
Kkulmat.com
www.kkulmat.com
Busan
Busan Cyber School
cyber.busanedu.net
Daegu
Daegu e-Study
estudy.dgedu.ne
Incheon
Incheon e-School
cyber.edu-i.org
Daejeon
Daejeon Cyber Home Education
www.edurang.ne
Ulsan Cyber Home Education
home.go.kr
Gyeonggi
Danopy
danopy.kerinet.re.kr
Gangwon
Edu World
www.gweduone.net
Chungcheongbuk-do
Chungbuk Assistant Center for Teaching &
Learning
www.cbedunet.or.kr
Chungcheongnam-do
Chungnam Cyber Learning Center
cell.cise.or.kr
Jeollanam-do
Jeonbuk Cyber Learning Center
cyber.jnei.or.kr
Jeollabuk-do
Jeonbuk e-School
cyber.jbedunet.com
Gyeongsangnam-do
Gyeongnam Cyber Learning Center
www.gnedu.net
Gyeongsangbuk-do
Gyeongbuk Cyber School
cyber.gyo6.net
Gwangju Cyber Learning Center
www.gedu.net
Jeju e-Study
www.jejuestudy.net
Ulsan
Gwangju
Jeju
147
Guidebook for Living in Korea Charged Learning Websites for Primary School Students
Website Name
Details
www.wisecamp.com
Provides class teacher’s guidance upon video and
audio transmission
Edumoa
www.edumoa.com
Offers low-priced fee and has highest number of
members
I Namu
www.inamu.com
Provides flashes and video clips and offers
middle school courses
Gichool.Com
www.gichool.com
Offers free database of past exam questions
www.doosandonga.com
Provides assistance for all class subjects and
homework
Edupia
www.edupia.com
Offers cyber class teacher and guides studying
methods
Howkey
www.howkey.com
Provides guidance from currently employed
teachers and exam questions
Wise Camp
Donga Kid
한국생활 가이드북
148
Web Address
VI Education of Children
3>> Middle School Education
The middle school curriculum consists of a three-year program. Its subjects include
Korean, social studies, mathematics, science, technology and engineering, domestic
sciences, P.E., music, arts and foreign language (English). Students are assigned to attend
the nearest middle school to their home, and like primary school education, middle
school education is mandatory. Parents may be penalized if they do not allow their child to
attend middle school.
1_Academic Programs and Courses
The middle school curriculum adopted a system to accommodate different levels of
students, and to maximize potential and learning efficiency of each student by catering to
individual demands, abilities, aptitudes and interests. In grades 7 ~ 9, Math and English
courses are categorized within a step-level curriculum, while Korean, social studies
and science are categorized as advanced/extra level curriculum. Areas of study for each
academic course are tabled below.
Course
Areas of Study
Ethics
Individuals, Family, Neighbors and School, Society, Nation and People
Korean
Listening, Speaking, Reading, Writing, Korean Knowledge, Literature
Math
Arithmetic, Functions, Probability and Statistics, Geometry, Measurements
Social
Studies
Geography (Humanity and Space), General Social Studies (Humanity and Society),
World and Korean History (Humanity and Time)
Science
Knowledge (Exercise and Energy, Matter, Life, Earth), Research (Observe, Categorize,
Measure, Experiment, Analyze, Investigate)
Physical
Education
Music
Studio Art
Skills/Home
Economics
English
Track and Fields, Gymnastics, Swimming, Individual and Group Exercise, Dance,
Physical Training, Theory, Health and Preservation
Understanding (Rhythm, Key, Melody, Form, Dynamics, Speed, Pitch), Activities (Vocal,
Instruments, Creative, Listening)
Artistic Experience, Expression, Art Appreciation
Understanding Family and Work, Everyday Skills, Maintenance of Life Resources and
the Environment
Vocal Language Skills (Listening, Speaking), Written Language Skills (Reading, Writing)
149
Guidebook for Living in Korea 2_Electives
(1) Objectives of Electives
• Depending on the school environment, student achievement levels, and education
demands, through emphasis on core subjects or appropriate level advances, more
learning opportunities are given to advance within the entire school’s common core
education program.
• Unlike courses offered within the previous limited core subject curriculum, electives
offer and guarantee more courses, providing greater opportunities to expose students to
diverse areas of learning.
• Electives promote the development of student talents, specialties and diverse
characteristics by providing an environment for creative learning experiences
considering the demand from society, schools and students.
• Catered to students’ interests and aptitude, students are given chances to make their
own learning decisions, and exercise self-driven learning.
• By ensuring the coverage of content that requires multi-scholastic approaches not
easily dealt with in a single subject, electives allow students a broader and more
comprehensive intellectual development.
• Electives are designed and operated to offer a unique curriculum that adequately
reflects the region’s and the school’s conditions and needs, as well as the demands of
students and parents. Activities foster the professionalism of teachers as guided by their
intention and discretion, and provide opportunities for them to exercise their academic
beliefs as well as their teaching skills.
150
VI Education of Children
(2) Electives Offered in the Middle School
Category
Electives
Academic
Creative
Electives
Subcategory
Description
Allocated Hours
Advanced/
Extra
Academics
Advanced learning of 10 subjects within the all
schools common core education program
Electives
Courses
Chinese, Computer, Environmental Studies,
Conversational Languages, Others
General
Academics
Community and Citizenship, Humanity, Environment,
Economy, Energy, Work Ethics, Health and
Preservation, Safety, Sex Education, Consumer
Ethics, Career, Unification, Korean Cultural Identity, 34 hours
International Relations, Marine Studies, IT and IT
(1hr/wk)
Ethics, Others
Self-Driven
Learning
Learning Skills, Individual Learning Activities, SmallGroup Research, Field Studies, etc.
102 hours
(primarily
allocated to
elective courses
3_Extracurricular Activities
(1) Objectives of Extracurricular Activities
The purpose is to foster voluntary participation in various appropriate group activities,
develop and nurture individualism, talents, a sense of community and a proactive attitude
to establish the necessary qualities as a member citizen of a democracy.
• Student-Run Activities
As a member of the class, be responsible for and fulfill your allocated portion of tasks
and actively participate in student-run activities, to exhibit core qualities and attitude of a
democratic citizen.
• Adaptation
Adapt and adequately respond to the changing environments and resolve problems
proactively.
151
Guidebook for Living in Korea • Self-Development Activities
Actively participate in development activities to learn orders, raise a sense of teamwork,
and develop and foster unique hobbies and talents as foundation for realizing individual
identities.
• Community Services
Understand the true meaning of community services and actively participate in helping
others to grow a stronger sense of community and gain a sense of accomplishment and
the value of life.
• Events
Understand the significance of each event and actively participate to develop core qualities
as a member of the school and the community. (2) Type of Activities
Activities
Self-Run Activities
Adaptation
Self-Development
Community
Service
Events
152
Description
• Teamwork • Democracy and Citizenship • Allocation of Responsibilities
• Basic Living • Establish Identity • Counseling
• Fellowship • Career Activities
• Art, Science and Literature • Training and Working • Information and Technology
• Health and Physical Fitness • Leisure and Culture
• Youth Group Activities
• Helping the Community
• Campaign Activities
• Environment and Facilities Maintenance
• Ceremony Events • Safety Care Activities
• Training Activities
• Charity Care
• Consolation Visits
• Health and Physical Fitness Events
• Art and Literature
• Exchange Activities
VI Education of Children
Youth Support Center
City, gun, and gu offices operate youth counseling centers to protect human rights of teens and
improve the quality of their living conditions. For counseling, dial 1388 without the area code and
you will be connected to the nearest local support or counseling center.
1) Eligibility: Local youth counseling centers are open to teenagers and parents who raise a
teenager.
2) How to Register: Available by phone or the Internet, or you may visit the center to register.
3) Open Hours and the Fee
• Open hours vary depending on the center. Generally, most support centers open from 9:00 a.m.
to 6 p.m.
• Open hours of teen counseling centers are flexible based on the circumstances of the district
and centers. Some centers open during the weekends.
• Most of the counseling services are free of charge for teens residing in the local district of the
centers. However, fees may be charged from some services such as psychological tests.
Available Programs
Category
Description
Individual
Counseling
Teen issues (school, friends, juvenile delinquency), prevention of juvenile
delinquency, marriage relationships, family issues, etc.
Group Counseling
Social relationships, effective communication skills, time management,
study methods, etc.
Psychological Test
Intelligent Quotient (I.Q) test, aptitude test, personality test, interest test, etc.
Teen Camp
Mental and physical meditation, social relationships, future career plans,
prevention of juvenile delinquency, etc.
Parent
Counseling
Communication methods with child, fathers’ program, etc.
Cyber Counseling
Open counseling, private counseling, counseling through chatting, online
psychological tests, etc.
153
Guidebook for Living in Korea .
Useful Information
School Violence
School violence means every kind of physical, verbal, and mental violence intentionally forced by a
student or students upon other students in and out of school. Even a trivial comment or behavior
can be regarded as violence if a student finds it offensive.
Suspect school violence in the following cases
• When your child frequently loses or has damaged clothing, shoes or glasses.
• When you frequently find physical injuries or bruises on your child’s body and your child says he
or she accidentally fell or was injured while exercising.
• When you find scribbles in the child’s textbook, notebook or bag saying, “Die” or “I want to die.”
• When the child asks for extra allowance or takes money without permission.
• When the child is weak or does not want to come out of his or her room.
• When the child does not want to eat food that he or she used to enjoy.
• When the child does not want to go to school on the pretext of illness.
• When the child hates to even answer phone calls from his or her
close friends.
• When the child suddenly asks to move to another place or to be
transferred to another school.
• When the child’s grades fall abruptly.
• When the child has a cold sweat or talks in his/her sleep
How to Cope with School Violence
The following institutions will help victims of school violence.
(1) Schools
Report to the class teacher the case of school violence upon your child. The class teacher then
reports it to the School Violence Self-Government Council. The School Violence Self-Government
Council will investigate the case and take measures. The School Violence Protection Council aims
to prevent school violence, study countermeasures, protect the victimized student and punish the
offending student, and handle the dispute between the two.
154
VI Education of Children
(2) Office of Education : School Violence SOS Assistance
School violence SOS assistance is offered at School Violence Emergency Counseling Centers and
School Violence Emergency Support Centers. School Violence Emergency Counseling Centers
provide counseling for victimized and offending students and their parents. School Violence
Emergency Support Centers undertake severe cases and handle disputes between the victimized
and offending students. School Violence Emergency Centers’ telephone numbers are ☎1588-9128
(Reaching Out) and ☎1588-7179 (Student Predicament Report & Counseling Line).
(3) Social Organizations
Youth counseling is available at 1388. Victimized child and parents can ask for legal information and
advice regarding the school violence. The counseling centers offer education programs to prevent
school violence and special programs to prevent offending students from committing a second
offense.
(4) Police: School Violence Victims One-Stop Support Center
Call ☎117 (cell phone: dial area code + 117) for emergency relief, protection, and counseling. Onestop support centers offer counseling, investigation, and medical and legal services year round.
(5) Cyber Counseling
Wangtta.Com and Safe School Seoul Council are Youth Cyber Counseling Centers regarding school
violence.
(6) School Violence Report Centers
• Emergency Counseling Center ☎1588-9128
• Student Predicament Report & Counseling Hotline ☎1588-7179
• Juvenile Emergency Call of the National Juvenile Protection Committee ☎1388
• School Violence Victims One-Stop Support Center ☎117
155
Guidebook for Living in Korea 4>> High School Education
High school education is a three-year program. High schools are divided into general high
schools, vocational high schools, science high schools, and high schools with specific
programs. Students are able to enter science high schools and high schools with specific
programs by taking an entry exam. For other high schools, students will be assigned a
local high school depending on their residence based on a lottery system. High school
education is not compulsory, and as such students must pay for their own tuition. Tuition
differs depending on the district and the characteristic of the school, but it is generally
400,000 won for three months, except for Science Schools and High Schools with Specific
Programs.
1_Types of High Schools
156
General High
Schools
In the first year, students take classes including Korean language arts, ethics,
social studies, mathematics, science, practical education, physical education,
music, art, and English. In the second and third year, students may choose specific
curricula in consideration of their own aptitude, capability and future career plans.
Vocational High
Schools
Vocational high school is an employment educational institution that offers
specified education and secondary general education at an intermediate level. In
the first year, students take classes including Korean language arts, ethics, social
studies, mathematics, science, practical education, physical education, music,
art, and English. In the second and third year, students choose their own specified
curricula. Majors include agriculture, manufacturing, industry, business, fisheries/
shipping, and housekeeping. More majors are available, such as information
technology (IT), robotics, animation and film, cooking, beauty, and tourism
Science High
Schools
Science high schools aim to identify gifted students at an early age and guide them
in developing their abilities. Those who have finished the curriculum of two years
or more at a science high school are given the right to apply for an undergraduate
program at the Korea Advanced Institute of Science & Technology or other
available colleges.
High Schools
with Specific
Purposes
High schools with specific purposes include foreign language high schools, art
high schools, and physical education high schools. High schools with specific
purposes are open to all students with special talents in foreign language, music,
art, athletics, or dance.
VI Education of Children
1_Welfare Services for Students
Financial support available for students varies by region, school and period.
(1) Tuition support • Qualifications
- Students registered as beneficiaries of educational aid at the resident centers of their
competent eup, myeon and dong, and who are receiving allowances for tuition and admission
fees. (Beneficiaries of basic livelihood aid, families with single mothers or single fathers, and
students living in welfare facilities)
- Children of families paying KRW 47,000 (families with three members) and KRW 50,000 (families
with six members) as the local health insurance premium
- Children of families paying KRW 43,800 or less as the employment health insurance premium - Children of low-income families that are not eligible for insurance programs for the quasi-poor
class but who are recommended as beneficiaries of tuition support programs by homeroom
teachers due to family conditions such as divorce, death, job loss, bankruptcy, disease,
liabilities, disappearance of a family member or cessation of business
• Required Documents
Qualifications
Beneficiaries of
Basic Livelihood Aid
Beneficiaries
Based on Local
(Employment)
Health Insurance
Premium
Recommendations
of Homeroom
Teachers
Required Documents
① Application for tuition support
② Certificate (or official letter from resident centers of eup, myeon and dong)
① Application for tuition support
② Copy of resident registration (to confirm family members)
③ Copy of health insurance card
④ Bill or receipt for National Health Insurance premium payments (to
confirm insurance premium)
※ If pay stub is submitted, it must be signed by employer.
① Application for tuition support
② Copy of resident registration (to confirm family members)
③ Letter of opinion (recommendation) of homeroom teacher
④ Other references (liabilities, death, job loss, bankruptcy and divorce)
※ Letter of opinion (recommendation) of homeroom teacher must be written
by the homeroom teacher
157
Guidebook for Living in Korea (2) Deduction of Tuitions
• Qualifications
Students who are in financial difficulties but are not eligible for tuition support may apply
for discounted tuition, upon the confirmation of their homeroom teachers. The discounted
amount is determined according to the eligible range of deduction.
Qualifications
Legally
Qualified
Beneficiaries
Regular
Beneficiaries
of Discounted
Tuition
Others
Required Documents
Students who are qualified to attend special
schools, and are attending special schools
Notice of Result of Deliberation
of the Committee for Operation
of Special Education
Legally qualified beneficiaries including, children
of war veterans
Certificate of Qualification for
Educational Aid, issued by the
competent office of Ministry of
Patriots and Veterans Affairs
Students with financial difficulties
• Students whose parents are bankrupt or
unemployed, and who are in the financial
difficulties but are not eligible for tuition support
• Students who are beneficiaries of a partial
deduction of tuition, including a scholarship, but
are not able to pay the remaining amount due to
financial difficulties
Certificate of verification written
by homeroom teachers
Students whose qualification is approved by
principals
• Official Letter on Deduction
(containing reasons of
deduction)
• Students who volunteer for
schools (Letter of confirmation
of homeroom teachers)
• Duration of Discount
The discount period is one year. If beneficiaries no longer qualify due to a change in their
circumstances, they are excluded from the list of beneficiaries. Students who are exempt
from tuition payment by law may maintain their status as beneficiaries during the period
of school attendance.
158
VI Education of Children
(3) Application Procedure for Discounted Tuition and Tuition Support
Parents of qualified students submit the application for discounted tuition to homeroom
teachers
Homeroom teachers accept the application, conduct a survey of financial conditions to
prevent the omission of applications, and recommend eligible students
Schools host the meeting of the Committee of Student Guidance and Welfare to
deliberate and select beneficiaries
Schools notify parents of decision
Parents (guardians) of qualified students fill in the application for discounted tuition and
submit the application to homeroom teachers, either in person or via mail. Homeroom
teachers verify the condition of applicants’ households, and make recommendations
to the Committee of Student Guidance and Welfare. Schools host the meeting of the
Committee of Student Guidance and Welfare to deliberate and select beneficiaries. If
necessary, the opinions of homeroom teachers may be reflected in the deliberation. All
applicants shall submit the required documents. If applicants are not able to submit the
documents due to financial difficulties, the documents may be replaced with a certificate
of verification written by homeroom teachers. Schools distribute application forms at the
beginning of each semester.
(4) Support for Meal Expenses
Details of the application criteria may vary by region, school and period.
• Application Period: The program is operated on an annual basis (January 1 to December
31 of the current year)
• Criteria for Screening of Beneficiaries
- Primary Beneficiaries: Students who are the heads of their families, beneficiaries of
basic livelihood aid, families with single mothers or single fathers, students living in
welfare facilities, and students attending special schools
- Beneficiaries Determined Upon Deliberation of the Committee of Student Guidance
and Welfare: the quasi-poor
159
Guidebook for Living in Korea • Qualifications and Required Documents
Name of Program
Meal Expenses
of Schools in
Remote Areas
Required Documents
Free meals are provided to all students of
schools in remote areas
N/A
Primary beneficiaries
• Students who are heads of their families
• Children who are the beneficiaries of basic
livelihood aid
• Children of families with single mothers or
single fathers
• Students living in welfare facilities
• Students attending special schools
• Certificate of Qualification of
Basic Livelihood Aid
• Certificate of Qualification of
Basic Livelihood Aid
• Certificate of Family with
Single Mothers or Single
Fathers
• Confirmation of Principal
Beneficiaries Determined Upon the
Deliberation of the Committee of Student
Guidance and Welfare
• Selected from among children of quasipoor if possible (parentless families, job
loss and poverty)
• Letter of Recommendation of
Homeroom Teachers
(Confirmation of Principal)
• Receipt and bill of Health
Insurance premium payments
(if necessary)
Meal Expenses
for Third Children
or Younger in a
Household
Third children or younger attending primary,
middle or high schools (available only
when all of the three children are attending
primary, middle or high schools) Copy of resident registration (or
certificate of family relations)
Meal Expenses of
Special Schools
Students of special schools
N/A
Meal Expenses for
Children of LowIncome Classes
160
Qualifications
VI Education of Children
5>> University Education
Korea has both four-year universities and two-year colleges.
Four-year universities usually provide major programs for
advanced studies, while two-year colleges usually provide
training programs focused on vocational ability. Universities
are also categorized into regular universities, universities
with special purposes, and special universities, according to
the purpose behind their establishment. Universities with special purposes include universities
of education, open universities, digital universities and universities of science and technology,
while special universities include military academies, police academies and tax accountants’
academies. To be admitted to a university, students are required to sit the annual university
entrance examination, and may apply for the university of their choice based on the examination
results. As the candidate screening criteria varies by university, students must meet the specific
qualifications announced by each university. Students may apply for special admission for foreign
residents if their parents are both foreigners.
1_Types of Higher Education
Higher education includes 4-year general colleges or universities, vocational colleges,
teachers’ colleges, broadcast and correspondence colleges, cyber colleges, specialized
colleges offering two or three-year courses, and polytechnic colleges.
Type
Description
General Universities/Colleges
Offer various majors Have the highest high school graduate
admission rate
Vocational Colleges
Aim to develop industrial engineers
Teachers’ Colleges
Train students to become primary school teachers
Specialized Colleges
Train students to develop expertise in various fields
Broadcast & Correspondence
College and Cyber Colleges
Offer remote education through communication media, including TV,
radio, and computer
Polytechnic Colleges
Train students to become professional technicians in various fields
161
Guidebook for Living in Korea 2_Scholarships
Students must pay their own tuition. However, students may benefit from a range of
scholarships, which can be funded by the government or by the university or college. The
following are the ways in which students can be awarded a scholarship.
• Academic scholarships: These scholarships are awarded to students with high GPAs
compared to other students in the same major or department. Students must study hard
to achieve high GPAs.
• Scholarships for students in need of financial support: All universities or colleges offer
these scholarships. To apply, the student or the parent must visit the student’s academic
advisor or an employee at the financial aid office, and disclose their financial situation.
.
Useful Information
Multi-Language School Life Information
The guidebook on school life published by the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology
and Chungcheongbuk-do Office of Education for migrant parents and their children depicts the
school life of Korean students quite well. The guidebook provides easy and detailed information
on preparation for school entrance, curriculum, school life, the examination system and advanced
studies, looking at primary schools, middle schools and high schools. The guidebook is published
in English, Chinese, Japanese and Vietnamese.
• Life of a Primary School Student (in four languages: English, Chinese, Japanese and Vietnamese)
• Life of a Middle School Student (in four languages: English, Chinese, Japanese and Vietnamese)
• Life of a High School Student (in four languages: English, Chinese, Japanese and Vietnamese)
※ For copies of the guidebooks, contact Chungcheongbuk-do Office of Education (82-43-290-2000), or
download printable versions from the website of the Office of Education (www.cbe.go.kr).
162
VI Education of Children
Me mo
Guidebook
for Living
in Korea
for Foreigners
VII
Health and Healthcare
166
National Health Insurance
176
Public Health Centers
166
Overview of National Health
176
Medical Examination and
Insurance
166
Foreign residents who are required
Treatment
177
to subscribe to the national health
insurance
167
How to Register
167
Benefits
168
Payment of Insurance Premium
168
Counseling and Inquiries
169
Medical Allowance System
169
Qualifications
170
Fees to Be Charged to Recipients
171
Medical Institutions
171
Types of Medical Institutions
172
Major Services and Major Diseases
173
How to Use Medical Services
174
Coping with Emergency Situations
175
Pharmacy
Customized Home Visit
Medical Care Service
178
Free Mental Healthcare
Service
179
First Aids
Guidebook for Living in Korea 1>> National Health Insurance
1_Overview of National Health Insurance
Korea operates a national health insurance system that requires
citizens to pay a fixed insurance premium according to their
income level.
Subscribers to the national health insurance can access medical
services at a low price if they are sick, give birth, or simply want
to have a regular medical check-up. All citizens are required to
subscribe to the national health insurance, with the exception of
beneficiaries of medical aid.
Subscribers to the national health insurance system can be
categorized into local subscribers and employee subscribers. All
employees of businesses, employers, public officers and teachers
are categorized as employee subscribers. Other subscribers and the family members supported by
employee subscribers are categorized as local subscribers.
The subscription of employee subscribers to the national health insurance is handled by the
employers, with 50% of the insurance premium being paid by the employers and the remaining 50%
paid by the subscribers. If subscribers use the medical services at hospitals, the health insurance
fund contributes to a certain portion of the medical fees, reducing the burden on subscribers.
2_Foreign residents who are required to subscribe to the
national health insurance
Foreign residents who are registered and work at businesses where employee subscriber
schemes are applied, or foreign residents who are appointed as public officers and teachers,
are granted the status of employee subscribers. Foreign residents who are registered and
who are not categorized as employee subscribers may gain the status of local subscribers
upon request. Foreign residents who have stayed in Korea for three or more months may
subscribe to the national health insurance. Foreign residents or overseas Koreans who have
not stayed in Korea may subscribe to the national health insurance if there is a clear reason
for a stay of more than three months, such as studies or employment.
166
VII Health and Healthcare
3_How to Register
(1) When Your Husband is an Insured Employee
• If your husband is employed and insured by the National Health Insurance program,
you can apply by registering as a dependent* of your husband. Submit the required
documents to the National Health Insurance Corporation through your husband.
• Required documents: A certificate of your qualification as a dependent to your husband,
your alien registration card, your husband’s resident registration card, and a certified
copy of your husband’s family register.
✽ Dependent : A person who relies on another as a primary source of income.
(2) When a Married Immigrant Woman Is Employed
• When a married immigrant woman is employed by a company, she is automatically
registered for National Health Insurance.
• Submit the required documents to the National Health Insurance Corporation through
your company, along with your alien registration card.
(3) When Both the Husband and the Married Immigrant Woman Are
Unemployed
• Self-employed or day workers that are not employed by a company may apply
independently at a local office of the National Health Insurance Corporation.
• Submit the application form along with your alien registration card at the nearest local
office of the National Health Insurance Corporation. Married immigrant women may
apply without being accompanied by their husbands.
4_Benefits
• Insured people will be provided with medical treatment at hospitals, clinics, and
oriental medicine clinics at a moderate price. A small fee will be charged for medical
examinations and treatment.
• Insured people will be provided with medical checkups. The number of checkups
provided will differ depending on age. Most insured people have a medical checkup
every other year.
167
Guidebook for Living in Korea 5_Payment of Insurance Premium
(1) Employee Subscribers
• Payment of Premium: Monthly premiums are deducted from monthly salary, and are
remitted by the employers.
(2) Local Subscribers
• Payment of Premium
- Premiums are billed every month, and overseas Koreans and foreign residents shall pay
the premium of the current month by the 25th of the previous month when three months
have passed since the date of entry. (If the subscribers are qualified based on the prior
period adjustment method, the premium is added to the initial premium.)
- Foreign residents with F-1~2 or F-5 status shall pay monthly premiums based on the
same premium criteria as those applicable to Korean citizens.
!
Note: If the status of spouses is verified, regardless of the status of stay, the
subscribers may join the household of Korean citizens and pay monthly premiums
based on the same premium criteria as those applied to Korean citizens.
6_Counseling and Inquiries
For detailed information on premiums, qualifications and benefits of the national health
insurance, visit the website of the National Health Insurance Corporation or call 15771000 (for English information, call 02-390-2000).
!
168
Website of the National Health Insurance Corporation http://www.nhic.or.kr/
VII Health and Healthcare
2>> Medical Allowance System
The Medical Allowance System provides financial support for those who have difficulty
paying for medical treatment. When a person who is qualified for this assistance
undergoes medical treatment due to disease, injury or childbirth, the government pays
the fee to the hospital or clinic.
1_Qualifications
• Recipients of National Basic Livelihood Security are eligible for the medical allowance.
• Married, divorced, or widowed immigrants raising a child with Korean nationality are
eligible to be recipients of medical allowance.
Primary Recipients
Secondary Recipients
Recipients of the National Basic Livelihood Security
System (families with no family members who can
work), recipients over age 65, the disabled, the
mentally or physically unfit, social benefit recipients,
holders of intangible cultural assets, north Korean
defectors, recipients of Gwangju democratic
movement compensation, adopted children (under
the age of 18), homeless patients
Recipients of the National Basic Livelihood
Security System (families that have family
members with working ability)
169
Guidebook for Living in Korea 2_Fees to Be Charged to Recipients
Recipients will be charged a portion of the medical expenses when using medical
institutions.
Classification
Primary Recipients
Hospitalization Free of charge
Outpatient
medical
treatment
Pharmacies
Secondary Recipients
10% of medical fees
Clinics (1,000 won), hospitals (1,500
won), tertiary medical centers
(authorized medical institutions)
(2,000 won), CT*, MRI*, PET (5% of the
medical fees)
Clinics (1,000 won), hospitals
(15% of medical fees),
tertiary medical centers (15% of medical
fees)
500 won per prescription
500 won per prescription
✽ CT (Computerized Tomography) and MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging)
The most common medical imaging methods used at hospitals to provide a close examination
of the internal organs and systems of the body.
※ Please consult with an agent at the Social Welfare Division at your local eup/myeon/dong office for further
information.
170
VII Health and Healthcare
3>> Medical Institutions
1_Types of Medical Institutions
Medical institutions are categorized
according to the scale of the institution,
the order of use, the services, and
specializations. Patients in need of
medical treatment for the flu or digestive
problems may visit a local hospital. When
more intensive examination is required,
a patient may be treated at a general
hospital or a university hospital.
Categories of Medical Institutions
Primary
Secondary
Scale
Local hospitals, public health
centers
Clinics, general
hospitals
University hospitals Specialized
general hospitals
Medical
Treatment
Outpatient medical centers,
vaccinations, health management
Physical
examination,
hospitalization
Intensive examination, medical
treatment for disorder or
disease, health management
Public health centers, oriental
General hospitals
Medical
medicine clinics, internal medicine,
University hospitals, specialized
with specialized
Institutions pediatrics, family medicine, health
hospitals
departments
checkup centers
• In general, patients are treated at primary medical institutions. With the exception of
emergency and hemophiliac patients, patients must be referred by a doctor at a primary
medical institution in order to be treated at a specialized general hospital.
• There are a large number of oriental medicine clinics in Korea. These clinics provide a
range of medical services, including acupuncture, moxa cautery, and herbal medicine.
171
Guidebook for Living in Korea 2_Major Services and Major Diseases
Clinic
Field
Internal Medicine
Deals with the diagnosis and treatment of diseases not requiring surgery:
Esophagus, stomach, lungs, heart, blood vessels, blood pressure, diabetes and
others
Pediatrics
Obstetrics &
Gynecology
Deals with pregnancy and childbirth, and the treatment of disorders affecting
the female reproductive organs
Psychiatry
Deals with mental, emotional, or behavioral disorders
Neurology
Deals with disorders of the nervous system, including apoplexy, epilepsy,
dementia and neuralgia
Family Medicine
Dermatology
General Surgery
Orthopedic Surgery
Provides comprehensive health care to people regardless of age or gender,
placing particular emphasis on the family unit
Deals with skin conditions including acne, hives and hair loss
Deals with appendicitis, infectious diseases, and diseases of the digestive
organs requiring surgery
Treats disorders of the skeletal system and associated muscles by manual and
instrumental means
Plastic Surgery
Performs eyelid reshaping and burn treatment to improve the shape and
function of the body
Rehabilitation
Medicine
Deals with disorders of the muscles, bones and nerve systems in cooperation
with rehabilitation medicine doctors and physical therapists
Urology
Ophthalmology
Otorhinolaryngology
Dentistry
Emergency
Medicine
Oriental Medicine
172
Deals with the care and treatment of infants and children under 18: Care of
premature babies, treatment of children’s diseases, allergies and others
Deals with disorders of the urinary tract, including the kidneys and urinary
bladder, and reproductive organs such as the penis and the testicles
Deals with disorders of the eyes and eye nerves, including surgery for cataracts,
glaucoma or shortsightedness
Deals with diseases related with the ears, nose and throat
Treats decayed teeth, and performs teeth straightening, dental prosthesis, and
scaling
Deals with the diagnosis and treatment of emergency patients
Deals with acupuncture, herbal medicines and other medical practices that
originated in Asia
VII Health and Healthcare
3_How to Use Medical Services
(1) How to Use Primary Medical Institutions
Present your health insurance card at the front desk and wait to be called
When your name is called, explain your symptoms to the doctor
Ask the doctor any questions you have regarding his or her instructions
After the examination by the doctor, pay the bill and receive your prescription
Visit a nearby pharmacy to purchase your medicine
(2) How to Use Secondary Medical Institutions
Receive a reference from a doctor at a primary medical institution
Go to the secondary medical institution the appointment (be sure to arrive slightly early!)
and submit the reference from a doctor at a primary medical institution
Proceed to the designated department for medical treatment
Receive your prescription; make an appointment for follow-up treatment, if necessary
Pay your medical bill at the counter
173
Guidebook for Living in Korea 4_Coping with Emergency Situations
• Emergency medicine and painkillers for colds and flu may be useful if you keep them at
home.
• If you call ☎119, an ambulance will come and bring you to the nearest hospital. You will
be treated in the emergency room. If you need to be hospitalized for surgery or medical
examination, you will have to wait to be assigned a hospital room. Once a room is
assigned, you must follow hospitalization procedures.
.
Useful Information
Take your health insurance card and identification card.
• Call ☎119 in an emergency situations
• Health and Welfare Call Center ☎129 (when using a cell phone, dial area code + 129)
• Contact local eup/myeon/dong office for further information
174
VII Health and Healthcare
5_Pharmacy
In Korea, you need a prescription issued by a medical doctor to purchase most medicines.
However, the following basic medicines can be purchased without a prescription, and
are available at any pharmacy: medicines for cold symptoms, digestive aids, medicines
to relieve fever, pain-killers and ointments. Pharmacies also sell insecticides, sanitary
napkins, energy drinks, and condoms, all of which can be purchased without prescription.
First-aid Kit
A first-aid kit should be prepared at home for emergency use. When pharmacies are closed, there
is no way to get necessary medicines. It is particularly important for those who live far from a
hospital to prepare a first-aid kit. A first-aid kit should include the followings:
• Antifebrile: Reduces fever
• Pain-killer: Soothes or eliminates pain
• Digestive: Aids digestion
• Antidiarrheal drug: Treats diarrhea
• Eyedrop: Relieves fatigue and pain of eyes
• Antiseptic: Inhibits the growth and reproduction of disease-causing germs
• Vaseline: Relives burns
• Ointment: Relieves tetter or itching
• Mulpas (Anti-itching compound): Works on insect bites, itching, moist tetter, and heat rashes
• Patch: Applied directly on muscle pains
• Antibiotic adhesive band: Applied on cuts to prevent them from infection
• Ready-made first-aid kit: Equipped with gauze, sanitary cotton, scissors, thermometer, adhesive
bands and bandages.
175
Guidebook for Living in Korea 4>> Public Health Centers
Public health centers are government-funded centers that aim to help members of the
public to maintain and manage their health. The medical treatments provided include
vaccinations, treatment for chronic illnesses, physical examinations, treatment for
injuries, dental treatment, and oriental medical treatment. Medical treatments are offered
here at a less expensive fee than at regular medical institutions.
1_Medical Examination and Treatment
Classification
176
Contents
Medical
Examination
and Treatment
High blood pressure, diabetes, chronic diseases, physical
examinations, physical treatment
Oriental Medical
Treatment
Acupuncture, moxa cautery, herbal medication
Dental Treatment
Dental examination and consultation, dental health, cavity
treatment, tooth extraction, etc.
Medical Expenses
• The elderly, recipients of medical allowance: Free of charge
• Medical examinations and treatment = 1,100 won
• Dental treatment = 1,100 won
• Oriental medical treatment = 1,100 won
• Physical therapy = 500 won
Process
Registration → Examination and Treatment → Payment → Prescription →
Pharmacy
VII Health and Healthcare
2_Customized Home Visit Medical Care Service
Public health centers also offer home medical care. A staff member from a local public
health center can visit your house to provide medical treatment, or connect you with a
suitable medical institution.
(1) Qualifications
• Local residents who have health problems among beneficiaries of the National Basic
Livelihood Security System, and the poor
• The elderly (above 65 years of age) are given priority for treatment.
(2) Benefits
• Health management for stroke victims and patients suffering from high blood pressure,
diabetes, cancer, dementia, or mental illness
• Family health management for chronic illness, disability, and accidents
• Health management for pregnant women, and healthy development guidance for infants
• Health education and consultation, and regular home visit health care service
• Education in good practices for health improvement
(3) How to Apply
Selection as beneficiary
Diagnosis
of health
problem
Visit by
a staff
member
• Apply as a beneficiary at the Visiting Health Care Division of a local public health center.
• A staff member will assess the health of the applicant, and determine whether the
applicant needs to visit medical care service.
• Recipients will be visited at regular intervals based on the degree of illness.
177
Guidebook for Living in Korea 3_Free Mental Healthcare Service
Mental Health Centers are public health organizations that prevent mental illness,
diagnose patients with mental illnesses, provide counseling and rehabilitation services,
manage cases, and provide education and PR services for mental health improvement.
Patients who have difficulties due to depression, mental health disorders and/or drug
addiction may seek counseling services and help from the nearest Mental Health Center.
(1) Qualifications
• The program for the registration and management of patients with mental illnesses is
available to patients with mental illnesses and their families.
• The program for the prevention of mental illness is available to all residents.
(2) How to Access Mental Health Centers
• In general, Mental Health Centers are operated from 09:00 to 18:00 during weekdays
(Mondays through Fridays), though operating hours may vary according to local
circumstances.
• How to Use the Services
- Visit a Mental Health Center, and prepare the application for registration.
- Counseling services and test services are provided for new patients, and the programs
that are selected based on the test and counseling results are applied.
- For information on the services of Mental Health Centers, call the Mental Health
Counseling Center (☎1577-0199).
• Service fees: free (Service fees may be billed to patients who use special programs with
high medical fees.)
178
VII Health and Healthcare
5>> First Aids
Immediate and proper treatment in the event of an accident can help to reduce pain and
avoid worsening the situation. After first aid treatment, call 119 (Emergency Rescue) or a
nearby hospital for specialized and comprehensive care.
(1) Foreign Object (solid) in the Eye
Moving your eye can cause more serious damage to your eyes. Do not
attempt to remove the object by yourself. Bandage the affected eye(s), and
close both of your eyes. Go immediately to a hospital for treatment.
(2) Tooth Broken or Pulled Out
Go to a dental clinic, holding the tooth carefully in its original place or in
your mouth. You can also carry a tooth in a container of warm milk. It is not
advisable to wash the tooth in water.
(3) Nosebleed
Tilt head forward and low, and as the blood flows out of your nose, hold the
lower part of your nose bone. Do not speak, swallow your saliva, or cough.
Go to see a doctor if you are still bleeding after ten minutes. Even after the
bleeding stops, hold your head low for a while and carefully wash your face
with warm water. Avoid any physical contact with the damaged part.
(4) Burns
In the event of a serious burn or a burn covering a wide area, dress the
wound with sterilized gauze and go immediately to a hospital. While you are
waiting to see a doctor, observe your breathing pattern. For small burns,
remove the clothes around the affected area, cutting them with scissors if
necessary to avoid contact with the burn, and cool the wound for at least 20
minutes using cold running water.
Do not rub your wound or break the blisters. Apply Vaseline or an antibiotic
ointment to protect the wound. Position the wounded part higher than your
heart to reduce pain.
179
Guidebook for Living in Korea (5) Electric Shock
Cut the power off immediately from the object that caused the shock. When
this is not possible, dress in clothes and gloves that do not conduct electricity,
and rescue the affected person by removing the cause of the shock from his/
her body.
Check the respiration and pulse of the victim and make sure that he/she is
conscious. Practice artificial respiration on him/her and perform CPR (heart
massage) if needed. An electric shock can cause an internal burn, even when
the victim seems to be okay. Take the victim to a hospital immediately.
(6) Sunstroke and Heatstroke
Head or neck directly exposed to the sun for hours can cause a sunstroke. A
heatstroke occurs when a person gets too much heat and cannot release out.
Move the patient to a cool and shaded place. Remove his clothes, cover him/
her with wet towel and fan him/her until the patient gets to the hospital.
(7) Suffocation
In the event of suffocation, the patient can hardly breathe and his/her face
gets pale with eyes protruded. Bring the patient to an airy place to help
breathing and let him/her a rest. Even if the patient is not conscious, it is
recommended to let the patient lie on his/her face as long as he/she is
breathing. If the patient cannot breathe try artificial respiration immediately
and move the patient to a hospital for further treatment.
(8) Broken Bone
In the event of a misplaced bone, sterilize the affected area, place the
patient in a comfortable position and call rescue personnel. Do not move the
wounded part and place the part higher than the patient’s heart by propping
it up on a blanket and a pillow.
In the event of a simple strain, bandage the wound widely and tightly with an
elastic bandage, and avoid moving the wounded part. Applying an ice pack
helps.
(9) Severing of a Finger
A dismembered finger can be rejoined of properly taken care of. Stop the
blood by applying pressure to the cut area and placing it higher than the
heart of the patient. Wrap the finger in gauze, put it in a plastic bag with ice,
and bring it to the hospital with the patient. Avoid touching the cut end.
180
VII Health and Healthcare
Me mo
181
Guidebook
for Living
in Korea
for Foreigners
VIII
Social Security System
184
Basic Livelihood Security
194
Self-Support Services
Qualifications
System
194
184
Qualifications
194
Working Conditions
185
Types of Aid
195
How to Apply
186
How to Apply
196
Support for SingleParent Families
187
National Pension
187
Qualifications
196
Types of Services
188
Amount of Pension
197
How to Apply
188
Benefits
190
Emergency Welfare Aid
190
Qualifications
191
How to Apply and Procedures
192
Criteria for Income and Properties
and Eligibility Review Standards
192
Types of Aid
Guidebook for Living in Korea 1>> Basic Livelihood Security System
The government provides low-income citizens with basic livelihood grants, housing
subsidies, educational subsidies and medical aid to guarantee the basic livelihood security
of citizens. Foreign residents may also apply for these benefits in accordance with the
related laws.
1_Qualifications
Foreign residents shall not apply for the basic livelihood security system, but their Korean
families may gain the status of recipients if they meet the relevant qualifications, including
the recognized household income* level and the number of supporting family members.
However, marriage immigrants who are married to Korean citizens (including when there
has been divorce or death of the Korean spouse) and who are raising underage Korean
children may become beneficiaries of the basic livelihood security system and receive
government subsidies, provided that they meet the recognized household income and the
qualifications for supporting family members.
✽ Recognized household income : Household income plus properties shall be lower than the
minimum cost of living
✽ Minimum Cost of Living : Minimum cost of living for a healthy and cultural life. This cost is
determined and announced annually by the government, and may vary according to the number
of family members.
Minimum cost of living as of 2009*
(Unit: KRW/ Month)
Item
1-Member
Households
2-Member
Households
3-Member
Households
4-Member
Households
5-Member
Households
6-Member
Households
Amount (KRW
/Month)
490,845
835,763
1,081,186
1,326,609
1,572,031
1,817,454
※ Minimum cost of living for households with seven or more members: an additional KRW 245,423 per member
(7-Member Households: KRW 2,062,877)
184
VIII Social Security System
2_Types of Aid
(1) Basic Livelihood Aid (Regular Livelihood Aid)
• Description: Clothing, meals, fuel and basic commodities for basic livelihood
• Amount of Aid: Amount of cash aid – recognized income of household – housing aid
※ Amount of cash aid = minimum cost of living – medical aid, educational aid and other legal aid (resident tax
and TV service fees). This is the highest amount of cash aid applicable to beneficiaries with no income.
Amount
of basic
livelihood
aid per
household Recognized
income of
household Amount of
cash aid Ceiling of housing aid and housing aid in cash for 2009
Housing aid
(Unit: KRW/ Month)
Item
1-Member
Households
2-Member
Households
3-Member
Households
4-Member
Households
5-Member
Households
6-Member
Households
Minimum Cost
of Living
490,845
835,763
1,081,186
1,326,609
1,572,031
1,817,454
Amount of
Cash Aid
405,881
694,607
900,048
1,105,488
1,310,928
1,516,369
※ Households with seven or more members: an additional KRW 245,423 per member (7-Member Households:
KRW 2,062,877)
(2) Housing Aid
• Description: Rent and maintenance fees for housing are provided in the form of cash or
articles.
(3) Educational Aid
• Description: Admission fees, tuition, textbook costs, materials costs and stationery costs
- High school students: admission fees, tuitions, textbook costs (KRW 109,000/student)
and stationery costs (KRW 45,000/student) - Middle school students: Material costs (KRW 33,000/student) and stationery costs (KRW
45,000/person)
185
Guidebook for Living in Korea (4) Childbirth Aid
KRW 0.5 million is given to new or expecting mothers in cash.
(5) Funeral Aid
When beneficiaries die, funeral aid of KRW 400,000 or KRW 500,000 per person is
provided.
(6) Other Aids
Emergency Welfare Aid (190page ⇒ Refer to 3. Emergency Welfare Aid)
Rehabilitation Aid (194page ⇒ Refer to 4. Employment Programs for Rehabilitation)
Medical Aid (169page ⇒ Refer to Ⅶ. Health and Healthcare 2. Medical Aid System)
3_How to Apply
Submit
application form
to eup/myeon/
dong office
Government
official examines
applicant’s
income and
property
Result
informed
• Submit an application form for welfare recipient security/allowance at a town/myeon/
dong office.
• A government official will evaluate your situation to determine your eligibility.
• You will be informed of your eligibility within 14 days, or within 30 days in some cases
.
Useful Information
Health & Welfare Call Center 129
• If you need counseling or information regarding health or welfare services for you and your
family, don’t hesitate to call 129 (when using a cell phone, dial area code + 129)
• Available time
- Counseling for income security, financial support for living expenses and social welfare, health
and well-being: 09:00 a.m. – 06:00 p.m. weekdays
- Counseling for emergency support: Open 24 hours all year
186
VIII Social Security System
2>> National Pension
Under the national pension system operated by the government, citizens are required to
pay premiums to prepare for their senior years, unexpected disabilities and death, and
pensions are provided to beneficiaries or their families so that they can lead stable lives in
the event of an emergency.
1_Qualifications
Like native Koreans, foreign residents in Korea are required to subscribe to the national
pension system. Foreign residents between the ages of 18 and 60 who work at businesses
subscribing to the national pension system gain the status of company subscribers, while
other foreign residents gain the status of local subscribers. If the laws of their mother
countries do not apply similar laws to Korean citizens, the foreign residents shall be
excluded from the requirement to subscribe. If there are treaties on social security signed
by Korea and the mother countries of foreign residents, the related rules shall be applied
to the foreign residents.
!
Countries Excluded from the National Pension System (20 Countries)
Vietnam, Myanmar, Bangladesh, Nepal, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, Iran, Pakistan,
Cambodia, South Africa, East Timor, Maldives, Belarus, Armenia, Ethiopia, Egypt, Tonga
and Fiji
※ Laws of their mother countries are applied to employees of Mongolia and Uzbekistan, in
accordance with the treaties for social security.
187
Guidebook for Living in Korea 2_Amount of Pension
• Employees and employers of businesses each pay 4.5% of the employee’s monthly
income into the pension.
• Local subscribers (business owners) pay 9% of the reported (actual) monthly income.
3_Benefits
• If a foreign resident meets the qualifications for benefits, including age, disability and
death, they shall be paid a similar amount of pension as a native Korean.
• Pension for Seniors If subscribers have subscribed to the pension for ten or more years
and turn 60 years old, the monthly pension shall be paid for the rest of their lives. However,
starting in 2013 the eligible age of beneficiaries is delayed by one year, every five years. This
means that in the year 2033, subscribers must be 65 years old to get the benefits.
• Pension for Disability If subscribers have disabilities due to diseases or injury that
occurred during the period of subscription, the disability pension is given to Class 1, Class
2 and Class 3, and the lump-sum compensation is given to Class 4. • Pension for Surviving Family If subscribers die while subscribing to the pension or
receiving the pension, a monthly pension shall be given to surviving family members who
are in the same household.
• Lump-Sum Return A lump-sum pension is not given to foreign residents, but a lump-sum
amount plus interest is given to foreign residents in the following cases when they leave
Korea, die, or turn 60 years of age.
① The laws of their mother countries allow the payment of lump-sum pension to Korean
citizens ② Treaties for social security signed by Korea and their mother countries have
related provisions ③ Foreign residents have the status of E-8, E-9 and H-2
188
VIII Social Security System
!
Countries with Lump-Sum Payment of National Pension (37 Countries)
Thailand, the Philippines, Malaysia, Indonesia, Sri Lanka, India, Kazakhstan, Hong
Kong, Turkey, Belize, Grenada, Barbados, Saint Vincent & the Grenadines, Zimbabwe,
Cameroon, Congo, Togo, Venezuela, Ghana, Vanuatu, Bermuda, Sudan, Switzerland,
El Salvador, Jordan, Kenya, Trinidad Tobago, Nigeria, Columbia (29 countries with
mutual lump-sum payment agreements)
Germany, US, Canada, Hungary, France, Australia, Czech, Belgium (eight countries
with lump-sum payment based on treaties for social security)
※Foreign residents with the status of E-8, E-9 and H-2 will receive payment regardless of
nationality.
!
For detailed information, visit the branch office of the National Pension Service or call
1355. Website of the National Pension Service (http://www.nps.or.k)
189
Guidebook for Living in Korea 3>> Emergency Welfare Aid
The aid aims to provide low-income citizens who have difficulties in maintaining a
basic livelihood due to a sudden critical illness, death, leave, imprisonment, job loss
and business closing of income earners, through necessary welfare services such as
livelihood aid and medical aid.
Foreign residents may apply for emergency welfare aid if they meet the qualifications.
!
Qualifications of foreign residents for emergency welfare aid
•Foreign residents who are married to Korean citizens
•Foreign residents who have divorced from Korean spouses or whose spouses are dead,
and who are taking care of the parents or children of Korean spouses
•Foreign residents who have gained refugee status
•Foreign residents who have been victims of fire, crimes and natural disasters for which
they were not responsible
1_Qualifications
(1) Emergency Cases
• Main income earners are no longer earning income due to death, leave, disappearance
or imprisonment, and the household income is below the minimum cost of living
• Critical illness or injury
• Abandonment or abuse by family members
• Difficulties in maintenance of family relations due to domestic violence or sexual
violence
• Impossibility of staying in current residence due to fire (fire, landslide, storm and flood)
• Other cases designated by the Minister of Health, Welfare and Family Affairs
190
VIII Social Security System
(2) Difficulties in Maintenance of Basic Livelihood
• Difficulties in maintenance of basic livelihood (“Difficulties in maintenance of basic
livelihood” refers to a number of situations, including difficulties in maintenance of
basic livelihood, difficulties in paying medical costs, difficulties in maintaining housing
facilities, and requires the help of social welfare facilities.) 2_How to Apply and Procedures
Ask for
support and
report
Qualified person
Health and Welfare
Call Center (129)
Mayors, governors
of gun or heads of
gu offices
On-site
examination
and advanced
suppor
Mayors, governors of gun
or heads of gu offices
(Officials in charge of
emergency aid)
Post
handover
Basic livelihood aid/
Private support program
Post
examination
Examination of income
and property
Eligibility
review
• Emergency Support
Deliberation Commission
(Public-Private Partnership)
• Support ended when it is
judged to be inappropriate/
Return of support fund
• In the event of an emergency, call the competent departments of offices of cities, guns
or gus, or the Call Center of the Ministry for Health, Welfare and Family Affairs (☎129).
• Public officers in charge will conduct a field investigation, provide aid, and then review
the eligibility again. If applicants are not qualified, the aid is suspended, and shall be
returned.
• If emergency situations do not end after the emergency welfare program is completed,
beneficiaries may be transferred to the related national aid systems or private welfare
programs.
191
Guidebook for Living in Korea 3_Criteria for Income and Properties and Eligibility Review
Standards
• Income below 150% of the minimum cost of living (4-member households: KRW
1,990,000)
Basic livelihood aid: below 100% of the minimum cost of living (4-member households:
KRW 1,320,000)
• Properties Large cities (KRW 135,000,000), small and medium-sized cities (KRW
85,000,000), rural areas (KRW 72,500,000)
• Monetary Assets below KRW 3 million (as of February 6, 2009)
4_Types of Aid
Basic livelihood aid, medical aid, educational aid, housing aid, aid for the use of social
welfare facilities and other aid (fuel costs, power bills, childbirth aid and funeral aid)
192
VIII Social Security System
Q
My Korean husband died suddenly, leaving me to take care of our child. I am
struggling financially. Is there any way I can get help?
If your family consists of two members including yourself and has a monthly income of
less than 830,000 won, you are eligible for emergency welfare support. A government
official will determine your eligibility after examining your situation, including your
income, property, and the circumstances of the emergency. Contact the nearest town/
myeon/dong office or the Health & Welfare Call Center (☎129) to consult with an agent.
As there is no interpretation service provided, you will need to find your own interpreter if
you cannot communicate in Korean. You can also use the interpretation service provided
by the multicultural family support centers. If you are granted emergency welfare support,
you will be given living costs and funeral expenses.
Q
I recently underwent an operation due to a serious illness, but I cannot afford
the medical expenses. Is there any way I can get help?
If you have Korean nationality or are raising a child with Korean nationality, even if you
are divorced, you may qualify for emergency welfare support. A government official will
determine your eligibility after examining your situation, including your income, property,
and the circumstances of the emergency. Contact the nearest town/myeon/dong office
or the Health & Welfare Call Center (☎129) and consult with an agent. As there is no
interpretation service provided, you will need to find your own interpreter if you cannot
communicate in Korean. You can also use the interpretation service provided by the
multicultural family support centers.
Q
I am physically abused by my husband. I am too scared to go home. What kind
of help can I get?
If you have Korean nationality or are raising a child with Korean nationality, you may
qualify for emergency welfare support. A government official will determine your
eligibility. If you are eligible, you will be financially supported and provided with shelter.
Contact the nearest town/myeon/dong office or the Health & Welfare Call Center (☎129)
for further information.
193
Guidebook for Living in Korea 4>> Self-Support Services
If you have difficulty finding a job, there are a number of self-support services that can
open up job opportunities.
1_Qualifications
You may qualify for the self-support services if you qualify in all three cases listed below:
• If your accredited income is less than 120% of the minimum cost of living (the total of
you and your husband’s income and property, as estimated by the government)
• If you have an underage child, even if you don’t have Korean nationality
• If you are capable of working
2_Working Conditions
Depending on the recipient’s capabilities and circumstances, the number of working
hours per day and week is determined. Recipients work 5 to 8 hours per day, 4 to 5 days a
week, and receive 20,000 to 31,000 won per day.
!
194
Korea Self-Support Centers Association ☎02-324-1841
VIII Social Security System
3_How to Apply
Submit
application at
eup/myeon/dong
office
Government
official examines
applicant’s
eligibility
Result
informed
• Visit or contact a eup/myeon/dong office and consult with a government official in
charge of social welfare.
• The government official will examine your eligibility.
• You will be informed if you are eligible.
• If you are eligible, a job center will recommend a job opportunity for you after
consultation.
• You can call the Call Center of the Ministry for Health, Welfare and Family Affairs (☎129)
for counseling
195
Guidebook for Living in Korea 5>> Support for Single-Parent Families
In recent years, the number of single-parent families has been increasing due to divorce,
death and financial difficulties. The government has developed and operated diverse
support programs for the stability and self-support of single-parent families.
1_Types of Services
(1) Support for Childcare Costs and Educational Costs of Single-parent
Families
Item
Descriptions
Qualifications
• A low-income single parent, who is the head of their family, and their children
under age 18, who are being raised by them (recognized amount of income: below
130% of the minimum cost of living, excluding beneficiaries of basic livelihood aid)
Support
• Childcare Support: Monthly support of KRW 50,000 for children under age 12
• Tuition Support for High School Students: 100% of admission fees and tuition for
children attending high schools
(2) Welfare Loans for Single-Parent Families
• Qualifications: Low-income single-parent families with strong willingness for selfsupport and rehabilitation and a feasible business plan (applicants to loan programs of
other financial organizations are excluded)
• Criteria and Terms of Loan
- Maximum loan per person: KRW 20 million
- Interest rates: Fixed annual interest rate of 3%
- Period of loan: installment repayment in five years after a five-year grace period
- Screening criteria according to number of family members (recognized amount of
income: less than 130% of minimum cost of living, excluding beneficiaries of basic
livelihood aid)
196
VIII Social Security System
Item
2-Member
Households
3-Member
Households
4-Member
Households
5-Member
Households
6-Member
Households
2009 (KRW/
Month)
1,086,490
1,405,540
1,724,590
2,043,640
2,362,690
※ Seven or more members: an additional KRW 319,050 per member (7-Member Households: KRW 2,681,740)
2_How to Apply
• Fill out and submit the welfare beneficiary security application form at the nearest town/
myoen/dong office.
• A government official will inform you whether you are eligible as a recipient.
Q
I have been abandoned by my husband. I don’t know how I’m going to live my
life. Is there any way I can get help?
You can be eligible to be supported by the mother-child welfare or National Basic
Livelihood Security System if your child has Korean Nationality. A government official
will determine your eligibility after examining your income and property. If this is an
emergency situation, you might be eligible to apply for the emergency welfare. Contact
the nearest town/myeon/dong office or the Ministry for Health, Welfare and Family Affairs
(☎129) for counseling for further information. If you are unfamiliar with Korean, you might
need assistance.
197
Guidebook
for Living
in Korea
for Foreigners
IX
Employment and Labor
200
Employment and Vocational Training
200
Employment
204
Vocational Training
206
Major Issues Related to Labor
206
Social Insurance
206
Overview of the Labor Standards Law
208
Labor Standards
210
Salary
211
Employment Insurance
211
Unemployment Benefits
213
Industrial Accident Compensation Insurance
213
Industrial Accidents
215
Basic Safety Rules
216
Safety Signs
217
Maternity Leave and Childcare Leave
217
Maternity Leave
218
Stillbirth and Miscarriage Leave
219
Childcare Leave
Guidebook for Living in Korea 1>> Employment and Vocational Training
1_Employment
Foreign residents may be employed according to the type of visa that they hold. Marriage
immigrants who entered Korea with F-13 or F-21 visas are allowed to be employed in
Korea.
※ To check your visa status, contact Hi Korea (www.hikorea.go.kr, 1345).
Your first step before seeking employment should be to discuss the need for employment, type of work
desired and usage of salary with your family members.
(1) Job Centers
Information regarding job opportunities for married immigrant women is available at
your nearest employment support center, job information center, women resources
development center, migrant workers center, and multicultural family support center.
200
Classification
Description
Employment Support
Centers
These government-funded centers have several offices located throughout
the nation. Many Korean job-seekers and migrant workers use the help of
the centers to find jobs. Job-seekers can specify their fields of interests,
find out which jobs are most compatible for them, and have interviews
arranged with companies during the job hunting process.
Job Information
Centers
These local agencies provide information on job opportunities as a free
service. Job information centers are located at most city halls and county
offices. The centers will help you find a job nearest to your residence.
Women Resources
Development Centers
These agencies offer job opportunities and job training especially for
women. Most of the available programs are free, but some charge a small
fee.
IX Employment and Labor
Migrant Workers
Centers
These non-governmental organizations assist foreign workers
in dealing with employment issues in Korea.
Multicultural Family
Support Center
These centers offer job opportunities and cultural programs for
multicultural families.
(2) Use of the Internet
Marriage immigrants can conveniently use the Internet to aid their employment search.
Most organizations operating employment services for marriage immigrants manage
websites, so users can search for jobs from home via the Internet.
Seoul Global Center (jobs.seoul.go.kr) The website is operated by
the City of Seoul, and provides information on foreign job seekers in
Korea, job search and employment, in English, Japanese, Chinese and
French.
JobNet (www.jobnet.go.kr) JobNet is a website that provides a onestop employment information service by collecting the job information
scattered across multiple employment websites. The website is
operated by the Korea Employment Information Service.
WorkNet (www.work.go.kr) This website is operated by the Korea
Employment Information Service of the Ministry of Labor, and provides
information on jobs and employment.
Korea Network for Occupations and Workers (know.work.go.kr)
Operated by the Korea Network for Occupations and Workers, this
website provides information on jobs, as well as cyber counseling
services to help users find the right jobs. 201
Guidebook for Living in Korea Job Center (jobcenter.work.go.kr) This free national job brokerage
center provides counseling services to help users find the right
jobs, and continuously help users until they find jobs. The website is
connected to local centers.
Women’s Resource Development Center (www.vocation.or.kr)
The Women’s Resource Development Center provides diverse
vocational training programs and counseling services for female
workers. The center is a job brokerage organization dedicated to
services for women.
Job Information Centers of Cities and Guns Local governments
operate free job brokerage organizations. (please refer to the websites
of local governments)
!
.
Counselors of Job Centers will visit businesses with applicants if applicants have
difficulties visiting companies. • Job Center (jobcenter.work.go.kr)
• Women’s Resource Development Center (www.vocation.or.kr)
Useful Information
For interpretation services, you can visit the Korea Migrants’ Center or the Korea International
Labour Foundation, or make a call to the organization.
202
IX Employment and Labor
Service
Organization
Korea Migrants’
Center
Work in Korea
Tel
Operating Hours
1644 - 0644
Mondays through
Fridays,
09:00~18:00
Sundays, 13:00~19:00
82-31-838-9111~2
Tuesdays,
Wednesdays,
Thursdays, Fridays
and Sundays,
09:00 ~ 18:00
Supported Languages
Korean, Mongolian, Vietnamese,
Chinese, Indonesia, Thai, English
(the Philippines), Sinhala, Uzbek
(Russia), Pakistani (India),
Cambodian, Nepali, Burmese
language, and Bengali
English, Chinese, Indian, Indonesian,
Russian, Vietnamese, Filipino,
Mongolian, Sinhala, Uzbekistan,
Kyrgyz, Bengali, Nepali, Pakistani
and Cambodian (Cambodian
counseling and interpretation
services are available only on
Sundays) 203
Guidebook for Living in Korea 2_Vocational Training
Vocational training enables job seekers to develop important vocational skills. The
employment insurance system operates job training and vocational training programs to
increase the social participation of women.
!
• Korea Network for Occupations and Workers (http://jobcenter.work.go.kr)
• Help Desk of the Ministry of Labor (☎1544-1350)
• HRD Net of the Ministry of Labor (www.hrd.go.kr)
(1) Qualifications for Vocational Training under the Employment Insurance Program
• People who have lost their jobs, low-income business owners, beneficiaries of job
aid and beneficiaries of basic livelihood aid are qualified for vocational training under
employment insurance.
• Marriage immigrants with Korean nationality may apply to the vocational training
program.
• Marriage immigrants who have subscribed to employment insurance and who are not
Korean citizens may access the Training programs for the currently unemployed.
(2) How to Apply for and Use the Vocational Training Programs
204
Visit Job Center
Apply and Register
as a Job Seeker
Receive
Counseling
Attend Vocational
Training and
Receive Allowance
for Trainees
Submit Application
for Vocational
Training Programs to
Vocational Training
Organizations
Receive
Recommendation of
Vocational Training
Organizations
IX Employment and Labor
(3) Types and Benefits of Vocational Training
Types of
Training
Description
Qualification
Allowances
Training for
the newly
unemployed
Training for
employment
Applicants who have not subscribed to employment
insurance
Transportation expenses
and meal expenses
Training for
the existing
unemployed
Training for reemployment
Applicants who have subscribed to employment
insurance
Transportation expenses,
meal expenses and
allowances for rehabilitation
• Female applicants who are unmarried
• Female applicants who are not married and who have
no parents, or whose parents are financially incapable
Training for
Training for
• Female applicants whose husbands have been
occupations with active
female family
unemployed for six months or more since they
employment and
heads
submitted applications as job seekers
business start-ups
• Female applicants who are filing for divorce and
separated
• Female applicants who support family members
Training for
preferential
vocations
• The unemployed who have submitted applications
to employment security organization
Commissioned training
• The unemployed who have lost their jobs
at private corporations
• Students who are in the 3rd year of high school and
have no intention of attending university or college
Training for
development of
Training for
vocational capability of
rehabilitation
beneficiaries of basic
livelihood aid
Training for
promotion of
employment
Training for capability
development for
employment and
business start-up
Transportation
expenses, meal
expenses, allowances for
family and allowances
for livelihood aid
Transportation
expenses, meal
expenses and
allowances for
preferential vocations
Beneficiaries of basic livelihood aid who have
attended programs for motivation and vocational
education as part of the training programs for
vocational adaptation before attending the training
for rehabilitation
Transportation
expenses, meal
expenses and
allowances for
rehabilitation
Applicants who have not subscribed to employment
insurance and who are selected by mayors,
governors of gun or heads of gu offices
Transportation expenses
and meal expenses
(4) Other Job Training Services
• Other than the job training services offered through unemployment insurance, other
resources for married immigrant women are available at the Women Resources
Development Center, various women’s centers, etc.
• However, not all agencies offer job training services for married immigrant women and
female foreigners. Consult with your nearest center before visiting.
• Further details are available at multicultural family support centers as well as related
organizations.
!
• Women’s Resource Development Center (www.vocation.or.kr)
205
Guidebook for Living in Korea 2>> Major Issues Related to Labor
All companies have policies and regulations. These include policies on working hours,
designated breaks, safety, and sanitary conditions. You are recommended to learn these
policies when you find a job.
1_Social Insurance
• When married immigrant women with Korean nationality are employed, they are
automatically signed up for social insurance programs (national pension, health
insurance, employment insurance).
• Married immigrant women without Korean nationality may choose whether or not they
wish to apply for social insurance, but are generally encouraged to do so.
• Insurance fees are deducted from the worker’s salary and transferred to the Korean
Institute for Social Insurance.
2_Overview of the Labor Standards Law
The Labor Standards Law was enacted to guarantee and improve the basic livelihood of
workers, and to promote the balanced development of the national economy by setting
the standards for labor terms.
(1) Employment Contracts
Employment contracts are signed by employers and employees. The contracts cover
major issues related to salaries and workplace responsibilities, and it is important to keep
such employment contracts as documents.
(2) Protection of Employees in Accordance with the Labor Standards Law
• Applicable to all companies or businesses that regularly employ five workers or more
• Partially applicable to businesses or companies that regularly employ four workers or
less
206
IX Employment and Labor
• Salaries are to be paid directly on the fixed date, in full and in cash. The salaries shall be
paid at least once a month, and in a regular manner.
• Additional salary may be paid to employees who work overtime, at nights and on
holidays.
• Employees who have worked one year or more may apply for retirement benefits.
• Employees may present a petition to the competent local offices of labor and the
department of labor supervision if employers fail to pay salaries and retirement benefits,
employees became victims of violence from employers or managers, or if employees
are forced to work overtime against their will. (Labor Counseling Center ☎1350, 15441350)
(3) Delays in Salary Payments
• Delays in salary payments refer to cases in which employers fail to pay salaries on the
fixed date. Employees may report such a case to the Labor Supervisory Officer of the
competent Local Office of Labor, and request action be taken. • If such cases are reported to local offices of labor, the offices shall conduct the due
diligence on employers and employees 10 days or 14 days later. Employees are
recommended to provide diverse materials that can back up their statements.
• Procedure
Counseling and submission of statements
(Civil Service Center of local offices of education)
Demand for attendance of the stakeholders
(Labor Supervisory Officer)
Due diligence
Order for corrective actions given to employer after due diligence
If employers do not follow the order,
the case may be sent to the court or prosecution
207
Guidebook for Living in Korea (4) Salary Compensation System
If employees have retired from the company due to the bankruptcy of employers and have
failed to receive salaries and retirement benefits, the government provides the following
benefits.
• Salaries for the final three months : Salaries for the final three months, from the date of
retirement or the date of actual retirement
• Benefits for leave for the final three months : Benefits for leave for the final three
months, from the date of retirement or the date of actual retirement
• Retirement benefits for the final three years : Retirement benefits for the final three
years, calculated as of the date of retirement (average salaries for 90 days)
(5) Layoff
The Labor Standards Law stipulates that the layoff of employees shall take effect only
when there are reasonable causes. Causes are categorized into the following three types.
• Personal reasons
• Behavioral reasons
• Emergency need for business operation
3_Labor Standards
(1) Working Hours
• At workplaces to which the revised Labor Standard Act is applied, working hours should
not exceed 8 hours per day and 40 hours per week, except for break time.
• At workplaces to which the revised Labor Standard Act is not applied, working hours
should not exceed 8 hours per day and 44 hours per week except for break time.
• The working hours of small-scale companies with less than 20 employees will be
reduced to 40 hours per week by 2011.
208
IX Employment and Labor
(2) Breaks
• A thirty-minute break is given for every 4 hours of work, and a 1 hour break is given for
every 8 hours of work.
• Employees are free to use their breaks as they wish, but they will be unpaid during this
period.
(3) Overtime, Night Duty and Holiday Work
• Overtime refers to the amount of time worked beyond the legal limit of 8 hours of work.
• Night duty refers to work that takes place between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m.
• Holiday work refers to work that takes place on national and contractual holidays.
• Pay for overtime, night duty, and holiday work is 1.5 times the pay given for regular
working hours.
(4) Shifts
• Companies that require production facilities to be run for 24 hours divide their
employees into two or three teams to work in shifts.
• Some factories make arrangements whereby their employees rotate day and night
shifts on a weekly basis.
• Others group their employees into shifts on a permanent basis.
209
Guidebook for Living in Korea 4_Salary
Type
Description
Guaranteed
Minimum Income
• This refers to the minimum amount of money that the government requires
employers to pay to employees.
• All corporations must comply. The guaranteed minimum wage for 2009 was
4,000 won per hour, 32,000 won per day, and will be 4,110 won per hour,
32,880 won per day in 2010.
Payment System
• Salary contracts can be based on hourly, weekly, monthly, or yearly pay.
• Generally, employees working in the manufacturing industry are paid on
a monthly basis, while those working in the construction industry are paid
on a daily basis. Employees with hourly working contracts have their pay
calculated by the hour, but most employees are paid on a monthly basis.
• It is important to check that you are receiving the correct amount of money
from your employer, and you should keep a record of your daily working
hours. Some companies keep time cards in order to maintain accurate time
records.
Retirement
Allowance
210
• Only employees working in accordance the Labor Standard Act will qualify for
retirement allowance.
• There is no retirement allowance granted to employees who work less than
15 hours per week.
• Retirement allowance is limited to companies with more than five employees.
• Employees who have been with a company for more than a year are to be
granted an annual bonus, equivalent to at least 30 days of pay.
IX Employment and Labor
3>> Employment Insurance
Employers and employees of companies pay a certain portion of their salaries as
employment insurance premiums, as preparation for unemployment. If employees lose
their jobs, the employment insurance fund pays unemployment benefits, and allows the
unemployed to attend vocational training.
1_Unemployment Benefits
If employees lose their jobs, employment insurance provides benefits for a certain period
of time to help them overcome their financial instability and seize the opportunity for
reemployment.
• Unemployment benefits are not compensation for unemployment or the return of the
payment of employment insurance premiums. • Unemployment benefits are incentives to encourage active reemployment activities.
• The unemployed shall not apply for unemployment benefits 12 months after the date of
retirement.
(1) Qualifications
Persons who meet all qualifications below may apply for unemployment benefits
• Employees who have served at companies that subscribed to employment insurance for
six or more months
• Employees who have been forced to quit
• Unemployed people who are making active efforts for reemployment
(Unemployed people who have voluntarily quit their job or been fired by causing damage
to the workplace shall not apply for unemployment benefits.)
.
Useful Information
Qualifications
Married immigrant women with Korean nationality are automatically registered for the
unemployment insurance once they are employed. Those without Korean nationality may choose
whether to apply for the unemployment insurance. However, those who work less than 60 hours
per month (15 hours per week) are disqualified from application.
211
Guidebook for Living in Korea (2) Amount of Unemployment Benefits
• Amount of Unemployment Benefits = 50% of the average salary before retirement ×
number of days
• Number of days of unemployment benefits : The number of days of unemployment
benefits ranges from 90 to 240, and it is decided according to the age at the point of
retirement and the duration of the employment insurance subscription.
• Number of days of unemployment benefits (number of days of benefits), Ages at point of
retirement are counted in full.
Age and Duration of
Subscription
Less than
1 Year
1 Year ~
3 Years
3 Years ~
5 Years
5 Years ~
10 Years
Longer than
10 Years
30 or Younger
90 days
90 days
120 days
150 days
180 days
30 ~ 50
90 days
120 days
150 days
180 days
210 days
50 ~ and the Disabled
90 days
150 days
180 days
210 days
240 days
(3) Application Process
Immediately report to your local job center with your identification card
(alien registration card) once you lose your employment status.
Receive a certificate after completing a job-seeking application, and submit an
application form for recipient eligibility acknowledgement.
You will be informed within 14 days if you are eligible or not.
Visit the job center for unemployment confirmation on the date specified on your
application.
During the approval period, you should report your efforts to find new
employment (submitting resumes, interview appointments with companies,
etc.) to the employment support center.
212
IX Employment and Labor
4>> Industrial Accident Compensation Insurance
1_Industrial Accidents
Industrial Accident Compensation Insurance is a government compensation program
that compensates the damages caused by industrial accidents. The insurance program
is applied to all companies that employ workers. Applicants who meet the qualifications
and have submitted applications for compensation to the Korea Workers’ Compensation
and Welfare Service will be reviewed by the Service, and the compensation will be given
accordingly.
(1) Tips to Remember in the Event of an Industrial Accident
• Applications for compensation in the event of an industrial accident are usually made
by the employer. If the employer does not submit an application, the worker or his/
her family may submit an application to the Korea Workers’ Compensation & Welfare
Service (1588-0075), or seek help from a counseling organization.
• Early treatment is very important if an industrial accident occurs. Victims must consult with
an expert for diagnosis and treatment. In the event of finger loss, the victim must visit a
hospital that provides fingertip joining operation services with the cut finger within 24 hours.
• A worker may apply for compensation for an industrial accident caused by his or her
own mistake, provided that the accident occurred while he or she was working.
• Allowances for suspension from work and compensation for disabilities are remitted
to the bank accounts of the victims. Workers who receive treatment after an industrial
accident must immediately open a bank account if they have not done so already, and
keep the bankbooks.
• Immigrant workers who are receiving treatment due to an industrial accident shall
not be fired or forced to leave Korea. In the past, there have been cases of immigrant
workers who were involved in an industrial accident bring forced to leave Korea, who did
not appeal their situation due to a lack of knowledge of the law. There have also been
cases in which the surviving family members of immigrant workers that were killed in a
workplace accident failed to apply for compensation due to a lack of knowledge on the
related laws. Victims of industrial accidents must immediately consult with a counseling
organization so that they are fully informed of their rights.
213
Guidebook for Living in Korea (2) Qualifications
Businesses or employees of businesses where the Law for Compensation and Protection
from Industrial Accidents is applicable may apply for compensation in the event of injury,
diseases, disability or death during the services.
(3) Preparation of Documents
Documents shall specify the details of applications and the date and the time of disasters.
Three copies of applications for medical care, applications for benefits for leave, applications
for disability compensation (if necessary) and bills for medical fees shall be prepared and
signed by employees, businesses and hospitals. Applicants shall first submit the original
copies of applications for medical care and application for benefits for leave to the Service.
(4) Compensation Procedure
Review of Course
of Accident, Injury
or Illness
Medical Advice
(If necessary)
214
Issuance
of Medical
Certificate
Transfer to
Hospital
Accident
Submission to
the Service
Deliberation and
Decision
Preparation
of the Initial
Application for
Medical Care
Notification of
Decision (Applicants,
Businesses
and Medical
Organizations)
IX Employment and Labor
(5) Types of Compensation for Industrial Accidents
Item
Description
Compensation for Leave
Cash compensations paid to medical organizations until employees
are healthy, if employees are injured or sick due to the services
Compensation for Medical
Care
Compensation given instead of salary for the protection of the basic
livelihood of employees who have not been employed due to medical
care, and their families
Compensation for Disability
Compensation provided according to the level of remaining disability
caused by industrial accidents
Compensation for Surviving
Families and Funerals
Compensation given to surviving families, and funeral supported for
basic livelihood of surviving families in case of death of employees
2_Basic Safety Rules
The first step for the prevention of industrial accidents is to frequently clean the workplace
and the surrounding passages, and neatly arrange all objects. Passages must be kept
clear, and floors should be checked on a regular basis to ensure they are not slippery. The
following are basic safety rules that apply to every workplace.
• Keep hazardous materials in designated locations, and in clearly labeled containers.
• Wear the proper clothes when working, and do not smoke or eat food in the workplace.
• Wear protective clothing, including safety caps and safety shoes.
• Wear safety gloves instead of cotton gloves when using rotary machines.
• Wear protective glasses performing work that generates fine particles or dust, such as
cutting, grinding and machine work.
• Wear a protective mask (gas mask) when using organic solvents like cleansers and
adhesives.
• Always be aware of the location of the
nearest exit.
• Always be aware of the location of the
first-aid kit and the fire extinguisher.
• Check all safety messages, including
safety signs and other signs.
• Wash your hands before eating foods.
215
Guidebook for Living in Korea 3_Safety Signs
216
Do Not Use
Do Not Board
Caution:
Inflammable
Off Limits
Caution: Leakage
Do Not Climb
Caution:
Electricity
Warning: Danger
Warning:
Explosives
Warning:
Inflammable
Warning:Hazardous
Materials
Warning: Rotating
Materials
Caution: Crash
Caution: Slippery
Floor
Caution: Jam
Wear Protective
Glasses
Wear Dust
Protection Masks
Wear Ear Plugs
Do Not Throw
Down
Wear Safety Boots
IX Employment and Labor
5>> Maternity Leave and Childcare Leave
If employees are pregnant, they may apply for pre-birth or post-birth maternity leave.
They may also apply for childcare leave within one year from the date of childbirth.
1_Maternity Leave
(1) Qualifications
• While childcare leave is available to parents of adopted children, only pregnant women
or new mothers may apply for pre-birth and post-birth maternity leave.
• Female employees may apply for leave regardless of their type of employment contract,
in accordance with the Labor Standards Law.
(2) Duration of Maternity Leave
• If there is no problem in delivery, employees may apply for 90 days of leave around the
due date or the date of childbirth.
• Employees shall use 45 days of the leave or more after giving birth. • Pre-birth and post-birth maternity leave is granted to employees of certain businesses,
and thus the leave expires when the employment contracts expire during the leave.
(3) Maternity Leave Allowance
• You will be granted maternity leave allowance during your absence.
• Major corporations give out 100% of the employee’s usual pay for 60 days, and the
remaining 30 days are paid through unemployment insurance.
• Small and medium enterprises provide 90 days of pay from unemployment insurance.
217
Guidebook for Living in Korea (4) How to Apply for Maternity Leave Allowance
In order to be granted pre-birth and post-birth maternity leave allowances, you should
visit a job center close to your residence or workplace and submit the following materials:
!
Required Documents
• From the company: Certificate of maternity leave (miscarriage/stillbirth), pay stubs,
a copy of an employment contract
• From the Ministry of Labor web site or a job center: Application form for a maternity
leave allowance grant
2_Stillbirth and Miscarriage Leave
(1) Qualifications
• Stillbirth and miscarriage leave is applied only to women who experience spontaneous
abortions after 16 weeks of pregnancy, and the duration of leave may vary according to
the number of weeks of pregnancy.
• In accordance with the Labor Standards Law, a female employee who is employed by
a business with one or more employees may apply for leave, regardless of her type of
employment contract (regular workers and part-time workers).
(2) Duration of Stillbirth and Miscarriage Leave
• The leave shall not be granted in the event of a spontaneous abortion before 16 weeks of
pregnancy. • The duration of the leave may vary according to the number of weeks of pregnancy. - Week 16th ~ Week 21st: 30 days from the date of stillbirth or miscarriage
- Week 22nd ~ Week 27th: 60 days from the date of stillbirth or miscarriage
- Week 28th ~: 90 days from the date of stillbirth or miscarriage
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IX Employment and Labor
(3) Allowances for Stillbirth and Miscarriage Leave
• The same standards are applied to allowances for stillbirth and miscarriage leave as
those for maternity leave. • Large corporations pay allowances for the initial 60 days of the leave, and the
employment insurance pays allowances for the final 30 days of the leave.
• For employees of small and medium-sized corporations, the employment insurance
pays allowances for 90 days of the leave.
(4) How to Apply for Allowances for Stillbirth and Miscarriage Leave
Employees who intend to apply for allowances for stillbirth and miscarriage leave may
submit the certificate of the stillbirth and miscarriage leave issued by their employers,
the application for stillbirth and miscarriage leave, and the medical certificate proving the
stillbirth or miscarriage after 16 weeks of pregnancy to the competent Job Center of the
applicants’ address or workplaces.
3_Childcare Leave
Employees with a baby less than 3 years of age can apply for childcare leave for a year.
(1) Qualifications
• Employees who have stayed with a company for more than a year, who are a parent of a
baby less than 3 years of age can apply.
• Childcare leave is guaranteed to prevent employees from quitting the job due to
childcare and let them carry out the household tasks and company’s work in harmony.
(2) Duration of Childcare Leave
• The maximum duration of childcare leave can be extended to one year.
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Guidebook for Living in Korea (3) Childcare Leave Allowance
• During childcare leave, the applicant is granted a monthly allowance of 50,000 won
through unemployment insurance.
• The subsidy for childcare leave (200,000 won monthly) and the subsidy for alternate
employment (200,000 to 300,000 won monthly) are given to the employer apart from
childcare leave allowance. (4) How to Apply for Childcare Leave Allowance
• Submit your application for childcare leave allowance to the business proprietor 30 days
prior to taking leave.
• The application form is available at the Ministry of Labor Web site or job centers.
• Submit the application form approved by your employer to the nearest job center.
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IX Employment and Labor
Me mo
221
Guidebook
for Living
in Korea
for Foreigners
X
Enjoy Korea!
224
Cultural Spaces of Korea
225
Tourist Destinations
225
UNESCO World Heritage Sites
228
National Parks
229
Major Tourist Destinations by Region
240
Museums and Art Galleries
243
Theme Parks
245
Popular Neighborhoods for Foreigners
Guidebook for Living in Korea 1>> Cultural Spaces of Korea
Korea has many cultural spaces similar to those of other countries, such as movie
theaters, but also features some unique spots, like video rooms and cartoon rooms.
Movie Theater
The first showings at most movie theaters start at 9 or 10 a.m., and tickets
are sold at a discounted price. You can enjoy a midnight showing on
Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. Recently, the number of large multiplex
theaters with 10 screens or more has been increasing, making it possible
to choose from a wide range of titles when you get to the theater.
Video/Audio Room
You can select a DVD or CD, and watch/listen to it in a private room,
at a lower price than a movie theater.
Comic Book Shop
You can enjoy various comics here. You can also buy or borrow
comics, to read at home.
Singing Room
Here, you can rent a room to sing favorite songs with your friends,
accompanied by a backing track. There are many foreign songs and
Korean songs to choose from.
PC Room
Here, you can use PCs to play games, email, search the worldwide
web, and prepare documents after paying a fee. It is easy to find PC
rooms. The fee is usually 1,000 to 1,500 won per hour.
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2>> Tourist Destinations
Korea has a lot of historic and cultural heritages proving its ancient history as well as its
beautiful landscape. Some heritages like Changdeok Palace and Suwon Hwaseong are
designated as UNESCO World Heritage sites, and promoted globally.
1_UNESCO World Heritage Sites
Jongmyo
Jongno-gu, Seoul, Designated as UNESCO World Heritage in 1995
The royal shrine is the emotional anchor of the country and the
symbolic monument that justifies the ground of the royal family.
Ancestral tablets (small wooden plates where names of the late
ancestors are written) of Kings and Queens of the Joseon Period are
kept in the shrine. Since it was burnt during the Japanese Invasion
in Imjin Year and restored in 1608, Jongmyo has been maintained
through multiple times of expansion and renovations.
※ Exit No. 8 and Exit No. 11, Jongno3-ga Station, Subway Line 1, 3 and 5
Haeinsa Janggyeongpanjeon Hapcheon-gun, Gyeongsangnam-do, Designated as UNESCO World
Heritage in 1995
Haeinsa Janggyeongpanjeon is the place where over 80,000 sheets
of Goryeo Daejanggyeongpan, which are the world cultural heritage
made in the 13th century, are kept. It is the world’s only building to
store Daejanggyeongpan. Although Goryeo Daejanggyeongpan made
of woods is vulnerable to moist and worms, not a single sheet has
been damaged or twisted for over 750 years.
※ Haeinsa IC of 88 Olympic Expressway → 14km north from National
Road No. 1033 bound for Gayasan (Mt.) (Haeinsa)
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Guidebook for Living in Korea Bulguksa and Seokguram
Gyeongju, Gyeongsangbuk-do, Designated as UNESCO World Heritage in
1995
Bulguksa and Seokguram were established in King Beopeung Year
22 of the Shilla dynasty, which is 1,440 years ago. Jaesang Dae-Seong
Kim renovated them during the term of King Gyeongdeok of the Shilla
dynasty. The buildings and valuable treasures were burnt or stolen
during the Japanese invasion, remaining a part of buildings and a
tower by 1920. The buildings were restored through steady efforts for
restoration and renovation.
About 3km (9km via paved road) of hiking from Bulguksa brings us to
the famous Seokguram where Bonjonbul of Yeoraejwasang, the best
masterwork of the oriental world, faces the east sea.
※ Urban bus No. 10 and No. 11 or Seated Bus No. 101 or No. 102 from
Gyeongju Station and Gyeongju Bus Terminal
Suwon Hwaseong
Suwon, Gyeonggi-do, Designated as UNESCO World Heritage in 1997
King Jeongjo built Suwon Hwaseong when he moved the grave of his
father, Sado Seja, to Suwon. It was built with new technology and new
materials including Geojunggi and Nongno. Hwaseong served as the
military defense facility and the commercial facility, and has been
highly recognized as one of the best oriental castles with its practical
structure.
※ Bus No. 7000 and No. 7700 at Suwon Subway Station (Line No. 1) and
Sadang Station (Line No. 4)
Changdeok Palace
Jongno-gu, Seoul, Designated as UNESCO World Heritage in 1997)
Changdeok Palace is the place where kings of the Joseon dynasty
have served for 258 years, the longest period of time, from the term of
Gwanghaegun of 1610 to 1868 when King Gojong renovated Gyeongbok
Palace. Better known as Huwon or Biwon, Changdeok Palace shows
the well-preserved landscaping of the Joseon period.
※ Anguk Station (Subway Line No. 3), closed on Mondays
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Gyeongju Historic Site
Gyeongju, Gyeongsangbuk-do, Designated as UNESCO World Heritage in
2000
Located in the Southeastern part of Gyeongsangbuk-do, Gyeongju has
been the capital of Shilla where 56 kings ruled the country from 57 B.C.
to 935 A.D. Gyeongju is a special city that preserved the history and
culture of the Shilla period, which are the basis of the Korean culture.
Dolmen in Gangwha, Gochang and Hwasun
Designated as UNESCO World Heritage in 2000
The Korean word for Dolmen, “Goindol” refers to the lifted stones, and
it is the representative tomb of the Copper Age. Dolmen is one of the
remains from the Copper Age that are kept in the natural environment
instead of museums.
Dolmen of the shape of a table is found in the northern part of the
Korean peninsula, while dolmen that has no or small supporting
stones is found in the southern part of the peninsula such as Jeolla
Province and Gyeongsang Province.
40 Royal Tombs of Joseon Dynasty
Designated as UNESCO World Heritage in 2009
Royal tombs of the Joseon dynasty are the world’s only case of the
royal dynasty lasted for over 500 years and tombs of Kings and Queens
preserved (from Geonwonreung of King Taejo to Hyoreung of the last
emperor Sunjong) until now. The royal tombs of Joseon have inherited
the unique architectural style and landscaping that are harmonized
with the nature, and intangible cultural assets like the religious
ceremony.
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Guidebook for Living in Korea 2_National Parks
The following parks offer historic sites and spectacular scenery in Korean. They are
maintained and managed under national law. Many tourists visit the parks during their
visit to Korea.
Name
Jirisan
Gyeongju
Gyeryongsan
Hallyeohaesang
Location
Mountain peaks exceeding 1,500m
Spread across Jeollabuk-do, Jeollanam-do, and
Gyeongsangnam-do
Bulguksa, Seokga Pagoda, Seokgulam
from the Silla Dynasty
Gyeongju-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do
Baekjae relics, old temples (Donghaksa, Spread across Gongju-si, Nonsan-si, and Daejeon-si,
Gapsa, Shinwonsa), scenic waterfalls
Chungcheongnam-do
Heron breeding site in Hakseom (natural Spread across Yeosu, Jeollanam-do and
monument)
Tongyeong, Gyeongsangnam-do
Seoraksan
Baekdamsa, Cheonbuldong Valley, fivecolored hot spring, Daeseung Waterfall
Spread across Sokcho-si and Inje-gun, Gangwon-do
Songnisan
Munjangdae, Beopjusa, Pinus densiflora
Spread across Boeun-gun and Goesan-gun,
Chungcheongbuk-do, and Sangju-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do
Hallasan
Hallsan (highest mountain in South
Korea at 1,950m), Baekrokdam
Jeju Province
Naejangsan
Autumnal leaves, autumn festival,
Naejangsa
Jeollanam-do and Jeollabuk-do
Gayasan
Haeinsa, one of eight great views in
Korea
Hapcheon-gun and Geochang-gun, Gyeongsangnamdo, and Seongju-gun, Gyeongsangbuk-do
Deokyusan
Eight valleys, Muju Gucheon, winter
scenery
Jeollanam-do, Jeollabuk-do, Gyeonsangnam-do, and
Gyeonsangbuk-do
Woljeongsa, Sangwonsa, cultural relics
Gangneung-si and Hongcheon-gun, Gangwon-do
Juwangsan
Cliff, waterfalls
Cheongsong-gun and Yeongdeok-gun, Gyeongsangbuk-do
Bukhansan
Temples, valleys, cultural properties
Northern districts of Seoul
Chiaksan
Birobong, Sangwonsa
Wonju-si and Hoengseong-gun, Gangwon-do
Woraksan
Cultural properties, valleys, historical
sites
Jecheon-si, Chungju-si, Danyang-gun, Chungcheongbukdo, and Mungyeong-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do
Sobaeksan
Birobong, National Observatory
Dangyang-gun, Chungcheongbuk-do, and Yeongju-si,
Gyeongsangbuk-do
Wolchulsan
Waterfalls, old pine trees, autumnal
leaves, spectacular rocks and stones
Yeongam-gun and Gangjin-gun, Jeollanam-do
Odaesan
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3_Major Tourist Destinations by Region
(1) Seoul and the Seoul Metropolitan Area
Gyeongbokgung (Palace) Gyeongbokgung was established
by King Taejo who founded the Joseon Dynasty in 1395. It was burnt
during the Japanese invasion in 1592, and restored by King Gojong in
the 1800’s. Buildings such as Geunjeongjeon, Hyangwonjeong and the
chimney at Mountain Ami have been well preserved, displaying the
beauty of the Korean traditional cultural heritage.
※ Gyeongbokgung Station (Exit No. 1, Subway Line No. 3)
Cheonggyecheon (Stream) Cheonggyecheon that has been
covered by the elevated road for 40 years was recently restored into
an eco stream. With the length of 5.8km, the stream has 22 bridges
including Mojeongyo (Bridge), Gwangtonggyo (Bridge), Jangtonggyo
(Bridge), Beodeuldari (Bridge) and Dumuldari (Bridge), as well as nine
fountains. There are diverse tourist spots including the most beautiful
eight spots of Cheonggye including Cheonggye Square, Gwangtonggyo,
Jeongjobanchado (Picture), Fashion Square, Cheonggyecheon Wash
Place, the Wall of Hope, Haneulmulteo and Beodeul Wetland.
※ City Hall Station (Subway Line No. 1 & No. 2), Gwanghwamun Station
(Subway Line No. 5) and Euljiro Ipgu Station (Subway Line No. 2)
Jogyesa (Temple) Jogyesa was established as Gakhwangsa
in 1910, and it has served as the center of Korean Buddhism where
the general affairs center of Jogyejong and the central religious
association are located. There are the sanctuary and the building of the
general affairs center of Jogyejong, the Buddhists’ convention center,
Bronze Bell of Seongwonsa, Yongmunsan (Mt.), which was designated
as National Treasure No. 327, a tower, a stone tower and a white
pine tree which is five years old and was designated as the Natural
Monument No. 9 in Jogyesa.
※ Ten minutes’ walk from Jonggak Station, Subway Line No. 1
229
Guidebook for Living in Korea Namsan (Mt.) Namsan is located at the border of Jung-gu and
Yongsan-gu, Seoul, and its height is 262m. When Seoul was designated
as the capital in the early Joseon period, castle walls were built
along the ridge of many mountains including Namsan. The Mountain
situated at the center of Seoul was designated as Namsan Park with
the area of 1,029,300㎡, which is the largest park in Seoul. There are
Palgakjeong that was built in the same shape as that of Tapgol Park
and Seoul Tower at the top of the Mountain.
※ Dongdaeipgu Station (Subway Line No. 3), Myeongdong Station (Subway
Line No. 4) and Chungmuro Station (Subway Line No. 4)
Korean Folk Village Korean Folk Village was completed in
1974 to preserve the folk cultural resources, provide the venue for
education of children and introduce the traditional culture of Korea to
domestic and foreign visitors. The village reproduced lifestyle of the
late Joseon period. Nongak, Jultagi, martial arts on the horseback,
traditional wedding ceremonies and other events are being operated
at the village by season. They serve Korean traditional dishes including
jeungpyeon, injeolmi, grilled dried Pollack, bindaetteok and pajun as
well as dongdongju, a traditional liquor of Korea.
※ Bus No. 1116 at Jamsil Station and Bundang Station, Bus No. 1560
from Gangnam Station and Yangjae Station, Bus No. 37 or shuttle from
Suwon Station
(2) Gangwon Areas
Gyeongpodae (Beach)
Gyeongpodae is 1.8km long and its
average depth is 1m or 2m. It is one of the most loved beach, thanks to
the appropriate depth and the gently rise and fall. It is an ideal summer
holiday spot, as visitors can enjoy sea bathing and forest walk at the
surrounding pine forest. One of the most popular activities is riding a
rental bike at Gyeongpoho (Lake). Visitors can also visit mountains, the
sea and valleys as Seoraksan (Mt.) and Odeasan (Mt.) National Parks
are located adjacent to the beach.
※ 20 minutes by bus No. 19-7 from Gyeongpo Station
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Samcheok Hwanseon Cave Estimated to be 6.2m long, the
largest lime cave in the oriental world is located at the hillside that
rises 500m above the sea level. A massive amount of water comes
out of the arched entrance with the width of 14m and the height of
10m. The inside is packed with rare splendid stalactite and secondary
materials that were produced through diverse stages, allowing us to
witness formation, growth and destruction of a cave.
※ Transportation: 40 minutes from Samcheok Bus Terminal
Seoraksan (Mt.) With Daecheongbong, the highest peak of
Taebaek Mountains, which is the backbone of Korea, Seoraksan is the
most beautiful mountain in South Korea where diverse flowers bloom
in spring, clean water flows through valleys in summer, leaves change
color around Seorak Festival in autumn and snow-covered landscape
impresses visitors in winter. If we divide the mountain into two with
the border of Hangyeryeong and Misiryeong, the part near the east
sea is called Oeseorak and the western part is called Naeseorak. The
southern part of Hangyeryeong is called Namseorak. ※ Bus No. 7 from Sokcho Express Bus Terminal
Namiseom (Island) Namiseom is located at the border of
Gyeonggi-do and Gangwon-do, and it was formed in 1994 when
Cheongpyeong Dam was established. It is famous as the shooting place
of soap opera, Winter Sonata, and well known among tourists of Asian
countries including Japan, Taiwan and China.
※ Taxi or urban bus from Gapyeong Station of Gyeongchun Line or
Gapyeong Bus Terminal (approximately 10 minutes)
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Guidebook for Living in Korea (3) Central Areas
Seosan Maae Samjon Buddha’s Statue Seosan Maae
Samjon Buddha’s Statue was designated as National Treasure No. 84
on December 20, 1962. Bonjonyeorae is 2.8m high, Bosal ipsang is 1.7m
high, and Bangasang is 1.66m high. A huge Yeoraeipsang is carved at
the center of the rocky cliff located in Mountain Gaya, Unsan-myeong,
Seosan-si, Chungcheongnam-do, with Bosalipsang on the right and
Bangasayusang on the left.
※ Two hours and 20 minutes by bus from Seoul Nambu Bus Terminal Gungnamji Gungnamji is the Historic Site No. 135, and also called
Maraebangjuk. It is the nation’s oldest artificial reserve, and located at
Dongnam-ri, Buyeo-eup, Buyeo-gun, Chungcheongnam-do. It is located
about 1km south from Buyeo-eup, and there are foundation stone in the
east and old tiles surrounding the reserve. There is an octagon-shaped
well with three stages of marbles near the reserve, whose water is still
being used as drinking water.
※ 15 minutes’ walk from Buyeo Bus Terminal
Gongju Gongsanseong The stone castle of the Baekje period
is located in Sanseong-dong, Geumseong-dong and Ongnyeong-dong
of Gongju-si, Chungcheongnam-do. Among 2,660m of the castle wall,
about 1,930m consists of stone walls while about 730m consists of mud
walls. The eastern part of the mud walls built in the Baekje period has
been well preserved, and the remaining parts have been restored to the
original shape.
※ 20 minutes by Bus No. 1, 3, 22 and 30 from Gongju Bus Terminal
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The Independence Hall of Korea The Independence Hall
of Korea has displayed materials and remains of ancestors who have
overcome the national crisis and sacrificed for the independence of the
country. The Hall with 37 buildings was established on the land with the
area of 1,208,135 pyeong in Mountain Heukseong, Mokcheon-myeon,
Dongnam-gu, Cheonan-si, Chuncheongnam-do, on August 15, 1987.
There are the Hall of Gyeore, the Grand Square of Gyeore, the March 1st
Square, Mugunghwa Hill, the Road of Unification, 105 Great People’s
Stairs and seven exhibition halls.
※ Bus bound for the Independence Hall of Korea at Cheonan Bus
Terminal
Beopjusa (Temple) Beopjusa was established by Euisinjosa in
King Jinheung Year 14, when 24 years passed since Buddhism was
introduced to Shilla. There are Daewungbojeon, which is one of the
three major Bulsangjeon of Korea, eight jengak including Yongwhajeon
and Wontongbojeon, five attached buildings including Iljumun and
Geumggangmun, three buildings including Sunwon, Gangwon and
Yeomburwon and over 10 buildings for monks including Yeonhwadang
and Yonghwadang.
※ 20 minutes’ walk from Songnisan Bus Terminal
Chungjuho (Lake) Chungjuho is the multi-purpose lake that was
built by blocking the valley between Jongmin-dong and Dongryangmyeon of Chungju, and is the largest and cleanest lake in the nation.
Rich tourist destinations including Woraksan, Songgye Valley,
Cheongpung Cultural Heritage Complex, eight best spots of Danyang,
Gosu Cave, Guinsa, Suanbo Hot Spring and Nodong Cave are located
near the lake.
Dodamsambong (Peak) There are Janggunbong (Husband’s
Peak) located at the center, Cheopbong (Daughter’s Peak) on the left
and Cheobong (Son’s Peak) on the right that rise above the water. It is
said that the three peaks symbolize a wife who turned her back to her
husband who kept a mistress for a son. Music fountain that moves to
the tunes is also worth seeing.
※ Danyang IC – National Road No. 5 (bound for Danyang) – Sangjin
Bridge – Danyang Downtown – National Road No. 4 (bound for
Dodamsambong)
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Guidebook for Living in Korea (4) Southeastern Areas (Honam Areas)
Maisan Stone Tower Maisan (Mt.) has the world’s only couple
of peaks. Sutmai (667m) and Ammai (673m) with aqueous rocks are
harmonized with each other. Over 80 stone towers built by Gap-Yong
Lee are famous. Those towers are said to be built by Mr. Lee in the late
1800’s, and they never collapse in heavy storms.
Gwanghallu (Pavilion) Gwanghallu was called Gwangtongru,
but Gwanchalsa In-Ji Jeong named it as Gwanghallu in 1444, fascinated
by its beautiful scenery. He named it Gwanghallu, as it was similar to
Gwanghancheongheobu of Wolgung. It is famous as the place where
the main characters of Chunhyangjeon, Mr. Lee and Chunhyang, fell in
love with each other. Chunhyangsa was established and the portrait of
Chunhyang was installed in 1920’s to admire the spirit of ancestors. ※ Ten minutes by taxi from Namwon Station and ten minutes’ walk from
Namwon Urban Bus Terminal
Hwaeomsa (Temple) Hwaeomsa is the thousand year-old
temple located in Mountain Jiji, which is 5.4km east from Gurye-eup.
The temple was named as Hwaeomsa as Yeongijosa founded it in 544.
It was burnt during the Japanese invasion, and Byeogamseona started
restoring it in 1930. It was completed in 1636 after seven years of
restoration works.
※ 30 minutes by bus from Gurye Urban Bus Terminal
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Mireuksaji King Mu, Madong who married to Princess Seonhwa of
Shilla and became King, met three Mireuk from the pond while traveling
to visit Jimyeongbeopsa of Sajasa located in Mountain Yonghwa (present
Mountain Mireuk), and established Mireuksa to commemorate the
meeting. The stone tower of Mireuksaji was designated as National
Treasure No. 11, and it is the nation’s largest stone tower with the height
of 14.24m.
※ Bus No. 41, 60 or 105 bound for Ssangneung at Ilsan Station
Naganeupseong There are thatched cottages and the market
in Naganeupseong, and the castle has been well preserved since the
Joseon period. 108 households are still living in the Korean traditional
lifestyle. Unlike Hahoe Village of Andong where upper classes gathered,
Naganeupseong well illustrates the life of common people.
※ 30 minutes by Bus No. 63 from Suncheon Express Bus Terminal
Wang In’s Remains Doctor Wang In lived near Munpilbong
located in the east of Gurim Village, and Wang In’s Remains have
been restored. He served as the master and the political advisor of
the Japanese royal family by handing down craft skills and creating
Japanese songs. He handed down the culture of Baekje to enlighten
Japanese people, and became the founder of Bijo culture of Japan.
※ About 10 minutes by car to the direction of Mokpo from Yeongam Bus
Terminal 235
Guidebook for Living in Korea (5) Southeastern Area (Yeongnam Area)
Jikjisa (Temple) Jikjisa has the beautiful landscape with old pines,
clean water flowing through deep valleys and autumn leaves. There is
Birojeon (so-called thousand buddas’ temple) where one thousand baby
Buddha are located, as well as Iljumun with 1000 year-old arrowroot
and bush clover pillars, Daewungjeon that represents the architecture
of the Joseon period and Seokjoyaksa Yeoraejwasang (Treasure No. 319)
built in the united Shilla period.
※ Take Bus No. 11 at Gimcheon Bus Terminal, and walk for 20 minutes
from the final destination of Bus No. 11
Donghwasa (Temple) Donghwasa was founded by Geukdal
Hwasang at the southern foot of Mountain Palgong, which is 22km
northeast from Daegu downtown, in King Soji Year 15 (493) of Silla.
It was initially named as Yugasa, and Simjiwangsa renamed it as
Donghwasa when he restored it in King Heungdeok Year 7 (832).
He named it as Donghwasa because flowers of Paulowinia coreana
bloomed in the temple despite cold winter weathers.
※ Bus No. 105 bound for Donghwasa from Dongdaegu Express Bus
Terminal Bongjeongsa (Temple) Bongjeongsa was founded by Euisang
in 692, when King Munmu of Silla ruled the country. Geungnakjeon,
the nation’s oldest wooden building, shows the architectural style
of the Goryeo period. There are many cultural heritages including
Gogeumdang and three-story stone pogoda in the temple.
※ One hour by bus, No. 51, from Andong Bus Terminal
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Geoje Haegeumgang
Geoje Haegeumgang is initially named
as Galdo (Island of Arrowroot), as it was shaped like arrowroots. It is
commonly called Haegeumgang, which refers to Geumgangsan of South
Korea. The river where two islands meet is included to National Hallyeo
Marine Park, and was designated as Famous Tourist Destination No. 2
in 1971.
※ One and a half hours by bus from Jangseungpo, Geoje
Haewundae Beach Haewundae Beach has the spacious beach
and beautiful shorelines with the length of 1.8km and the width of 50m.
It provides the most ideal environment for beach goers with shallow
water and gentle waves. The beach represents Busan, as it is the first
image of Busan among tourists.
※ Walk from Haewundae Subway Station
Andong Hahoe Village Haheo Village is the typical village where
Pungsan Ryu family has lived from generation to generation, and well
illustrates the true beauty of Korean traditional houses. The great
Confucian scholars Gyeomam Wun-Ryong Ryu and Seoae Seong-Ryong
Ryu were born in the village, and it gained more popularity when it was
visited by Queen Elizabeth II of the UK in April 1999.
※ 25km to the direction of Yecheon from Andong (Andong – Songhyeondong- Pungsan – Puncheon Jung-ri – Hahoe Village)
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Guidebook for Living in Korea (6) Jeju Island
Seongsan Ilchulbong Seongsan Ilchulbong rises 182m above
the sea level and is a volcano that was erupted in the sea tens of
thousands of years ago, which is a rare case among numerous craters
in Jeju Island. As lava was mixed with water at point of volcanic eruption,
lave became ashes and piled up around the crater in the conical shape.
There is a crater with the diameter of 600m, whose bottom is 90m high
above the sea level and the area of over 264,000㎡ at the tom of the
Ilchulbong.
※ 30 minutes’ bus ride from Jeju Folk Museum
Manjanggul Manjanggul is the world’s longest lava cave, which is
about 5m wide, 5m to 10m high and 13,422m long. It was formed when
the volcanic eruption was made in Jeju Island and lava erupted from the
crater of Mountain Halla flew to the coast about 2.5 million years ago.
※ 40 minutes by car from Jeju Bus Terminal
Sangumburi Although there are over 360 parasitic volanos in Jeju
Island, others except Sangumburi have the shape of a bowl. Sangumburi
has a hole, as it is the only volcano that erupted without spouting of lava
or ashes. Such a volcano is called Maar, and Sangumburi is the nation’s
only case and the world’s rare case.
※ 40 minutes from Jeju Bus Terminal
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For detailed information on tourist destinations in Korea, visit the website of Korea
Tourism Organization (www.visitkorea.or.kr) or call 1330 (local code + 1330 from outside
Seoul or mobile phones). The website of Korea Tourism Organization supports search
by theme, and is provided in multiple languages including English, Japanese, Chinese,
German, French, Spanish, Russian and Thai.
For detailed information on local tourist sites, visit the websites of local governments.
Websites of Local Governments
Area
Website
Area
Address
www.provin.gangwon.kr
Seoul Special City
www.seoul.go.kr
Gangwon-do
Busan
Metropolitan City
www.busan.go.kr
Chungcheongbuk-do
Daegu
Metropolitan City
www.daegu.go.kr
Chungcheongnam-do
www.chungnam.net
Incheon
Metropolitan City
www.incheon.go.kr
Jeollanam-do
www.jeonnam.go.kr
Gwangju
Metropolitan City
www.gwangju.go.kr
Jeollabuk-do
www.jeonbuk.go.kr
Daejeon
Metropolitan City
www.metro.daejeon.kr
Gyeongsangbuk-do
www.gyeongbuk.go.kr
Ulsan
Metropolitan City
www.ulsan.go.kr
Gyeongsangnam-do
www.gsnd.net
Gyeonggi Province
www.gg.go.kr
Jeju Province
www.jeju.go.kr
www.cb21.net
239
Guidebook for Living in Korea 4_Museums and Art Galleries
National Museum of Korea
www.museum.go.kr ☎02-2077-9000
The National Museum of Korea is a major museum that holds all types
of cultural artifacts. The Asian Hall provides an introduction to the
cultures of other Asian countries. In addition, there is an educational
program, a children’s museum, diverse concerts and special events,
and a professional concert hall.
The National Folk Museum of Korea
www.nfm.go.kr ☎02-3704-3114
Located within Gyeongbokgung, this museum exhibits artifacts related
to the lives of our ancestors, from the prehistoric ages to the Chosun
Dynasty. Cultural properties discussed in elementary school textbooks
are displayed.
The Korean National Police Heritage Museum
www.policemuseum.go.kr ☎02-735-2519
See the history of Korea’s national police from the Joseon Dynasty
to the present at this heritage museum. You can enjoy a first-hand
experience of the equipment used by the police force.
Agricultural Museum
www.museum.nonghyup.com ☎02-2080-5727
Through the excavation and preservation of agricultural relics, and
research of agriculture, you can learn more about our ancestors’
wisdom and traditional culture.
Seoul Museum of History
www.museum.seoul.kr ☎02-724-0163
Covering a period of history spanning more than 600 years comprising
the Joseon Dynasty, this museum can raise your awareness of Seoul’s
history and traditional culture.
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Aerospace Museum
www.aerospacemuseum.or.kr ☎02-300-0466
The 21st century is opening new doors to the field of aerospace
engineering. Interesting information on the aerospace industry,
aircraft operation, and fighter planes is available.
Seodaemun Museum of Natural History
www.namu.sdm.go.kr ☎02-330-8899
Located in Seoul Yeonhuidong, the Museum of Natural History displays
models of various organisms that have existed during the Earth’s
history. From dinosaurs to butterflies, the diversity of living creatures
will amaze you.
Leeum Samsung Museum of Art
www.leeum.org ☎02-2014-6901
Korean art and cultural heritage works are displayed according to
their time period. Focusing on different genres and artists, you can
learn more about the history of art in Korea.
Museum of Contemporary Art
www.moca.go.kr ☎02-2188-6000
Located near Seoul Land in Gyeonggi Gwacheon, this museum exhibits
diverse modern and contemporary artworks. By visiting this museum,
you can gain an insight into world art trends.
Seodaemun Prison History Hall
www.sscmc.or.kr/culture2 ☎02-360-8590
Located in Seoul Hyeonjeodong, the old Seodaemu Prison was
preserved to become a history hall. It reproduces the oppression
experienced by Koreans during the Japanese Occupation. This
historical education center will allow you to gain an appreciation of
independence.
241
Guidebook for Living in Korea The War Memorial of Korea
www.warmemo.co.kr ☎02-709-3139
Located in Seoul Yongsan, the War Memorial displays all kinds of
commodities related to war. You can find weapons such as guns,
cannons, tanks, and fighter planes that were used in the past.
Samsung Children’s Museum
www.samsungkids.org ☎02-2143-3600
Located in Seoul Shincheondong, Samsung Children’s Museum offers
children to experience science, art, media, society, and culture.
Railroad Museum
info.korail.com ☎031-461-3610
Located in Gyeonggi Uiwang, this museum has an outdoor exhibition
ground for different train models and related equipment
Gansong Museum ☎02-762-0442
The Gansong Museum in Seoul Seongbukdong contains ancient books, cultural properties, and art
works of Korea.
※ If you wish to visit other museums in your region, please refer to www.emuseum.go.kr, which is run by the
Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism. More information on various museums is available.
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5_Theme Parks
Seoul Grand Park
grandpark.seoul.go.kr
Located in Gyeonggi Gwacheon, you can experience the natural beauty
of Cheonggyesan and the animals at Seoul Grand Park Zoo. Various
activities are available, including dolphin shows, theme gardens (rose
garden, children’s zoo), a natural campground, and amusement rides.
Seoul Lotte World www.lotteworld.com
Lotte World is located in Jamsil, Seoul. Seoul Lotte World offers a wide
variety of amusement rides, festivals, and parades, as well as indoor
and outdoor performances.
Everland www.everland.com
Located in Gyeonggi Yongin, Everland is Korea’s largest theme park
that offers various amusement rides, a themed zoo, and a safari. Try
surfing on the artificial waves at the famous water-park, Caribbean
Bay.
Seorak Waterpia www.seorakwaterpia.com
Seorak Waterpia is a hot-spring park located in Gangwon Sokcho. You
can enjoy water activities and hot springs all year round.
Korean Folk Village
www.koreanfolk.co.kr
Located in Gyeonggi Yongin, the Korean Folk Village is an outdoor folk
museum that recreates the lives of our ancestors, and displays Korea’s
traditional buildings and cultural properties. It is a popular attraction
for both local and foreign tourists, and provides a rare opportunity to
experience Korean tradition and culture.
243
Guidebook for Living in Korea Busan Children’s Grand Park www.bschildpark.or.kr
Found in Busan Seomyeon, various trees and plants make up this scenic
citizens’ park in the city center. In the Children’s Grand Park, available facilities
include the Busan Education and Cultural Center for Students, Children’s
Center, Dream Traffic Land, Nature Center, a theme park and a zoo.
Daejeon EXPO Science Park
www.expopark.co.kr
The EXPO Science Park is a science-based theme park. A 3D studio,
Imax theater, robot classrooms, and technological exhibitions provide
an academic learning environment for students.
Cheonan Sangnok Resort www.sangnokresort.co.kr
Sangnok Resort is a large leisure town with amusement rides, waterpark, sleigh rides, a golf course, and a village.
Daegu Woobang Land www.woobangland.co.kr
Woobang Land is home to Daegu’s major leisure facilities. It offers a
77-storey sky jump, an aquarium, a children’s museum, and water
activities.
Tongdo Fantasia www.fantasia.co.kr
Located in Gyeongnam Yangsan, Tongdo Fantasia provides amusement
rides, water and snow activities, and various events.
Kumho Family Land www.kumhofamilyland.co.kr
Located in Gwangju, Kumho Family Land has more than 30
amusement rides, an ice rink, and a swimming pool.
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6_Popular Neighborhoods for Foreigners
• Itaewon (Seoul)
Itaewon is the best-known district for foreigners, and
includes many foreign embassies, a mosque, and restaurants
that serve dishes from foreign countries. The restaurants are
located along the street that runs from Hangangjin Subway
Station, Subway Line No. 6, to Noksapyeong Subway Station,
Subway Line No. 6. - European Restaurants: Italian, French, Switzerland and German cuisine
- Asian Restaurants: Pakistani, Thai, Indonesian, Indian, Chinese, Japanese and Korean
cuisine
- Latin American Restaurants: Mexican cuisine
For locations and detailed information of each restaurant, visit www.iteawon.go.kr/food/
index.asp (in Korean, English, Japanese and Chinese)
• Nepali Street (Seoul): Changsin-dong and Sungin-dong
Nepali Street was formed in Sungin-dong and Changsin-dong around Exit No. 4,
Dongdaemun Subway Station, Subway Line No. 1, and features a cluster of Nepali
restaurants and stores. Formed around 2000, the street became a district where over 200
Nepali people gather to trade goods and eat Nepali foods.
• Yanbian Street (Seoul): Gasan-dong, Garibong-dong and Daerim-dong
Yanbian Street is a home for many Chinese residents, and it was formed in the late 90s,
when Chinese workers settled in Jjokbang District, often referred to as the “Harlem”
for the workers in the Guro Industrial Complex. Garibong Market and streets of Gasandong are packed with Chinese grocery stores, Chinese restaurants, Chinese karaoke,
international call centers and exchange centers.
Near Guro Subway Station and Garibong Subway Station, Subway Line No. 1; and Daerim Subway Station and
Guro Digital Complex Subway Station, Subway Line No. 2
245
Guidebook for Living in Korea • Central Asian Town (Seoul): Euiljiro 6-ga and Gwangheui-dong
Central Asian Town is located 20m south of Exit No. 12, Dongdaemun History & Culture
Park Station, Subway Line No. 2. The town was formed naturally when peddlers from
Russia and other Central Asian countries visited the clothing markets in Dongdaemun.
There are restaurants here that serve original Central Asian dishes.
• The Street of the Philippines (Seoul): Hyehwa-dong Rotary
The Street of the Philippines is located between the wall of Dongseong Middle and High
Schools and Hyehwa-dong Cathedral. Filipino workers that live in Seoul and the Seoul
Metropolitan Area sell tropical fruits including mango, coconut and long bean, as well
as popular commodities from the Philippines such as canned food, shampoo, cosmetic
goods, spices and seasoning. You can also find albums by Filipino singers, and videotapes
Filipino TV dramas and films.
The Street is accessible from Hyehwa Station, Subway Line No. 4.
• China Town (Incheon) Incheon China Town is a place where Korean culture and Chinese
culture is mixed. Following a massive influx of Chinese immigrants when Incheon Port
opened its doors to foreigners in 1883, the history and the culture of the Town have been
well preserved. The only China Town in Korea, Incheon China Town has been designated
as a special tourism zone, and has more than 500 full-time Chinese residents. Its official
website is www.ichinatown.or.kr/index.asp (in Korean and Chinese).
Incheon China Town is accessible from Incheon Subway Station, Subway Line No. 1.
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X Enjoy Korea!
• Borderless Town (Ansan, Gyeonggi Province) Located in front of Ansan Station,
Gyeonggi Province, Wongok-dong is the place in Korea where we can find more foreigners
from countries all over the world than Koreans. As people from diverse countries are
gathered here, there are restaurants and stores from all over the world.
The Town is accessible from Ansan Subway Station, Subway Line No. 4.
• Russian Street (Busan) Choryang Foreign Shopping Street is located opposite to Busan
Station, and is called Choryang Texas Street. The street has been used by Russians for
economic activities since the early 90s, when Russian crews would visit the Street to buy
and sell daily commodities.
The Street is accessible from Exit No. 5, Busan Subway Station.
247
Reference
250
255
Multicultural Family Support Centers ☎1577-5432
Emergency Support Center for Migrant Women ☎1577-1366
255
Support Centers for Foreign Workers
256
Korea Immigration Service ☎1345
1>> Multicultural Family Support Centers ☎1577-5432
Center
Seoul
Busan
Daegu
Incheon
Gwangju
Daejeon
Ulsan
Gyeonggi
250
Contact
Dongdaemun-gu Multicultural Family Support Center
82-2-957-1074
Seongbuk-gu Multicultural Family Support Center
82-2-953-0468
Yeongdeungpo-gu Multicultural Family Support Center
82-2-846-5432
Dongjak-gu Multicultural Family Support Center
82-2-599-3260
Songpa-gu Multicultural Family Support Center
82-2-403-3844
Nam-gu Multicultural Family Support Center
82-51-610-2027
Sasang-gu Multicultural Family Support Center
82-51-320-8344
Saha-gu Multicultural Family Support Center
82-51-205-8345
Gijang-gun Multicultural Family Support Center
82-51-723-0419
Nam-gu Multicultural Family Support Center
82-53-475-2324
Dalseo-gu Multicultural Family Support Center
82-53-580-6819
Seo-gu Multicultural Family Support Center
82-53-341-8312
Dalseong-gun Multicultural Family Support Center
82-53-282-4371
Nam-gu Multicultural Family Support Center
82-32-440-6545
Ganghwa-gun Multicultural Family Support Center
82-32-933-0980
Gyeyang-gu Multicultural Family Support Center
82-32-552-1016
Namdong-gu Multicultural Family Support Center
82-32-467-3912
Gwangsan-gu Multicultural Family Support Center
82-62-954-8003
Buk-gu Multicultural Family Support Center
82-62-363-2963
Jung-gu Multicultural Family Support Center
82-42-252-9997
Daedeok-gu Multicultural Family Support Center
82-42-639-2664
Nam-gu Multicultural Family Support Center
82-52-274-3185
Ulju-gun Multicultural Family Support Center
82-52-263-6881
Namyangju Multicultural Family Support Center
82-31-590-8214
Suwon Multicultural Family Support Center
82-31-257-8504
Anseong Multicultural Family Support Center
82-31-677-7191
List of Major Organizations
Center
Gyeonggi
Gangwon
Chungbuk
Chungnam
Contact
Goyang Multicultural Family Support Center
82-31-938-9801
Bucheon Multicultural Family Support Center
82-32-327-1370
Seongnam Multicultural Family Support Center
82-31-740-1175
Ansan Multicultural Family Support Center
82-31-439-2209
Yongin Multicultural Family Support Center
82-31-323-7133
Euijeongbu Multicultural Family Support Center
82-31-878-7880
Pyeongtaek Multicultural Family Support Center
82-31-618-8322
Wonju Multicultural Family Support Center
82-33-765-8135
Gangneung Multicultural Family Support Center
82-33-648-3019
Chuncheon Multicultural Family Support Center
82-33-251-8014
Sokcho Multicultural Family Support Center
82-33-638-3523
Hongcheon-gun Multicultural Family Support Center
82-33-433-1925
Hoengseong-gun Multicultural Family Support Center
82-33-344-3459
Inje-gun Multicultural Family Support Center
82-33-462-3651
Pyeongchang-gun Multicultural Family Support Center
82-33-330-2087
Cheolwon-gun Multicultural Family Support Center
82-33-452-7800
Cheongju Multicultural Family Support Center
82-43-223-5253
Okcheon-gun Multicultural Family Support Center
82-43-733-1915
Boeun-gun Multicultural Family Support Center
82-43-544-5422
Jecheon Multicultural Family Support Center
82-43-643-0050
Chungju Multicultural Family Support Center
82-43-856-2253
Goesan-gun Multicultural Family Support Center
82-43-832-1078
Jincheon-gun Multicultural Family Support Center
82-43-537-5431
Yeongdong-gun Multicultural Family Support Center
82-43-745-8489
Gongju Multicultural Family Support Center
82-41-856-0883
Geumsan-gun Multicultural Family Support Center
82-41-750-3990
251
Chungnam
Jeonbuk
252
Center
Contact
Asan Multicultural Family Support Center
82-41-540-2972
Buyeo-gun Multicultural Family Support Center
82-41-835-2480
Yesan-gun Multicultural Family Support Center
82-41-334-1367
Seosan Multicultural Family Support Center
82-41-664-2710
Hongseong-gun Multicultural Family Support Center
82-41-634-7432
Nonsan Multicultural Family Support Center
82-41-735-5810
Dangjin-gun Multicultural Family Support Center
82-41-358-3673
Boryeong Multicultural Family Support Center
82-41-936-8506
Seocheon-gun Multicultural Family Support Center
82-41-953-1911
Yeongi-gun Multicultural Family Support Center
82-41-862-9338
Cheonan Multicultural Family Support Center
82-70-7733-8305
Cheongyang-gun Multicultural Family Support Center
82-41-944-2333
Taean-gun Multicultural Family Support Center
82-41-670-2396
Iksan Multicultural Family Support Center
82-63-850-6046
Jangsu-gun Multicultural Family Support Center
82-63-352-3362
Gimje Multicultural Family Support Center
82-63-545-8506
Namwon Multicultural Family Support Center
82-63-635-5474
Wanju-gun Multicultural Family Support Center
82-63-290-1298
Jeonju Multicultural Family Support Center
82-63-243-0333
Jeongeup Multicultural Family Support Center
82-63-531-0309
Gochang-gun Multicultural Family Support Center
82-63-561-1366
Sunchang-gun Multicultural Family Support Center
82-63-653-8180
Gunsan Multicultural Family Support Center
82-63-443-5300
Muju-gun Multicultural Family Support Center
82-63-322-1131
Buan-gun Multicultural Family Support Center
82-63-580-4587
Imsil-gun Multicultural Family Support Center
82-63-642-1837
List of Major Organizations
Center
Jeonbuk
Jeonnam
Gyeongbuk
Contact
Jinan-gun Multicultural Family Support Center
82-63-433-4888
Naju Multicultural Family Support Center
82-61-331-0709
Suncheon Multicultural Family Support Center
82-61-742-1050
Yeonggwang-gun Multicultural Family Support Center
82-61-353-7997
Yeongam-gun Multicultural Family Support Center
82-61-463-2929
Gwangyang Multicultural Family Support Center
82-61-797-6832
Goheung-gun Multicultural Family Support Center
82-61-832-5399
Yeosu Multicultural Family Support Center
82-61-690-7158
Jangseong-gun Multicultural Family Support Center
82-61-393-5420
Jangheung-gun Multicultural Family Support Center
82-61-864-4810
Haenam-gun Multicultural Family Support Center
82-61-534-0017
Gokseong-gun Multicultural Family Support Center
82-61-362-5411
Hampyeong-gun Multicultural Family Support Center
82-61-324-5431
Hwasun-gun Multicultural Family Support Center
82-61-375-1057
Damyang-gun Multicultural Family Support Center
82-61-380-2807
Muan-gun Multicultural Family Support Center
82-61-452-1813
Gumi Multicultural Family Support Center
82-54-464-0545
Mungyeong Multicultural Family Support Center
82-54-554-5591
Pohang Multicultural Family Support Center
82-54-270-5556
Yecheon-gun Multicultural Family Support Center
82-54-654-4321
Gyeongsan Multicultural Family Support Center
82-53-810-6221
Gyeongju Multicultural Family Support Center
82-54-743-0770
Gimcheon Multicultural Family Support Center
82-54-439-8279
Sangju Multicultural Family Support Center
82-54-535-1341
Andong Multicultural Family Support Center
82-54-853-3111
Yeongju Multicultural Family Support Center
82-54-634-5431
253
Center
Gyeongbuk
Gyeongnam
Jeju
254
Contact
Yeongcheon Multicultural Family Support Center
82-54-334-2882
Uljin-gun Multicultural Family Support Center
82-54-789-5411
Euiseong-gun Multicultural Family Support Center
82-54-832-5440
Gimhae Multicultural Family Support Center
82-55-329-6349
Jinju Multicultural Family Support Center
82-55-749-2326
Changwon Multicultural Family Support Center
82-55-274-8337
Geoje Multicultural Family Support Center
82-55-682-4958
Geochang-gun Multicultural Family Support Center
82-55-945-1365
Masan Multicultural Family Support Center
82-55-245-8746
Miryang Multicultural Family Support Center
82-55-356-8875
Yangsan Multicultural Family Support Center
82-55-382-0988
Hamyang-gun Multicultural Family Support Center
82-55-963-2013
Namhae-gun Multicultural Family Support Center
82-55-864-6965
Haman-gun Multicultural Family Support Center
82-55-583-3217
Jeju Multicultural Family Support Center
82-64-712-1140
List of Major Organizations
2>> Emergency Support Center for Migrant Women
☎1577-1366
Areas
Center
Counseling Desk
Seoul
Emergency Support Center for
Migrant Women
Office
02-927-1410
Suwon
031-257-1841
1577-1366
Daejeon
042-488-2979
Local Centers
Gwangju
062-367-1577
Busan
051-508-1366
3>> Support Centers for Foreign Workers
Center
Tel
Website
Korea Migrants’ Center
1644-0644
www.migrantok.org
Ansan Foreign Workers Center
031-4750-111
www.afwc.or.kr
Uijeongbu Foreign Workers Center
031-8389-111
www.ufc.or.kr
Gimhae Foreign Workers Center
055-338-2727
www.gimhaekorea.or.kr
Masan Foreign Workers Center 055-253-5270~5
www.mfwc.or.kr
255
4>> Korea Immigration Service ☎1345
Name of Office
Address
Service Areas
Seoul, Gyeonggi and Incheon Areas
Seoul Immigration
Service
121 Mokdong-no, Yangcheon-gu,
Seoul
Seoul Special City; Anyang, Gwacheon, Seongnam,
Hanam and Gwangmyeong of Gyeonggi-do
Sejongno Branch
Office
Unhyeongung SK Hub Building, 2F,
12 Samil-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul
Jongno-gu, Jung-gu, Eunpyeong-gu, Dongdaemun-gu,
Jungnang-gu, Dobong-gu, Seongbuk-gu, Gangbuk-gu
and Nowon-gu of Seoul Special City
Incheon
Immigration
Service
1-31, Hang-dong 7-ga, Jung-gu,
Incheon
Incheon Metropolitan City;
Ansan, Bucheon, Siheung, Gimpo and Ongjin of
Gyeonggi-do
Suwon Immigration
Service
1012-6 Yeongtong-dong,
Yeongtong-gu, Suwon, Gyeonggido
Gunpo, Euiwang, Suwon Yongin, Osan, Icheon,
Anseong, Hwaseong, Gwangju, Yangpyeong-gun and
Yeoju-gun of Gyeonggi-do
Pyeongtaek Branch
Office
5 Sinjang-dong, Pyeongtaek,
Gyeonggi-do
Pyeongtaek Port and Dangjin Port
Osan Branch Office
Post Office Box No. 3, Songtan Post
Office, Pyeongtaek, Gyeonggi-do
Osan Airbase
Uijeongbu
Immigration
Service
467-2 Deokgye-dong, Yangju,
Gyeonggi-do
Uijeongbu, Dongducheon, Guri, Goyang, Namyangju,
Paju, Yangju, Yeoncheon, Pocheon of Gyeonggi-do;
Cheolwon-gun of Gangwon-do
6 Saam-ri, Dongnae-myeon,
Chuncheon, Gangwon-do
Gangwon-do
Gapyeong-gun of Gyeonggi-do
Gangwon Areas
Chuncheon
Immigration Service
Donghae Branch
Office
Sokcho Branch
Office
Goseong Branch
Office
Dongjin Building, 4F, 847
Cheongok-dong, Donghae,
Gangwon-do
Sokcho Port Support Center,
53-3 Dongmyeong-dong, Sokcho,
Gangwon-do
88 Myeongho-ri, Hyeonnae-myeon,
Goseong-gun, Gangwon-do
Donghae, Gangneung, Samcheok, Taebaek and
Jeongsun-gun of Gangwon-do
Sokcho, Yangyang and Goseong of Gangwon-do
Immigration affairs between North and South Koreas
Chungbuk, Chungnam and Daejeon Areas
256
Cheongju
Immigration
Service
23, Saeteo1-gil, Heungdeok-gu,
Cheongju, Chungcheongbuk-do
Chungcheongbuk-do
Daejeon
Immigration
Service
Mokdong-gil 150, Jung-gu, Daejeon
Metropolitan City
Daejeon Metropolitan City; Chungcheongnam-do;
Yeongdong-gun and Okcheon-gun of
Chungcheongbuk-do
Daesan Branch
Office
Hanseong Building, 3F, 197-8,
Daesan-ri, Daesan-eup, Seosan,
Chungcheongnam-do
Seosan, Taean-gun, Hongseong-gun, Dangjin-gun and
Boryeong Port of Chungcheongnam-do
List of Major Organizations
Name of Office
Address
Service Areas
Jeonbuk, Jeonnam and Gwangju Areas
Jeonju Immigration
Service
213 Hoseong-ro, Jeonju, Jeollabukdo
Jeollabuk-do
Gunsan Branch
Office
49-32 Jangmi-dong, Gunsn,
Jeollabuk-do
Gunsan and Janghang Port of Jeollabuk-do
Yeoju Immigration
Service
267 Museon-ro, Yeosu, Jeollanamdo
Yeosu, Suncheon and Gwangyang of Jeollanam-do
Gwangyang Branch
Office
1359-5 Jung-dong, Gwangyang,
Jeollanam-do
Gwangyang Port
Gwangju
Immigration
Service
196 Hwajeong-ro, Seo-gu, Gwangju
Gwnagju Metropolitan City and Jeollanam-do
(excluding Yeosu, Suncheon and Gwangyang)
Mokpo Branch
Office
982-2 Ogam-dong, Mokpo,
Jeollanam-do
Mokpo, Wando-gun, Sinan-gun, Muan-gun, Jindo-gun,
Yeongam-gun and Haenam-gun of Jeollanam-do
Gyeongbuk, Gyeongnam, Daegu and Ulsan Areas
Busan Immigration
Service
14 Chungjang-ro, Jung-gu, Busan
Busan Metropolitan City; Gijang-gun and
Gyeongsangnam-do (Gimhae, Yangsan and Miryang)
Ulsan Branch Office
139-16 Maeam-dong, Nam-gu,
Ulsan Metropolitan City
Ulsan Metropolitan City and Ulju-gun
Daegu Immigration
Service
117 Ansim-ro, Dong-gu, Daegu
Metropolitan City
Daegu Metropolitan City and Gyeongsangbuk-do
Pohang Branch
Office
58-13 Hanggu-dong, Buk-gu,
Pohang, Gyeongsangbuk-do
Pohang, Uljin-gun, Yeongdeok—gun and Uleung-gun
of Gyeongsangbuk-do
Masan Immigration
Service
260 Haean-ro, Masan,
Gyeongsangnam Province
Gyeongsangnam-do (excluding Gimhae, Yangsan and
Miryang)
Tongyeong Branch
Office
17`1-10 Dongho-dong, Tongyeong,
Gyeongsangnam-do
Tongyeong
Sacheon Branch
Office
44-5 Donggeum-dong, Sacheon,
Gyeongsangnam-do
Sacheon, Namhae-gun and Hadong-gun of
Gyeongsangnam-do
Geoje Branch Office
535-5 Majeon-dong, Geoje,
Gyeongsangnam-do
Geoje of Gyeongsangnam-do
277 Imhang-no, Jeju, Jeju Special
Self-Governing Province
Jeju Special Self-Governing Province
Jeju Areas
Jeju Immigration
Service
257
Guidebook
for Living
in Korea
for
Foreigners
한국생활 가이드북
Publisher
Korean Government
Planning
The Central Office for Multicultural Family Support Centers Images Provided by Korea Culture Organization
Designed by
The Seven Partners
Translated by
Enkoline (English and Russian)
References
Guidelines for a Happy Life in Korea (2007, Ministry for Health, Welfare and Family Affairs)
Cultural Guidebook for Immigrant Workers (2005, Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism)
Guidebook for School Life for Students of Primary, Middle and High Schools (three volumes,
2009, Ministry of Education, Science and Technology, Chungcheongbuk Provincial Office of
Education)
Happy Dream Happy Start (2009, Korea Immigration Service of Ministry of Justice)
※ This book was published under the sponsorship of Ministry for Health,
Welfare and Family Affairs, Ministry of Public Administration and Security and
Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism.
※ All rights reserved. No part of this book may be used or reproduced in any manner whatsoever without written permission.
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