Moving to Korea Checklist

Your first week sorted. Do these in order.

Day 1: Arrive & Settle

  • ☐ Get T-money card (subway/bus) at airport convenience store
  • ☐ Buy temporary SIM or eSIM (airport booth)
  • ☐ Get to your apartment, check inventory with landlord
  • ☐ Buy garbage bags at nearest convenience store (μ’…λŸ‰μ œ λ΄‰νˆ¬)

Day 2–3: Essentials

  • ☐ Visit immigration for ARC (Alien Registration Card)
  • ☐ Get Korean phone number (KT, SKT, or LG U+)
  • ☐ Open bank account (requires ARC β€” Hana, Shinhan, or Kakao Bank)
  • ☐ Download: Naver Map, KakaoTalk, Papago, Coupang

Day 4–5: Home Setup

  • ☐ Set up internet (KT, SKT, LG β€” ask landlord which)
  • ☐ Learn garbage/recycling rules (ask building guard)
  • ☐ Find nearest: mart, laundromat, convenience store
  • ☐ Test all appliances (AC, washing machine, ondol)
  • ☐ Take photos of apartment condition (for deposit protection)

Week 2: Quality of Life

  • ☐ Register at local ꡬ청 (district office) if needed
  • ☐ Get health insurance sorted (NHIS)
  • ☐ Find English-speaking doctor/dentist nearby
  • ☐ Join expat communities (Facebook groups, Reddit r/korea)
  • ☐ Explore your neighborhood β€” find your regular spots

Pro tip

Your building's security guard (경비원) is your best friend. They know everything about the building, local services, and can help with deliveries. A simple bow and "μ•ˆλ…•ν•˜μ„Έμš”" goes a long way.