Relocation Archives

Category: Relocation

21 Nov

Getting An Alien Registration Card

What Is An Alien Registration Card?

Obtaining an E-2 visa upon your arrival to Korea does not actually give you permission to live in Korea. I know, I was confused at first too! But, an E-2 visa is a legal document you need to teach English in South Korea regardless of educational institution. An Alien Registration card, or ARC, is an identification card that foreigners are legally obligated to carry with them at all times. According to Yonsei University (2014), “It is illegal to stay in Korea for more than 90 days without being registered, regardless of your visa at entry.”

How To Get Your ARC

To register for an Alien Registration Card, you must go to a Korean Immigration office and provide an application form, passport, 1 color photo (3.5cmx4.5cm), proof of residence, application fee of 30,000 KRW, and medical check-up record for tuberculosis. The staff at your branch will schedule an appointment for you weeks in advance and provide all necessary documents (application form, proof of residence, and medical check-up record). However, you are responsible for providing your passport, colored photo, and application fee the day of your appointment.

Sample E-2 visa grant form for teachers in Korea — ARC Application Form

Immigration Office

The day of your appointment, you’ll feel like you’re at a DMV. You’ll sit down, wait for your number to be called, go to the help desk, present your folder, sign a couple of papers. That being said, you’ll be on your way out within 10 minutes. And, yes, the people at the immigration office speak English! The great thing about this Company is that they basically hold your hand when it comes to setting up legal documentation. With that being said, try to release some of that weight off your shoulders. I promise everything will be okay! If you have any other concerns about the ARC process, the Embassy of the Republic of Korea is a great website that conveys helpful information.

Amber Ochoa is from Los Angeles, USA, and just recently moved to South Korea in May. She studied Biochemistry as an undergraduate. After graduation, she began venturing out and embracing her love for adventure. She finds that “nothing holds greater power in our life than the unknown.” One night while applying to random jobs on Indeed, she came across an English teaching position in Seoul, Korea. Flash forward, she is now teaching at CDI, Mokdong branch. She claims that Creverse found her and ended up becoming a blessing in disguise. Amber says giving knowledge to students & inspiring them for higher achievements in life is one of the greatest feelings in the world.

13 Nov

LifestyleMoneyRelocationBy aclipse

Cell Phones In Korea

When traveling abroad it seems like it’s just you and your cell phone against the world. You need it for navigation, transportation, translation, and so much more. It is essential to have a phone plan upon your arrival to Korea. There are a couple of options to consider and I am here to tell you all about cell phones in Korea!

Get a SIM Card

Before arriving in South Korea, it is best to switch from your current mobile provider to the South Korea SIM card provider. A SIM card allows you to utilize your mobile device to receive calls, send messages, or connect to mobile internet services. SIM cards are relatively cheap. The cost depends on how many days you would like the card to be activated. You can purchase these cards almost anywhere, including upon arrival at the Incheon airport in Korea. Just remember to have your passport on hand as it will be necessary to purchase a SIM card as a foreigner in Korea.

eSIM

There are two main types of Korean SIM cards you will encounter, the traditional SIM card and the eSIM. The eSIM functions as a regular SIM, but you are not actually inserting anything into your phone. Because you don’t have to physically pick it up, the eSIM is extremely convenient. All you have to do is sign up online, scan a QR code, then BAM! You’re connected to the world. Be sure to click this link to read more on how to access an eSIM.

Do not worry about how well a SIM card will work. According to GSMarena, Korea’s LTE coverage is the highest in the world. Some of the top rated Korean SIM cards include eSIM Korea, Trazy, Klook, EG, and Woori Mobile. These cards are only meant to keep you afloat until you receive your Alien Registration Card, or ARC. Once you receive your ARC, you will be able to register for a permanent Korean number and phone plan.

Setting Up a Phone Plan

There are several phone companies to consider when applying for a phone plan. A few major ones include KT, SKT, and LG U+. It is best to stick with these big phone companies as a foreigner, because you are less likely to get scammed.

I was able to acquire a Korean phone number with LG U+ and paid about 30,000 KRW a month for a basic phone plan. The entire process was painless. The LG U+ employee and I both used Papago to communicate. I simply chose the plan I wanted, displayed my passport and ARC, paid the man, and was on my way out within 20 minutes.

International Plans

Most US phone companies allow you to purchase an international service while you travel abroad. For an additional $50.00 USD a month, I was able to use my normal cellular data plan of 15 GB. Upon arrival, I was on a T-Mobile family plan with a displeasing phone balance. Because of this, I was unable to discontinue my payments.

Take it from me, pay your remaining phone balance & get off the family plan before arriving. I was paying for two phones, which felt very unnecessary when the only person in the world who ever tried contacting me, was my mother. Now, you might be asking yourself “Why did she continue to pay for both phones when you only need one?” The answer is, Korean bank accounts. In order to access direct deposit, receive/transfer money, you will need your own Korean number on file.

The Big Picture

I hope my personal experience and information have brought you a sense of clarity. I cannot stress enough how important it is to have a phone when living abroad. Be sure to plan accordingly, but most importantly, enjoy the adventure. Safe travels!

06 Nov

LifestyleRelocationBy aclipse

Making Friends In Korea

An Introvert Making Friends

Being an introvert, moving halfway across the world was extremely terrifying. I came to Korea not knowing a single person or the native language. Making friends in Korea to share all of these new experiences with was something I longed for. I was worried that this wouldn’t happen because of my tendency to become shy around people I don’t know. Thankfully, everyone I have crossed paths with has been extremely welcoming.

Workplace

Everyone employed at Creverse has been in the same boat. We all started from the very bottom and created lives of our own here in Korea. Because everyone here took this huge leap & faced all the odds, there is this inherent respect from one another. All of my fellow co-workers have been extremely kind and supportive since I’ve arrived.

I have spent countless weekends with colleagues doing touristy things. If I ever have a rough day, I can always count on a coworker to meet me for a drink after class. These are some of the many perks of my great work environment.

Apps!

I haven’t personally dabbled in meet up apps while being here in Korea. Although, I have met many people who found their wives/husbands and lifelong friends on apps such as Meeff, Meetup, Hellotalk, Bumble, Hinge, etc.. These apps are great ways to meet natives that can show you around, introduce you to some good restaurants, and maybe even help you learn the language.

I actually had the privilege of befriending my hairstylist 2 months into being here. We met up with each other on several occasions. I taught her some English phrases in exchange for some Korean words & knowledge on hair treatments. Shout out to Jin from Moioui, she is great at hairstyling & her English is very promising!

Night Life

The amount of people I have met from bars & clubs is astounding. Itaewon is filled with foreigners from all over the globe who are so open and friendly. Hongdae is so vibrant, everyone is there to have a good time. I usually go out with a group of friends, but I think it’s worthy to note that my girl friends go out alone here in Korea. The fact that females feel comfortable enough to go out by themselves, have fun, and meet others is truly amazing. Of course, like anywhere else in the world, you have to take the standard precautions. But, that’s besides the point.

Activities

I go to the gym quite often and have made friends with staff and other members. I have friends in hip-hop dance classes that have met plenty of new people. There are so many sports activities & hobbies to partake in. Pilates studios, clubs such as boxing, tennis, basketball, baseball, soccer, running, etc., are all open to foreigners. There are numerous other programs I didn’t list. Fact remains, there is something for everyone. Finding an outlet when you arrive in Korea is something I highly encourage everyone to do. It is a great way to stay in shape, teaches you how to organize your time, and boosts friendships.

I hope this has helped you feel a little more confident about making friends in Korea. It’s probably one of the biggest benefits about teaching English in Korea!

19 Oct

LifestyleMoneyRelocationBy aclipse

How to Budget in South Korea

Big Girl Budget

Being 24, with what would be considered a “big girl” income is all fun and games until it’s not. Because everything in Korea is so affordable, it can be very easy to spend all your coins in one shot. It is best to plan a budget and manage your income as soon as possible. This way, you can build financial independence and freedom while teaching abroad.

Fixed and Variable Costs

Although a teaching salary in Korea might not seem much to a US citizen, it is actually a livable income. Since teaching with Aclipse, I have been able to pay the bills and maintain a social life. The first step in creating a budget plan is calculating your monthly income and listing your monthly expenses. Fixed costs such as rent, wi-fi, credit cards, phone bills etc., are easy to manage. It’s the variables that can do some damage. For example, a utility bill in the summer.

Food Costs

Other variable expenses include food, transportation, and personal care. I try to alternate between cooking and dining out. After living here for almost six months, I find that there is no major price difference in dining in/out. You can purchase a meal, “banchan,” and drink included, for about 10,000 KRW or $7.50 USD. Since most of the produce in Korea is imported, it tends to be costly. But with time, you’ll learn to find the markets with the best deals.

Transportation Costs

The subway and bus will be your best friends here in Korea. They take you anywhere and everywhere. Try to avoid taxis at all costs. The prices aren’t absurd, but, if abused, can quickly add up.

Personal Care

I found it essential to add “personal care” to the list of variable costs. Believe me when I say, you will fall into the trap! The enlightenment by all the toners, exfoliants, serums, and face masks Korean health and beauty stores have to offer is a feeling like no other. Korean skin care is a game changer, spend wisely.

Savings Plan

A savings account might be the better option if you want to store your money and accumulate interest over time. Korean banks follow the same guideline as most banks around the globe. A customer deposits money into a savings account, the bank offers an interest rate for the deposited money, and the interest rate increases the longer the money is kept in that account. The average interest rate in most Korean banks ranges from 2-4%. Check out http://expatschoolskorea.com/article/bank-accounts-for-foreigners-in-south-korea.html to find out more information on savings plans for foreignors in Korea.

Remaining balances should be used to create memories. Every weekend is an opportunity to do something fun, so make the most of your time overseas. There are plenty of budget friendly activities. Be sure to read Creatrips’s list of budget friendly things to do https://www.creatrip.com/en/blog/11584. Good luck, and be sure to have some fun with your independence!!

11 Oct

RelocationTeachingBy aclipse

An Inside Look Into Initial Training

The Big Move

Initial training is often the part every English instructor dreads the most. Looking back, this was probably my most stressful experience being here in Korea. Not because of the workload, but because of the nerves that came with moving to a foreign country. I was worried about taking the wrong bus/subway, getting lost, and oversleeping because of jet lag. Thankfully, everything worked out just fine for me & I was able to create some great friendships from this week alone.

Asking For Help!

My training center was located in Dongjak-Gu, which was about a 30-minute commute from my airbnb. My first day of training I managed to hop on three wrong buses. I think I could’ve prevented this, but I am so stubborn when it comes to asking for help. If there is anything you get from this post, it’s that you should ask for help if you are unsure about anything. I eventually made my way to the training center where I met other fellow trainees and our instructor.

Schedule

Training was from 10 am to 5 pm. From 10am-12pm, we were given lessons on how to teach the course materials. The lessons consisted of reading comprehension, listening, and student management. All three subjects play a vital role in my current lessons, so shout out to Charles Hong for being a great patient instructor.

Golden Hour

Lunch was from 12pm-1pm. These breaks allowed us trainees to bond, share information, encourage one another, and talk about our new experiences here in South Korea. It was comforting to know that everyone was just as nervous, scared, and excited as me. We instantly clicked with one another and exchanged socials. We were from all different backgrounds, but the fact that we shared the same dreams and goals in that moment made the moment all the more special.

Mock Training

From 1pm-5pm, trainees utilized this time to practice mocks. Mocks are basically practice runs. They allow us to pretend that we are teaching a classroom full of students. We ran through the lessons just as we were taught and gave each other feedback on how we performed. In all honesty, it was a bit intimidating to mock in front of one another. But, with each run it became easier. We would perform our mocks the following day in front of our instructor Charles. He graded our level of confidence, our ability to comprehend instructions, our ability to keep conversations flowing, our student management skills, etc.. Most of us improved day by day.

Ready to Rock and Roll!

The fifth day was our final mock day. This is where we performed our mocks one last time and were given the green or red flag to proceed with our position at Creverse. Everyone in my group, including myself, passed. In a nutshell, training week will be a very overwhelming week. But, if I did it, so can you. Best of luck!

27 Sep

HealthRelocationBy aclipse

Korean Healthcare Guide

Korean Healthcare

South Korea stands as a top choice for English teachers, thanks to its rich culture, vibrant cities, and welcoming locals. Worried about Korean healthcare? No need! Satisfaction of healthcare has been consistently among the highest in the world – South Korea was rated as the second most efficient healthcare system by Bloomberg.

Healthcare System Overview

The Korean Healthcare system offers affordability and quality care to both natives and foreigners alike. When you teach in South Korea, you actively enroll in the National Health Insurance System. This reduces medical costs, making routine doctor visits economical. While not all English language institutes in Korea provide insurance for its teachers, some like CREVERSE provide full coverage through national healthcare insurance! The cost is roughly 7% of gross salary. About 3.5% of salary is deducted from your gross monthly pay, and the other half is covered by the school! (These are the same exact rates for Native Koreans.)

Hospitalization Costs

While there may be some hospitalization expenses, insurance actively eases the financial burden during unforeseen medical emergencies. While this cost can sometimes be substantial, the presence of insurance ensures that you don’t have to shoulder the entire expense on your own. This Korean healthcare system provides a safety net that’s especially crucial during unexpected medical situations.

Quality of Care

Korea actively provides exceptional care, even for non-Korean speakers. Healthcare professionals actively overcome language barriers to deliver top-notch treatment. Many major university hospitals have foreigner friendly international health care centers where doctors and nurses speak English as well!

Specialized Medical Attention

Korea actively maintains an extensive network of specialist doctors. National Health Insurance and the Korean Healthcare system actively covers these services, ensuring personalized medical care in all areas. Whether you need a dermatologist, psychiatry, obstetrics, or other specialty, Korea has you covered.

Comparative Perspectives

Korea’s healthcare, while not free, actively combines quality, accessibility, and efficiency.

In conclusion, if you’re planning to teach English in South Korea, rest assured that the healthcare system will actively cover all your healthcare needs. National Health Insurance, along with skilled professionals and specialized care, ensures you will have the best healthcare available. So, embrace your journey without concerns for your health!

Bella Maselana hails from South Africa where she earned a Bachelor’s of Psychology and has served as an English teacher and Lecturer at the University of SA. Bella currently teaches at April English in Sejong, South Korea.

19 Sep

HousingLifestyleRelocationBy aclipse

Types of Housing for English Teachers in Korea

Officetel vs. Villa

Teaching English in Korea is an exciting adventure. However, the idea that you will not know exactly where you will be living can be a big source of trepidation. South Korea offers a diverse array of housing styles, but officetels and villas are two of the most popular housing types for English teachers in Korea. While your local branch often handles accommodation arrangements, let’s explore these two popular types of housing for English teachers in Korea.

Officetels: The Modern Living Solution

Officetels, blending “office” and “hotel,” are often compact living spaces in large apartment-style buildings that combine residential and commercial functions. These multifunctional units offer a unique living experience. They are particularly well-suited for urban areas. Officetels offer so much convenience in their close proximity to public transportation, shops, and amenities. In bigger cities, officetels may even come fully furnished (though you should be informed that some teachers might have to furnish apartments themselves).

In South Korea, some officetels feature a unique split-level design with added space above the main area, accessible via stairs. This design separates functions like a loft, workspace, or storage area. Modern and efficient, officetels maximize comfort in limited space. Officetels are also typically very modern and efficient, and allow you to maximize the use of limited space without compromising comfort.

Villas: Traditional Comfort

Villas in Korea vary widely in size and style. You might find yourself in a studio apartment, or a larger family-oriented unit. Villas generally come in various layouts and offer more space compared to officetels. This makes them ideal for couples or those who value larger living areas.

Typically located in residential zones, villas usually provide a quieter, more private living environment. Think of it more as a neighborhood vibe instead of a large apartment complex. Villas are usually in 2-3 floor buildings. You also won’t lose creature comforts as convenient stores, local drycleaners and other services are always within a few blocks.

Pros and Cons

Depending on your contract type, you may have a choice in where you live. In other contract situations, you will be provided a place to stay by your local branch. Regardless what option you choose, you can be confident that your housing will have pros and cons, just like anything else in life! Regardless, both villas and officetels fulfill modern living needs.

Tour Of My Place

Here are some pictures of my officetel. I was placed at the Sejong location, where the entire town was built in just the past several years, so it is very unique in that it was built just a year before move-in. That being said, most officetels are built in the last 20 years, so compared to other developed countries, all buldings are very new.

The door lock operates using a pin pad system, which is fantastic because you won’t have to worry about losing your keys. The unit covers 92 square meters and provides generous storage space. You’ll also find built-in appliances like a refrigerator and washing machine for added convenience.

As you step inside the apartment, there’s a spot to remove your shoes and store your indoor slippers – a common practice in South Korea. The apartment is also supplied with a fire extinguisher and plenty of shoe shelves.

The closet space feels a bit compact, but you can optimize it by incorporating inserts and utilizing specific hangers to conserve space and maintain order. Additionally, an interesting discovery: the bottom door on the far left is, in fact, a pullout drying rack for clothes!

The wall incorporates a cleverly designed kitchen with a two-burner electric stovetop, a built-in refrigerator and freezer, and cabinets hosting a dish drying rack underneath. Beneath the sink, a knife holder is in place, while above the sink serves for dishes. The space to the right is perfect for arranging food and spices.

Bathrooms in South Korean officetels and apartments are modern and distinct. They frequently showcase open shower areas, advanced bidet functions, and efficient layouts within limited spaces. Some bathrooms even boast natural light, floor heating, and soundproofing. I really appreciated the presence of a bidet in my bathroom.

Bidets are a standard fixture in South Korean bathrooms, whether in officetels or villas. Electronic bidet toilet seats, offering adjustable water temperature, pressure, and air drying functions, are common. Properly ventilating bathrooms is crucial, as expats sometimes note mold issues; however, this problem is typically easy to prevent!

Originally, I used this area as desk space, though later decided to turn it into the TV area. Here is a picture of the space used as a study and work zone. Daiso has lots of creative organizers which can allow you to store more of your things without taking up too much of the working area!

I highly recommend getting some plants. They’re an excellent way to liven up any space and create a homely ambiance. Hanging plants, monsteras, and cacti are fantastic choices that require minimal upkeep!

As you dive into your Korean journey, remember that your apartment is more than just a place to stay – it’s your personal haven. Whether you’re in an officetel or a villa, these unique Korean living spaces offer countless ways to find comfort. From optimizing your kitchen, to adding a touch of nature with easy-care plants, to decorating with photos and friends from home, you can truly make your space your own.

내 집만한 곳은 어디에도 없다!

“There is no place like home!”

Alexandra Skouras is from Pennsylvania, USA, and has been living in South Korea since April 2021. She studied Biology and Spanish during college but decided to embrace her love of travel and cultural diversity through teaching English in other countries. After spending one year teaching in Madrid, Spain, she decided to move to South Korea, and since then has been teaching Chungdahm April in Sejong. Her favorite part about teaching is connecting with students and seeing how much growth they can achieve in just a short period of time. Alexandra describes her Korean life as the perfect mix of comfortable and exciting, and is passionate about encouraging other people to take the leap of faith and try something new.

25 Jul

RelocationVisaBy aclipse

Visa Application Process in the U.K

From Manchester to Guri

Hello everyone! My name is Sam, and I’m moving to Korea in August 2023 to teach English at the CREVERSE Guri Dasan April Institute. There are so many things I’m looking forward to! I can’t wait to explore Gyeongbok Palace in Seoul, and taking yacht cruise underneath the Gwanganri bridge in Busan at night. All whilst enjoying the extremely rewarding job of teaching English! Here are a couple of pics that are getting me more excited. But let me get back to the topic at hand! To teach in Korea, you need an E-2 teaching visa, and here are the step by step directions on the visa application process in the UK, after you receive your visa code.

Gyeongbokgung, also known as Gyeongbokgung Palace or Gyeongbok Palace, was the main royal palace of the Joseon dynasty. Built in 1395.

Luxury yacht tours have become popular in Busan over the last few years, where you can view waterfront landmarks such as Gwangan Bridge and Marine City.

A Quick Disclaimer

Everything I explain in this blog is a step-by-step guide on how I got through the visa application process in the U.K. I am only suggesting that you take a similar approach and hope to give you a clearer understanding through key websites, phone numbers, emails etc. that I used to tackle this process.

Also, everything I explain in this post is for people who are waiting for or have received their VISA code from CREVERSE.

Visa & KVAC Important Links

The first thing I did was visit Korea’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs website which is a site you can use to find updates and guides on applying for Visas in Korea. You can use the website to find key contact information for KVAC, whom I decided to call. I wanted to ask to check what documents were needed and they directed me to the Korean Visa Application Center website.

They helped me through the website to find their guide

It’s a good idea for you to call them to make sure that you don’t need any additional documents—based on your nationality, or any other personal circumstances.

I was still confused though, as this guide didn’t include the documents needed or other important details. So, you can find this information here, and if you scroll down to the E2-1 visa you can see all of the required documents. When you go through this link, make sure to also download the forms they ask you to fill out as they will be important for your application.

Finally, you can see another link on the picture above, where it says “Please check your visa fee here.”

If you click this you can see the fees for your visa according to your nationality. So please check this link and you will know exactly what you owe when you pay for your visa.

Step-by-Step Guide Part 1

KVAC London Guide

Make sure you have followed my important links section and filled out all the required documents so you’re ready for the visa process.
KVAC also ask for an extra piece of paper with your address and contact details in Korea. I personally contacted my recruiter who then provided me with the relevant details. On this extra paper I also wrote them a note saying what I have attached inside the envelope and that I look forward to their response. It gives your application a professional touch.
Calculate your visa fees. If you’re British that should be 60+180+15 (255 Euros). I recommend adding the 15 Euro Courier fee so that they will send your passport and visa back to you.
(It is in Euros because they deal with their embassy in Germany. All your documents therefore initially go to London and then to Germany.)
Follow the instructions to send your money to their international account. Most Banks allow for international transactions for a small fee (Natwest charged me only 15p.)
Then you should email them at [email protected] making sure your email subject reads like this: Your full name/ E2-1 / Proof of Payment.
Then send this email with the following details:
Name of nationality
Visa type (E2-1)
Write your payment details broken down – visa service fee 60 / Visa fee 180 / Courier Fee 15.
Attach a receipt of your payment transaction.

Step-by-Step Guide Part 2

After you send this email, then you should send your documents to the KVAC London address that is provided in the guide. You don’t have to wait for their confirmation but send it two to three days after your email. Make sure you send your real passport too. I recommend getting the most secure first class tracking you can get from your local post office – mine offers good compensation if my documents were to be lost, plus I could track my delivery.

Make sure to add your return details on the outside of the parcel, Your Name, Address and visa category.
After you have done all of this, wait until KVAC contact you to say your documents are all okay. They will then promptly forward them to Germany. After that you can track the process on the link they provide in their guide: https://www.visa.go.kr/main/openMain.do.
If you paid for their return courier service, they will then send back your printed off visa + passport. The whole process from sending your documents to London should take around 2 weeks, but this is subject to change.
Note that if you don’t pay the courier service, you can organise to collect your documents in London. See the guide from earlier to see how this is possible.
Please be sure to read the ENTIRE guide and thoroughly check every link and your documents so you are sure what you are doing.

Conclusions

Thank you for reading my blog on the visa application process in the U.K. with KVAC. I hope it was helpful. I wish you all the best of luck with your visa, and most importantly, I hope your experience in Korea will be as special as mine has been for me so far! 감사드립니다!!!

Sam Pearce is from Manchester, United Kingdom and graduated from Liverpool Hope University in 2019 with an undergraduate degree in History. However, since graduating he has become interested in the education industry! This has taken him to Sri Lanka, Italy and South Korea. Now he is planning to return to South Korea as a Creverse instructor in Dasan, Gyeonggi-do. Teaching English was a great decision for Sam, who not only loves benefiting children’s lives around the world positively, he can now also experience new cultures and learn about history in places that really interest him. Sam’s other interests include Karate (which he is a black belt in); playing football (he plays for a team in South Korea) and even going to the Norebang to do karaoke; amongst many other things.

07 Jul

CultureLifestyleRelocationBy aclipse

15 Must Have Apps for Korea!

If you’re about to embark on an exciting journey to South Korea to teach English, you’ve come to the right place. Before you dive headfirst into the land of K-pop and kimchi, let’s talk about the tools that will make your life much more convenient while you’re living your best expat life. These trusty apps will keep you connected, well-fed, and effortlessly navigating the streets of Seoul and beyond. Grab your phone as you read along so you can start downloading. Get ready to embrace convenience like a pro. Without further adieu, here are the 15 Must Have Apps for Korea!

(All links go to the Google Play Store, but all apps are also available for iOS)

COMMUNICATION

Kakao Talk

Kakao Talk is the one app that runs through the veins of every Korean. it is a must-have for anyone living in or visiting South Korea. From its seamless messaging to its cute sticker features and beyond, KakaoTalk has become an integral part of Korean social life. KakaoTalk is great for connecting with locals and will likely be the primary form of communication between you, your coworkers, and your friends. Pro tip: Make sure to choose a username that you are comfortable with, because the Kakao platform will only allow you to change it once!

MAPS & NAVIGATION

Kakao Maps

Lost in the streets of Seoul? Don’t expect your standard Google or Apple Maps to guide you well. Kakao Maps is here to save the day! This is the go-to navigation app for Koreans. Kakao Maps is an always reliable navigation tool. From accurate real-time directions to detailed public transportation information, this app is a game-changer. It has intuitive features, including voice-guided navigation and street view. It even recommends nearby attractions and restaurants.

Naver Maps

When it comes to map options, Naver Maps is my personal favorite (over Kakao Maps)! I find it to be incredibly intuitive, especially when it comes to providing directions for addresses submitted in English. Naver Maps offers a wealth of features. These include precise directions, real-time traffic updates, and comprehensive information about local attractions and services. It can show bus schedules, public transportation options, and user-generated reviews.

TRAVEL

Kakao Taxi

Kakao Taxi has become an indispensable app for Koreans. Other ride-hailing apps like Uber are NOT available, so if you need a ride quickly or aren’t yet comfortable with public transportation, Kakao Taxi has got you covered. It provides a seamless and efficient way to book a taxi right from your phone. This allows you to conveniently search the address right from your phone to avoid any communication errors with the driver about where to go. Kakao Taxi has real-time tracking, estimated fares, and the ability to choose your preferred vehicle type. (Be aware that you must have a functioning Korean phone number to connect a Korean bank card and pay, but you can always wave down a taxi the old fashioned way and pay with cash or any card!)

KTX

If you are looking to travel long distances in a short period of time, check out the KTX (Korea Train Express) and the KTX App by Korail. Get ready to speed across the country at trains reaching up to 300 kilometers per hour. All while enjoying the view, comfort, and amenities offered on board. With the KTX App by Korail, you can easily search for train schedules, reserve your preferred seats, and purchase e-tickets from your phone.

Trip.com

Navigating through various Korean apps and taking multiple screenshots can be tiring and potentially lead to travel mishaps. When I arrived in Korea, I found solace in using trip.com to book my KTX tickets to Seoul and other major cities. While the prices may be slightly higher compared to booking directly through Korean apps or ticket stands, it offers a great alternative for those seeking peace of mind. The app provides a clear understanding of the ticket purchasing process. Embrace the convenience of Trip.com for hassle-free ticket bookings during your Korean adventures!

TRANSLATION

Papago

Language barriers can be a hassle, but the Papago app revolutionizes communication in South Korea. This powerful translation app, developed by Naver, offers seamless translations between Korean and a multitude of languages. With features like text translation, voice recognition, and even image translation, Papago is a powerful tool for new arrivals and language learners alike.

Google Translate

Say 안녕하세요 (annyeonghaseyo) to Google Translate! Just like Papago, this app is equipped with text input, voice recognition, and offline capabilities to support you even when you’re offline. I think what sets Google Translate apart is its impressive real-time translation feature, which allows you to conveniently translate text on your screen using your phone’s camera.

SHOPPING & PAYMENT

Coupang

Coupang offers an extensive range of products, all just a few taps away. With lightning-fast delivery, this tool is comparable to Amazon. Newcomers often worry about packing, but with the ability to order nearly anything from Coupang, you don’t need to worry so much about packing.

GMarket

GMarket is another great Korean e-commerce platform offering both local and international brands. It always has deals and promotions, offering great value for your money. GMarket is a great option for new arrivals, as you will need a Korean bank account in order to set up any Coupang orders. On the other hand, GMarket allows you to pay with international cards.

Kakao Pay

I’m sure you’ve started to notice a recurring theme with the ubiquitous presence of “Kakao” on this list. Enter Kakao Pay, the digital payment revolutionizing how Koreans manage their finances. Whether you’re enjoying an iced americano at your go-to local café or seamlessly splitting bills with friends, this app provides a secure and convenient solution with just a few taps on your phone. With features like mobile payments, money transfers, and even the opportunity to earn rewards, Kakao Pay has it all. Plus, it’s as simple as a tap to make contactless payments straight from your phone using compatible card readers.

FOOD DELIVERY

CoupangEats, Yogiyo, & Baemin

Arguably some of the most important apps to download are Yogiyo (요기요), Baemin (배민), and Coupang Eats (쿠팡이츠) South Korea’s top food delivery apps! These apps offer an extensive range of options, from local favorites to international dishes. The apps are equipped with photos and descriptions, and the speed of Korean food delivery service is always impressive.

Help Me Emmo!

This option was my saving grace upon arriving to Korea! Ordering from the Korean apps can be tiresome when English descriptions aren’t available. HelpMeEmo (‘Emo’ means ‘Aunt’ in Korean) allows you to chat with a bilingual representative who can assist with placing delivery orders. You can customize your order, ask questions about the menu, and make special requests for just a small fee of around three dollars. And the first order is free! You can also message them on KakaoTalk at ‘HelpMeEmo.’

I hope you’ve found a few helpful apps and services that will make your life in South Korea more convenient and enjoyable! From translation and shopping to navigation and food delivery, these tools are here to simplify your life. Enjoy your adventures in South Korea with these essential apps by your side. Safe travels!

20 Jun

CareerRelocationTeachingBy aclipse

From Tanzania to Korea: My Experience as a Returned Peace Corps Volunteer

My Experience as a Returned Peace Corps Volunteer

Before getting caught up in the daily grind of the working world, I decided it was the perfect time to become a Peace Corps volunteer. After graduating university with a degree in engineering, I was placed in Tanzania as a Math and Physics teacher. I loved teaching more than I ever thought I would. I felt such a strong connection with the students, and extended an extra year and a half to see my first students graduate from high school.

At the end of my service, I decided it was time to learn a new language and experience another new country. I packed up and moved to Korea. Fast forward a few years, and I found out about CREVERSE.

It was much easier being in the country and knowing the language. In addition, the recruiter and staff at the branch I worked with were very supportive with the housing and visa process. I feel like there was much less hand-holding than when I applied to the Peace Corps. That being said, it was also a much simpler process to apply for CREVERSE.

The Curriculum

I’ve been very impressed with the materials we use in the classroom, and they are continuously making improvements and updates. This is the first time I’ve used a smart textbook. The students and teacher all use electronic tablets to more personally experience classes and interact with each other and the material. It feels like a great way to escape the rote learning that seems to pervade so many facets of education. There is a set curriculum for each module, so the teacher’s task is made easy. Steps and guidelines are all set out.

The Students

Obviously, the best part of teaching is the students. CREVERSE is no exception. Of course, just like any job or position anywhere, there will be not-so-good days where things don’t go the way you hoped or expected. But coming to work every day and seeing the smiles and hearing the greetings of students who are genuinely happy to see you is one of the best feelings in the world.

The Life

If you’ve discovered a love for teaching as a Peace Corps volunteer and are looking for a change of pace in a new country, Korea is an amazing place. There are countless opportunities to get out and explore this beautiful and historic country. CREVERSE’s teaching hours make it easy to get out before or after work. Try taking Korean lessons, join a dance class, or adventure on your own. Weekends are great for bus trips around the country or hiking trips up the many mountains. Many of the mountains are right in the middle of cities. Or, spend some down time picnicking by the Han River. The possibilities are endless!

Nick Allen Taylor is an RPCV (Returned Peace Corps Volunteer) who spent 3.5 years in Tanzania. He has a BS in
Mechanical Engineering and a BA in International Relations from Oregon State University. He has lived in Korea for over 7 years, 3 of which he’s spent as an English Instructor at CREVERSE.

Category: Relocation

What Is An Alien Registration Card?

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Asking For Help!

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Golden Hour

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Ready to Rock and Roll!

Korean Healthcare

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Officetel vs. Villa

Officetels: The Modern Living Solution

Villas: Traditional Comfort

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Tour Of My Place

From Manchester to Guri

A Quick Disclaimer

Visa & KVAC Important Links

Step-by-Step Guide Part 1

Step-by-Step Guide Part 2

Conclusions

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KTX

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Papago

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SHOPPING & PAYMENT

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GMarket

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CoupangEats, Yogiyo, & Baemin

Help Me Emmo!

My Experience as a Returned Peace Corps Volunteer

The Curriculum

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