living in korea q&a

8/14/2019 Living in Korea Q&A

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Orange Line (No.3) Yangjae Station (Exit #7)Take any of the buses listed below (bound to Seongnam)Get off at Nonghyup Hanaro Mart (Invest Korea Plaza is locatedacross the Hyundai/Kia Motors building.)

Buses bound to SeongnamBlue Bus: 140, 407, 408, 440, 462, 470, 471Green Bus: 4432

Te l: (82) 1600-7119

Fax: (82-2) 3497-1611

Operation Hours: Mon ~ Fri 9:00-18:00 (Lunch time: 12:00~13:00)

Hotline: Mon ~ Fri 18:00-24:00

Available Languages: English, Japanese, Korean

Website: www.investkorea.org/isc

Living inKoreaQ&A

Hot line Living Services

Private SecretaryService

Korean LanguageSchool

Business Services

Hot line Living Services

Private SecretaryService

Korean LanguageSchool

Business Services

KOTRA 10-010


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43

The Investor Support Center (ISC), established by KOTRA in October 2006, is

dedicated to providing foreign investors and their families with business and living

support to facilitate successful establishment and settlement in Korea.

The information provided by the ISC can be obtained in English or Japanese by

visiting us or calling us at 1600-7119, or by going online to www.investkorea.org/isc.

Foreign investors who visit the ISC can receive the Centers full range of assistance

with government administrative services ranging from registration of incorporation to

visa processes.

Tel: (82) 1600-7119 Fax: (82-2) 3497-1611

Operation Hours: Mon ~ Fri 9:00-18:00 (Lunch time: 12:00~13:00)

Hotline: Mon ~ Fri 18:00-24:00Available Languages: English, Japanese, Korean

Website: www.investkorea.org/isc

Living

Services

Business

Services

Private

Secretary

Service

Korean

Language

School

Hot line

We are offering far-reaching information to promote your convenient life inKorea. Call us whenever you need help.

Housing: Real estate agencies for foreign customers

Education: Lists of foreign schools/nurseries

Transportation: Information concerning fares for public transportation,

highways, international drivers licenses, etc.

Healthcare: International clinics

Shopping: Guide to product purchasing, store locations and on-line

shopping

Reservations: Reservation services for those who are not familiar with the

Korean language

Dispatched governmental officials give prompt and accurate solutions to anyproblems that may arise.

Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) procedures

Supreme Court: Consultation on incorporation registration

Immigration: Change in visa status, extension of period of stay, alien

registration, visa consultation, etc. (for those with D-8, F-3, or F-1 visas only)

National Tax Service: Consultation on business registration and taxes

Korea Customs Service: Consultation on matters regarding customs

< ISC Services >

DetailsServices

ISC consultants will accompany foreign staff and provide one-day, on-site

services for settling any problems caused by cultural differences or

communication difficulties.

Qualifications: Foreign (potential) investors and their familiesApplications: For reservations, please call 1 week in advance. (Tel. 1600-7119)

Required Documents: An alien registration card or a photocopy of

passport, a foreign investment report for potential investors

Language: English or Japanese

Available Areas: Seoul and part of Gyeonggi province

Cost: Free (except fees and travel expenses, if any)

KOTRA offers executives of foreign-invested companies and their families the

opportunity to study the Korean language.

Eligibility: Foreign investors, expatriate employees and their families

Level: Elementary and intermediate levels

Class:Twice a week 10:00 ~11:30 AM, and at 07:00 ~ 08:30 PM

Tuition: Free

Location: Invest Korea Plaza(IKP)

Documents:A copy of alien registration card and certificate of employment

Inquiries: ISC (1600-7119), [email protected]

An emergency hotline service is open from 6PM to 12AM and provides

prompt assistance to investors after normal business hours.

Operation Hours: Mon to Fri 18:00~24:00

Tel: 1600-7119

Investor Support Center (ISC)


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www.investkorea.org/isc

1. Types of Visas

2. Alien Registration

3. Change Status of Stay

4. Change / Add work location

5. Reporting changes of particulars of

Alien Registration card

6. Re-entry Permit & Methods

VISA


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6

VISA

1. Types of Visas

2. Alien Registration

Applicant

Foreigners intending to stay in Korea for more than 90 days after entry

Registration due

Foreigners intending to stay for more than 90 days in Korea after entry

within 90 days of entry

Foreigners granted appropriate status or permission for a status change

Immediately after being notified of the new status.

How to apply

At the immigration Office or branch office under relevant jurisdictions

Submitted documents

Application, passport, 1 color photo (3x4 cm) attached documents per status of stay

Fee KRW 10,000

Diplomacy/Official

Business Status

Non-profit &

Short-term stay Visa

Employment Visa

Long-term stay Visa

Diplomacy (A-1), Official Mission(A-2), Conventions/Agreements (A-3)

Temporary Journalism(C-1), Short Term Business(C-2),

Temporary Visit(C-3)

Short term employment(C-4), Professor(E-1), Foreign Language

Instructor(E-2), Research(E-3), Technology Transfer(E-4), Professional

Employment(E-5), Arts&Performances(E-6), Special Occupation(E-7),

Non-professional Employment(E-9), Vessel Crew(E-10), Working

Holiday(H-1)

Cultural Arts(D-1), Study Abroad(D-2), Industrial Training(D-3), General

Training(D-4), Journalism(D-5), Religious Affairs(D-6), Supervisory Intra-

Company Transfer(D-7), Corporate Investment(D-8), Trade

Management(D-9), Job seeking(D-10), Family Visitation(F-1),

Residential(F-2), Dependent Family(F-3), Permanent Residence(F-5),

Miscellaneous(G-1)

7

3. Change Status of Stay

Applicant

Foreigners must receive permission to change the of status of their stay if they want toparticipate in new activities which is not relevant or permitted for current status

How to apply

Present the required documents to the local immigration office (may be applied by a

person in question or an appointed agent)

Submitted documents

Application of permission for change of status, passport, alien registration card,

attached document per status

Fee

KRW 50,000

4. Change / Add work location

Applicant

Any change or addition to a foreigners workplace must be reviewed and granted in

advance by the local Immigration

Registration due

Before adding or changing place of employment

How to apply

Present the required documents to the local immigration office (may be applied by a

person in question or an appointed agent)

Submitted documents

Application of permission for changing/ adding place of employment, passport, alienregistration card, attached document per status

Fee

KRW 60,000


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9

Q&A

8

VISA

5. Reporting changes of particulars of Alien Registration Card

Applicant

If any of the following happens to registered foreigners, the changes to the registrationdetails must be reported to the local Immigration Office within 14 days from its occurrence.

Changes that must be reflected on Alien Registration Card

- Name, sex, date of birth or nationality

- Passport number, date of issuance or expiration date

- Details of the organization (including name changes) that Cultural Arts (D-1), Overseas

Study (D-2), General Training (D-4) status holders belong to

- Details of the organizations (including name changes) that Journalism (D-5), religious

Affairs (D-6), Supervisory Intra-company Transfer (D-7), corporate investment (D-8),

Trade Management (D-9) status holders belong to

How to report

Report to the local Immigration office with the necessary documents. It may be made

in person, or through an appointed agent.

Required documents

Passport and alien registration card, application form of report on changes of

particulars of alien registration card

Notes

If a registered foreigner does not report the aforementioned changes to the details of

the alien registration card within 14 days of the change, he/she will be considered to be

in breach of Immigration Act Article 35, and will be fined accordingly.

6. Re-entry Permit & Methods

ApplicantRegistered foreigners seeking to stay for more than 91 days, who want to depart and

re-enter within the permitted period of stay

Types

Single - Good for a single entry, valid for up to one year.

Multiple - Good for multiple entries, valid for up to two years.

Required Documents

Passport and alien registration card, application form

Fee Single- KRW 30,000, Multiple- KRW 50,000

Id like to change my visa status from C-2 to D-8. What kinds of

documents do I have to prepare to do so?

A. If you are a C-2 visa holder or a national of a country that signed visa waiver

agreements with Korea, you can apply for permission to change the status of

your stay to D-8. The required documents are as follows:

Individual company :

Passport, a photo (size 3.5Cm4.5Cm), alien registration card (if you have),

application form, a copy of registration certificate of foreign invested enterprise

(issued by a bank which handles foreign exchange), document proving sales

results (one among certificate of tax payments, report of export-import,

confirmation of export-import result, etc.), a copy of business registration, fee

(revenue stamp 50,000won, but who entered without visa or who arent

registered yet should pay 10,000won additionally)

Incorporated Company :Passport, a photo (size 3.5Cm4.5Cm), alien registration card (if you have),

application form, a copy of registration certificate of foreign invested enterprise

(issued by a bank which handles foreign exchange), document proving sales

results (one among certificate of tax payments, report of export-import,

confirmation of export-import result, etc.), certificate of individual tax payments

(withholding slip of earned income), a copy of business registration, a certified

copy of corporate registration, dispatch order or certificate of employment, fee

(revenue stamp 50,000won, but who entered without visa or who arent

registered yet should pay 10,000won additionally)

Q1


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1110

Q&A

Which documents are required to apply for a visa for the family

members (F-3) of a foreigner with an investors visa (D-8)?

A. Foreign investors (D-8 visa holder) family can apply for F-3 visa. You can apply for

this at embassies and legations abroad. Otherwise you can also apply for this at

Korea Investor Support Center or the local immigration office.

- F-3 visa applicant: D-8 visa holders spouse or children under 20

- Required documents: application (1 per person), 1 photo (3X4 cm) (1 per person),

passport, documentary evidence of family relationship to the D-8 visa holder, a

copy of front and back of the spouse(D-8 visa holder) alien registration card

What kind of documents do I need to extend my investors visa (D-8)?

A. Individual company :

application form, passport, alien registration card, certificate of FDI companyregistration, certificate of business registration, certificate of tax payment,

certificate of value added tax, certificate of export report, tax invoice

Incorporated company :

application form, passport, alien registration card, certificate of FDI company

registration, certificate of business registration, dispatch order or assignment

letter, certificate of corporate registration, statement of profit and loss, certificate

of tax payment for individual or tax withholding receipt, certificate of tax payment

for incorporation

I am currently working in Korea on an H-2 visa. Can I start my own

business?

A. A Chinese national with the H-2 visa needs to file for Foreign Direct Investment to

start and run a legitimate business in Korea. After completing all the necessary

measures for the investment, file for authorization of a change of alien status with the

Korea Immigration Service. A Chinese national of Korean descent can also apply for

the F-4 (Foreigner with Korean decent) visa instead of the D-8 (corporate investment)

visa.

Q4

Q3

Im currently pregnant and when my baby is born, I will have to apply

for a babys visa and an alien registration card. How can I do this?

A. When a baby is born, you need to apply for an F-3 visa within 30 days of its date of

birth. However, I understand that it will take some time to report and register the

babys birth in your home country and obtain the babys passport. Therefore, you

only need to take the receipt issued by your countrys consulate when you applied

for your babys passport. When you apply for the babys visa at your nearest

immigration center, you bring that receipt with one passport photo of your baby. If

you dont apply for a babys visa within 30 days, you will be fined.

Ive lost my alien registration card. How can I get a new one issued?

A. You must first report the lost registration card to your local police station. Then bring the

lost report issued by the police station together with 1 passport photo and a completedapplication form to the nearest immigration office and apply in person. (Holders of

corporate investor visas (D-8), their family member (F-3) and their servants (F-1) may

come to the Investor Support Center located on the 2nd floor of the Invest Korea Plaza,

whereupon a new alien registration card should be issued within the same day)

Where can I get a Certificate of Alien Registration?

A. The certificate of alien registration can be issued at the local immigration offices in

Mokdong, Sejongno, the Samsung Station Korea City Air Terminal branch or at the

City Hall branch (only for D-8 visa holders)

What address do I need to use for the Alien Registration Card?

A. You need to use the address of your current residence. If you have applied for the

alien registration card with the company address because you are yet to establish a

place of residence, you need to report the change within 14 days of the move. Failure

to do so may be punished with a fine.

Q7

Q6

Q8

Q5Q2


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1. Rental Types

2. Foreign Neighborhoods in Seoul

3. Realtors Offices Serving Foreign Patrons

4. Real Estate Agency Service Rate

HOUSING



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HOUSING

14 15

1. Rental Types

2. Foreign Neighborhoods in Seoul

Korean-Chinese Town (Yanbian Street : Garibong-dong, Guro-gu)

There are large communities of Korean-Chinese people in Guro-dong and Garibong-

dong. Along the 500m-long alley, many of them run their own shops and businesses,

and they use both Chinese and Korean.

Muslim Town (Islamic Mosque : Itaewon-dong, Yongsan-gu)

Foreign Muslims gather around the neighborhood at the weekend, starting on Friday

afternoon when the Islamic worship ceremony begins. Naturally, a Muslim commercial

area has formed in the neighborhood.

Chinese Town 1 (Little China Town : Yeonhui-dong, Seodaemun-gu;

Yeonnam-dong, Mapo-gu)

A Chinese residential district has formed around Hanseong Chinese Middle and High

Schools in Yeonhui-dong, Seodaemun-gu. A Chinese commercial area characterized

by countless Chinese restaurants has formed in the neighborhood.

Type DepositContractPeriod

Rent Deposit Return Note

Jeonse

Wolse

Kkalse

Method of rental

30~50% of the 2X

Upon expiration unique to Korea

housing price years of the contract (Applied to

Koreans)

Equivalent to 1~3 Upon expiration

1~2 years rent yearsMonthly

of the contract

Lump-sum Frequently used

X1~3 payment for the

Xby foreigners

years entire contract

term

Chinese Town 2 (China Street : In front of the Chinese

Embassy in Myeong-dong, Jung-gu)

A cultural district has formed along the Chinese commercial belt

surrounding Hanseong Chinese Elementary School in front of the Chinese Embassy.

The rise of Yanbian Street and Korean-Chinese Town has cut down the number of

patrons of stores in the area. However, it has been transformed into a street of Chinese

culture where Korean people can experience foreign culture in the heart of downtown

Seoul.

French Town (Seorae Town : Bangbae-dong & Banpo-4-dong, Seocho-gu)

A residential and commercial district has formed around the French school. The Gu

office has provided French residents and businesses in the area with various cultural

events and administrative support services, including a language support service.

Japanese Town (Little Tokyo : Ichon-1(il)-dong, Yongsan-gu)

Seouls oldest residential area for foreigners, Japanese Town consists of educationfacilities including kindergartens, religious facilities, and businesses. Japanese can be

used in almost all the facilities in the area, where a wide variety of services for

Japanese patrons are available.

Mongolian Town (Mongol Tower : Beolumulgil Road, Gwanhui-dong,

Dongdaemun-gu)

It is also known as theMongolian Island in Seoul.Visitors are unlikely to hear Korean

spoken inside Mongol Tower, where Mongolian people from the Seoul Area gather to

share information every weekend.

Italian Town (Club Italia : Francisco Cathedral, Hannam-dong, Yongsan-gu)

There are relatively few foreign residents in the area, but they have formed a tight-knit

community around their religion to form this cultural town. The cathedral and its

kindergarten organize various cultural events through joint efforts with the Italian

Cultural Center every Sunday.


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HOUSING

16 17

Filipino Town (Sunday Market : In front of Hyehwadong Cathedral,

Hyehwa-dong, Jongno-gu)

Little Manilais created in front of Hyehwadong Cathedral every Sunday. Highly

religious vendors come to the area in trucks to sell special products sought by the

Filipino community.

(Source: Seoul Policy Focus, Seoul Development Institute)

3. Realtors Offices Serving Foreign Patrons

Realtors offices have been designated by the Seoul Metropolitan Government to

service foreign patrons.

(* Refer to theList of Realtors Offices Serving Foreign Patronson Page 78)

4. Real Estate Agency Service Rate

General Residences Commission rate by principle is calculated by multiplying the transaction amount and

the commission rate. However, the commission cannot exceed the statutory limit, in

case of residences.Categories Transaction amount Rate (%) Limit (won) Notes

Sale/Exchange

Less than 50 million 0.6 250,000

More than 50 million, 0.5 800,000

less than 200 million

More than 200 million, 0.4 - Transaction amount

less than 600 million multiplied by rate

Less than 50 million 0.5 200,000

More than 50 mil lion, 0.4 300,000

less than 100 million

More than 100 million, 0.3 - Transaction amount

less than 300 million multiplied by rate

Lease andtransactions

other than

sale/exchange

Categories Transaction amount Rate (%)

Sale/Exchange

Lease and transactions

other than sale/exchange

Sale of residence at To be determined between

more than 600 millionclient and agent within statutory

commission limit of 0.9%

Lease of residence atTo be determined between

more than 300 millionclient and agent within statutory


Luxury Residences

Categories Transaction amount Rate (%)

Sale/Exchange/Lease No set standardsSet by the agent within statutory


Buildings other than residences


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1918

Q&A

What process does a foreigner have to go through to purchase

land in Korea, and how can one access related information?

A. There are different processes that a foreigner has to go through to purchase

land in Korea depending on the purpose of purchase, residential status, and

entity status (individual vs. corporation).

Foreign Corporation :

Foreign investment reporting and registration Real estate purchase

contract f inalization and related payment settlement Land purchase

reporting Real estate registration

Foreign Resident :

Real estate purchase contract finalization and related payment settlement

Land purchase reporting Real estate registration

Non-residential Foreigner :

Real estate purchase contract finalization Real estate purchase reporting Related payment settlement Land purchase reporting Real estate

registration number request filing Real estate registration

Permanent Resident :

Real estate purchase contract finalization and related payment settlement

Real estate registration number request filing Real estate registration

Refer to [Library Foreign Investment Guide (Land Purchase by a Foreigner

(p107)] on Invest Korea website (www.investkorea.org) or the Real Estate

Purchase Guide for Foreigners for details.

Can I get a list of residential hotels, and can I make a reservation

through the Investor Support Center?

A. You can get a discount if you make a reservation with a residential hotel

through the ISC. Rates differ by season, and you can get a good deal through

the hotel reservation website (www.hotelDC.com or www.hotelntour.co.kr)

during the non-peak season.

(* the List of Residence Hotel giving discount rates page 77)

Is there a lodging facility where I can experience the traditional

Korean architecture in short-term stay? How much is the rate per

one night and can the employees speak English?

A. Traditional Korean style Guest houses are clustered in the Central Seoul area like

Jongno and Insa-dong. Usually, the staff there can speak English, Japanese orChinese. Each guest house differs in the rate and capacity so itd be better to check

and reserve in advance.

Q1

Q2

Name Inquiries Meal Rates (won)

Friends House www.friends-house.com Breakfast Dormitory(per 1): 25,000

02-3673-1515 Ondol(per1):35,000

Rak-Ko-Jae www.rkj.co.kr Breakfast, Dinner A room for 2: 250,000

02-742-3410~1(KOR)

010-5286-1855(ENG)

010-6297-9677(JAP)

Bukchon www.bukchon72.com Breakfast 40,000~100.000

Guesthouse 02-743-8530

Tea www.teaguesthouse.com Breakfast 50,000~160,000


Seoul www.seoul110.com N/A 35,000~200,000


Sophia www.sophiagh.com Breakfast 35,000~70,000


Q3


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20

Q&A

Id like to lease an officetel through a real estate agent. What is the

appropriate commission for the real estate agent? The security deposit

is 10 million Korean won and the monthly rent is 500,000 Korean won.

A. In general, the commission for real estate agent is calculated as follows:

{Monthly rent x 100 + security deposit} x 0.5~0.7%. So in case of KRW 10

mill ion security deposit with a monthly rent of KRW 500,000, average

commission fee is between KRW 300,000~420,000: {500,000 x 100 +

10,000,000} x 0.5% ~ 0.7%

I would like to rent a place in Dongbu Ichon-dong using the Wolse

system. Is there any information on rents for reference purposes?

A. Wolse rent differs by area, contract time, property condition, and furnishing status,

and reference rent information is not available. However, Wolse rent is determinedbased on a propertys value, so you can refer to the real market value of the property

(limited to apartment buildings) through the Ministry of Land, Transport, and Maritime

Affairs website (http://rt.mltm.go.kr) to check if the rent demanded is at an

appropriate level.

I have leased an apartment for KRW 10 million security deposit

with a rent of KRW 600,000 per month but due to my personal

financial conditions, I will not be able to pay rent for few months

remaining in my lease term. In such case, will I still be able to get

my security deposit back?

A. if you cannot pay the rent until the end of the lease term, the rent will be deductedfrom the security deposit until the lease termination date upon termination, you will

be returned with the balance of the security deposit but may also be asked to leave

the premises.

Q6

Q5

Q4

1. Bus

2. Subway

3. Taxi

4. Train

5. Transfer System

6. Drivers license

TRANSPORTATION


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TRANSPORTATION

2322

1. Bus

Type

Blue Buses connect downtown areas with the outskirts and sub-

central areas of Seoul.

Green Buses connect subway stations and Blue Bus stations.

Red Buses connect key cities in Gyeonggi-do wi th Seoul Station and

downtown and sub-central areas of Seoul.

Yel low Buses circulate via the downtown or sub-centra l areas of Seoul.

Town Buses are mini buses that connect apartment complexes or other small town

areas with subway stations.

Fare

Base Fare : (Within 10km) KRW900

Seoul : Blue / Green Bus (KRW900), Red Bus (KRW1,700), Yellow Bus (KRW700),

Town Bus (KRW600)

Gyeonggi : General Bus / City Bus (KRW900), Premium Bus (KRW1,500), Express

Premium Bus (KRW1,700) Town Bus (KRW600)

Incheon : Blue / In-city Premium Bus (KRW900), Express Blue Bus (KRW950), Green

Bus (KRW600), Inter-city Premium Bus (KRW1,700), Airport Premium / Red Bus

(KRW2,200)

Transfer Rate : Base Fare + KRW100 per additional 5km

*Adult rates ; 20% discount for middle and high school students ; 50% discount for

elementary school students

2. Subway

Fare

Base Fare : (Within 10km) KRW900

Additional Rate : (10km~40km) : KRW100 per additional 5km

(Beyond 40km) : KRW100 per additional 10km

Lines : 9 subway lines are in operation throughout Seoul City (www.seoulmetro.co.kr)

3. Taxi

Regular Taxi

Base Fare : KRW2,400 (Within 2km)

Additional Rate : KRW100 per 35 seconds / KRW100 per additional 144m

Night Owl Premium : 20% premium between 12:00AM and 04:00AM

Premium Taxi



Foreigner-exclusive Taxi

- Medium-size Taxi



- Premium (Large-size) Taxi



(Fares can also be calculated by zones and by lump-sum hire agreements for

foreigner-exclusive taxis.)

Reservation & Information : 1644-2255

Website : www.internationaltaxi.co.kr


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TRANSPORTATION

2524

6. Drivers license

Exchange foreign license into Korean license

Item Details

Required

documents

Others

Fee

1. Foreign drivers license (on exchange, you must surrender your license,

which can be returned when you leave Korea if you bring your passport

and airline ticket)

2. Embassy certificate

3. Translated and notarized copy (the issued date & valid period must be

written on the translated copy)

*Translated and notarized copy is exempted for the license written in English

4. Passport

5. Alien registration card

6. Three photos (3cm x 4cm)

1. The applicant must be a normal resident in Korea. (visitor without ARC

cannot exchange licenses)

2. Applying by proxy is not allowed.

3. The license must be a full license. (temporary, provisional, probationary,

permit, certificate, or motorcycle license cannot be exchanged)

4. If the license is not issued from ones home country, the applicant

should prove that he/she has resided in that country for more than

90days.

* For example, Canadian with US license must prove that he/she has resided

in US for more than 90 days through official letter from school or company

Physical exam (5,000won), License(6,000won)

4. Train

There are four different classes of train - Nuri, Mugunghwa, Saemaul,

and KTX - which travel at different speeds and offer varying

degrees of facility convenience.

Trains leave from Seoul Station or Yongsan Station

(Gyeongbu Line : Seoul Station / Honam Line : Yongsan Station).

Main Office : 1544-7788+7 (English service)

Website : www.korail.com ENGLISH

5. Transfer System

Seoul Metropolitan Government runs an integrated fare system with discounts for transfer

between different modes of public transportation. Individuals pay the one-time base fare

of KRW900 (KRW1,000 when using cash) when transferring between buses (inc. TownBuses) and/or the subway within a certain distance and an additional rate of KRW100 per

every additional 5km.

* Maximum of 4 transfers allowed (5 rides in total)

- Transfer only valid within 30 minutes of tapping out (Within 1 hour between 21:00

and 07:00)

- Transfer is not valid between two of the same buses or at the same subway station.

- A fine will be imposed if the card is not tapped both when getting on and off the

vehicle.

(1-time use : Base Fare + KRW700 (Maximum additional rate)

Transfer use : First Base Fare + Base Fare for the transfer line)


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27

Q&ATRANSPORTATION

26

International Drivers License

A drivers license, issued by countries of Geneva Conventions or Vienna Conventions,

is allowed to drive in Korea within 1 year after entry.

Korean License Acquisition

- Procedures :

Traffic Safety Education (3 hrs) > Physical Test > Knowledge Test > Course Test>

Road Course Test > License issue

- Documents :

Knowledge Test - Application, 2 x 3cm sized photo x 3, computer testing pen, Alien

Registration Card

Course Registration - Application, alien registration card

Road Test Application - Application, alien registration card, certification for more than

10 hours of driving practice (application form backside)

License Issue - Final qualified application form, qualification letter, photo

- Fees(KRW) :Traffic safety education (12,000), physical exam fee (5,000), knowledge test

registration (6,000), course registration(15,000), practice permit issue (3,000), road

driving practice (21,000), license issue (6,000)

- Available languages for knowledge test :

Korean, English, Japanese, Chinese, Vietnamese, Indonesian, Thai.

Drivers License Agency : www.dla.go.kr

Where can I refill my T-money Card?

A. T-money card can be refilled at any of the stands near bus stations that bear

the T-money card logo stickers, as well as at convenient stores or at the

ticket sales office of any subway station in Seoul. In addition, the T-money

card can be refilled at the automated transportation card refill machines

located in every subway station and at some of the bank ATMs (Post Office,

Sh inhan Bank, and Je ju Bank). The T-money card can be re f i l led in

increments of KRW 1,000 up to a maximum of KRW 500,000.

How can I use a Foreigner-exclusive Taxi?

A. You can make a reservation for a foreigner-exclusive taxi by phone at 1644-2255 or

through the website (www.internationaltaxi.co.kr). Even if you have not made a

reservation, if a vehicle is available, you will get immediate access. Services areavailable in Korean, English, Japanese, and Chinese, and payments can be made by

credit card, cash, or T-money card. You can travel to Gwacheon, Seongnam,

Hanam, Guri, Euijeongbu, Yangju, Ilsan, Gimpo, Incheon, Bucheon, and

Gwangmyeong, as well as inside Seoul. Rates are calculated by meter, zone

(Incheon International Airport Seoul), or lump-sum hire agreement.

Can I use the subway or buses without a T-money Card?

A. Yes. The rates are KRW1,000 for a regular bus, KRW2,000 for an inter-city bus, and

KRW700 for a town bus. You can also use the subway after buying a disposable card at

the station. There are no station masters selling tickets in Seoul anymore. Instead, you will

have to use an automated ticket machine. A deposit of KRW500 is collected with a

purchase and returned at your destination for the purpose of recycling. You can easily

buy a disposable card by following the instructions on the screen. A T-money card offers

a discount and a free transfer service for the use of public transportation in Seoul.

Q1

Q2

Q3


15/48

2928

Q&A

I want to travel to an area outside Seoul, but there are so many

terminals in Seoul. How are the terminals different from one

another?

A. Each terminal runs buses to and from different parts of Korea, including

Gyeonggi, Gangwon, Chungcheong, Gyeongsan, and Jeolla-do. Hours of

operation and intervals differ by terminal, so you need to select the one most

suited to your schedule.

Name Website Contact

Dong Seoul Terminal www.ti21.co.kr 1688-5979

SangBong Bus Terminal http://tm.jamycar.co.kr 02-490-7751

Seoul Express Bus Terminal www.exterminal.co.kr 02-535-4151

Central City www.centralcityseoul.co.kr 02-6282-0600

Nambu Terminal www.nambuterminal.co.kr 02-521-8550

Q4

What documents does a foreigner have to prepare to change a

foreign countrys drivers license to a Korean drivers license?

A. You can change your original drivers license to Korean one after testing the

written exam and physical test. If your country is participant of Geneva

conventions, the written exam is waived. What you need to bring is as

follows: foreign drivers license, embassy certificate, translated and notarized

copy, passport, alien registration card, three photos (3cm by 4cm). It costs

you a total of 11,000 won: Physical exam (5,000won), License(6,000won).

What does a foreigner need to renew his/her Korean drivers

license?

A. A foreigner needs to take his/her original drivers license, 1 passport photo,

the fee of KRW 6,000, alien registration card, and passport to the local

Drivers License Examination Center.

Q5

Q6

Id like to rent a car one-way from Seoul to Yeosu. Do rental car

companies permit one-way rentals? If they do, could you please

provide me with the contact information of a few rental car

companies that provide a one- way rental service?

A. One-way rental service is possible. However, in the case of one-way rentals,

a company employee must pick up the vehicle at your final destination, so

there will be an additional cost. For details about the additional cost and

other information, please address your inquiry directly to one of the following

rental car companies.

Kumho Rean-A-Car : Tel. 1588-1230 / www.kumhorent.com

Aju-Avis Rent-a-Car : Tel. 1544-1600 / www.avis.co.kr

Korea Express : Tel. 1577-0050 / www.korexrentcar.co.kr

Q7


16/48

1. Opening a Bank Account

2. Debit Card/ Credit Card

3. Credit card Membership Approval

Standards for Major Credit Card

Companies / Banks (Foreign Residents)

FINANCE



17/48

FINANCE

32 33

1. Opening a Bank Account

Visit a bank in person equipped with your passport or alien registration card

Document requirements differ by bank : contact the bank of your choice before

your visit.

2. Debit Card / Credit Card

Debit Card (Koreans call thisCheck Card)

Card provided with a bank account which can be used like a credit card within the

amount of the account balance.

It can be used both as an ATM card and a debit card.

It can be used at any stores that are members of the credit card company.

It is issued when opening a bank account.

Credit Card

Foreigners without a bank transaction record in Korea can face difficulties in opening a

credit card account.

Executives of a foreign company : a card will be issued after making a deposit

equivalent to the credit limit (family cards can be issued, too.)

Basic documents required : membership application, alien registration card, proof of

employment or proof of income.

Membership approval standards and documentary requirements differ by credit card

companies.

Company Info. Membership Approval Standards Document RequirementKEB Credit Card

www.yescard.co.kr

Tel. 1544-3500

(From Overseas:

82-1544-3500

82-2-2003-3500

Woori Card

www.wooricard.com

1588-5000 (#7 eng)080-365-5000

Samsung Card

www.samsungcard.co.kr

02-2000-8438

Shinhan Card

www.shinhancard.com

1544-7000

Citi Card

www.citibank.co.kr

2004-1004

(82-2-2004-1004)

- Employed in Korea (Full-time employee of

financial institutes, stock market listed or

foreign-audited companies, or better certified)

- Embassy employees or employees of a

Korean or foreign government agency)

- Individuals with deposit collateral (Minimum of

KRW1.2 million)

- Property tax payment record of KRW100,000

or above for the most recent year

- P3 or above or PB client (bank transaction

record of 3 months or more)

Membership for a foreigner can be approved

only in the presence of a co-signer.

- Government employees or employees of a

large conglomerate company

- Property tax payment record of KRW100,000

or above

- Full-time employees of one of the Fortune 500

companies

- Full-time employees of the primary/secondary

banking industry

- Lawyer/tax accountant/ accountant/patent

lawyer

- Director or above of an association/foundation

- Shinhan Bank customers with theBest

rating or higher

1+ year remaining for the time of stay

- Annual income of KRW70 million or higher

- Real estate property

- KRW50 million or more in the most recent 3

months on a Citi Bank account

* Document for verification of

nationality 1 from alien

registration card / residence

registration certification /

government-issued certification

* Credit card membership can

be approved with minimum

deposit collateral of KRW1.2

million with the Korea Exchange

Bank.

Alien registration card or

passport

Proof of IncomeProof of Employment


passport

Proof of Income

Proof of Employment


Passport

Proof of Income

Proof of Employment


passport

Proof of Income

Proof of Employment

3. Credit card Membership Approval Standards for Major CreditCard Companies/ Banks (Foreign Residents)


18/48

34

Q&A

35

I want to use electronic transfer service for paying utility bills. How

can I apply for?

A. You can apply for the electronic transfer service at your bank. Applying by

proxy is not allowed because this service goes through personal certificate

process.

Can I use a foreign credit card/debit card issued from the home

country to withdraw money from an ATM in Korea?

A. It cannot be used at any ATMs, but via global ATMs, providing cash services for

foreign-issued credit cards. Global ATMs can be found in major cities in Korea, but

you are advised to check with your bank/credit card company to see if your card

can be used to access cash services overseas before coming to Korea.

- Find MasterCard Global ATM :www.mastercard.com Cardholder ServicesATM Locations Korea Republic of

- Find Visa Global ATM :

http://visa.via.infonow.net/locator/global/

How is the bank check for KRW 100,000 different from cash?

A. In Korea, bank checks can be used as cash, but the user must write his/her alien

registration number and contact information on the back of the check. Some small

stores may not accept the checks because they do not have the change, so it would

be a good idea to have some cash at hand. Bank checks for KRW 100,000 can be

cashed at the issuing bank without any fee, but when cashing a check at a bank

other than the issuing bank, there will be a small handling fee. In addition, please

note that if the check is deposited at a bank other than the issuing bank, it will take

one day for it to clear, so you will not be able to immediately withdraw cash against

such a deposit and it cannot be used to make purchases with a check-card.

Q1

Q2

Q3

Is there a separate Online Banking Service for foreigners?

A. Major Korean banks provide their online banking services in many languages,

including English, Chinese, and Japanese. SC First Bank and KEB also run

separate websites for foreign residents in Korea.

Can I use a Korean banks internet banking service outside Korea?

A. If you save the Identity Certificate in a portable storage device such as a USB, then

yes you can. Or you could have the Identity Certificate reissued to the computer you

are using in a foreign country. The reissuing process is as follow: visit your Korean

banks website Identity Certificate Center Identity Certificate Reissue

Can I make a wire transfer without a bank account in Korea?

A. You can make a wire transfer from any Korean bank even without a bank account in

Korea. You need to have your destination bank name, account number, and the

money for the transfer ready. If you have a bank account in Korea, you can also

make a wire transfer at an ATM or via online banking, which charge a lower service

fee. The transfer limit differs based on the attachment of a certifying document

attachment, so contact the bank of your choice for details.

Q4

Q5

Q6


19/48

36

Q&A

What are the hours of operation for banks/ ATMs in Korea?

A. Most banks in Korea are open between 9AM and 4PM, Monday through Friday.

Some KEB branches are open in the evening hours and on Sundays for foreign

residents in Korea, and the Incheon International Airport Branch is open 365 days a

year. Most of the time, however, ATM services are available between 8:30AM and

10PM, but some banks have an extended service hour until midnight. Some KEB

and SC First Bank ATMs provide a service 24 hours a day.

- KEB Operation Hour & Branch Search

www.keb.co.krMain MenuAbout KEB Branches Specialized Domestic

Branches

Q7

1. Medical Service System in Korea

2. Useful Information

MEDICAL SERVICES


20/48

MEDICAL SERVICES

38

1. Medical Service System in Korea

Medical centers are divided into three groups according to their size and the number of

specialty practices.

You need to get a doctors note from a primary and/or secondary institute to seek treatment at a

tertiary institute. You cannot enjoy Medical Insurance benefits otherwise (not applicable for foreigners).

ERs can be found in secondary and tertiary institutes.

2. Useful Information

Emergency Medical Information Center

There are 12 Emergency Medical Information Centers, each of which is linked to the

emergency medical service system in the corresponding region. in Korea.

Phone : 1339

Website : www.1339.or.kr

Language : English, Korean, Japanese, etc.

Primary Institute

Secondary Institute

Tertiary Institute

Comprehensive diagnosis of the early symptoms of an illness

District Medical Centers, Medical Center Branches, Dispensaries

4+ specialty practices and at least one corresponding specialized doctor

per practice

Hospitals providing in- and out-patient treatment services with 30~500

beds

Specialty practices in all areas and at least one corresponding

specialized doctor per practice

Medical center or university hospital with 500 + beds

39

Council for Korea Medicine Overseas Promotion

This private organization was established to promote and

market Koreas medical services to patients overseas

Phone : 02)2194-7429

Website : www.koreahealthtour.co.kr

Language : English, Korean, Japanese, Chinese, Russian

Korean Hospital Association - Medical Institutions & Location Information

System

The online service helps foreigners to find medical institutes that can meet their needs

conveniently and in a timely manner.

Phone : 02)705-9200

Website : www.hospitalmaps.or.kr

Language : English, Korean, Japanese, Chinese

Japanese Medical Village (Medical Center for Japanese in Korea)The website has information on Korean hospitals with Japanese nurses and members

of staff to help Japanese in Korea to enjoy a convenient hospital service.

Website : www.j-medicalvillage.com

Language : Japanese


21/48

4140

Q&A

Is a free interpretation service available for foreigners at any

hospitals in Korea?

A. The Medical Center in Gangbuk-gu, Seoul, provides a free interpretation

service to help foreigners benefit from medical services through the Medical

Centers and other medical institutes in the area. The free interpretation

service is available at the Gu Medical Center, hospitals, healthcare clinics,

oriental medical centers, pharmacies, and ophthalmologists offices in the

area in 7 languages - English, Japanese, Chinese, French, Spanish, German,

and Russian. Dial 02-983-7117 and follow the instructions to select the

language of your choice. The service is available between 7AM and 10PM on

weekdays and between 8AM and 6PM on Saturdays, Sundays, and official

holidays.

The KOTRA Investor Support Center provides Staff Companion Service for

foreigners planning a hospital visit. The service is available in English and

Japanese, free of charge. You need to make an appointment over the phone(1600-7119) at least one week in advance.

Are there hospitals or clinics offering medical consultation in

English?

A. International Clinics

Service areas : General medicine including family medicine Psychiatric services,

internal medicine, etc

Contact : 02-790-0857~9

Working hours : Mon ~ Fri 9:00AM~6:00PM / SAT 9:00AM~3:00PM

(lunch time: 12 Noon to 2 PM)

Address : 737-37, Hannam Bldg 5F, Hannam-dong, Yongsan-gu, Seoul

Website : www.internationalclinic.co.kr

Q1There are many postnatal care centers in Korea. What do they do?

A. Traditionally, a womans mother provided postnatal care for her daughter. But

as the number of professional women has increased over the years and the

size of families decreased, postnatal care centers have been established to

provide the newborn and new mothers with the necessary care. Mothers and

newborn babies usually spend two nights at a hospital after labor, and are

moved to a post-natal care center for two weeks. Prices and facilities vary by

center, so you are advised to compare different centers to find one that best

fit your needs.

Is a postnatal care / babysitter service available?

A. Seoul YWCA runs a postnatal care service program. It costs approximately

KRW110,000, and you can sign up for 2, 3, or 4 weeks. The YWCAs babysitterservice is available on a weekly basis Monday through Friday or on a monthly basis;

it cannot be used for selected days, i.e. for just 2 days a week. The weekly service

for one child on five weekdays, between 9AM and 6PM, costs approximately

KRW900,000 per month.

Contact : 02-3705-6013~6

Website : www.ywca.or.kr

Is there any oriental herbal medicine clinic that can speak foreign

languages?

A.

Q3

Q4

Q5

Q2

Name Address Contact Language

Jaseng Hospital 635 Shinsa-dong, 02)3218-2167, 2105 (ENG) E, J

of Oriental Medicne Kangnam-gu, Seoul 02)3218-2106, 2169 (JPN)

Dongsuh Oriental 194-37 Yeonhee-dong, 02)320-7807~8 (Eng) E, J, C

Medical Center Seoudaemoon-gu, Seoul 02)320-7895 (JPN,CHN)


22/48

1. Foreign Schools in Korea

2. Korean Language School

3. Library

4. Childcare

EDUCATION



23/48

EDUCATION

4544

1. Foreign Schools in Korea

Current Status of Foreign Schools

As of 2008 September, a total of 46 foreign schools are in Korea.

(Source : the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology)

Foreign School List(Refer to Page 92)

General Requirements

- Foreign citizen/Denizenship, foreign residence of at least 3 years,

or either/both parents are foreigners

Seoul Gyeonggi Busan Daegu Daejeon Incheon Others

17

75

2 1 1

13

Anglo-American Chinese Japanes French Others

2018

2 2 3

Schools by Founder

Schools by Area

Entrance Procedure

Consultation on Site

Prepare the documents

Required documents: Application, 3 color photos. a copy of passport (both parents

and student), document proving residence in foreign country for at least 1,095 days (3

years), copies of report cards from schools attended over the past two years ( if in any

language other than English, translation is required), one of the official test score

(IOWA, CAT, SSAT, Stanford, STAR, PSAT, ACER, Terra Nova etc), two full pages of

original written work (in English) from recent school assignments with teacher or

principal verification signature, medical forms, letter of recommendation from the

current teacher

Paying the application fee (KRW 500,000)

50% of the fee would be returned if the student is rejected

Entrance Exam

English Command Test (Listening, Vocabulary, Reading and writing, and Oral Test),

Mathematics

Evaluation

Admission

(*the procedures and qualification may depend on each school.)


24/48

EDUCATION

4746

Name Subject Schedule Inquiry

Free KOTRA Foreign investors 2 classes per week 1600-7119and their families (MonWed/ThuThu)

Morning 10~11:30 am

Evening 7~8:30 pm

Seoul Global Foreigners living 2 classes per week 02-1688-0120

Center in Seoul Morning 10: 30~ Noon

Evening 7 ~8:30 pm

Korea Foundation Foreigners living 1 class per week 02-2151-6500

Cultural Center in Korea (select one among Mon

WedFri) Evening7~9 pm

Charged Seoul Japan Club SJC members 02-739-6962

Incheon Center Foreigners living 2 classes per week 032-451-1805

for International in Incheon

Cooperation &

Exchange

2. Korean Language School

Name Inquiry Website

Public National Library of Korea 02-535-4142 www.nl .go.kr

National Assembly Library 02-788-4211 www.nanet.go.kr

Namsan Public Library 02-754-7338 www.namsanlib.or.kr

Private KIWI English Library 02-511-9018 www.kidskiwi.com

Mapo English Literacy Center 02-716-3987~8 http://elc.mapo.go.kr

KNK English Library 031-714-6771 http://knk.winbook.kr

Busan English Library 051-818-2800 www.bel.go.kr

3. Library

4. Childcare

Applicant requirement

Children between the ages of 0~6, prior to entering elementary school.

Hours

07:30~19:30

6 days, for more than 12 hours on weekdays (Mon. ~ Fri. : 12 hours / Sat. : 8 hours)

Childcare Information Websites

Kindergarten Facility Information Center (www.kecenter.com)

For information on childcare facilities such as kindergartens, nursery schools, day care

centers, and childrens art schools

Central Childcare Information Center (www.educare.or.kr)

For childcare-related information and local kindergarten information linked to the Local

Childcare Information Center


25/48

4948

Q&A

Id like to send my children to an international school. Could you provide

me with information about the enrollment procedure and tuition?

A. In general, the enrollment procedure for international school is as follows:

F i l l out and submit the enro l lment formsubmit appl icat ion fee anddocuments ztake an entrance exam

There are some variations, such as schools which only accept enrollment

applications on-line, depending on each schools enrollment policy. Select the

school of your choice and contact the ISC (1600-7119) and we will be able to

provide you with more detailed information.

Tuition fees vary for kindergartens, elementary schools (grades 1~5), junior

high schools (grade 6~8), and high schools (grades 9~12), ranging from 14

million Korean Won (kindergarten) to 25 million Korean Won (high school).

This does not include the cost of school buses and expenses other than

tuition fees will likely arise. At the time of enrollment, payments for the

application fee, tuition deposit, and other associated costs must be remitted.

Is there a place to learn Korean in Gangnam?

A. KOTRA Korean Language School (Free)

A free Korean Language School (including text book) is available (two classes per

week, Monday & Wednesday AND Tuesday & Thursday classes) both in the morning

and in the afternoon. Tel : 1600-7119

Yeoksam Global Village Korean Language Course (Free)

Under the program operated by the City of Seoul, two classes per week (Monday &

Wednesday or Tuesday & Thursday) are available free of charge, though students

need to purchase a textbook. Tel : 02-3453-9039Gangnam-gu International Education Center (Charged)

The 10-week curriculum course is provided through the joint efforts of Gangnam-gu

office and Seoul National University. The classes are held twice a week (Monday &

Wednesday-40 hours or Thursday & Friday-60 Hours). Please contact the following

number to find out about the tuition or further information. Tel : 02-546-3260

Private Academies

Seoul Korean Language Academy : 02-563-3226 / www.seoul-kla.com

Central Language Institute : 02-556-9944 / www.clistudy.co.kr

Q1I made an inquiry about enrolling my child at a nursery school, and

was told that I would have to pay more because my child is a

foreigner. Why is that?

A. The additional fee is for lunch and snacks provided at the nursery school. AllKorean children are eligible for a government subsidy in this regard. This is

because the Seoul Metropolitan Government and other local governments

subsidize children enrolled at a nursery school for lunch and snack costs

(approximately KRW 180,000 per month. The exact amount may vary by

region.) to help parents with the cost of child-raising and to promote

childbirth. This government subsidy is provided only to Koreans. But with the

payment of these extra costs, your child would not have any problem

enrolling at and enjoying all the other services offered at a nursery school.

I would like to learn about the public education system in Korea.Can foreigners enroll at and attend public schools like most

Korean people?

A. Foreigners can enroll at and attend public schools in Korea. However,

prospective students need to have sufficient Korean language skills to be able

to understand lectures and in-class discussions.

Korean schools are run according to the semester system, with the academic

year being split by two major vacations.

Q2

Q3

Q4


26/48

1. Opening a Mobile Phone Account

2. Opening a Landline/Internet Phone Account

3. High-speed Internet/Cable TV Installation

4. Domestic Mail/International Mail/EMS

TELECOMMUNICATION



27/48

TELECOMMUNICATION

5352

SK Telecom KT LG Telecom

Membership Fee 39,600 24,000 30,000

(KRW)

Installment plan NA Only for F-2, F-4, F-5 Installment plan goes by

visa holder the available staying

period appeared on the

visaNote Paying 200,000won No deposit No deposit

except D-8 visa Foreigner specialized

holders Call Center

URL www.tworld.co.kr www.show.co.kr www.lgtelecom.com

Contact 080-252-5011 02-2190-1180 1544-0010

SK Broadband QOOK MyLG070

Basic Rate(KRW) 2,000~4,000 2,000 2,000~4,000

Installation Fee (KRW) 10,000 10,000 10,000

URL www.skbroadband.com www.qook.co.kr www.xpeed.com

Call Center 108 100 1644-7000

1. Opening a Mobile Phone Account

Passport, alien registration card, or residence registration certification required (Other

requirements vary by company)

Installment payment purchase options for the phone of or the calling plan options may

be limited by visa type.

Comparison between 3 largest Domestic Mobile Carriers (as of Dec. 2009)

3. High-speed Internet / Cable TV Installation

High-speed Internet :

Sign up by phone or via the Internet

Passport or alien registration card required

Various rate plans and options available according to the Internet service

provider/Internet speed.

Internet phone :

Can only be opened with a pre-existing internet service account

Strengths

- Same rate for long and short-distance calls

- More affordable rate for international calls than a landline phone

- Free calls between members of the same service provider

Weaknesses

- May not be available depending on the Internet service provider

- May experience poor call quality (varies depending on the quality of Internet

reception)

Name Installation Fee (KRW) Website Call CenterSK Broadband 30,000 www.skbroadband.com (K, E) 108

QOOK KT internet 30,000 www.qook.co.kr (K) 100

(exempted if contract

period if over a year)

LG Powercom 30,000 www.xpeed.com (K) 1644-7000

2. Opening a Landline/Internet Phone Account

Landline phone :

Call KT Customer Center (Phone : 100) or visit any KT Plaza (Former TelephoneHeadquarter) to open an account

Bring your passport or alien registration card

Activation fee - KRW 60,000 ;

KT Customer Center : Phone - 100, Website - www.qook.co.kr


28/48

TELECOMMUNICATION

5554

Cable TV

Sign up by phone (Passport or alien registration card required)

Other document requirements and rates differ depending on the broadcasting

company

Local cable broadcasting companies

- Korean Cable TV Association (www.kcta.or.kr)

4. Domestic Mail/International Mail/EMS

Domestic Mail

Record the recipients address and postal code

Use the appropriate postage (depending on regular or express delivery) or

personally send from a post office

Registered/International MailPersonally send from a post office

More postage than a regular mail

Delivery Track Service available Useful when sending important documents / objects

Serviced destinations / rates - Refer to the Korea Post website

Postal Rates

Zip code Finder

www.koreapost.go.kr/eng POSTAL SERVICES Domestic Mails Zip Code

Finder

International Mails/ EMSInternational Mails :

www.koreapost.go.kr/eng POSTAL SERVICES International Mails

EMS :

www.koreapost.go.kr POSTAL SERVICES EMS & EMS Premium

Rate and Postal Service Access Information by Region/Weight

* The Delivery Tracking Service is available for international mails (EMS, air parcels/registered mails) via

the International Postal Customer Satisfaction Support Center under the Korea Post Call Center.

Domestic : 02-2108-0050~60

International : 82-2-2108-0051~0059

Carrier ServiceReservation via phone/ Internet Carrier driver pick-up from home Direct delivery

to the recipient

Next-day delivery of various documents and packages to all parts of Korea.

(1~3 day delay at weekends and official holidays and/or to islands, mountainous areas

or other areas with poor transportation connections)

Rate : Differs depending on the recipients address, type and size of content, and

number (Refer to the website).

(* Refer toThe Carrier Service Provideron Page 94)

Korea Post Carrier Service Rate :

http://parcel.epost.go.kr FAQ 02. What is the carrier service rate by weight and

size?

Contact the Korea Post Call Center (1588-1300) for details (rates and fees, discounts, postal code

information, insurance, etc.).

Name WebsiteNon-Priority Items

(KRW)

Letter Post Standard Up to 5g (postcard) 220

Up to 25g 250

Up to 50g 270

Non-Standard Up to 50g 340

Per additional 50g 120


29/48

5756

Q&A

I have a cellular phone that I do not use. Can I use it as a prepaid

service phone each time a friend comes to Korea from my

country? If possible, which mobile carrier is providing this service?

And how I can make prepayment and is there a time limit in which

I must use the prepaid amount?

A. Anyone with the proper ID can apply for the prepaid service at any sales store

of any of the wireless telecommunication companies (KTF, SKT, LG Telecom).

But since each mobile phone is designed for a specific mobile carrier, you

must first check which of the three wireless telecommunication companies

your phone is made for. Then visit that companys store and apply for the

prepaid service, known in Korea asfree phone. You can refill the amount

either at the store or on-line. The limit on the usage period varies depending

on the amount of refill, but when you refill you will receive a text message

confirming the amount and the expiration date.

I have to use the Internet in a hurry, but I dont have an Internet

connection at home. What can I do?

A. You can easily findPC BangorInternet Cafeswherever you are in Korea. They

are commonly calledPC Bang, and you can use the Internet in one of them for a

fee of KRW 1,000~1,500 per hour. There is usually an extra charge to use a printer.

Can I use the same phone number after moving?

A. If you want to keep your phone number after moving, you need to report your move.Contact the Call Center of the service provider and given them the account holders

name, resident registration number, previous address, new address, contact

number, and the desired time of account change. If you have a communication

problem, contact the ISC (1600-7119) to use the Move Report Proxy Service.

Q1

Q2

Q3

I have seen many TV commercials on Internet-Internet Phone-

Cable TV package products. Can foreigners sign up for such a

package deal?

A. Yes. The same application process and rate apply for foreigners as for Koreans, butforeigners may not be able to get an additional discount through a fixed-term contract

because most of them do not stay in Korea for a long-term period. A 10~50%

discount is available, and the contract period varies according to the elements of the

package. Refer to High-speed Internet/ Cable TV Installation No.1.

I want to look up a phone number. Is the Yellow Page Service

available in English?

A. The Korean Yellow Page Service runs an online English phone number information

service calledEnglish Superpage. Go to www.hellopageskorea.com to look up

different phone numbers and other Korea-related information in Korean and English.

I want to watch a local TV program from home, and I heard that I

could get it with the satellite TV service. I would like to know how

much the activation and installation costs are.

A. The satellite broadcasting service offers access to approximately 130 channels from all

around the world. One of the biggest satellite TV service providers in Korea is SkyLife.

Monthly service rates differ depending on the service provider, product, and contract period.

A separate payment needs to be made for the receiver equipment, antenna, and installation.

Q4

Q6

Q5

Receiver (STB) Antenna Installation

HD Receiver PVR Receiver Two-way ReceiverKRW40,000

KRW400,000~KRW230,000 KRW138,000

KRW22,000(HD: KRW50,000)

500,000

SkyLife Receiver/ Installation Cost (As of Dec. 2009)


30/48

1. Types of foreign advancement into Korea

2. Foreign Investment Procedures

3. 4 Major Insurances for Foreigners

BUSINESS

58

Q&A

SK Telecom KT LG Telecom

URL www.tworld.co.kr www.show.co.kr www.lgtelecom.com

Contact 080-252-5011 02-2190-1180 1544-0010

Name URL Contact

Skylife www.skylife.co.kr (K, E) 1588-8665

Seki Satellite www.sekisat.com (K) 02-2231-7989

Im returning to my home country. Can I get my mails in Korea

forwarded to the company?

A. You can sign up for the Mail Forwarding Service at a post office or via the

Internet or by phone. The service is provided free of charge only for the first

three months. You also need to sign up for membership with the website to

sign up for the service online.

I change my cell phone with a new one. Can I transfer my old

phones data to a new one?

A. Date such as a telephone directory and photos saved in the previous one can

electronically be transferred to a new one. The range and fee of service vary with

each mobile carrier. Please contact the relevant customer center.

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1. Types of foreign advancement into Korea

Types ofCorporation

Type LawAmount ofInvestment

VisaNotification

Receiver

Local Invest

LocalCorporation Foreign KOREA or

Corporationinvestment

At least KRW 50D8 Foreign

PrivatePromotion Act

million per caseexchange

Businessbank

ForeignBranch Foreign Foreign

CorporationExchange No limit D7 exchange

OfficeTrade Act bank

2. Foreign Investment Procedures

Foreign Investment Notification

Notification receiver: Invest KOREA or Foreign exchange bank

Required documents:

(Investor) Private Company - 2 copies of the issue of notification form, ID card

Incorporate Company - Book of Incorporate Company, Corporate Seal

(Agent) Private Company - Power of Attorney, a copy of Investors ID card, Agent ID card

Incorporate Company - Power of Attorney, Corporate registered seal, Agent ID card

Investment Capital Remittance

Remitter: the very foreign Investor

Recipient: the very foreign Investor

How to: remitted through a foreign currency bank under the very foreign investors name

Note: Funds from domestic sources are not recognized as foreign investments.

Corporate Establishment

Only for an incorporate company. A private company can

register the business right after the capital remittance.

Notification receiver: Mercantile Registry Office

Business Registration

Notification receiver: Municipal court & tax office

Foreign-Invested Company Registration

Notification receiver: first reported organization

Required documents: Book of Incorporate Company (for Incorporate Company),

Certificate of business Registration (for Private Company),

Certificate of Foreign Exchange Purchase

Registration due: within 30 days of the occurrence of the causes

Change Status of Stay

Local immigration office and ISC branch, Sejongno branch, Seoul Global Center

branch

The above protocols need to be followed, and the pre-Business Registration authorization

(registration and reporting) requirements needs to be checked beforehand because they vary by

industry.


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Lump-sum Repayment

- Foreign nationals from a country that offers Korean nationals a lump-sum repayment-

equivalent benefit.

- Foreign nationals from a country with a Social Security Treaty with Korea that

specifies the terms for a lump-sum repayment of the National Pension installation

payments.

- Foreign members of the National Pension with either the E-8 (Training-based

Employment), E-9 (Non-specialized Employment), or H-2 (Employment) visa who are

returning and the National Pension membership returning to the home country

regardless of whether they have fulfilled the minimum membership period

requirement. (Includes foreigners who have already returned to their home country)

* For details on the membership criteria and lump-sum repayment terms, which vary by nationality and

visa type, refer to the National Pension Website: www.nps.or.kr. National Pension Contact: 1355

2) National Health InsuranceForeigners or foreign-passport holders of Korean descent who are employed in a

business to which the National Pension Insurance is applicable or who are employed

as government officers or teaching staff have been required to join the National Health

Insurance since January 1, 2006. They have to register as Alien Residents (via

Residence Registration).

Filing for exemption is permitted in the following cases :

- Foreign nationals who wish to file for exemption and are arbitrary membership

candidates under the Inter-governmental Social Security Treaty.

- French nationals have been permitted to file for exemption since June 1, 2007.

- Foreign nationals with separate medical insurance coverage under the foreign law,

insurance policy, or contract with an employee.

Eligible to file for exemption since June 31, 2007 (Related document filing)

Contact : 1577-1000

English: 02-390-2000 (E)

Website : www.nhic.or.kr

3. 4 Major Insurances for Foreigners

1) National Pension

SubjectsForeigners between the age of 18 and 59 currently residing in Korea

Exemptions

- Trainees (excluding training-based employees), students, diplomats, and others

exempted from the National Pension obligation by law.

- Foreign nationals from a country that does not impose a National Pension type of

obligation on Korean nationals : If the National Pension Act or equivalent statutory

provision of the foreign country does not obligate Korean nationals to join the

Pension system equivalent of the National Pension System in Korea, which acts as

an economic risk-sharing income security system.

- Employees, who are dispatched to Korea from a country with a Social Security Treatywith Korea, when presenting the proof of current National Pension membership

Pension Payments for Foreign Members of the National Pension in Korea

Foreigners that meet the same criteria for the Old-age Pension, Family Pension, and/or

Disability Pension applied to Koreans are eligible to receive pension benefits under the

National Pension Act.

Foreign nationals from a country without a Social Security Treaty or Mutual Application

Statute with Korea who are residing in Korea with the E-8 (Training-based

Employment), E-9 (Non-specialized Employment), or H-2 (Employment) visas are

eligible to receive a lump-sum repayment of their National Pension installation

payments.


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Q&A

Can I personally bring investment capital into Korea instead of

making a wire transfer?

A. Personal possession of cash when passing through customs could cause a problem

due to uncertainty regarding the origin of the funds, so it is highly recommended thatthe related capital be wire-transferred instead. If you have to personally bring in the

investment capital due to specific circumstances, you need to keep with you the

proof of reportingfrom the customs service both in your home country and in

Korea. Fund transparency cannot be guaranteed when changed in a regular foreign

exchange center, so you need to have it changed at an authorized foreign exchange

bank.

In which industries can a foreigner not work in Korea?

A.Foreign investment exception industriesrefers to industries of a public nature to

which the Foreign Investment Promotion Act cannot be applied, and investment inthese industries is not allowed in principle.

Postal Service, Central Bank, Individual Mutual Aid, Pension, Other Financial

Market Management, Other Financial Support Service Industries, etc.

Legislative, judiciary, executive agencies, foreign consulates in Korea, other

international or foreign bodies

Economics R&D, other forms of R&D in the humanities and social sciences

Education Institutes (Every level from Elementary Schools to Universities, as well

as Kindergartens and Special-need Schools, etc.)

Artists, Religious Organizations, Industry Experts, Environmental Activists, Political/

Labor Activist Organizations, etc.

In principle, foreign investment is forbidden in the above industries, but there are

exceptions in the presence of allowance provision. Check with Invest KOREA for

further details.

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3) Employment Insurance

Foreign workers are exempted from Employment Insurance benefit as a general rule,

but their status - Definite Application, Arbitrary Application, Mutual Application - differs

depending on their visa type.

Definite Application

Foreign workers with a resident status that allows them to carry out the same job

search and employment activities as Korean nationals are given theDefinite

Applicationof the Employment Insurance.

Visa Type : Resident (F-2), Permanent Resident (F-5)

Arbitrary Application

Foreign workers with a short-term employment visa or similar visas generally leave

Korea after their employment contract expires. They are made the subject ofArbitrary

Application,which means they join the Employment Insurance only when the

individual employee files to join it.Visa Type : Short-term Employment (C-4), Professor (E-1), Non-specialized

Employment (E-9), In-bound Ship Crew (E-10), Foreign Nationals of Korean Descent (F-

4), Co-habitation Visit (F-1) with sanction of the Ministry of Justice.

Mutual Application

The international mutual application principle is used to give foreign workers dispatched

to Korea, with the exception of those from a country that does not give Korean

nationals the benefit of its own Employment Insurance System by law.

Visa Type : Employer Residence (D-7), Corporate Investment (D-8), International Trade

(D-9).

4) Industrial Accident Insurance- Businesses with their headquarters in Korea, regardless of the industry, are obligated

to join the Industrial Accident Insurance.

- Industrial Accident Insurance applies not to individual employees but to businesses.

Employees of a business with Industrial Accident Insurance can automatically enjoy

the benefits.


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Q&A

How can I open a restaurant in Korea?

A. Individual Business : Investment reporting Fund transfer Business reporting

Business registration Foreign-capital company registration

Corporation : Investment reporting Fund transfer Business reporting Corporation establishment Business registration Foreign-capital company

registration

When starting a restaurant and hospitality business (regular restaurant, rest-stop

restaurant, bar, karaoke bar, etc.), you need to apply for the Restaurant (and

Hospitality) Business Authorization from a Gu office.

Department: Department of Public Health and Hygiene

Application Fee : KRW 28,000

Processing Time : within 3 days

Document Requirements :

Business Facility and Equipment Overview

Training Completion Certificate (After completing the relevant training required as

specified in line 2 of Article 17 of the Act)

Original Copy of the License (Applicable to grooming and beauty care

businesses)

How can I open a language academy business in Korea?

A. Individual Business : Investment reporting Fund transfer Academy business

authorization Business registration Foreign-invested business registration

Corporation : Investment reporting Fund transfer Academy business

authorization Corporation establishment Business registration Foreign-invested registration

You need to apply for the Academy Business Authorization from the Office of

Education with the relevant jurisdiction to open an academy business in Korea.

Department : Department of Lifelong Education and Sports in each office of

Education

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What do I need to do to come to Korea for investment immigration?

A. There is no official channel for investment immigration to Korea. Instead, persons

who make a foreign direct investment of US$500,000 or more are given the

Permanent Resident (F-5) visa, which will enable them to live a comfortable life inKorea without acquiring Korean citizenship. With the Permanent Resident visa, you

will not need to extend your visa and will be able to enjoy free economic activities in

Korea any time you want.


Copy of Business Registration Card or the Corporate Registration Certificate

Business Site and Housing Rental Contract

Other documentary proofs of foreign investment such as the Foreign-Capital

Company Certificate

How can I open an international trading company in Korea?

A. Individual Business : Investment reporting Fund transfer Business

registration Foreign-invested company registration

Corporation : Investment reporting Fund transfer Corporation establishment

Business registration Foreign-invested company registration

An international trading company can apply for the International trade business

number through the Korea International Trade Association (KITA). KITA members

have access to various services.


1 International Trade Business Number Application Form

1 Original Copy of the Business Registration CardReporting Changes of Information: Should any change occur with regard to the

information on your International Trade Business Number Card, you need to report it

to the Chairman of the KITA using the International Trade Business Information

Change Report Form within 20 days.

Website : www.kita.net

Contact : 1566-5114

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Q&A

Can a foreign student start a business in Korea?

A. Foreigners with the student (D-2) visa cannot start a business in Korea, so it is

recommended that you start a business after completing your school work.

However, you can run a business with the corporate investment (D-8) visa and getthe extra-status activity authorization to continue with your studies.

I currently hold the F-4 visa, and want to invest in Korea. What

special protocols do I need to follow?

A. F-4 visa status is given to foreign passport holders of Korean descent. The F-4 visa

grants the subject the same rights as Koreans, so you can proceed with the regular

business start-up process without following the foreign direct investment protocols.

I am currently running a business with a D-8 visa in Korea. What do Ineed to do if I were to open another business in a different industry?

A. If you are a corporation, you can just apply for another Business Registration for the

new business by setting up a branch. However, this option is not available for an

individual business, so you will need to follow the foreign direct investment protocol

again and establish a new foreign-invested company.

If I have capital of less than KRW 50 million, what do I need to do

to start a business?

A. Investments of less than KRW 50 million is not subject to foreign direct investmentreporting, so the business cannot be recognized as a foreign-invested company.

However, a foreign corporation can open a branch in Korea.

You need to report to the Bank of Korea when the funds are transferred to Korea to open

a business with investments of less than KRW 50 million. Only then can you use the

report history as the source of investment when sending the profit back to your home

country. Furthermore, you cannot acquire a long-term business visa in Korea, so you will

need to register a tax management proxy when making the Business Registration.

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One copy of the Academy Establishment/Management Registration Application Form

One copy of the Academys Location Diagram (Map)

One copy of the Academys Facility Blueprint

If the founder is a corporation :- One copy of the Articles of Association

- One copy of minutes of the Board Meeting on the establishment of the academy

(Attach the original copy)

If the Academys property belongs to someone else :

- One copy of Jeonse or other lease contract (Attach the original copy)

(Contact the Office of Education with the relevant jurisdiction because

documentary requirements may vary depending on the office in charge.)

Which documents are required when registering a business?

A. Individual :

One copy of the Business Registration Card

One copy of lease contract (when renting a place of business)

One copy of the authorization (registration, reporting) certificate (when applicable)

- When registering before being granted the authorization (registration, reporting) :

One copy of the authorization (registration) application or business proposal

Partnership contract (When it is a partnership business)

Proof of nationality for foreigners/foreign passport holders of Korean descent

- Copy of passport or Alien Registration Card

- When not residing in Korea : Tax Management Proxy Report Form

Corporation : One copy of Corporation Establishment Notification and Business Registration form

One copy of Corporate Registration Certificate

One copy of the (Corporations) lease contract (when renting a place of business)

One certified copy of the Shareholder or Investor

One copy of the business authorization (registration, reporting) of the corporation

(When applicable)

One certified copy of investment in-kind (When applicable)

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Q&A

I have received a letter of notice to the effect that as five years

have passed since I last registered my business through the

Commercial Registration Office of the Seoul Central District

Court, I need to report whether my business has shut down or

not. What do I need to do?

A. Corporate businesses need to report any changes made to the information given

upon registering. You must have received the letter of notice because you did not

report any changes in the past five years.

For instance, the auditors / directors term is three years, so the report on

management change needs to be filed every three years after first registering the

establishment of a corporation. Even if the previous management members are to

continue holding office in the following term, such a fact needs to be reported.

Can I be issued with the Business Registration Card in English?

A. The Business Registration Card is not issued in English, but you can obtain the

Proof of Business Registration in English at the nearest Tax Revenue Service office.

I would like to create a website for my company. What do I needto do?

A. First of all, check with a domain registration company (WhoIs, Gabia, I-Names, etc.)

to see if the domain of your choice is available. If it is available, sign up for

membership with the companys website and register the new domain. Select the

period of use before finalizing your application. All domains are managed by theKorea Internet & Security Agency (02-2186-4652).

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What is the difference between a branch and a liaison office?

A. The opening of a branch or a liaison office of a foreign corporation in Korea is notrecognized as foreign investment, and thus falls under the restrictions set forth in

the Foreign Currency Transaction Act. The two differ as regards the execution ofsales activities: A branch carries out sales activities of which the purpose is profit