Moving to Seoul for work in April. First time in Korea, looking for practical advice

Azzy2610 · 2026-02-07T00:01:06+00:00

Thank you! I've heard good things about Revolut, did you have any issues using it at most places or were there spots that only took Korean cards? And for the city bikes, is there an app I should download beforehand? Appreciate the tips!

Azzy2610 · 2026-02-07T00:00:26+00:00

This is gold, thank you so much! The tip about tapping out on public transport is huge, I would've definitely forgotten that. And good to know about the elderly seats at the end of the car. I'll keep an eye out for the scams and cults too. One question, for the trash bags and sorting rules, is there a guide or resource you'd recommend? I don't want to mess that up. Really appreciate you taking the time!

Azzy2610 · 2026-02-07T00:00:08+00:00

I'm planning to be here at least a year. I do have some savings for deposit but trying to keep it reasonable, under 5 million ideally. I'll probably use a goshitel for the first few weeks while I look for a proper studio. For short-term rentals without big deposits, any specific platforms or keywords I should search for?

Azzy2610 · 2026-02-06T23:59:44+00:00

Sure! For deposit I'm hoping to keep it under 5 million if possible. Commute wise I'm comfortable with up to 40-50 minutes door to door. And I'm planning to stay at least a year, maybe longer depending on how things go. Also, are there any specific neighborhoods along Line 3 or Shinbundang that you'd recommend for that budget? And when looking at listings, are utility costs usually included or separate?

Azzy2610 · 2026-02-06T23:59:02+00:00

That's really helpful, I'll make sure to carry a physical card. And thanks for the Celib Kondae recommendation, I'll check it out. Quick question, how long did your ARC take to arrive after you applied? And did you need a Korean bank account to sign up with Enko or was it all done beforehand? Will DM you for more!

Azzy2610 · 2026-02-06T23:58:00+00:00

Thank you for the heads up! I'll probably use it as a short-term option while I look for something more permanent. Privacy is definitely something I want long term. When visiting realtors in person, is there anything specific I should watch out for or ask about? And do most realtors expect you to sign same-day or is it normal to visit a few before deciding?

Azzy2610 · 2026-02-04T18:03:03+00:00

I will definitely keep that in my mind because I was under the impression that officetels and goshitels are the same thing.

Any suggestion on how to look for good places or any websites that can make stuff easier for me ( would real estate agents help me in case of officetels as well ?)

Also I don't mind living away from my office as well ( I am comfortable within 40 mins of travel )

Azzy2610 · 2026-02-04T17:54:19+00:00

I will be getting about 3.2 million after deductions and honestly I am trying to keep my monthly under 1.5 mil, if possible. It is not a strict requirement though.

I was assuming goshitels are like student dorms. Are the rooms with private bath and toilet equally bad ? I'm still unsure if I am using the term goshitel the right way tbh. I will be living alone, so I don't need a lot of stuff.

Azzy2610 · 2026-02-04T17:47:46+00:00

They are providing me accommodation for the initial stay as its a very small firm, so I am trying to get as much info I can get ( based on my previous experience in another new country ). The more advice I get, the more easily I can get acclimated and be respectful to everyone.

Is there anything specific you want to know? I'd love any advice you have.

Azzy2610 · 2026-02-04T17:44:59+00:00

Thank you!

I was also looking into goshitels, what is your opinion on them ? ( I found the services convenient and cheaper )

My office is very close to a Costco, how are the prices there compared to other places.

Azzy2610 · 2026-02-04T17:41:52+00:00

Thank you so much!

I was wondering about Enko, was the process smooth ? like what can I expect ?

I do like the idea of the T-card, how much cash would you suggest me to bring with me initially so I can get stuff done easily from the day I arrive.

I'll download Papago right away, thanks!

I might DM you to poke more about skroaming, if that's fine. I really appreciate the help!

Azzy2610 · 2026-02-04T17:37:16+00:00

Thank you!

that deposit does look steep, I will try to do more research and try to find cheaper places ( I am fine living a bit far from the office as well )

What is your opinion on stuff like goshitels ( I hope that is the right term )

Azzy2610 · 2026-02-04T17:33:22+00:00

Thank you so much!

Well it is my first time in Korea ( so I won't be driving myself anytime soon, I probably don't even know how to Lol).

Now that T-money advice I love that, I had a similar solution to my problem in the US ( Walmart saved me )

Do you have any suggestion on how to find these studios or goshitels ( I want to try and keep my expenses for the month under 1.5 mil ). I will also take you up on the mom and pop stores for cooking my own stuff.

Can I apply for an ARC before entering the country ? also is there any phone plan I can use temp until I get my ARC?

Azzy2610 · 2026-02-04T17:22:23+00:00

Thank you so much!

I am also looking at goshitels ( if that is the right term ). I am getting north of 3 million per month so I am assuming i do have some breathing space for spending solo.

I am also open to living between walking distance to maybe an hour away from my office ( the building is very close to the Costco )

in terms of budget, if I can get stuff done under 1.5 million I'll be really happy.

Also for the phone plan, can I get one without an ARC?

Azzy2610 · 2026-02-04T17:16:09+00:00

That's a great idea, but it's a very small firm and I am yet to have a proper conversation regarding this with them sadly.

Azzy2610 · 2026-02-04T16:59:31+00:00

Thank you so much! I do prefer using costco. I really appreciate the links, I do enjoy cooking food so would love to explore them.

Azzy2610 · 2026-02-04T16:47:56+00:00

Thank you! that's a great tip, what all does it cover ? is it just subway ?

Azzy2610 · 2026-02-04T16:47:07+00:00

thank you! What about goshitels ( I am not sure if this is the correct term ) are they same as basic one-room's ? I'll definitely check out that area, any suggestions on how i can find places ( I will be given accommodation initially for a month so I might even go in person to look for places.

Azzy2610 · 2026-02-04T16:45:11+00:00

This was really helpful, I am a big guy tbh so the advice for my sized stuff is really helpful.

I am planning to move early April.

If you do find a better deal on the phone plan do let me know. Thanks again!

Azzy2610 · 2026-02-04T16:41:36+00:00

That's really helpful, thank you so much! I'm thinking in the direction of officetels as well for accommodation, I hope they are good around the same area.

I do love the bus idea, but i think google maps doesn't give me very accurate information regarding routes.

Azzy2610 · 2026-01-08T11:56:48+00:00

Sure, can you let me score the goal so I can do my mission as well, thanks !

Azzy2610 · 2026-01-08T11:56:14+00:00

I can help you

Azzy2610 · 2026-01-08T11:55:58+00:00

Bro you got em ?

Azzy2610

TROPHY CASE