1. Visa
Apply for the D-2 student visa during the middle of July. I got my visa on 8/5 (took 3
weeks to process my visa application). The Consulate General of the Republic of Korea
only take walk-ins, it is advised to go there if you have a lot free time because it may
take up to an hour wait. It is best to be over-prepared with documents as you never know you might need other documents based on your situation. The office workers may
come off as impatient and rude.
2. ARC (Alien Registration Card)
Make an appointment as soon as you arrive in Korea as time slots fill up quickly. The
location of the Seoul Immigration Office you go to depends on the neighborhood you
live in. I used my passport information to verify my identity to RSVP. The link for the ARC
appointment: https://www.hikorea.go.kr/resv/ResvIdntR.pt#this.
An ARC is mandatory because you will need this to leave Korea and if you want to visit
other countries during your time abroad. It is convenient to have when you need to
verify your identity or age during your time in Korea, better than having your passport
around you
3. Cults in Korea
a. Korea is known to have a significant cult following. It is not common for local Koreans to
come up to you and start a conversation. They will typically come up to you and ask you
your name, where you are from, school, where you live, etc. They will then ask you to
meet up someday for a coffee or meal and ask for your phone number or Kakao talk.
4. Public Transportation
Purchase the T-Money card to pay for the bus, subway, taxi, and participating
convenience stores. The last subway train is at 12 AM & the first train opens at 5 AM
5. Useful Apps to Download
a. Kakao Talk
i. A lot of Koreans use Kakao Talk as their communication platform. It is a good
app to have especially for group projects when working with Korean students
b. Naver Map or Kakao Map
Google map does not work in Korea. I personally like Naver Map because it is
more English friendly. Both of the apps are good to get around Korea.
c. Kakao T
Similar to Uber where you can catch a taxi in Korea at a decent price.
d. Papago
A more accurate Korean-English translation app than Google Translate.
6. Disposing Trash
Korea organizes its trash by recyclables, general waste, and food waste. There is a special bag for each waste where you can purchase it any convenient store. Recyclables includes glass, cans, paper, plastic, and vinyl.
7. Learn the Language
Familiarize yourself with the Korean alphabet to have an easier time navigating around
Korea when it comes to the name of the bus stop and subway stations, restaurants,
shops, etc. The Korean alphabet is not difficult to learn. It may only take a week to
memorize the alphabet.
Learn common phrases to get around Korea easily since not a lot of Koreans speak
English. During my time in study abroad, I learn that language connects people. Being
able to speak the person’s native language makes you more likeable.
8. Tax-free
a. In certain stores (usually in tourist areas or big companies) have global tax free where
you don’t have to pay for the tax of your purchase. You will need your passport to get
tax-free. Please keep the receipt as you will claim your tax refund at the airport.
9. Pack Lightly
There are a l
ot of amazing things to buy in Korea: skincare, makeup, clothes, and etc. I
only packed an ample amount of clothes since I know will be buying a lot. You can buy
cheap home appliances and personal hygiene products in a Daiso near your neighborhood.
If you will be in Korea during the winter season, I suggest you to buy a Uniqlo’s heattech
and Spao for their winter jackets. Don't forget to pack a plug adapter!
10. Don’t Neglect Your Classes
There’s a lot to do in Seoul and be easily caught up with the city. However, it is
important to discipline yourself when it is time to work vs. play. Create a schedule for
yourself to optimize your time to study and to have fun.
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