Things Newcomers Need To Know To Live in Korea

Things newcomers need To Know To Live in Korea
The Republic Of Korea is a small country on the far eastern edge of Asia. Although it ranks 109 in the world in terms of land area, the country is a center of economic
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activities, culture and arts in Asia. Korea was colonized by Japan in the early 20
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century and later had to endure the Korean War (1950-53), but it has achieved amazing economic growth in a short period, dubbed the Miracle on the Han River. Today, Korea is an industrial nation standing tall on the world stage. Its semi-conductor, automobile, shipbuilding, steel making and IT industries have a leading edge in world markets. It hosted the 1988 Seoul Olympics and the 2002 Korea-Japan FIFA World Cup. More recently, Korean dramas, movies and music are attracting many audiences in Asian countries, creating what is being called the Korean Wave. Koreas new standing in the international community was highlighted in 2010 with the nation becoming the first Asian country to chair the G20 and host the G20 Seoul Summit.

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1 _ 2 _ 108 114
Korea at a Glance

Name of Country /
Republic of Korea / Korea / South Korea /
Major cities /
Busan / With 3.6 million people, it is the 2nd largest city and largest international port in Korea.
360 . . 1 .
The Korean National Flag /
National anthem /
Aegukga(A Song of Love of Country) / The Aegukga was written to encourage Koreans to love their country after it was colonized in the early 1900s. Ahn Eaktay composed the music for the national anthem in 1935.
1900 . 1935 .
Location /
Mongolia / Korea / China / Japan /
Incheon / With 2.7 million people, Incheon, located on the northwest coast, is central to international logistics with its harbors and international airport.
270 . . .
Myanmar / Thailand / Vietnam /
Daegu / With 2.5 million people, its major industry is textiles and fashion rounded out with sports.
250 . . .
The country is located in the southern half of the Korean Peninsula in the northeast Asian continent, neighboring Japan, China and Russia.
, , , .
Daejeon / With 1.5 million people, Daejeon is a core city of central Korea, specializing in science and technology research & development. It is also an administrative city, with a government complex.
150 . . . .
Taegeukgi / Depicted on the flag is a taeguek symbol, a circle divided equally and in perfect balance. The upper, red section, represents yang and the lower, blue section, yin, an ancient symbol of the universe. These two opposites express the dualism of the cosmos. The central thought in the taegeuk indicates that while there is movement within the sphere of infinity, there is also balance and harmony. The trigrams at the four corners also carry the ideas of opposition and balance. They represent heaven, earth, the sun or fire and the moon or water. The white background symbolizes the peace-loving spirit of the Korean people.
4 . . () () . 4 , , (), () .
Language /
Korean Alphabet (Han-geul) / () In 1443, King Sejong the Great, the fourth monarch of the Joseon Kingdom, made the unique Korean alphabet (Han-geul), which people could learn and use easily. Han-geul is very scientific and systematic in structure. UNESCO recognized its cultural value in 1997, listing Han-geul on the Memory of the World Register. Han-geul consists of 10 vowels and 14 consonants, which can be used to represent every sound in Korean.
1443 4 . . 1997 . 10 14 . 24 .
Capital City /
Seoul / Seoul first became the capital at the beginning of the Joseon Kingdom in 1392. The Bukhan, Surak and Gwanak mountains surround Seoul while the Han River flows through the middle of the city. With a population of more than 10 million, Seoul is the center of the economy, culture and politics of the country. The city was the venue of the Asian Games in 1986, the Seoul Olympics in 1988, the FIFA World Cup in 2002 and the Seoul G20 Summit in 2010.
1392 , . , , , . 1,000 , , . 1986 , 1988 , 2002 , 2010 G20 .
Ulsan / With 1.1 million people, it is noted for shipbuilding, automobiles, and other large scale industrial complexes.
110 . , .
Consonants /
National flower /
Gwangju / With 1.4 million people, Gwangju is the central city of the southwestern region and is famous for culture and art.
140 . . .
ng
ch
Vowels /
a ya eo
yeo o yo u yu eu i
Mugung-hwa /
The mugung-hwa (rose of Sharon) is said to blossom eternally and never fade away. In Korea, it has come to symbolize an unbreakable spirit.
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Weather /
Temperate with four distinct seasons.
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Population /
Major industries /
total / semi-conductors, automobiles, shipbuilding, iron & steel, mobile devices, home appliances and chemical products.
, , , , , ,
49,410,366
Males
24,757,776
Females
24,652,590
Foreigners
918,917
(as of December, 2010 / 2010 12 )
Currency /
Won /
Economics /
ItemNames / GDP (Gross Domestic Product) (GDP) Details / US$ 1,014.7 billion (2010), 15th largest GDP in 10,147 (2010) US$ 1,016 billion (2010) 10,160 (2010) US$ 20,562 (2010) 20,562 (2010)
the world
Religions /
Korea has religious freedom, and a number of religious faiths coexist in Korea, including Bu d d h i s m , C h r i s t i a n i t y ( b o t h P r o t e s t a n t denominations and Catholicism), Islam and several native religions.
. , , , . Duman River / 521 km
Spring / In spring, flowers blossom on mountains and in fields, and its a little cold in the morning and evening but warm in the day. In mid April, light clothes are enough. Although the air is usually fresh in spring, yellow dust from the north sometimes flows onto the Korean Peninsula, causing respiratory problems for many. When the weather turns abruptly cold from time to time after the flowers have begun to blossom, Koreans say the cold is jealous of the flowers.
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Autumn / In autumn, it begins to get cool but there are still warm days. The temperature ranges from 10o to 25oC (50o to 77oF), and many days are sunny with blue skies. Mountains and fields are filled with colorful autumn leaves, which attract many tourists.
10 25 . , .
(GNI)
Gross National Income
Per capita income
Political system /
Major mountains & rivers

Korea has a presidential system. The president of Korea is elected by direct popular vote and has a single five-year term. The legislative, executive, and judicial powers are independent of each other. Through checks and balances, a concentration of power is prevented and the freedoms and rights of the people are protected. In addition, Korea has local autonomy making it possible to balance the development of each province in cooperation with the local governments.
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Baekdu Mountain / 2,744 m
Winter / Winter can be very cold, and the temperature sometimes falls below 10oC (14oF). It frequently snows with chilly winds, making people wear thick, warm clothes and turn the heaters on.
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Amnok River / 790 km
Summer / In summer, the temperature usually ranges from 25o to 35oC (77o to 95oF), and its very hot and humid. The rainy season is from June to July. In late summer, typhoons sometimes hit the Peninsula, accompanied by strong winds.
25 35 . 6 7 , . .
Han River / 281.7 km
Taebaek Mountain / 1,567m Nakdong River / 521.5 km
Voting right /
Elections / President: every 5 years

: 5
Jiri Mountain / 1,915m
Universal suffrage for citizens over the age of 19 (Korean age)

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Lawmakers: every 4 years

: 4
Local governments: every 4 years

: 4
Halla Mountain / 1,950m
Provinces and Cities of Korea

. 109 , , . 20 , , . , , , , IT 1988 2002 . 2010 G20 . , .
The Republic of Korea consists of 16 regions: 1 special city (Seoul), 6 metropolitan cities (Busan, Daegu, Daejeon, Incheon, Gwangju and Ulsan); 1 special self-governing province (Jeju-do) and 8 Provinces (Gangwon-do, Gyeonggi-do, Chungcheongbuk-do, Chungcheongnam-do, Gyeongsangbuk-do, Gyeongsangnam-do, Jeollabuk-do and Jeollanam-do)
16 . 1 (), 6 (, , , , , ), 8 (, , , , , , , ) . 1 () .
Gyeonggi-do
Gangwon-do
6 Seoul
Incheon
5 4 3 9
Ulleung-do (Island)
Dok-do (Island)
8 12 11
Chungcheongbuk-do
Chungcheongnam-do
10
Gyeongsangbuk-do
22
Daejeon
20 21 14 13
Daegu
Jeollabuk-do
19
Ulsan
15
Gyeongsangnam-do
24 23
26
Gwangju
17 16
Busan
Jeollanam-do
25 18
27
Jeju-do (Island)
28
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Provinces and Cities of Korea
Things Newcomers Need to Know to Live in Korea

Things Newcomers Need to Know to Live in Korea 2012 Edition Copyright 2011 Published by Korean Culture and Information Service Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism / 15 Hyojaro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, Republic of Korea Telephone 82-2-398-1914~20, Fax 82-2-398-1882 / All rights reserved Printed in Seoul / For further information about Korea. please visit: www.korea.net
Preface
In this day and age, the world is shrinking into a single global village. Beyond the borders of any individual country, competition for resources and information is becoming more intense. Nationalism that only pursues the benefits of one ethnic group or country is of necessity giving way to the promotion of peaceful coexistence among all peoples.
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In this new era, more and more people are coming to Korea from other countries. Some are coming as tourists but many others to study or work. In particular, the number of people from other countries who are immigrating to Korea to marry Koreans is increasing every year. This phenomenon is changing Korean culture, which in the past had emphasized homogeneity, but now is being enriched by multiculturalism. In all, there are over one million people who have come to reside in Korea from other countries. It is not always easy to live in a foreign country. There are many things that have to be adjusted to. Differences range from language, food and customs to taking public transportation, conducting everyday family business and communicating with others.
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This book provides information about the essential things that newcomers will need to know to live in Korea. It includes a brief sketch of Korean history and culture and advice on how best to adapt to daily life.
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It is my hope this book will help all those who are living in Korea for the first time to adjust to their new life.
Woo Jinyung Director of the Korean Culture and Information Service June 2012
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Korean Life and Culture
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Contents
Korea at a Glance Provinces & Cities of Korea Korean History through Tales
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01 _ Family 02 _ Family Events 03 _ Traditional Holidays 04 _ Wedding Ceremonies 05 _ Funerals and Jesa 06 _ General Etiquette 07 _ Etiquette Reflected in Language 08 _ Table Manners 09 _ Food 10 _ Housing 024 026 028 032 034 036 038 042 044 048
Adapting to Daily Life

11 _ Finding Housing 12 _ Using Utilities 13 _ Using TV and Communication Systems 14 _ Disposal of Trash and Garbage 15 _ Economy 16 _ Where to Buy Things 17 _ Banks 18 _ Transportation 19 _ Drivers Licenses 20 _ Public Institutions 21 _ Amenities 22 _ Medical Facilities 23 _ National Health Insurance for Foreign Nationals 24 _ Educational System 25 _ Education for Foreign Nationals 26 _ Korean Language and Life Education 27 _ Cultural Facilities 28 _ Employment 29 _ Job Training 052 054 056 060 062 064 068 072 080 082 086 088 090 092 094 096 100 102 106
Appendix
1 _ Laws Foreign Nationals Should Know 2 _ Service Institutions for Foreign Nationals 108 114
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Korea life and Culture
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Korean History through Tales

Korea has a long history of thousands of years, which

is commonly expressed as 5,000 years. With the arrival of Bronze Age weapons and tools, walled-town states began to develop in the region of present-day northeast China and the Korean Peninsula. According to ancient documents, one of the states, called Gojoseon (Old Joseon), was established
Dolmen from the Prehistoric Age

5,000 .
. . 2333 .
108, , ,
in 2333 BCE in the Daedong River basin. Gojoseon was headed by Dan-gun Wanggeom (King Dan-gun). Dan-gun is revered as the founder of the Korean nation. By the 4th century BCE, Gojoseon became the most advanced of these walled states and proceeded to combine with other states scattered throughout the region between the Daedong and Liao Rivers, forming a single large confederation.
. . 1,000 . .
676, .
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Cheomseongdae, built in the Silla Kingdom, is the oldest stone observatory in the world

In 108 BCE, Gojoseon was conquered by the Han Dynasty of ancient China.
After that, three strong kingdoms (Goguryeo, Baekje and Silla) appeared on the Peninsula. The Baekje Kingdom (18 BCE-660 CE) brought Buddhism to Japan. The Silla Kingdom (57 BCE-935 CE) blossomed into a glorious culture over a period of about 1,000 years. The Goguryeo Kingdom (37 BCE-668 CE), through courage and valor, grew in strength and extended its vast boundaries.
In 676 AD, the Silla Kingdom unified all the three kingdoms with the help of
Tang China. After unification, political stability made it possible for Buddhism to prosper and a sophisticated art to blossom. After the Goguryeo Kingdom collapsed, the people of Goguryeo had a difficult life under various rulers until they were reunified under Dae Jo-yeong, who founded the state of Balhae, which grew strong, inheriting the spirit and culture of Goguryeo.
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At the end of the 9th century, the Unified Silla Kingdom had become
weak and was divided into three states again. Wang Geon reunified these three states under the Goryeo Kingdom (918-1392). Goryeo accepted people from the Balhae Kingdom that had perished by then and became widely known for overseas trade. The name Korea comes from Goryeo

200 . .
. 1234
During the Goryeo Kingdom,

Buddhism prospered, and many invaluable artistic works, such as celadon, were created. Of special note, movable metal type cast in 1234 during the Goryeo period precedes Gutenbergs type by more than 200 years. The 80,000 woodblocks for printing the Tripitaka Koreana are registered on the UNESCO Cultural Heritage list.
016 Korean History through Tales
1392
. . , . 4
Janggunchong (thought to be the tomb of King Jangsu of Koreas Goguryeo Kingdom, now located in Jilin, China)

Cheukugi, a kind of rain gauge, was invented during the reign of King Sejong the Great (r. 1418-1450), the fourth king of the Joseon Kingdom.
4 . .
, , .
017
When Goryeo collapsed, Yi Seong-gye founded

15th century sundial
15
1592,
the Joseon Kingdom in 1392. It revised the political, economic and social systems based on Neo-Confucianism. In particular,
. . (1545~1598) , 13 133 3
King Sejong the Great, the fourth monarch of the Joseon Kingdom, reigned from 1418 to 1450
4
according to the teachings of Confucius, they emphasized a spirit of loyalty to country and filial piety, values that are still maintained today. King Sejong the Great, the fourth monarch of the Joseon Kingdom, created the unique alphabet called Han-geul, and greatly advanced agriculture, science, technology and music.
In 1592, the
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Joseon Kingdom faced a crisis due to Japanese invasions.
However, volunteer armies, known as righteous armies, were raised and fought the Japanese army. Admiral Yi Sun-sin (1545-1598) built several Geobukseon (turtle-shaped warships) and won great naval battles against Japan. In the Battle of Myeongnyang, Admiral Yi defeated a Japanese fleet of 133 warships with only 13 warships of his own. This is recorded as one of the three greatest naval battles in the world. Admiral Yi is the most respected person in Korean history.
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19 ,
. 1910 . . 1945 8 15 . . 38 , . 1950 6 25 . 3 . .

Despite the ruins of the Korean War (1950-53), Korea achieved amazing economic growth in a short period. This has been dubbed the Miracle on the Han River.
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In the 18th century, practical studies grew greatly, resulting in technological

advancement in astronomy, medical science, agriculture, commerce and other areas. In addition, the lower classes who had become affluent enjoyed Pansori (long, solo epic song), Talchum (mask dance-dramas), novels in Han-geul (the Korean alphabet) and music.
At the end of the 19th century, Japan and several other western
imperialist countries competed to gain control of Joseon. Japan robbed Joseon of its sovereignty and colonized the country. The Koreans in exile founded the Provisional Government of the Republic of Korea in Shanghai, China and organized an army to fight for Korean independence. On August 15 1945, Japan surrendered to the Allied Forces, and Korea was liberated. Although librated, Korea was quickly divided into North and South. The US Army was stationed in the South and the Soviet Army in the North, divided by the 38th parallel. On June 25, 1950, the North invaded the South, starting the Korean War. Many people died during the three years of war and the country was completely ruined. The people suffered terribly from poverty and hunger. Korea was rebuilt from the ruins of war. Koreans
The Korean drama Daejanggeum (Jewel in the Palace) contributed to spreading Hallyu, the Korean Wave, in Asia

. . 1970 . 1988 , 2002 .

The 2002 FIFA World Cup in Seoul
2002
worked hard, and by the 1970s, the countrys economy had grown remarkably, earning the title The miracle on the Han River. In 1988, Korea
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Korean History through Tales
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hosted the Seoul Olympics, and in 2002, co-hosted the FIFA World Cup with Japan. The enthusiasm of the Red Devils, who wore red t-shirts while cheering for the Korean World Cup football team, caught the attention of people around the world.
1990
()
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Bae Yong-joon and Choi Ji-woo, famous Hallyu stars

Since the 1990s,
Korean pop music,
movies and dramas have been very popular in Asia creating Hallyu (the Korean Wave). After spreading out to China, Taiwan, Japan, Vietnam,
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Mongolia, the Philippines and Thailand, Korean pop culture can even be found in Central America, Europe and Africa. A Korean drama Daejanggeum or Jewel in the Palace was exported to 60 countries around the world. The actor and actress, Bae Yong-joon and Choi Ji-woo, acting together in the drama Winter Sonata, became top celebrities in Japan. Furthermore, young Korean singers enjoy skyrocketing popularity in Southeast Asia and Japan. The movies Old Boys and Secret Sunshine (Milyang) won awards at the Cannes Film Festival, which attracts people from all over the world.
Artworks of Nam June Paik, an internationally renowned video artist
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Korean artists are very active and have achieved much

on world stages. Jo Su-mi, soprano; Chang Han-na, cellist; Kang Sue-jin, ballerina; Chung Myung-whun, conductor; and Nam June Paik, video artist, have all made Korea shine. In addition, Korea has risen as a powerful country in sports. The country reached the semifinals of the 2002 FIFA World Cup and was ranked eighth at the Beijing Olympics in 2008. The Korean archery team improves on its world record at every competition. The Korean short-track skating team has shown at every recent winter Olympics that it is the strongest in the world.
Figure skater Kim Yu-na won the gold at the 2010 Vancouver Winter Olympics
2010 .
, , . . 2002 4 , 2008 8 . . .

, 2008 , 2010 , LPGA , PGA , , .
Soccer player Park Ji-sung, who is playing in the Premier

League in the United Kingdom; swimmer Park Tae-hwan, who won gold and silver medals in the 2008 Summer Olympics; figure skater Kim Yu-na who won the gold at the 2010 Vancouver Winter Olympics; Park
Se-ri and Shin Ji-ae, who have won LPGA tournaments; Yang Yong-eun and Choi Kyung-ju who have won PGA tournaments; Park Chan-ho, who is a major league baseball player in the United States; and Jang Mi-ran, who set a new world record in weightlifting: these are Koreas best sports stars.
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, 2010 G20 .
Korea is currently ranked in the top 15 in economy in terms of Gross National

Income. Furthermore, in 2010 Korea has shown itself as one of the worlds economic leaders by holding a G20 Summit.
020 Korean History through Tales
Weightlifter Jang Mi-ran has set new world records

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01 _ Family 02 _ Family Events 03 _ Traditional Holidays 04 _ Wedding Ceremonies 05 _ Funerals and Jesa 06 _ General Etiquette 07 _ Etiquette Reflected in Language 08 _ Table Manners 09 _ Food 10 _ Housing
01 _ 02 _ 03 _ 04 _ 05 _ 06 _ 07 _ 08 _ 09 _ 10 _
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Family
Korean families have traditionally been extended, with grandfather, grandmother, parents, and children all living together. The oldest man in the house was the head and ruler of the household. Family members usually followed him. As Korea has changed from an agricultural society into an industrial society, the extended
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family had to give way to the nuclear family, with a husband and wife living with their unmarried sons and daughters. However, the role of head of the family is still important in Koreas family system, a carryover from the days of large families. In addition, as it is influenced by the large family tradition, Korea emphasizes harmony among family members. Seniority and proper order among family members are used to maintain Koreas family system. Korean people show respect to their grandparents and senior relatives by being very polite in speech and behavior. Traditionally men have worked outside the home and women at home. But as the number of working-women is increasing, men are naturally taking part in housework. However, most Korean men still tend to think that house chores is really the womans responsibility.
Koreans have traditionally maintained an extended family system.

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These days, most Koreans live in nuclear families, with a husband and wife living with their unmarried children.
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Family Events

The One-Hundredth Day Celebration

In Korea, when a baby is 100 days old, people invite their relatives and friends and hold a feast for them to celebrate the babys wellbeing. It is the tradition to put rice, thread, and money on the dining table to wish for the babys health and long life. After the feast, the parents give white rice cake to their guests to take home.
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The First Birthday

Relatives and friends gather for a feast to celebrate a babys first birthday or Dol. They set the table for the baby putting noodles, rice, a pencil, book, thread and money on it and wait for the baby to grab one of those items. If the baby grabs rice, they think she will be very fortunate throughout life. If the baby grabs money, he will be wealthy. If the baby grabs thread or noodle, she will live long, and if he grabs the book or pencil, the baby will study hard or become a great scholar.
When a baby is 100 days old, Koreans invite their relatives and friends and hold a feast for them to celebrate the babys wellbeing.
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,
61 . 60 . . . 70 .
Other Birthdays
Korean people usually eat miyeokguk
(seaweed soup) for breakfast on birthdays. Family or friends buy a birthday cake or special food and throw a party. The guests give gifts to the birthday person and play games together.
Hoegap, Gohuiyeon 61st birthday, 70th birthday

Hoegap or hwan-gap is the 6o th birthday (although it is the 61 st birthday according to the way Koreans count it). In the past, few people lived that long, so the 61st birthday was a big event to be celebrated by all the relatives and friends. As people live longer now, the 61st birthday party is much simpler, but it is still special. Although it depends on each familys situation, people often travel and receive gifts on their 61st birthdays. Gohuiyeon is the 69th (70th) birthday celebration with family and close friends.
Koreans set a special table for their baby to celebrate the first birthday or dol.
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Traditional Holidays
Lunar New Years Day
Traditional holidays are celebrated with family gatherings. People cook special food and play games. Koreas traditional holidays are Seollal or Lunar New Years Day; Daeboreum or the First Full Moon of the New Year and Chuseok or the Harvest Moon Festival. All traditional holidays are based on the lunar calendar.
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1 1 . . . ( ) , ( ) . . , ( ) . , . , , , .
Koreans eat tteokguk (soup with sliced ovals of unsweetened rice cakes in a clear beef broth) on Seollal or Lunar New Years Day.

The First Day of the First Month by the lunar calendar is a festive day, which most Korean people feel is the real beginning of the New Year. On New Years Day, people visit their hometown. They wear new clothes, hold ancestral memorial rites and sebaeor make a deep bowto their older relatives, who give them money. Families gather together and eat special foods and wish each other well. They also play traditional games. On Lunar New Years Day, people eat tteokguk (soup with sliced ovals of unsweetened rice cakes in a clear beef broth). When they eat tteokguk on the first day of a new year, they say they are eating one more year. Other foods prepared on New Years Day are jeon (foods prepared by dipping in flour and egg and then pan frying), japchae (a colorful dish made with glass noodles, strips of beef and stir-fried vegetables), tteok (sweetened rice cakes) and namul muchim (parboiled greens mixed with soy sauce and other seasonings).
Daeboreum First Full Moon Day of the Lunar Year

Korean people used to regard the first full moon of the year (January 15 according to the lunar calendar) as a big festival day signifying the start of farming. People held some rituals to hope for a year of abundance. They also enjoyed selling my heat (a game where people pretended to sell their heat for the upcoming summer to others before sunrise on this day), viewing the first full moon, stepping on a bridge (as people step on a bridge, they feel as though their legs are getting stronger) and flying kites. On the first full moon day, people cook and eat Bureom (nuts), Yakbap (sweet rice with nuts and jujubes), Ogokbap (five-grain rice), Mugeun namul (sauted dried vegetables) and Bokssam (rice wrapped in dried seaweed or various leaves. It is said
Food for Daeboreum

that bok (good luck) for the New Year is wrapped up (ssam) and eaten.)
On Seollal or Lunar New Years Day, Koreans hold ancestral memorial rites and sebae (make a deep bow) to older relatives.
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028
029
tip
Food for Daeboreum /
Bureom /
Nuts such as chestnut, pine nut and walnut that are eaten on this day to protect against boils and abscesses
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Ogokbap /
Five-grain rice made with white rice, glutinous rice, barley, millet, sorghum or other grains plus red beans
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Mugeun namul /
Dried vegetables such as radish, cucumber, zucchini, gourd, eggplant, mushrooms and bracken are reconstituted in water and then sauted.
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Flying kites on Daeboreum /
Yakbap /
Soak glutinous rice in water and then steam in an earthenware steamer. Simmer honey or sugar, sesame oil and jujube and strain through a sieve. Add this liquid to the steamed rice with soy sauce, chestnut, jujube, cinnamon, dried persimmon and pine nuts and steam again.
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1 15 . . ( ), , ( ), . , , , .
Chuseok Harvest Moon Festival

Chuseok is one of the most important holidays in Korea, celebrated on the 15th day of the Eighth Month by the lunar calendar. On that day, many Korean people visit their hometowns. People hold ancestral rites in gratitude for finishing the years farming well and share with their neighbors and play games. On the morning of Chuseok, ancestral rites are held. Food from the new harvest is prepared, including rice, songpyeon (half-moon shaped, filled rice cakes), liquor, jeon (pan-fried foods) and three colored mixed greens, as well as chestnuts, jujube, persimmon and pear. After the ancestral rite, people visit the graves of their ancestors and cut the grass and clean around the burial mound. They also hold a rite that includes offering rice wine and bowing to the ancestors. Villagers often organize themselves into teams between villages or neighborhoods and have a juldarigi (tug-of-war) while they enjoy farmers band music and dancing. In Jeollanam-do (South Jeolla Province), women perform a Ganggangsullae, holding hands and dancing in a circle while the Chuseok moon rises.
8 15 . , . ,
Koreans bow to their ancestors at gravesites and hold ancestral rites on Chuseok.
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Wedding Ceremonies
In traditional Korean weddings, the bridegroom puts on wedding clothes and goes to the brides house for the wedding ceremony. But today, this traditional wedding ceremony is almost gone, and most Koreans have simpler weddings with the bride wearing a white bridal dress and the bridegroom a tuxedo as Korean society increasingly follows Western culture.
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Although most people use wedding halls, many people use temples or churches. After the wedding ceremony, the bride changes into traditional Korean clothes and holds a Pyebaek (a traditional ceremony held immediately following the wedding ceremony when the new couple pays respect to the grooms family). Pyebaek was traditionally the first greeting a bride gave to her parents-inlaw. The brides family prepares food for her parents-in-law, and she bows first to them and then to the bridegrooms older relatives one by one. Foods for Pyebaek are usually jujube, chestnut, chicken, liquor, meat and taffy. Jujube and chestnuts represent a wish for many children. Jujube symbolizes sons and chestnuts daughters.
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Hanbok(traditional Korean clothes) /
Hanbok, traditional Korean clothing, is distinctive in design. It exudes harmony between straight lines and curves as well as beautiful colors. It is made of such materials as silk, ramie or hemp cloth. Traditionally, the basic color for hanbok was white, but the colors and materials varied depending on the season, place and time. Today most hanbok are made of colorful materials. The hanbok consists of a jeogori (a short, loose shirt-jacket for men or blouse for women with long, full sleeves), baji (wide, baggy trousers, tied at the ankle and waist) for men, chima (a high-waisted full wraparound skirt) for women and a durumagi (a long overcoat). The usual hanbok for men consists basically of a jeogori, a jokki (vest) and magoja (outer jacket), which is worn when going out. The usual hanbok for women consists of jeogori and chima. A magoja and durumagi are worn when going out. These days, people wear hanbok for special days such as traditional holidays, weddings, the 60th birthday celebrations, and the babys first birthday.
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Koreans use commercial wedding halls, Buddhist temples or Christian churches for weddings.
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Pyebaek is a traditional ceremony held immediately following the wedding ceremony when the new couple pays respect to the grooms family.
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Funerals and Jesa

Funerals
Funerals in Korea are usually carried out according to Confucian traditions. The family of the deceased send notices to their relatives and acquaintances and prepare the funeral. They dress the deceased in a shroud and wear mourning clothes. Most people prepare shrouds in advance while the deceased was
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still alive. People wear hemp clothing or white or black clothes for mourning. The funeral is performed at different places, as determined by religious customs. Funerals are held on the last day of a three-day mourning period. Both burial and cremation are generally accepted. When people come to offer condolences, black or white clothing are recommended. Mourners make a deep formal bow twice in front of the picture of the deceased and then the guest and the chief mourners make a deep formal bow to each other. When its difficult to bow for religious reasons, the visitors will pray for the deceased or the family. After expressing their sympathy, people usually give money to help the family with funeral costs according to their ability.
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Jesa Ancestral Memorial Rites

Jesa is the ancestral rites in general for remembering ancestors and deceased parents for which much food is prepared. Gijesa is memorial rites performed on the anniversary of the day of death, while charye is the rites performed on traditional holidays such as Lunar New Years Day or Chuseok (Harvest Moon Festival).
Jesa is the word for ancestral memorial rite in general performed for deceased parents and ancestors.
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How to set a jesa table /
Candle / Sinwi (ancestral tablet) / Soup / Bap (steamed rice) / Meat / Po (dried fish) / Buchim (pan-fried food) / Namul (seasoned vegetables) / Jogi (yellow corbina) / Jujubes / Chestnuts / Persimmons / Pears / Apple / Incense Burner / Kettle / Cup / Bowl for ritual wine /
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Jesa is performed for up to two generations of deceased relatives. The time for jesa is from midnight on the date when the ancestor passed away to 1am. However, these days, any time after sunset is an acceptable time for jesa. Although preparation and procedures for jesa vary depending on the region or family tradition, people put bap (rice), tang (soup), namul (vegetables), jeon (pan-fried foods), chestnuts, liquor, yakgwa (honey cookies), dasik (tea cookies), and fruit such as jujubes, dried persimmons and pears.
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General Etiquette
Greetings
The traditional formal greeting in Korea was a deep bow, down on the knees with the forehead touching the back of the hands. Nowadays, the deep formal bowing is rare in daily life, but is still common as a gesture of respect on traditional holidays such as Lunar New Years day and Chuseok or during the
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Pyebaek ceremony at weddings. People also bow to the deceased and chief mourners at a funeral or during jesa. Normally, people greet each other by bending at the waist and neck slightly and saying Annyeong haseyo? or Annyeong hasimnikka? (Are you well?) regardless of time and place. People say Ban-gap seumnida (Its nice to meet you) the first time they meet someone.
Etiquette toward Neighbors
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tip
How to Make a Deep Formal Bow /
Bowing is started by putting one of your own hands on top of the other just below your waist; this is called gongsu
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When Koreans lived mostly in small communities, they were well acquainted with all their neighbors. They showed respect to the elders in the neigh borhood the same as they would to their parents. These days, Koreans still greet their elders politely every time they meet them. They always use honorific words for seniors.
Titles / Meanings /
Mens Posture for Bowing /
Eoreusin
used for parents friends, friends parents or elderly persons

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1. While performing gongsu, with the left hand on the right hand, keep elbows and hands horizontal at your abdomen, 2. Bend at the waist and put your hands on the floor, keeping your left hand on the right, 3. Kneel down on your left knee and then right knee. Put the top of the right foot over the sole of the left foot and hold your heels apart and sit down on your heels, 4. Make sure your forehead touches the back of your hands by bending enough for your elbows to touch the floor but keep your buttock down, and finally 5. Lift your upper body up and then stand by lifting your right knee first. Keep your feet together.
1. . . 2. . 3. . . 4. . . 5. . . Womens Posture for Bowing /
Seonsaengnim
used for older people the speaker respects and teachers

Hyeongnim, Hyeong, Nunim

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used by men for people a little older than the speaker used for older people who graduated from the same school as the speaker, or older co-workers
,
Seonbaenim, Seonbae Name, Janae Title + nim Childs name + Abeonim, childs name + Eomeonim
,
used for close friends and younger people

10 - .
used as an honorific after a persons title or name
used for friends parents or acquaintances parents

1. While performing gongsu, with your right hand over your left hand, raise your hands to shoulder level, lower your head slightly, keeping hands and elbows horizontal. 2. Keep your eyes down and the right hand over the left. 3. Kneel down on your left knee and then right knee. Put the top of the left foot over the sole of the right foot and hold your heels apart and sit down on your heels, 4. Bend your upper body forward about 45, and finally 5. Lift your upper body up and stand by lifting your right knee first. Keep your feet together.
1. . . 2. . 3. , . 4. (45 ) . 5. . .
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Etiquette Reflected in Language
Korean culture is steeped in Confucianism, and one of values of Confucianism is a respect for elders. This influences the etiquette when meeting elders and also affects the language. The Korean language is both complex and versatile. It has honorific words for elders and normal words for friends or children. These
Words to humble oneself /

Common form / Na (I) / Uri (We) / Honorific / Jeo /
Jeohui /
Titles used by a wife for her in-laws /

Titles
are the same between family members. A person says bap meogeora (come eat) to friends or younger acquaintances at meals but says siksahaseyo or siksa hasipsio (Please come and eat breakfast/lunch/dinner) to elders. Honorific words are used to show respect to others or to humble oneself. For example, Seonsaengnim kkeseo malsseum hasimnida (The teacher is now speaking) is a case where the honorific kkeseo follows seonsaengnim (teacher) to show respect. But Je chaegimnida (It is my book) or Jega naeil deurigetseumnida (I will give it to you tomorrow) are cases in which the speaker uses the word je (I or my) instead of nae, thus humbling him- or herself.
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Examples of honorific words /
Common form / Nai (Age) / Bap (Meal) / Ireum (Name) / Meokda (Eat) / Itda (Stay) / Mal (Speaking) / Sul (Liquor) / Jip (House) / Apeuda (Sick) / Honorific / Chunchu, Yeonse / , Jinji / Seongham / Japsuda / Gyesida / Malsseum / Yakju / Daek / Pyeonchanta /
Husband Hyeongnim Titles Titles
Father
Mother
Wife
Abeonim
Eomeonim
Elder brother
Elder brothers wife

Elder sister
Elder sisters husband

Younger brother
Younger brothers wife
Younger sister
Younger sisters husband
Wife
Siajubeonim
Hyeongnim
Hyeongnim
Ajubeonim
Seobangnim Doryeonnim

Dongseo
Agassi
Seobangnim
Titles used by a husband for his in-laws /

Titles
Father
Mother
Husband
Jangineoreun
Jangmonim
Elder brother
Elder brothers wife
Elder sister

Younger brother
Younger sister
Ajumeoni
Cheohyeong
Hyeongnim Dongseo
,
Cheonam
Cheonamdaek
Cheoje
Dongseo
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Family Titles Vary According to the Relationship

Members of large Korean families call other members by different titles depending on their relationship. Words or honorifics for relatives are very different and complex depending on ones exact relationship, or position or situation. This can result in discourtesy when certain words are misused.
Titles Parent
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Womans terms for her in-laws Abeonim, Eomeonim

,
Titles used by the couples children Harabeoji, Halmeoni

,
Titles Parent
Mans terms for his in-laws Jangineoreun, Jangmonim

,
Titles used by the couples children Oeharabeoji, Oehalmeoni

,
Husband
Yeobo, childs name-abba

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Abeoji, Abba
,
Wife
Yeobo, childs name +Eomma

, 00
Eomeoni, Eomma
,
Husbands elder brother
Si-ajubeonim
Keunabeoji
Wifes older brother
Hyeongnim
Oesamchon
Elder brothers wife

Hyeongnim
Keuneomeonim
Older brothers wife

Ajumeoni
Oesungmo
Husbands elder sister

Hyeongnim
Gomo
Younger brother
Cheonam
Oesamchon, Oesukbu
,

Ajubeonim
Gomobu

Cheonamdaek
Oesungmo
Married younger brother

Seobangnim
Jageunabeoji
Elder sister
Cheohyeong
Imo

Dongseo
Jageuneomeoni

Hyeongnim, Dongseo
Imobu
Unmarried younger brother

Doryeonnim
Samchon
Younger sister
Cheoje
Imo
Younger sister
Agassi
Gomo

Dongseo
Imobu

Seobangnim
Gomobu
Due to Confucian influence, Koreans are taught to respect their elders.

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Members of large Korean families call their relatives by different names depending on their relationship.
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Table Manners
Table manners in Korea are relatively simple. Younger people wait until older people begin eating. Overall table manners are as follows:
- Do not lift up bowls of rice or soup when you eat. - Do not pick up food with your hands.
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- Do not hold the spoon and chopsticks at the same time. When you use chopsticks, put the spoon on the table. - Do not place the spoon or chopsticks on rice or soup bowl. - Do not make loud noise when chewing. - Do not clink spoon and chopsticks on dishes or containers. - Do not move the food around in the side dishes or rice bowl with your spoon or chopsticks. Do not pick things out of the food or shake the sauce off. - Do not leave food on your spoon or chopsticks. - Set the spoon and chopsticks down neatly after eating.
tip
Etiquette to remember when having a meal

Having a Meal with Your Elders /

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When you have a meal with your elders, let them sit away from the door. Sit up straight. - Let them pick up their spoons and chopsticks first, and try to keep pace with them. - Wait until they get up from the table before you do.
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Arranging Food on the Table /

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Put rice on the left and soup on the right. Put cold or dry food on the left side of the table. - Put kimchi in the middle of the back of the table. - Put meat on the right, vegetables on the left. - Put the spoon on the right of the soup bowl and chopsticks on the right of the spoon.
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Food
As agriculture is advanced in Korea, various types of rice and other cereals are grown and eaten. Moreover, as the Peninsula is surrounded by the sea on three sides, there is an abundance of fish and other marine products. Many kinds of fermented food such as salted seafood, kimchi and soy sauce have been developed. A wide variety of seasonings are used to flavor food.
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Cooked White Rice

Rice is the most basic staple in Korean cuisine, so much so that the term bab, meaning steamed white rice, is synonymous with a meal in Korean. Barley, beans and millet are sometimes added to rice, as well as chestnuts, potatoes, greens, kimchi, meat and seafood.
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Side Dishes
Side dishes are any kind of food eaten together with rice. There are also dishes, such as guk or tang meaning soup and jjigae or jeon-gol meaning stew, which are cooked by boiling meat, fish or vegetables in a broth. The names of soups and stews are made up of the main ingredient plus the type of cooking method. For instance, galbi+tang = galbitang (short rib soup), kimchi + jjigae = kimchijjigae (kimchi stew), myeolchi + bokkeum= myeolchibokkeum (stir-fried anchovies). Other side dishes are muchim (seasoned), jjim (braised), jorim (boiled in a sauce), gui (broiled), bokkeum (stir-fried), twigim (deep fried), jeon (pan fried) and hoe (raw fish or meat). Even dishes with the same ingredients have different names depending on the cooking method, such as roasted fish and braised fish. Bulgogi, one of Koreas best known foods, is roasted (gui).
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Popular Korean foods, including rice and a side dish

Bibimbap /
Fermented foods
Korea has many traditional fermented foods, which include ingredients good for health. The main fermented foods are kimchi, doenjang (soybean paste), ganjang (soy sauce), gochujang (red pepper paste) and jeotgal (salted seafood). Kimchi, the most well-known fermented food from Korea, is made by salting napa cabbage and white radish and leaving it overnight before rinsing them. The cabbage is then mixed with red pepper powder, green onions, garlic, ginger and salted sea food and left to ferment. It has been proven that kimchi can prevent cancer and strengthen the immune system, and this has recently
044 Korean Life and Culture
Bibimbap is a distinct Korean food. It is rice mixed with greens, beef, sesame oil, red pepper paste and garnishings. Jeonju Bibimbap is the most famous.
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Bulgogi /
Bulgogi, along with kimchi, is one of the most popular foods for foreign nationals. It is thin slices of beef seasoned in a marinade of soy sauce, garlic, green onion, sesame seed, sesame oil, and sugar; and then roasted.
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045
made kimchi more attractive in many countries. There are numerous kinds of kimchi, including Pogi kimchi (whole napa cabbage kimchi), Chonggak kimchi (whole young radish kimchi), baek kimchi (white napa cabbage kimchi), nabak kimchi (radish and napa cabbage water kimchi), yeolmu kimchi (young radish kimchi), dongchimi (winter white radish water kimchi), oi sobagi (stuffed cucumber kimchi), gat kimchi (mustard leaf kimchi), kkaennip kimchi (perilla leaf kimchi) Doenjang (soybean paste) is a fermented food made by crushing meju (fermented soybean paste blocks) that remain after making ganjang (soy sauce). It is known for its anticarcinogenic effects.
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Eating between meals

Some foods are easily and quickly cooked and eaten mainly between meals as snacks. These foods are tteokbokgi (stir-fried rice cake), ramyon (instant noodles), mandu (Korean-style dumplings), gimbap (dried seaweed rolls) and sundae (Korean-style sausage).
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Tteokbokki, a popular Korean snack

Seasonal foods and fruit

In Korea, there are many kinds of fruit and vegetables in every season. These days, there are greenhouses throughout the country, which allows people to eat fruit and vegetables any time during the year. However, sun-ripened fruit and vegetables are much better. Greens are picked in spring on the mountains or in fields and eaten raw or parboiled and seasoned. Cherries and strawberries are among the spring fruits in Korea. In summer, people often eat cold foods such as naengmyeon (chilled buckwheat noodle soup) and fruit punch or nutritious hot foods such as samgyetang (whole chicken soup with ginseng) or yukgaejang (hot spicy meat stew). Korea produces many kinds of fruit such as peaches, watermelons, Korean melons, and plums. In autumn, such healthy foods such as chu-eotang (loach soup made with bean paste) are popular. Autumn fruit includes persimmon, pears, apples, jujube, chestnuts and grapes. In winter, people eat rice with soup, such as siraegiguk (soup made with cabbage and radish leaves that are dried and then reconstituted in water) and manduguk (dumpling soup) along with stored foods such as kimchi and several kinds of jangajji (vegetables pickled with soy sauce) and seasoned dried vegetables. Mandarin oranges become available in the winter.
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Yangnyeom (Seasonings) /
Seasonings are not only used to flavor foods, but to reduce the strong fishy and animalfat smell of some foods. The Korean word yangnyeom means healthy ingredients, which act as medicine. Korean yangnyeom includes green onion, garlic, dried red pepper powder, ginger, black pepper, sugar, salt, powdered sesame seeds, sesame oil, vinegar and soy sauce.
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Housing
Korean traditional houses, called hanok, are built with materials mostly taken from nature, including stone, wood and clay, and are intended to harmonize with the natural surroundings. In addition, people have added other natural things to their homes, such as applying hanji (traditional Korean mulberry paper) on windows or doors.
Korea has four distinct seasons, with cold winters and hot summers. Thus homes have an under-floor heating system called ondol for the winter, and wooden-floor rooms called marubang, which are cool in summer. In Korea, people have sat on the floor since long ago. Even after the introduction of chairs from the West, people take off their shoes before entering a home. Ideally, houses were built facing south, so that they are well ventilated in summer and catch the sunlight in winter. There are various kinds of houses in Korea, including chogajip (thatched houses), giwajip (tile-roofed houses) and neowajip (shingle-roofed houses). Nowadays, apartments, officetel (a single room that can be used as a residence or office), row houses and villas (small apartment buildings) have greatly increased. Housing in Korea is very expensive. The capital area is densely populated, and house prices are more expensive than in other areas.
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Hanok, traditional Korean houses

Apartments are a popular form of housing in Korea

What is Jipdeuri? / ?
A jipdeuri is a house-warming party. The guests, including friends, relatives and colleagues, bring gifts such as laundry detergent or toilet paper. Giving soap is a symbol of the hope that the person's assets will increase like soap bubbles and giving toilet paper symbolizes the wish that all the problems in the persons life will be easily solved like unrolling the toilet paper.
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11 _ Finding Housing 12 _ Using Utilities 13 _ Using TV and Communication Systems 14 _ Disposal of Trash and Garbage 15 _ Economy 16 _ Where to Buy Things 17 _ Banks 18 _ Transportation 19 _ Driver's Licenses 20 _ Public Institutions 21 _ Amenities 22 _ Medical Facilities 23 _ National Health Insurance for Foreign Nationals 24 _ Educational System 25 _ Education for Foreign Nationals 26 _ Korean Language and Life Education 27 _ Cultural Facilities 28 _ Employment 29 _ Job Training 11 _ 12 _ 13 _ 14 _ 15 _ 16 _ 17 _ 18 _ 19 _ 20 _ 21 _ 22 _ 23 _ 24 _ 25 _ 26 _ , 27 _ 28 _ 29 _
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Finding Housing

There are several different ways to find a place to live in Korea. Its possible to do so by referring to local free newspapers such as the Byeoruksijang (Flea Market). But in general, real estate agencies are used. Real estate agencies provide such services as preparation of documents for a contract and confirmation of procedural checklists for moving into a
tip
Things to be careful of /
1. First of all, visit the unit you wish to live in and check the appliances and surroundings. 2. Be sure to identify the landlord and make the contract with the landlord. If you make a contract with someone other than the landlord, and the landlord doesnt acknowledge the contract, you may not get your deposit back (usually a significant sum). 3. You can see a certified copy of the property register to identify the landlord. You will see the name of the landlord, the address, size and structure of the unit and the status of any debt on the unit. You can get a certified copy of the property register by visiting registry offices or on their website. 4. At the time of contract, 10 percent of the total deposit is paid, with the remainder paid on the day you move in. Be sure to get a receipt. 5. Check the list below before signing any contract. - Check if the address of the property in the contract is identical to that of the certified copy of the property register; - Make sure the amount of deposit is correct; - Check that the dates for the down payment, any interim payments and payment of the remainder are correctly recorded; - Make sure you understand the terms of the contract and everything else in the contract; - Make sure the landlord has signed or stamped the contract him- or herself; - There should be three copies of the contract made: one for you, one for the landlord and one for the real estate agency. All should be stamped or signed. 6. After you move in, make sure to fill in the proper documentation to notify the dong office that you have moved in, and get a stamp saying Date confirmed on the contract, otherwise you might not get your money back if there are any problems.
1. . 2. .
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home. When a client uses a real estate agency, he or she needs to pay a fee or commission. Instead of buying a house or condo, it's also possible to lease. Leases are divided into two types; one is called jeonse, requiring a large onetime deposit and the other is wolse, monthly rent. The large amount of money for jeonse is given to the unit owner for the right to live there; it is returned to the tenant after the contract expires. Wolse is monthly rent paid to the unit owner, who often also requires a sizable deposit but smaller than the jeonse deposit.
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4. 10%, . . 5. .
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6. .
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Generally, real estate agencies are reliable in Korea.
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Using Utilities

In order to use the electricity, gas and tap water after moving into a new house (or turn them off before moving out), you need to contact KEPCO, the gas company, and the waterworks company online or by telephone. Electricity and gas bills are issued every month while water and sewage bills are issued every two months. You can pay for these bills
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at the bank or post office before the due dates, or you can opt to have the money automatically withdrawn from your bank account.
220V . 220V . 110V . . .

Using Electricity
All home appliances in Korea use 220V, as that is the standard voltage. If any home appliance uses 110V, a transformer is needed to convert the voltage. If many electrical devices are used at the same time, a short-circuit breaker may kick in, which results in electrical failure. In this case, turn off any unnecessary electrical devices and lift the breaker up.
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Using the Water and Sewage System

Korea has good water and sewage systems in every house. In many places, tap water is clean enough to drink, but most people drink boiled or purified water. Many also drink bottled water.
. . LPG . LPG . LPG . .

As cities in Korea are equipped with city gas systems, most houses are supplied with natural gas.
Using Natural Gas

As cities in Korea are equipped with city gas systems, most houses are supplied with gas, with consumers paying for what they use. City gas is used for heating rooms and cooking. Farmhouses mostly use LPG for cooking and oil or charcoal for heating, as most of them do not have city gas connections. LPG is delivered to each farmhouse as ordered. If there is any abnormality with the gas, stop using it immediately and ventilate the rooms by opening windows. Call the nearest gas company immediately and do not use any open flame.
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Electric transformer

Short circuit breaker

Gas valve
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Using TV and Communication Systems

Korea has very advanced communication systems and Internet facilities. People can use the Internet, telephone and even mobile phones everywhere.
Telephones
If you want to install a new telephone or have problems with it, you can dial 100
everywhere in the country. Telephone bills can be paid at banks or by automatic withdrawal from your bank account.
Mobile phones
Buying a mobile phone isnt easy for non-Koreans. He or she must have an Alien Registration Card with them and must pay for the phone with cash. For this reason, most foreign nationals rent a mobile phone and use a prepaid phone card, which can be used by entering the card number into the mobile phone, allowing them to use the balance on the card. Although there isnt any subscription fee or other charges, calls are a bit more expensive.
Many foreigners buy prepaid telephone cards or use prepaid phones. For any enquiries about telephone use, call 100.
100 .
Foreigners need to have an alien registration card in order to purchase a mobile phone in Korea.
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'' .
, , 100 . , .
. . . . . .
People can use the Internet, telephone and even mobile phones everywhere in Korea.
, .
Telephone card
056
057
PC , , . . , KT, SK , LG .

KBS, MBC, SBS TV, , (Sky Life) . IPTV . , .

Video telephone, which can be used through the Internet /
PC .
Internet phones
Internet phones can be used to make phone calls online to computers or telephones. They are especially inexpensive for overseas calls. They may be ordered from the local cable or telecommunications company such as KT, SK broadband, LG U+ or over the Internet.
tip
Pay phones /
When you use pay phones on the street, you need to insert coins or a telephone card. You can purchase pay phone cards at convenience stores or supermarkets.
. .
Cable TV and Internet

Korea has three major terrestrial TV stationsKBS, MBC and SBSas well as cable TV, local cable broadcasting relay operators, and satellite TV (Sky Life). More recently, Internet-based IPTV has also become available. If you just want Internet, you will have to contact one of the Internet communication companies, which
Satellite TV dish

Emergency Calls /
All pay phones have a red button for emergency calls. Press the red button to report crime and fire or for emergency assistance. Coins are not needed. Push the red button (emergency call) +112 to report a crime, or push the red button + 119 for fire, rescue or other emergencies.
Pay phones /

charge different fees. You can also access the Internet at nearby PC rooms.
. , , . ( )+112, +119
Collect Calls /
Those who dont have a pay phone card or coins can charge a call to the receiving party. Fees are slightly higher than normal calls. You can use this service by pushing the red button +1541 + phone number + #.
. , . +1541++# .
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Disposal of Trash and Garbage

In Korea, you need to separate garbage and recyclables, such as paper, plastic and cans, from rubbish. Korea uses a volume rate when charging for rubbish disposal; you pay for as much rubbish as you throw away. There are designated plastic bags for the disposal of rubbish, which you can buy in local grocery stores. Each neighborhood has a specific
. . .

location to dump rubbish, garbage and recyclables. Fines are charged to those who violate the disposal system.
General rubbish
Put into the specified waste bag and dispose.
, , . .

Food waste
Drain liquid and put into a food waste bag or dump it in the food garbage bin.
.
,
Recyclables
Separate paper, glass, plastic and cans and put them in specified locations. You can reduce the volume of plastic or cans by washing and drying and flattening them.
. . .
,
Inflammable wastes
Put into specified bags and dump at designated locations.
Large items such as home appliances and furniture

Notify the dong or village office and get a sticker issued and attach it on the items. The cost of the sticker depends on the size of the item. In some provinces, people can buy stickers at supermarkets.
Clothes, bedding or leather

Put into specified boxes.
Trash disposal bags for food waste (left) and for general rubbish (right)
. (), ()
You need to dispose recyclables separately from other trash.
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Economy
Koreas gross national income is high, ranking 13th in the world. Although consumer prices are less expensive compared to Europe, the United States or Japan, they are a little higher than Southeast Asian countries. While living in Korea, you need to consider the value of your currency and the price of goods in Korea. Koreas currency, the won, comes in 10,
(GNI) 13 . , , . . . 1, 10, 50, 100, 500 , 1,000, 5,000, 10,000, 50,000 . 100,000 . , 1,150 , 5,000~7,000 . 70 . 10,000~14,000 .
50, 100 and 500 won coins and 1,000, 5,000, 10,000 and 50,000 won bills. You can get checks for 100,000 won or higher at banks. Consider the amount of Korean won you will need for various things: 1,150 won to take the bus; around 5,000-7,000 won and up for a meal out; 70 won to use a pay phone and 10,000-14,000 won for the bus to and from Seoul and Incheon International Airport.
Value of Korean currency /
Currency / United States US$ 1 / 1 Thailand 1 Baht / 1 Bangladesh 1 Taka / 1 Vietnam 100 Dong / 100 China 1 Yuan / 1 Pakistan 1 Rupee / 1 Philippine 1 Peso / 1 Won / 1,133 Won / 1,133 37.78 Won / 37.78 16.06 Won / 16.06 5.91 Won / 5.91 170.41 Won / 170.41 13.21 Won / 13.21 25.94 Won / 25.94
(As of Dec. 2010 / 2010 12 )
tip
Korean currency /
50,000 won bill

500 won coin
10,000 won bill

100 won coin
5,000 won bill

50 won coin
1,000 won bill

10 won coin
062
063
16
Where to Buy Things

There are many places to buy things in Korea, ranging from neighborhood supermarkets to large-scale department stores, from traditional markets to discount stores. You can purchase whatever you want anywhere at almost anytime
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Neighborhood supermarkets
In Korea, small food stores are also called
supermarkets or just super. They primarily sell groceries such as snacks, ramyon, noodles, vegetables, meat and rice
24 . . .

Convenience stores
These stores are often open around the clock. They sell some grocery items, as well as books and magazines, at prices a bit higher than supermarkets.
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Convenience stores
Big discount stores

You can buy clothes, groceries, home appliances and other items. These stores, including E-Mart, HomePlus and LotteMart, are convenient for buying a large number of goods for a good price
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Discount stores
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Home shopping channel
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Department stores
These have many kinds of goods such as clothes, groceries, cosmetics, jewelry, brand-name products, home appliances and furniture of good quality. Prices are rather expensive. From time to time, they hold discount sales.

, . , .
Online shopping mall

TV Home shopping
It is possible to immediately order products by phone from companies on TV home shopping channels. Books, clothes, shoes, bags, home appliances, computers, cosmetics, insurance, food and all kinds of other things are available.
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Internet shopping malls

It is also possible to order all kinds of products online. You should be warned that sometimes the photographs on the sites might be different from the real products, and you need to be careful about giving companies your Resident Registration Card number and credit information.
, , . , , . . , , , , .
Traditional markets
People can buy groceries, including fresh vegetables and fish, clothes and numerous other things in traditional markets. Prices are lower and sometimes you can get additional things for free. These markets include market days in rural areas, small neighborhood open-air markets in Seoul as well as the large markets of Namdaemun (South Gate Market) and Dongdaemun (East Gate Market) in Seoul.
tip
Payments and Refunds /
Depending on where you shop, you can pay for goods with cash, checks, credit cards, debit cards and gift cards. If you want to return something or get a refund, you have to do so within seven or 14 days after purchase. However, if you've already used the items or damaged them, you can't return them or get a refund. When you return something, make sure to bring the receipt. If you have any problems when you return something or ask for a refund, call the Korea Consumer Agency (02-3460-3000, www.kca.go.kr) or Consumers Korea (02-739-5441, www.cacpk.org).
, , , , . , 7 14 . , . (02-3460-3000, www.kca.go.kr) (02-739-5441, www.cacpk.org) .
Traditional markets in Korea

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17
Banks

Banks in Korea are open from 9 am to 4 pm, Monday to Friday. ATMs (often called 365 Corner) are open at each bank after business hours. When you wish to open a bank account, go to the appropriate teller, and make sure you have your passport, Resident Registration Card and money for your initial deposit.
Deposits and Withdrawals

Deposits and withdrawals with a teller
Fill in the deposit or withdrawal form. Withdrawals require your signature and PIN number.
Depositing and withdrawing money at ATMs
Inside a bank /
You can do this by bankbook or bankcard. If you wish to use your bankbook to deposit or withdraw money from the ATM, notify a teller, as they need to make some changes in your bankbook to allow you to do so. Withdrawing money with a bankbook or bankcard requires a PIN number. If the PIN number is entered incorrectly 3 times, you cant use the bankbook or card. A fee is charged for the use of an ATM that does not belong to your own bank or if you use an ATM after business hours.
Internet banking
You can deposit or withdraw money with your bankbook or bankcard from ATM machines.

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Credit cards /
You can do your banking online, but you will need a digital authentication from KFTC (Korea Financial Telecommunications and Clearings Institute), which needs to be saved on your computer. You also need a security card (sometimes called secret card) issued by your bank.
Tele-banking
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069
You will need a card with a unique pass code issued by your bank and a PIN number.
068 Adapting to Daily Life
Remittances (Sending money home)

If you want to transfer money to your home country, you need to get the information about a bank account in your home country in the name of someone in your family. The receivers name, address, telephone number, name of the receivers bank and account number need to be given. Go to the foreign currency desk at the bank and show your Resident Registration Card.
, .
. , , , , , .

Paying for Utilities

Utilities include electricity, gas and water. You can pay utility bills and your residence tax at a bank or post office. If you pay for the bill at a bank, you can choose one of the following methods:
Payment in person
, , . , .

You can pay for the bill by visiting a bank with the bill. Nowadays, people like to use the automatic payment machine. You will need to have your bankbook.
Automatic Withdrawals
. , .
You can pay the bill by automatic withdrawal (money is automatically transferred from your account to the utility company). You can apply for this at the bank or by making a phone call to the utility bill issuer. Be sure you have enough money in your bank account to pay the bill, or there will be an additional charge for insufficient funds.
, . . . .
Automated utility payment machine

070
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18
Transportation
own country.
Transportation and highways are well developed in Korea. Public transportation includes buses, subway, taxis, trains, ships and airplanes. Of course, many people prefer to use their own cars, motorcycles, scooters, or bicycles. If you want to drive a car in Korea, you need a drivers license issued in Korea or an international drivers license issued in your
. . , , , , , . , , , . .
Buses
City buses
. . . , , . . . , .
Transportation cards
City buses are numbered and follow set routes. Check the route map before you get on. Bus stops are located all over the city. There are three types of city buses: general buses, seat buses and village buses. General buses are available all around the city. Seat buses stop only at major bus
tip
City Buses in Seoul /
stops allowing a quicker arrival at their destination. Village buses circulate around a certain neighborhood, sometimes going through narrow roads where general buses cant.
City buses are blue, green, red or yellow.

, , , .
Blue buses /
Operate between Seoul and the suburbs.

.
Green buses /
Go to nearby subway stations or bus terminals.

.
tip
Using the City Buses /
- Pay the bus fare with cash, credit card or transportation card. - Touch your transportation card to the card reader on the bus. The bus fare is withdrawn from your card. - You can buy transportation cards at stores near the bus stop. Cards can be charged in units of 1,000 won up to a maximum of 90,000 won. - There is a discount of 100 won when using the transportation card instead of cash. There is also a substantial discount when you transfer to subway or another bus.
- . - , . - , 1,000 9 1,000 . - 100 , .
Red buses /
Express buses for commuters travel between downtown and nearby cities.
.
Yellow buses /
Circulate in downtown Seoul, stopping at major railroad stations, commercial areas, tourist attractions and shopping areas.
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073
tip
What Is the Transfer Service? / ?
The transfer service is a discount fare depending on distance when people transfer from bus to bus, bus to subway or subway to bus. This service is available only with a transportation card. When passengers use cash to take the bus, they have to pay the full fare with every transfer. But if passengers use a transportation card, they do not pay extra for transfers within a 10 km area. And if the total distance exceeds 10 km, passengers will be charged only 100 won for every 5 km. Be sure to touch your transportation card to the card reader by the exit doors, and wait for a single beep. This service is available on all subway routes and the discount varies outside of Seoul.
, , . . , , 10km . 5km 100 ( ) . . , .
You can catch a bus to other cities or the provinces at the Express Bus Terminal.
.
Intercity Buses and Express Buses
People take intercity buses or express buses to go from city to city. There are often different terminals for the two types of bus. Intercity-buses take longer as they go via several cities whereas express buses are non-stop, and reach their destinations in less time. There are three kinds of express buses: general express, premium and midnight buses. Premium buses have wider seats and single seats for passenger comfort and charge higher fares than general express buses. The time they take to go from one place to another is about the same time. Midnight buses are for those who need to travel at night to another city. Passengers need to buy bus tickets from the departure station before getting on the bus.
* Refer to www.kobus.co.kr or www.gbus.co.kr for more detailed information such as timetables and reservations.
* (www. kobus.co.kr) (www.gbus.co.kr) . .
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When using intercity-buses or express buses, passengers need to buy a ticket at the bus station before getting on the bus.
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074
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The Subway
Subway service is available in Seoul, Busan, Incheon, Daegu, Gwangju and Daejon. The subway in Seoul has nine routes. Some subway routes connect with metropolitan electric railway system, which goes from the suburbs of Seoul to satellite cities in Gyeonggi-do. Service runs from 5:30 a.m. to midnight with 2.5-3 minute intervals during rush hour and 4-5 minute intervals at other times.
, , , , . 9 , . 5 30 , 2.5~3 , 4~5 .
tip
Using the Subway /
- The basic fare is 1,150 won cash or 1,050 won with transportation cards. When using cash, passengers need to buy a ticket in advance from ticket machines installed at each station before getting on the subway. You can also use a credit card. - Transportation cards enable passengers to receive transfer discounts. Passengers can buy or recharge transportation cards from ticket machines. - All instructions are available in Korean and English. In addition, Korean and English announcements are made in the subway at each stop and Japanese and Chinese at specified stops.
- 1,150, 1,050. . . - , . . - , .
Taxis
Although taxis are expensive, they are convenient for those who are not familiar with the city, or when other transportation is not available. Taxis are easy to locate due to the colored lamp on the roof and are available around the clock. People flag down taxis on the street or wait at a taxi stand. An empty taxi runs a red Empty sign (in Korean) on its windshield for people to see. There are three types of taxi: general taxis, deluxe taxis and large taxis (call vans). Taxi fare is a basic rate plus distance (based on the meter) and time. The basic rate for taxis is 2,200076 Adapting to Daily Life
Subway / Call van /
, . . 24 , .
General taxi /
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2,400 won, varying by province. The basic rate for premium taxis or large taxis (with capacity of up to nine passengers) is 4,500 won. Taxi fares can be paid with a credit card or cash when the passengers get out.
. , 2,200~2,400. 9 4,500. .
Trains, Airplanes and Ships

Trains
As almost all major cities in Korea have train stations, its a convenient way to travel quickly between cities. Trains include KTX (high-speed trains) as well as the Saemaeul and Mugungwha trains. The KTX, which began operations in 2004, travels fast and stops at a limited number of stations. It is more expensive than other trains. Mugungwha is relatively slow and stops at a larger number of stations, but is the cheapest. Saemaeul costs less than KTX but more than Mugungwha. Train tickets can be purchased at train stations, online at www. korail.com, or from travel agencies, and can be bought in advance.
Airplanes
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Train /
. . . , (www.korail.com), .
Korea has eight international airports, including Incheon, Jeju and Gimpo, and seven domestic airports, making air travel convenient. Domestic airlines include the big airlines, KAL and Asiana, and budget airlines such as Jeju Airlines, Eastar Jet, Jin Air and Air Busan. Airplane tickets can be bought at airports or from airlines and travel agencies online or by telephone.
Ships
, , 8 7 . , , , . , .
Incheon International Airport /
Travel to islands is possible by ship. It is recommended that you check the weather information from the ship company before purchasing a ticket, as ship travel is dependent on weather conditions.
tip
Scooters and Motocycles /
In Korea, scooters and motorcycles with an engine displacement of even less than 50cc require a drivers license. If the driver does not wear a helmet, drives without a license or violates traffic laws, he or she will be fined the same as drivers of cars as they are all classified as automobiles in Korea.
50CC . , , .
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Port of Incheon /
078 Adapting to Daily Life 079
19
Driver's Licenses
To drive a car in Korea, people need a drivers license or an international drivers license from their own country. International drivers licenses are valid for a period
Drivers licenses
tip
Testing procedures for a driver's license

of one year. Those who have drivers licenses from their own countries need to submit an original copy of the license, a certified translation of the license, certification from the embassy, their passport, Alien Registration Card, certification of immigration and three colored photos to the drivers license examination office to be exempted from some of the tests to acquire a domestic drivers license. Its difficult for those staying less than 90 days to get a Korean drivers license.
, . 1 . , , , , , 3 . 90 .
1. Complete traffic safety education Traffic safety education takes place in the traffic safety education center at drivers license test sites or at driver training institutions. 2. Complete physical examination and written test Available languages : English, Chinese and Vietnamese Required items when taking the written test: Application form (with three photos), a marker for computer paper and an ID card 3. Test on a driving course after passing the written test Necessary Documents : Application form, Resident Registration Card (or other document proving your identity) 4. After passing the test on the driving course, a learners permit is issued to complete 10 hours of road training. 5. Complete the road test. 6. Notification of pass or fail
1. . 2. . - , , . - ( 3), , ( ) 3. . - , ( ) 4. 10 . 5. . 6.
* Multicultural family support centers and police stations can help foreigners or married immigrants to acquire a driver's license for free. For detailed information, contact your local Multicultural Family Support Center or police station or driver's license examination office.
* . , . www.dla.go.kr 1577-1120
To drive a car, you need to obtain a drivers license in Korea or obtain an international driver's license in your home country.
, .
080
081
20
Public Institutions

Administrative Organizations
Government administrative organizations for civil affairs include eup (town), myeon (township), and dong (ward) offices, city hall, gun (county) and gu (metropolitan district) offices. These organizations work on health and welfare for residents, improvement of living
conditions, garbage collection, management of public facilities and issuance of various certificates. Eup, myeon and dong offices also run computer training, traditional culture and English classes. Many of them now issue various certificates and other civil application forms at unmanned machines in subway stations or online at www.egov.go.kr, making visits to the office unnecessary.
Police Stations (Dial 112)

If youve had a traffic accident or are a victim of violence, robbery or fraud, you can visit a police office or call 112.
Local Community Center /
Fire Stations (Dial 119)
tip
How to make an emergency phone call in Korea

Calling 112 / 112 - After pushing the red emergency button on a pay phone, dial 112. - For regular or mobile phones, dial 112 without any prefix number. - When you call, you will need to give your name, address and phone number as well as what kind of situation you are reporting and when it happened.
For emergencies, like injury or fire or when someone needs to go to the hospital immediately, call 119. The 119 rescue team will arrive within five to 10 minutes.
- 112 . - 112 . - , , , .
Post Offices
Post offices handle domestic and overseas mail and also offer some financial services like a bank. International premium postal services (EMS, express mail service) are available for quick overseas delivery. Post offices also provide doorto-door courier service. Call 1588-1300 for postal services and 1588-1900 for financial services.
Calling 119 / 119 - After pushing the red emergency call button on a pay phone, dial 119. - For regular or mobile phones, dial 119 without any prefix number. - Give the location and floor of the house on fire or where the injured person is and explain the nearby buildings with as much detail as you can while staying on the line with the operator until the 119 team arrives.
- 119 . - 119 . - , . , , 119 .
082
083
, , . , , , , . , , , . (www. egov.go.kr) .
tip
International Express Mail /
International Express Mail / - For speed and safety, international express mail is available for letters, documents or other items to 130 countries around the world. - Generally, the weight limit of parcels is 30kg, while some countries (such as Australia, thePhilippines, Argentina and Bangladesh) have limits of 20kg. - As some countries may have restrictions on some goods, check in advance.
- , 130 . - 30kg , , , , 20kg . - .
( 112)
, , 112 .
Police station /
( 119)
, , 119 . 119 5 10 .
Fire station /
Sending International Express Mail / - Fill out the EMS form (picture of form). - Costs depend on country and weight. Refer to the post office website, www.koreapost. go.kr for costs or call 1588-1300. - To change a Korean address into English, click instructions for zip codes at www. koreapost.go.kr and write dong, myeon and eup and click English address next to the zip code. - English is recommended for the receivers name and address, but Japanese or Chinese is also allowed for goods to Japan or China. Be sure to write the country name in English. - Write the zip code above the country name. - Fill in information about the item or items being sent. - Fields marked with are for the post office staff. - After you fill in the form, pay the postage. You will receive a receipt. - If you wish to receive a text message notification, write your mobile phone number.
- EMS - . www.koreapost.go.kr 1588-1300 . - www.koreapost.go.kr , , . - . . . - . - . - . - , . - .
. , , . (EMS, express mail service) . . 1588-1300 , 1588-1900 .

Post office /
085
21
Amenities
Local Welfare Centers and Culture Centers

Korea has welfare centers and cultural facilities in each neighborhood. In big cities, there are also culture and sport centers, where you can exercise, take music or dancing lessons, or take classes in baking or other hobbies.
In local welfare centers or culture and sport centers, you can exercise, take music or dancing lessons, or learn baking and other hobbies.
Sport Facilities
Exercise equipment and sport facilities can be found in most neighborhood parks in Korea, and you will often find people stretching or playing badminton. Many local culture centers and welfare centers are also equipped with sport facilities.
. , .
Bathing Facilities
Public bathhouses are quite popular in Korea. People go to soak in hot water and scrub their bodies. Korean-style bathing is well known for being good for skin and bathhouses have attracted some foreign tourists. Koreans undress before getting into the baths and are sometimes surprised to see foreigners getting in with swimwear. Bathhouses usually have bath tubs, saunas, jjimjilbang (dry saunas) and showers as well as rooms to rest in, where people can take a nap.
Inside a public bath /
, . .
. . . , . , , , . .
Barbershops
Barbershops, where men can have a haircut and shave, have rotating red, blue and white signs. Downtown barbershops in large cities are somewhat expensive.
Beauty Parlors
Women can get a shamp o o and haircut or a permanent or have their hair dyed in beauty parlors, as well as have their nails manicured and facial makeup applied. Although beauty parlors were originally intended for women, many men use them these
Inside a beauty parlor /
, , . . .
, , . , . , .
087
days too. Fees vary by shop, and according to the service provided.
22
Medical Facilities
Hospitals: Clinics and General Hospitals

There are two kinds of medical institutions in Korea. Primary health care organizations include neighborhood clinics, public health centers and small hospitals for common ailments such as the flu and digestion-related conditions. Specialized or university hospitals (general hospitals) are secondary care organizations that attend to more
1, 2 . 1 , , , 2 () . 1 , . , , .
severe conditions or conduct precise medical examinations. If, after visiting a clinic or public health center, you are referred to a larger hospital, you need to submit your medical records from the previous institution and the referral from your doctor to receive insurance benefits. However, you will automatically receive insurance benefits for emergencies (baby delivery, hemophilia, or other emergencies) or if you have to see a dentist or family doctor, or go to rehabilitation clinic.
. , , , .
. , , , , , , .
Public Health Center /
Oriental Medicine Clinics

Koreas unique traditional medicine is highly advanced. Almost every neighborhood has an Oriental medicine clinic where people can receive medicine or treatment such as acupuncture, moxibustion and cupping.
Public Health Centers

Public health centers are state-run public medical institutions. Vaccinations, treatment for chronic diseases, medical examinations, physical therapy, dental care and Oriental medicine are available here at a cost much less than at private medical institutions.
. . , , , , . , , , .
Pharmacies
In Kore a, its prohibite d to get many medicines without a doctors prescription. However, basic things such as cold medicine, medicine for upset stomachs, fever medicines, painkillers and ointments are available without a prescription. Other things such as insecticides, sanitary napkins pharmacies.
tip
In Case of Emergency /
- When accidents or injury occur, or if you are seriously ill, call 119. - For the public health & welfare call center, dial 129 (Area code+129 on mobile phones). - For the emergency medical information center, dial 1339.
Pharmacy /
- 119 - 129( +129) - 1339
for women, supplementary beverages and condoms are also available at
23
National Health Insurance for Foreign Nationals
Koreas National Health Insurance system enables people to use medical institutions at a discount by paying a certain amount of money every month according to income. Eligible foreign nationals can also enroll in National Health Insurance for the same benefits. Besides enjoying significant discounts, people on Koreas National Health Insurance can also
, . . , . 2 .

Koreas national health insurance system enables people to use medical institutions at a discount by paying a certain amount of money every month according to income.
.
have a free medical examination every two years.
Paying Premiums for National Health Insurance

People covered through their workplace
Insurance premiums are deducted from the monthly salary.

People insured individually
, . F-1~2 F-5 . .
* , . .
A bill for the insurance premium is issued every month and the subscriber pays for it at bank or post office. Foreign nationals with F-1, F2 and F-5 visas are charged the same amount as Koreans. People who are married to Koreans are charged the same fee as Koreans regardless of the type of visa they hold.
* If a person who is married to a Korean has a child born with Korean nationality and cannot pay insurance premiums due to financial difficulty, the Government of Korea will pay.
tip
Qualifying for National Health Insurance (for foreign nationals) /
- Only those with an Alien Registration Card are allowed to apply for National Health Insurance. - Those who are working for an eligible company, public servants and teachers are automatically insured with the National Health Insurance plan. - Those who are not insured through their company can subscribe to National Health Insurance individually by submitting their Alien Registration Card and an application form to the National Health Insurance Corporation, but only after having resided in Korea for three months or more. - Foreign nationals who are able to prove they will stay in Korea for more than three months for study or employment can also apply, even though they have not yet been in Korea for three months. - If a person is already covered by the National Health Insurance through their workplace, his or her spouse is automatically covered if they are declared as dependents on their tax return.
- . - , , . - . 3 . - 3 3
A national health insurance card is given to everyone who subscribes to Koreas national health insurance system.

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090
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24
Educational System
Koreas educational system consists of six years of elementary school, three years of middle school, three years of high school and four years of university or two or three years at a junior college. Elementary school and middle school are mandatory and free. In Korea, the school year starts in early March and ends at the end of February the
6, 3, 3, 4( 2 3) . . 3 2 . 2 . 1 , 8 9 2 . 2 . , , , , () . 6 . . 7 . 6 . 3 . . . , 3 . . . 2~3 4 . . , 2 .
following year. The school year is divided into two semesters. After the first semester is finished, students have a months summer vacation and after the second semester (which starts at the end of August or early September) students have approximately two months of winter vacation before the new school year begins. Koreas educational institutions include kindergartens, elementary schools, middle schools, high schools, junior colleges and universities as well as graduate schools. Kindergartens are for children under the age of 6 before they enter elementary school. People often send their children to nursery schools as well, before they enter kindergarten. Children enter elementary school when they are seven years old. Elementary school is mandatory and free and covers six years. Middle school covers three years. It is also mandatory. Parents who do not send their children to middle school may face punishment. Students enter high school after middle school, which is not mandatory and requires payment of tuition. Many students enter university after they graduate from high school. Higher education is divided into two-year colleges and four-year universities. Students can enter graduate school after finishing university, and can obtain a masters degree or PhD with a minimum of two years of course work for each and submission of a thesis for the masters or a dissertation for the PhD.
Children enter elementary school when they are 7 years old. / 7 .

A middle school class /
A university graduation ceremony /

093
25
Education for Foreign Nationals

Children of foreign nationals are allowed to enter Korean schools by submitting their certification of immigration or their Alien Registration Card to the school. Offices of Education in each city and province provide school admission consulting for foreign workers with children in Korea. Foreigner nationals can consult with the center for
admission consultations regarding procedures for transfers, determination of school grade, and information on adapting to school life and making friends in Korean schools. Admission requirements vary somewhat from university to university in Korea. Every university runs a Korean language program, so language barriers will be less of a problem. Universities in Korea run regular degree programs for foreign students, exchange student programs for sister universities overseas, and regular courses and Korean language classes during vacations. Universities focusing more on preparing students for a globalized world teach 30 percent of their courses in English and in some cases 100 percent after establishing an international department. For information regarding studying in Korea and language training, refer to www.studyinkorea.go.kr.
. . , , , . ,
tip
Seoul Foreign School /
Schools for Foreign Nationals /
. . , , . 30% , . www.studyinkorea.go.kr .
- SInternational schools are for the children of foreign nationals living in Korea and children of those who have returned to Korea after living abroad for a certain period. Tuition is higher than at regular schools. - Children of those who have foreign citizenship or permanent residency, or who have at least one parent who is a foreign citizen and Koreans who were abroad for more than three years can attend the international schools. - Depending on the school, documents for admission include application forms, transcripts from previous schools and a letter of recommendation. - For more information regarding each school, refer to www.investkorea.org
- . . - , , 3 , . - , , . - www.investkorea.org .
094
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26
Korean Language and Life Education
,
When foreign wives want to learn Korean or about the culture, they can call the women's welfare department at city halls or local government offices where they are living. These places have free classes to help women from abroad learn Korean etiquette, culture, customs and other things. If the prospective students cannot attend classes, teachers may
, . , , , . . 171 ( 1577-5432) , , , .

visit their homes twice a week. Multi-Cultural Family Support Centers (Tel: 1577-5432) all over the country provide many programs, including Korean language classes, multi-cultural society classes, family education, consulting and direct training for multi-cultural families.
. , .

Korean Language Institutions for Foreign Nationals

Foreign nationals can learn Korean at various institutions. Online training is also available. There are several Korean language institutions run by universities.
Education Institutions / Multi-Cultural Family e-Learning Campaign
e-
www.fpcp.or.kr
. , , , .
www.koreanfolk.co.kr
Website / e-campaign.kdu.edu www.glokorean.org study.korean.net
Korean Language Globalization Foundation
. , , , , , , , , () 99 .
www.hahoe.or.kr
A man making bamboo crafts at a hanok in Yongin Korean Folk Village.

Foundation for Korean Nationals Abroad
Korean Language Education Center for Immigrants
www.migrantskorean.org
* For more detailed information regarding the Korean language institutions, refer to www. investkorea.org
* www.investkorea.org .
Where to Experience Korean Traditional Culture

Hanok Village at Namsan-gol www.fpcp.or.kr
1999 . 130 .
Andong Hahoe Folk Village

Namsan-gol is a place in which hanok (Korean traditional houses) have been restored and people can appreciate their beauty. Classes in intangible cultural assets include brush painting of sagunja (the Four Gentlemen: Japanese apricot, orchid, chrysanthemum and bamboo), etiquette, the tea ceremony and traditional handicrafts.
Yongin Korean Folk Village www.koreanfolk.co.kr
This village has reconstructed many facets of late Joseon Kingdom (1392-1910) life so tourists can see them all in one setting. Farm houses, houses for ordinary
people, district offices, lecture halls, Oriental medicine clinics, blacksmiths forges, markets and even a noblemans house with 99 rooms have all been built to show the characteristics of different regions.
Andong Hahoe Folk Village www.hahoe.or.kr
This is a yangban (noblemens) village, which has become more popular since Queen Elizabeth II of England visited in 1999. In this village, a Confucian lifestyle has been preserved since the Joseon Kingdom (1392-1910). One hundred and thirty traditional houses for Neo-Confucian scholars, lecture halls and even the thatched-roof houses of the lower classes can be seen.
Nagan Folk Village www.nagan. or.kr
Thatched-roof house at Naganeupseong Folk Village /
This village is famous as the setting for the drama Daejanggeum (Jewel in the Palace). Local residents currently live in thatched-roof houses. There are several opportunities to experience culture firsthand, such as making thatched handicrafts or weaving, and visiting a blacksmiths forge and the lecture hall.
Yangdong Folk Village yangdong.invil.org www.nagan.or.kr
. , , , .
yangdong.invil.org
This village is where tourists can see the Confucian culture of the Gyeongju region during the Joseon Kingdom (1392-1910). One hundred and fifty old traditional houses and 15 pavilions, monument pavilions and ganghakdang (lecture halls) have been preserved or recreated.
Institute of Korean Traditional Food www.kfr.or.kr
. 150 15, , .
www.kfr.or.kr
Yangdong Folk Village

This institute is intended to carry on the heritage of traditional Korean food. Korean and foreign visitors can taste a variety of traditional Korean foods here and attend cooking classes.
The School of Korean Traditional Culture www.woorii.co.kr
.
www.woorii.co.kr
Children can play folk games, learn traditional music and take part in other activities.
Korea Traditional Culture Center www.koreaculture.or.kr
, .
www.koreaculture.or.kr
Visitors can learn about traditional food culture and the tea ceremony, try on traditional clothing and experience samulnori (percussion music derived from traditional Korean music and played by a quartet).
, , , .
www.withc.org
With Community www.withc.org
Migrant workers can experience traditional Korean culture here.

Children enjoying a folk game.
099
27
Cultural Facilities
Facilities for Performances

Korea has performance theaters and generalpurpose halls. Halls for music concerts, plays, musicals, operas and dance as well as exhibitions, events and seminars include The National Theater of Korea, the Sejong Center for the Performing Arts and art and performance centers in each city and province.
. , , , , , , . .
,
Theaters that are for performing arts only include culture and art centers in each local district.
. , .
| www.museum.go.kr | www.moca.go.kr | www.nl.go.kr
Museums, Art Galleries and Libraries

Each province as well as Seoul has unique art galleries and museums. Libraries exist in all provinces and schools.
National Museum of Korea, Yongsan-gu, Seoula | www.museum.go.kr National Museum of Contemporary Art, Gwacheon City, Korea | www.moca.go.kr The National Library of Korea, Seocho-gu, Seoul | www.nl.go.kr
, , , .
Culture Centers
Culture centers exist in each city, gun (county) and gu (metropolitan district). These offer classes in various facets of culture, hold cultural events, collect and maintain local historical data and act as centers of local cultural activities.
10 . 9~10 .
Movie Theaters
Recently, many multiplex movie theaters with about 10 large screens have been built. People have a variety of films to choose from at one place. Movies mostly start from 9 or 10 am. Discounts are often available for morning shows.
The National Museum of Korea
Each local district has a culture and art center or a theater for performing arts.
.
Movie theater
The National Library of Korea
100
101
28
Employment
Recently, the number of job seekers from foreign countries has been increasing, and many foreign nationals look for jobs after studying in Korea or marrying a Korean. Qualifications for foreign nationals who want to be legally employed in Korea are specified in the Korean Immigration Control Act. Job training may be given to married immigrants
to help them learn technological skills necessary for obtaining a job. In order for foreign nationals to be employed in Korea, they need to qualify for a work visa. Types of visas for employment include short-term employment (C-4), professors (E-1), foreign language instructor (E-2), research (E-3), technology transfer (E-4), professional employment (E-5), arts and performances (E-6), special occupations (E-7), non-professional employment (E-9), members of vessel crews (E-10), working holidays (H-1) and working visit (H-2). Married immigrants who enter Korea with an F-13 or F-2-1 visa are qualified for employment as well Refer to the general information center for foreign nationals at www. hikorea.go.kr. (Dial 1345 without prefix number) for detailed information regarding employment in Korea.
, . . . . (C-4), (E-1), (E-2), (E-3), (E-4), (E-5), (E-6), (E7), (E-9), (E-10), (H-1), (H-2). (F-13, F-2-1) . (www. hikorea.go.kr, 1345) .

www.work.go.kr/jobcenter Job Information Center
In order for foreign nationals to be employed in Korea, they need to have an appropriate visa.
.
Employment Agencies
Job Centers www.work.go.kr/jobcenter
These are free agencies supported by the Government and located nationwide. These centers help job seekers find suitable work and give them information about job opportunities. In addition, the centers arrange interviews for job seekers with companies until they find employment. If there are any problems for job seekers in visiting places of potential employment, the Center staff can take them there.
, . . . , .
These free agencies, supported by each city and county, provide information about job opportunities. Job seekers are informed about companies near their residence. Refer to websites for cities and counties.
Womens Human Resource Development Center www.vocation.or.kr
This center is for women only and provides job training and information about job opportunities. Some programs are free, while others are available for a fee.
. . .
103
Korea Migrants Center www.migrantok.org
www.vocation.or.kr
This civil organization helps foreign employees in solving various problems.

Multi-Cultural Family Support Center liveinkorea.mogef.go.kr
. .
www.migrantok.org
.
liveinkorea.mogef.go.kr
It provides various things such as information about job opportunities and cultural programs.
- , .
There are many organizations and centers, which provide information, consultation or interpretation services for non-Korean workers in Korea.
Internet Job Sites

As most employment agencies for married immigrants have their own websites, you can search at home as well.
Seoul Global Center | global.seoul.go.kr Job Net | www.jobnet.go.kr Work Net | www.work.go.kr Korea Job Information System | know.work.go.kr
, .
.
| global.seoul.go.kr | www.jobnet.go.kr | www.work.go.kr | know.work.go.kr
104
105
29
Job Training
The Korean Government provides job training so immigrants can learn new technological skills. Jobs include forklift operation, welding, computer repair, car maintenance, driving and cooking. People who want job training can apply at the Job Support Center (www. work.go.kr/jobcenter), the call center at the Ministry of Labor (Tel: 1544-1350) and the Job
. , , , , , . (jobcenter.work.go.kr), ( 1544-1350), (www.hrd. go.kr) . (www.vocation.or.kr), .

Married immigrants who have Korean citizenship can apply for job training.
.
Training Information Network (www.hrd.go.kr) sponsored by the Ministry of Employment and Labor. Married female immigrants can receive job training at the Womens Human Resource Development Center (www.vocation.or.kr) and the Womens Center. You will have to pay for some services, but others are free.
Requirements for Applying for Job Training

Married immigrants need to have Korean citizenship. Married immigrants who do not have Korean citizenship can access Unemployed Workers Training, which is divided into two categories; the first one is for those who have unemployment insurance. The second is for all the rest of the applicants.
. , .

Applying for Job Training

Visit a job support center and apply for employment. Apply for job training after you are guided to a job training institute. Trainees can be reimbursed for transportation costs and meals and receive an allowance when they have job training.
. . .
The Korean Government provides job training for immigrants so that they can learn new technological skills.
. Adapting to Daily Life
106
107
Appendix 1 Laws Foreign Nationals Should Know

Entry into the Republic of Korea
People who want to enter the Republic of Korea need to carry a valid passport and visa issued by the Ministry of Justice. While in the country, be sure to check the expiration dates of your passport and visa to avoid any difficulties stemming from overstaying your period of sojourn. Make sure to carry your passport with you, as it will be necessary for various purposes.
. . .
Alien Registration
Those who intend to stay in the Republic of Korea for more than 90 days have to register as an alien within 90 days. If the period of stay is, for example, 59 days in your passport, then you must apply for extension before the 59 days pass. If a person is granted permission to stay or has changed their status, he or she has to register as an alien as soon as his or her status has changed. To receive an Alien Registration Card, refer to local immigration offices (Tel: 1345).
90 90 . , 59 , . . . , , ( 1345).

Extending Period of Stay

Foreign nationals who need to stay in Korea beyond the period of authorized stay have to extend their period of stay. If they apply for an extension of the period after it has expired, they will be fined. Although its possible to submit an application form on the day before the period of stay expires, it may not be granted, which would make your stay illegal. Therefore, applying in advance is recommended. Application forms for extension are available at local immigration offices or branches.
. . . .

Changing Visa Status

Foreign nationals who want to change their visa status need permission from the local immigration office.
- Foreign nationals with short-term business visas (C-2) who want to invest in Korea (D-8) - Foreign nationals who have finished language training (D-4) and want to study in Korea (D-2) - Foreign nationals who wish to change their visa after marrying a Korean (F-2)
.
- (C-2) (D-8) - (D-4) (D-2) - (F-2)
108
Laws Foreign Nationals Should Know
109

Other Activities Outside Visa Status

If foreign nationals staying for more than 90 days (people with 90-day shortterm visas excepted) want to participate in activities that their present visa status does not allow, they need to get permission to engage in those activities.
- Foreign students (D-2) want to have a part time job (S-3) while they continue to study - Missionaries engaged in religious activities (D-6) want to teach students at a university (E-1)
90 (90 ) .
- (D-2) (S-3) - (D-6) (E-1)
Permission for Re-Entry

Foreign nationals staying in Korea for more than 90 days who wish to leave Korea and return within their period of sojourn need a re-entry permit from the local immigration office before leaving. Single re-entry permits can be obtained the same day a person leaves Korea at the airport or harbor of departure regardless of where they are staying. If a person exits the country without a reentry permit or doesn't enter within the period allowed for re-entry, the existing visa will be nullified. Be careful! Foreign spouses of Koreans (on F-2-1 visas) are allowed multiple re-entry within the period of their visa. However, if the F-2-1 visa holder is in the midst of divorce proceedings where the period of stay is extended by 3 months at a time, only a single re-entry permit will be issued. A foreign national who exits the country after obtaining a re-entry permit but fails to re-enter the country can apply for an extension of the re-entry permit at a Korean embassy or consulate.
90 . . . (F-2-1) . , 3 . .

.
- 5 - - 50 - - - - - - - -
Acquiring Permanent Residence

The following people have a right to apply for permanent residence:
- A person who has stayed in Korea for more than five years - A foreign national married to a Korean. A spouse and underage children of a person who has permanent residence - Foreign nationals who have invested more than US$500,000 - Koreans who are citizens of another country and meet certain requirements - Chinese who were born and are living in Korea - A person with a PhD in cutting-edge technologies
110
111

- Holders of bachelor's degrees with certification in cutting-edge technologies - Those with abilities in specific needed areas - A person of special merit - Beneficiary of a pension - Foreign nationals who come to Korea to marry
2 , , , .
A foreign national married to a Korean can acquire permanent resident status by applying for a change in status if he or she 1) has lived in Korea for more than two years, 2) survives a Korean spouse who has died or is judged missing by a court of law, 3) is divorced or living apart from the Korean spouse and has proven that he or she is not responsible for the situation (divorce or living separately) and 4) is responsible for underage children from the marriage.
.
- 5 - 3 - 2 - - . - -
Acquiring Citizenship
The following people can apply for Korean citizenship at local immigration offices with the required documents.
- People who have lived in Korea for more than five years - Korean-born foreigners who have lived in Korea for three years or longer may apply for citizenship if their mother or father used to be Korean citizens or had been born in Korea. - A foreign national married to a Korean and staying in Korea for more than two years - A person whose father or mother is Korean - Children whose father or mother is naturalized can apply for special naturalization regardless of their age, marital status or the period of stay in Korea. - People who have made a special contribution to the Republic of Korea - People who immigrate to Korea for the purpose of marriage
2 , 3 1 , , , 2 , .
Other people who are qualified for Korean citizenship include people who have entered Korea, registered as aliens and stayed legally for more than two years; foreign nationals married to a Korean for more than three years and who have stayed in Korea for more than one year; widows or widowers of Korean spouses (or those whose Korean spouse has been declared missing) who live in Korea; and foreign nationals who are responsible for raising the underage children born of a marriage to a Korean national.
112
113
Appendix 2
Service Institutions for Foreign Nationals

Hi Korea www.hikorea.go.kr
HiKorea is a government on-line service center for foreign nationals. It provides such services as immigration, civil applications, labor, consulting, and information for daily life. It is run in four languages (Korean, English, Japanese and Chinese). Foreign nationals can make appointments to visit the office, get permission for re-entry, and even extend online their period of stay.
www.hikorea.go.kr
, , , , . , , , 4 , , , .
1345 www.immigration.go.kr
Immigration Offices Call 1345 www.immigration.go.kr

The most important duties of the Immigration Office are to issue Alien Registration Cards and permission to stay. It also provides education and information for immigrants.
.
www.g4f.go.kr
, , (F-1) , , , , .
1345
Single Portal Service Providing General Support for Foreign Nationals

www.g4f.go.kr
Various services are provided, such as re-entry permits, extension of shortterm stay, permission for extension of the period of stay for people with F-1 visas whose parents were born in Korea, permission for extension of stay for a registered foreign national intending to depart Korea in the near future, and documents regarding foreign employees who have left their worksite without notice as well as other information. In addition, the service can introduce online business partners to promote investment by foreigners. Public administrative organizations may also share information about foreign nationals.
1644-0644 www.migrantok.org
, , .
, , , , , , , , , , . ( 1~7), 1644-0644, 02-6900-8000 .

1577-5432 liveinkorea.mogef.go.kr
General Information Center for Foreign Nationals Call 1345

Consulting services are provided for such things as language, daily life and law, visas and citizenship and many other problems foreigners may have.
Foreign Employee Support Center of Korea

A civic organization for helping solve various problems foreign employees may face Call 1644-0644 www.migrantok.org
171 . , , , , , . , ( ) .
115
It provides consultation on such topics as unpaid wages, changing jobs,

114 Service Institutions for Foreign Nationals

immigration, industrial accidents, medical services and welfare, international marriage, fraud and violence, training in Korean, computers or taekwondo, law and safety, and adjusting to life in Korea. Call 1644-0644 on Sundays (1 pm-7 pm) and business days. Call (02) 6900-8000 on Saturdays.
1577-1366 www.wm1366.or.kr
, , . 365 24 . , , , . , , , , , , .
Multi-Cultural Family Support Center

Call 1577-5432 liveinkorea.mogef.go.kr
Multilingual Support Websites /
Organizations
Established to support immigrants with issues of marriage and living in Korea, there are 171 branch offices of the center nationwide. Various services are provided, such as Korean language education for multi-cultural families, information on understanding multi-cultural family culture, family education, consulting, employment, starting up businesses, and translation. It also offers bilingual programs and Korean language courses for children.
website
Description
Korea Net
korea.net
Official website of the Republic of Korea
KBS Worlds News

KBS
world.kbs.co.kr
, ,
Multilingual news, current affairs, culture and TV shows
Immigrant Broadcasting
www.mntv.net
Emergency Support Center for Migrant Women

Call 1577-1366 www.wm1366.or.kr
Multilingual news, Korean language for everyday use
Multi-cultural family e-Learning

e-
ecamp.kdu.edu
This is an emergency consulting center to be used when female immigrants suffer domestic violence, sexual harassment or forced prostitution, and can be used for immediate protection. It is available around the clock, seven days a week. Female immigrants can seek help when they face difficulties or need information or assistance with legal problems such as citizenship or visas. Assistance is provided by other female immigrants, who are dedicated consultants, and is now available in 10 languages, including Korean, English, Vietnamese, Russian, Chinese, Mongolian and Tagalog.
Korean language instruction
Mangonet
www.mangonet.kr
Online community for immigrants about marriage, education, health and jobs
, , ,
Salad TV
TV
saladtv.kr
, ,
Internet broadcasting for foreign nationals, multicultural families and overseas residents
Korea Tourism Organization
www.visitkorea.or.kr
Information on travel and festivals in Korea
116
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How to get to Seoul from Incheon International Airport

Things Newcomers Need To Know To Live in Korea

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Things newcomers need To Know To Live in Korea

Things newcomers need To Know To Live in Korea

Things newcomers need To Know To Live in Korea

010 014 016

The Korean National Flag /

Myanmar / Thailand / Vietnam /

(as of December, 2010 / 2010 12 )

Gross National Income

Per capita income

Major mountains & rivers

Baekdu Mountain / 2,744 m

Amnok River / 790 km

Han River / 281.7 km

Taebaek Mountain / 1,567m Nakdong River / 521.5 km

Elections / President: every 5 years

Jiri Mountain / 1,915m

Universal suffrage for citizens over the age of 19 (Korean age)

Lawmakers: every 4 years

Local governments: every 4 years

Halla Mountain / 1,950m

Provinces and Cities of Korea

. 109 , , . 20 , , . , , , , IT 1988 2002 . 2010 G20 . , .

Provinces and Cities of Korea

Things Newcomers Need to Know to Live in Korea

Korean Life and Culture

010 014 016

Korean Life and Culture

Adapting to Daily Life

Korea life and Culture

Korean History through Tales

Korea has a long history of thousands of years, which

During the Goryeo Kingdom,

When Goryeo collapsed, Yi Seong-gye founded

Joseon Kingdom faced a crisis due to Japanese invasions.

. 1910 . . 1945 8 15 . . 38 , . 1950 6 25 . 3 . .

In the 18th century, practical studies grew greatly, resulting in technological

. . 1970 . 1988 , 2002 .

Korean History through Tales

Since the 1990s,

Korean pop music,

Korean artists are very active and have achieved much

Soccer player Park Ji-sung, who is playing in the Premier

Korea is currently ranked in the top 15 in economy in terms of Gross National

Weightlifter Jang Mi-ran has set new world records

Korean Life and Culture

Korean Life and Culture

Koreans have traditionally maintained an extended family system.

Korean Life and Culture

The One-Hundredth Day Celebration

The First Birthday

Hoegap, Gohuiyeon 61st birthday, 70th birthday

Korean Life and Culture

Lunar New Years Day

Daeboreum First Full Moon Day of the Lunar Year

Korean Life and Culture

Food for Daeboreum /

Flying kites on Daeboreum /

Chuseok Harvest Moon Festival

Korean Life and Culture

Hanbok(traditional Korean clothes) /

Korean Life and Culture

Jesa Ancestral Memorial Rites

How to set a jesa table /