Navigating Your First Month in Seoul as an Expat
To settle into Seoul, prioritize getting your Alien Registration Card (ARC) immediately and downloading essential local apps like Naver Map and KakaoT. Spend your first week securing a phone plan and a transit card, as these are the keys to accessing public services and moving around the city efficiently.
- Secure your ARC. Within your first 90 days, you must apply for an Alien Registration Card at your local immigration office. This card is your primary form of ID and is required to open a bank account and get a local phone number.
- Set up a local phone number. Walk into a major provider store (SK Telecom, KT, or LG U+) with your passport. You need a local number to register for almost every online service, food delivery app, and verification system in Korea.
- Get a T-Money card. Buy a T-Money card at any convenience store (GS25, CU, or 7-Eleven). This is your universal ticket for subways and buses. Load it with 20,000 KRW to start.
- Download the 'Korean Trinity' apps. Install Naver Map (Google Maps is unreliable in Korea), KakaoT (for taxis), and Papago (the most accurate translator for Korean nuances).
- Does Google Maps work in Seoul?
- No. Google Maps will show your location, but it cannot calculate walking or public transit routes. Use Naver Map or KakaoMap.
- Do I need to tip at restaurants?
- No, tipping is not practiced in Korea and can sometimes be seen as confusing or rude.