ARRIVAL · LIVING GUIDE
Your first week in Korea
From landing to settling in, here’s what to sort out in your first days, in order. Most of it takes a few minutes. Some steps depend on your visa and how long you’re staying.
01Arrival day
From the airport to your stay
Get connected and pick up a transit card first. Everything after that gets easier.
SIM or eSIM
Pick up a SIM at the airport, or set up an eSIM before you fly. You’ll need your passport. A Korean number also makes later sign-ups easier.
T-money transit card
Buy one at a convenience store (CU, GS25, 7-Eleven) or a subway ticket machine, from about ₩2,500. Top it up with cash, then use it on the subway, city buses and most taxis.
Maps and translation apps
Naver Map or KakaoMap give better directions in Korea than Google Maps. Papago helps with signs and menus.
02Move-in
Settle into your stay
A few checks with your host before and as you move in make the first day much smoother.
Move-in time and entry
Before you arrive, confirm your move-in time and how to get in with your host on SNUG.
House rules and what’s included
Read your stay’s house rules ahead of time. Bedding, utilities and cleaning also differ from stay to stay, so check the listing and pack what you need.
03Staying 90+ days
Register and bank
For longer stays, start these soon after you move in. They can take a few weeks.
Alien registration
If you’re staying more than 90 days, register within 90 days of arriving. Book an appointment on HiKorea and bring your passport, a photo, the fee and proof of where you live.
Proof of residence
If you need a document that shows where you live, ask whether your stay can provide one before you sign the contract.
Bank account
Most banks ask for your residence card, so you’ll usually open an account after registering. New accounts often start with low transfer limits.