Finding a Repairman in Korea: A Complete Guide for Expats

Living in Korea can be a smooth experience until the washing machine breaks down, your sink leaks, or a light fixture stops working. Unlike in some countries where you might simply call a handyman, in Korea the process is a bit different. Knowing the right Korean search terms, apps, and average prices will make your life much easier when something at home needs fixing.

How to Search for Repairmen in Korea

Most Koreans use Naver (네이버) or Kakao (카카오) to search for services. If you type in the right Korean keywords, you’ll find local businesses and independent repairmen near your location.

Here are some useful Korean search terms to use on Naver or Kakao Map:

• Plumber: 배관공 (baegongong) or 수도 수리 (sudo suri - water repair)

• Electrician: 전기 수리 (jeongi suri - electrical repair)

• Appliance repair: 가전제품 수리 (gajeonjeopum suri)

• Interior repair: 인테리어 수리 (interieo suri) or 집 수리 (jip suri - house repair)

• General handyman: 집수리 기사 (jipsuri gisa) or 만능일꾼 (manneung ilkkun - all-round worker)

Example: If your washing machine is broken, you can search on Naver for 세탁기 수리 (setakgi suri – washing machine repair).

Apps and Platforms to Find Repairmen

Several apps and websites make it easier for foreigners and locals to find repair services in Korea:

1. 당근마켓 (Danggeun Market / Karrot App)

   • Community-based app where locals post services.

   • Search for "수리" (repair) to find nearby handymen.

2. 카카오맵 (Kakao Map) / 네이버 지도 (Naver Map)

   • Enter Korean search terms (like 전기 수리 or 배관공) and you’ll get a list of repair shops around you.

3. 홈마스터 (Home Master)

   • App specializing in professional home repair services (plumbing, electric, interior).

   • Offers standardized pricing and scheduling.

4. O2O Platforms like HouseCare (하우스케어)

   • Focused on appliance and house repairs, booking available in Korean.

5. Local District Offices (구청 / 주민센터)

   • Some neighborhood offices keep lists of recommended repair services for residents.

6. MISO app (미소)

   • App specializing in professional home repair services and cleaning.

     
     

Average Prices for Common Repair Services in Korea

Prices can vary depending on location (Seoul tends to be more expensive), but here are average ranges you can expect:

• Plumber (배관공): ₩30,000-₩70,000 (small leak or unclogging)

• Electrician (전기 수리): ₩40,000-₩80,000 (fixing outlets, lights, minor wiring issues)

• Appliance repair (가전제품 수리): ₩30,000-₩100,000 (washing machine, fridge, air conditioner)

• Interior repair (인테리어 수리): ₩50,000-₩200,000 (door, wallpaper, flooring fixes)

• General handyman (집수리 기사): ₩30,000-₩60,000 per hour (small tasks and mixed jobs)

Tip: Prices often include a basic visit fee (출장비 / chuljangbi) of ₩10,000-₩30,000, which is added even if no major repair is done.

Types of Repairmen You Might Need in Korea

Here’s a handy list to keep for future reference:

1. Plumber (배관공) - Fixing leaks, clogged pipes, bathroom repairs.

2. Electrician (전기 기사) - Outlet problems, light installation, wiring issues.

3. Appliance Repairman (가전제품 수리 기사) - Washing machine, refrigerator, air conditioner, microwave.

4. Interior Repair Specialist (인테리어 수리) - Doors, windows, flooring, wallpaper, painting.

5. General Handyman (만능일꾼) - Small tasks like shelf installation, fixing hinges, assembling furniture.

6. Gas Technician (가스 수리 기사) - Stove, boiler, heating system repairs.

7. Locksmith (열쇠 수리 / 열쇠공) - Door lock issues, key duplication.

8. Pest Control (해충 방제) - Dealing with insects or rodents.

Tips for Hiring Repairmen in Korea

• Language barrier: Most repairmen speak only Korean. If your Korean is limited, prepare with translation apps or ask a Korean-speaking friend to help.

• Cash vs. card: Many small service providers still prefer cash (현금). Ask in advance if card payment is possible. Or if you can do transfer (계좌 이체).

• Check reviews: On Naver, look for 후기 (reviews) to ensure reliability.

• Get quotes first: Always ask for 예상 비용 (estimated cost) before confirming.

  
  

Store located in Mapo (available for Mapo-gu and Sodaemun-gu area)

Finding a repairman in Korea may feel intimidating at first, but with the right search terms and apps, it becomes manageable.

Whether you need a plumber for a leaking sink, an electrician for faulty wiring, or a handyman for general repairs, you’ll be able to find reliable help at a fair price.

Keeping this guide and Korean vocabulary handy will save you time and stress the next time something breaks down in your Korean home.