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Korean Foundation for International Cultural Exchange(KOFICE) started [K-Community Challenge] for this year. ​ [K-Community Challenge] is a cover challenge where people from all over the world learn about the Korean traditional arts online and share their own unique performance videos. ​ The final winners will get a chance to perform with K-pop stars such as BTOB(Taekwonmu), LIGHTSUM(Minyo), Weeekly(Buchaechum) during the K-Community Festival in Korea this November. ​ Regarding this event, we would like to inform you of the outline and schedule of the K-Community Challenge below. ​It's K-traditional time! They are looking for communities to participate in with K-POP stars. Learn Korean traditional performance through their official videos and make your community's special performances! ​ ​ 1) Who can apply : K-Community that is active all around the world and an individual who loves Korean culture.​ 2) Genres : Buchaechum(Korean Fan Dance), Minyo(Korean Folk Song), Taekwonmu(Taekwondo Dance), Hanbok(Korean Traditional Clothes). 3) Registration Period : August 1, 2022(Mon) ~ September 12, 2022(Mon) 24:00(KST) ​ ​ 4) How to Register : STEP 1. Like and subscribe to the official YouTube channel. ​ STEP 2. Select one genre out of the four options. ​ STEP 3. Download the official music of the selected genre (Except the “Hanbok” Genre). ​ STEP 4. Practice after watching the guides/tutorials and shoot the final video. ​ STEP 5. Upload the videos open to the public on YouTube with the required title and hashtags. ※ The Hanbok genre must shoot the video along with a background that matches the dress. Will be allowed to post freely on short format channels such as (TikTok, Instagram Reels, YouTube Shorts, etc.). Please be sure to provide a link to your video when filling out the online application form. ​ STEP 6. Apply online (Click the “Apply” button at the bottom of the page). ​ Sign up now to spread your passion for Korean culture! For more information, visit their website, Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube. ​ https://www.kcommunityfestival.com https://www.facebook.com/kcf.kofice https://www.youtube.com/c/kcommunityfestival https://twitter.com/kcf_kofice ​ If you have any further questions, please contact them via kcf@kofice.or.kr. KOFICE (Korean Foundation for International Cultural Exchange) 203 DMC Hight-Tech Industry Center, 330 Seongam-ro Mapo-gu Seoul, 03920, Republic of Korea KOFICE official: www.kofice.or.kr KCF official: www.kcommunityfestival.com Email. kcf@kofice.or.kr Facebook: kcf.kofice Twitter: kcf_kofice Hope as many of you as possible take part in this amazing K-Community Challenge!

❀❀❀ Yeundeungpo Special article ❀❀❀ The swimming pool at Yeouido Hangang Park offers stunning views of the Hangang River as an outdoor pool. The pool has a capacity of more than 3,500 people and opens during the summer. By the pool, there are several stores offering a variety of snacks and light refreshments. Visitors can enjoy the variety of events and activities that take place in the park and the pool, which is a terrific spot to swim. We went there on 20th August, and we had so much fun! We arrived around 2 PM (we don't recommend going so late, because you can't find a place so easily), and after trying for around 30 minutes we did find some sunbeds and a parasol. We had some slushies and tteokbokki from the local vendors and we also brought some food from home. Actually, you can come with food and drink from outside, so you don't have to pay so much for the local ones. The prices are a little bit spicy, the slushy is 6,000 won, the tteokbokki 8,000 won, ramen 3,000 won. They also have chicken and pizza for between 12,000 - 23,000 won. All the operations are in Korean, so we do recommend going there if you have at least a basic Korean language knowledge or with some Korean friends. Also is MANDATORY to wear a swimming cap, that you can come with from home, or buy it there (10,000 won). You can't access the pool without one, so be prepared in advance. You can also come with tubes, or buy one there, but not big boats. They have some rules, that you should follow, like don't jump in the swimming pool and run around. The swimming pool also has a locker and a place to change your clothes, outside showers, and toilets. The place is split into two parts, the deeper pool, which is around 1.3 m deep, and the children's pool that's around 0.6m deep. Between the two there is a part where you can stay under a parasol without paying for the sunbed if you don't want to. You can also sit in the grass, or just on the cement part, with no problem. We do recommend you to try it next year because it is cheap and extremely fun. From our homes it takes around 15 minutes, so we will totally try it again next year when it opens! Opened 2022.6.24.(Fri)~8.21.(Sun) 59 days Address 07337 330, Yeouidong-ro, Yeongdeungpo-gu, Seoul Operating Hours: 09:00 ~ 19:00 Entrance fee Category Children (6-12 years old) 3,000 won Youth (13-18 years old) 4,000 won Adults (19 years old and older) 5,000 won Sunbed and parasol - 10,000 won Yeouido swimming pool contact information: 02-785-0478 Transportation Subway: Subway Line 9, National Assembly Station, Exit 1 Subway Line 5, Yeouinaru Station, Exit 2 Bus: In front of Full Gospel Church - 461, 463, 753, 5633, 5710, 6623, 1002 In front of Full Gospel Church - 753, 5615, 5618, 5713, 7613, 1002 In front of the National Assembly 153, 461, 463, 6623, 1002 In front of Yeouido Park 261, 461, 753, 5633, 5634, 5713, 6623 #YSMZ, #SmartMedicalZone, #MedicalTourism, #Yeongdeungpo, #Seoul, #Yeongdeungpo_gu, #YDP, #MSG, #Supporters, #Korea, #영등포구청, #sns, #yeondeungposmartmedicalcity, #YDM, #영등포서포터즈, #영등포, #한강수영장, #여의도수영장, #서울, #서울수영장, #한강수영장가격, #수영장,

★★★ Korea Allimi Special Article - 대한민국 알리미 특별 조항★★★ KATECH, short for Korea Automotive Technology Institute has been established based on the ‘Industrial technology innovation & promotion law’ under the authority of the Ministry of Knowledge and Economy in 1990. The mission of the institute is to support the regional auto part industry, especially small & medium enterprises, to secure sustainable growth by offering R&D support, reliability assessment tests as well as technical information, and human resources development. Main Roles Development of Strategic Core Technology Original Technology Development Customer Oriented Technology Development Support Auto Industry to Break through Common Technical Difficulties The Technology Planning for National Automotive Industry Planning the Original Technology Development with Industrial Convergence Planning the Development of Green Car Industry Planning the Development of Intelligence Automotive Industry Planning the Innovative Personal Mobility Planning to Foster Market-Viable xEV Industry Planning Innovative Project to Develop Autonomous Driving Technology Reliability Assessment & Technical Training Re-education of Automotive Companies for Design Capability Improvement Establishment of Integrated System for Components Reliability Enhancement Leading the Technology for Regional Governments Intelligent Car Business in Daegu E-mobility Business in Yeonggwang Automotive Root Industry Support Business in Siheun Eco-friendly Car Business in Gwangju Premium Car Bus Main Function - R&D / Technical Training - Reliability Assessment / Certification - Parts Performance Testing - Technical Training / Human Resources Development - Research and Testing Equipment Rental - Industry Analysis & Policy Research Credit to KATECH. Website: https://www.katech.re.kr/ During July month we went to KATECH together with the Allimi program. We visited the places, tried the hydrogen bus, and got a lot of knowledge. I think this institute is worth visiting if you have a chance and learn more about autonomous vehicles. The tour took around one hour and we visited three main parts, the main building, the one related to magnet force, and the part where they test the products. I am not a huge fan of technology, but this is our future and it was nice to take a glimpse at it. #MOFA, #UnboxingKorea, #KoreaAllimi, #언박싱코리아, #대한민국알리미, #UniqueKorea, #SpecialExperience, #specialtrip, #trip, #cheonan, #Katech, #koreaautomotivetechnologyinstitute, #한국자동차연구원, #automotive, #hydrogenbus, #autonomousvehicles, #autonomouscar, #car, #bus, #차, #버스 #electricbus, #전기버스,

★★★ Korea Allimi Special Article - 대한민국 알리미 특별 조항★★★ Asan Oeam Folk Village 외암민속마을 is designated as an Important Folklore Cultural Asset No. 236. The town, which retains Joseon-era architecture and culture, was added to the tentative list of UNESCO world historic sites in 2011. It was recognized as an Important Folklore Cultural Heritage in South Korea in 2000. Oeam Folk Village has formed over 500 years ago and is located on the southeast slopes of Seolhwasan, some 8 kilometers south of the rural city of Asan in South Chungcheong Province. Currently, there are some 50 households living there. The village was created when the Yean Yi clan settled down during the reign of King Seonjo (1567-1608) during the Joseon era. There were many talented descendants of the clan and among them was Yi Gan, a great Confucianism scholar whose pen name was Oeam, the origin of the village’s name. The buildings in the village still exhibit the Joseon era's societal organization. The thatched roofs on about half of the dwellings are re-thatched annually by the residents using a traditional technique. Stone walls enclose the homes. The Bongsusan mountain is to the village's southeast, and it is located at the base of the Seolhwasan mountain to the northeast. The village, which has an oval shape, is situated on a line that hypothetically connects the two mountains. Houses have a south-southwest orientation. There is one main route where many secondary roads converge. West of the village, there is an agricultural area that reaches out, and a stream connects it to the community. This is a typical Joseon village layout. Oeam is unique because the community has numerous streams that link the gardens of the homes to the stream. The gardens are typical of Korean gardens from that time period. The people also create regional foods like buggumi and preserve Joseon-era ceremonies and practices that are protected as national treasures. #MOFA, #UnboxingKorea, #KoreaAllimi, #언박싱코리아, #대한민국알리미, #UniqueKorea, #SpecialExperience, #specialtrip, #trip, #cheonan, #asan, #asanoeam, #asanoeamfolkvillage #folkvillage, #외암민속마을, #unesco #유네스코,

솓가락반상 마실 is a traditional Korean restaurant that wants to be Hanjeongsik. The quality of the food is not expensive and can be easily accessed by anyone. Hanjeongsik presented only by Masil, is a delicious Korean food made with ingredients, that will tell and feel the nature of Korea. However, rather than a restaurant to make money, they maintain the value of food, the health of ingredients, and the basics of Hanjeongsik. Customers will enjoy delicious and healthy Korean Hanjeongsik at a reasonable price, where creative food development and slow food can harmonize together. This is a Korean food restaurant that instills dreams and hopes for all dining people who dream of globalizing Korean food and popularizing Korean food. It is located all around Seoul and outside of the capital city. And I can guarantee you will have a blast! Inside it looks like a hanok, or an old traditional Korean home, and you have to take out your shoes in order to eat inside. The atmosphere is great and it brings you to the past. We went there with the Allimi program and we had a variety of choices, from salad to raw beef. Our lunch menu included: salad, meat with tomatoes and eggplants, seaweed soup, kimchi jeon, deokgalbi and chapchae. After we received some stir-fried octopus and bossam (steamed pork) together with the raw beef. And before ending we eat some doenjang jjigae with rice. For drinking, we did receive a cold and sweet maesil tea. The food was amazing and we had a great time. Totally recommend it if you want to have authentic Korean food in a great environment, feeling like you stepped into history. Website: https://masilbansang.modoo.at/ #MOFA, #UnboxingKorea, #KoreaAllimi, #언박싱코리아, #대한민국알리미, #UniqueKorea, #SpecialExperience, #Hanjeongsik, #Masil, #솓가락반상마실, #솓가락반상, #마실, #koreanfood, #koreantraditionalfood, #한국음식,

The term "dog days of summer" (sambok, 삼복 or boknal, 복날) is used in Korea. The three hottest days of the summer, which last for a whole month, were typically a day off for the farmers. Before the rice harvest, a trip to the seashore or a nearby mountain valley to cool off was planned. The three days, Chobok ~ 초복, or the first day, Jungbok ~ 중복, or the middle day, and Malbok ~ 말복, or the last day, occur at intervals of ten days. This year (2026), the dates to watch out for are: The first HOT day of summer is Chobok (초복) on July 15, 2026. The second HOT day of summer is Jungbok (중복) on July 25, 2026. The third and final HOT day of summer is Malbok (말복) on August 14, 2026. People strive to eat more nutritious food these days so they will have more energy to withstand the heat. Eating healthy food to maintain energy and combat heat is one of the customs of Boknal. While many of us might think about consuming cooler dishes or even the icy soups found in Korea, Koreans take the opposite approach. Koreans think we need to warm the body from the stomach onward, and three dishes are typically the first choices. Samgyetang ~ 삼계탕 Koreans start eating Samgyetang, or ginseng chicken soup, on the first day of Boknal, Chobok day. One soft chicken filled with rice is served in a steaming hot bowl of broth that is flavored with ginseng, garlic, and jujube dates. Be careful to leave early if you plan to taste the meal during boknal, as there will undoubtedly be lineups at the best and tastiest venues serving it. Eel ~ 장어 Jangeo, 장어, or eel, is another dish that is enjoyed during this time of year. This meal is actually fairly well-liked all year round because it is rich in vitamins A and E and is thought to improve blood circulation, and prevent aging, and wrinkles. Eel is well-liked by women in Korea due to its anti-aging properties, but it is also well-liked by men who think it to be an aphrodisiac and beneficial for their stamina. New generation Of course, the younger generation has given the custom its own spin. The menu now includes trendy food like fried chicken and beer and fire chicken noodles, 불닭뽁음면. The custom of eating hot meals on hot days has also been abandoned by many individuals, who have completely embraced the fact that we can now buy ice even in the summer. During Sambok, chilly meals like bingsu, 빙수 and cold noodles, 냉면 have gained popularity. More expensive samgyetang is replaced with fried chicken In Korea, the year-round appeal of fried chicken is nothing new. Instead of "samgyetang," a hot chicken stew, an increasing number of individuals are selecting it as a "sambok" dish. The term "sambok" describes a season when Koreans opt to consume hot meals to combat the intense heat. A traditional Korean cuisine known as "sambok," or the three "boks" of the year, is a tasty chicken stew packed with ginseng, rice, and other anti-fatigue components. It is best enjoyed during the hottest three days of summer. But each dish now costs 30,000KRW. One of the most well-liked 'boknal' cuisine menu items is now fried chicken. What food did you eat during these days? Make sure to enjoy them next year if you missed it now!

❀❀❀ Yeundeungpo Special [팸투어] article ❀❀❀ Yeoui Gonggam Plastic Surgery Clinic or 여의공감성형의과, is a plastic surgery clinic located in Yeundeungpo. With more than ten years of experience doing cosmetic procedures in Gangnam, South Korea, and six years working with overseas patients at the INHA International Medical Center at Incheon International Airport, they run a variety of programs tailored for foreign patients. They are specifically designed for international patients who require ongoing care during their prolonged stay rather than a single surgery. During the stay, a specialized treatment is available. It includes a process to erase facial creases caused by aging, a procedure to balance the eyes and nose naturally, and a laser treatment to create a vibrant, youthful face. Additionally, fluid therapy for exhaustion or fillers, Botox, are options. Types of specialized treatments: Eye Surgery Double fold/ Medial & Lateral canthoplasty / Ptosis correction Brow lift / Eye bag removal / Reoperation Nose Surgery Open & Closed rhinoplasty nasal tip / hump / alar / reoperation DeAging Upper & Lower blepharoplasty Facial Lifting / Fat graft Petit / Dermatology Botox/ Filler / Thread Lifting V-face / Laser/ IV therapy KIM YOO KYUNG M.D. Medical Specialist in the field of Plastic Surgery, Ph.D. in medicine Graduated from the College of Medicine/ Graduate School of Ehwa Woman’s University Life-time member of the Korean Society of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons Full-member of the Korean Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery Full-member of the Korean Cleft Palate-craniofacial Association Full-member of the Korean Association of plastic and reconstructive Surgeons Details: Address: 81,Yeouinaru-ro,Yeongdeungpo-gu Website: www.ygps.co.kr (Kor,Eng,Chn,Rus) Phone number: +82-2-782-0020 Hours: Mon-Fri:10:00~19:00/Saturday:10:00~14:00 Specializes in: Plastic surgery for eye and nose, Fat grafting, Face lifting, Fillers/Botox Thanks #영등포구청 and @ydp_tourism for the amazing opportunity to visit such a great hospital and receive a laser procedure for free. #YSMZ, #SmartMedicalZone, #MedicalTourism, #Yeongdeungpo, #Seoul, #Yeongdeungpo_gu, #YDP, #MSG, #Supporters, #Korea, #영등포구청, #sns ,#yeondeungposmartmedicalcity ,#YDM ,#영등포서포터즈 ,#영등포, #plasticsurgery, #surgery, #hospital, #clinic, #plasticsurgeryclinic, #병원, #성형외과, #의과, #성형, #yeouigonggnamplasticsurgery, #여의공감성형의과,

★★★ Korea Allimi Special Article - 대한민국 알리미 특별 조항★★★ The War Memorial of Korea is a museum that can be found in Seoul's Yongsan-dong neighborhood, close to Itaewon. In order to preserve and commemorate Korea's military history, it opened in 1994 on the location of the former army headquarters. It was created in anticipation of the hoped-for peaceful unification of North and South Korea as well as to prevent future wars by learning from the Korean War. There are six indoor exhibition rooms and an outdoor exhibition center house war artifacts and military hardware from China, South Korea, and the United States in the memorial building. The War Memorial was constructed to pay tribute to the military veterans and casualties from the conflicts that gave rise to the modern nation-state. By gathering, preserving, and showcasing a variety of historical artifacts and records connected to the several conflicts waged in the nation from a South Korean perspective, the museum also aims to educate future generations. The War Memorial of Korea has over 9,000 relics and is separated into indoor and outdoor exhibits. The Memorial Hall, the War History Room, the Korean War Room, the Expeditionary Forces Room, the Armed Forces Room, the Large Equipment Room, and the Korean Defense Industries Room are the seven halls that make up the approximately 110,770m2 indoor exhibition space. We maintain archives of war and military heroes in these rooms dating back to the three kingdoms' era. Real, replicas, dioramas, records, and other forms of media are used to display these items. To provide a thorough picture of the Korean War, the Korean War Room depicts its origins as well as how it progressed until the armistice. The outdoor exhibition includes real Korean War artifacts as well as big weapons from various countries, the Korean War Monument, the King Kwanggaeto the Great Monument, the Statue of Brothers, the Peace Clock Tower, etc. The memorial also has a monument (name stone) on either side for dead law enforcement officers, military personnel, and Korean War veterans. The deceased members of the UN forces are standing. This museum depicts all the blood loss in modern Korea and also the help it had from other nations. From ancient times until nowadays The War Museum of Korea shows us how difficult it is to lose people and to get peace. Let's learn from the past! Website: https://www.warmemo.or.kr/LNG/main.do Museum Hours 09:30 ~ 18:00 (Entrance closed at 17:00) Exhibition Hours : Hours 09:30 ~ 18:00 Closed every Monday Museum Admission Free admission Address 29,Itaewon-ro,Yongsan-gu,Seoul The War Memorial of Korea 0435 Bus 10 minutes by bus from Seoul or Yongsan Railway Stations. Subway 6 line10 minutes walk from Samgakji Station(Exit # 11, 12) 4 line5 minutes walk from Samgakji Station(Exit # 1) 1 line10 minutes walk from Namyong Station #MOFA #UnboxingKorea#KoreaAllimi #언박싱코리아 #대한민국알리미 #UniqueKorea #SpecialExperience

To be able to travel by bus or subway, even taxi, you should purchase a Transportation card. There are two ways to buy a transport card. One of them is the recharging machines in the subway stations, some vending machines provide the option to buy a travel card, the price being 4000 KRW. A second option is from GS 25, CU, 7-Eleven, Mini Stop, With Me, Buy The Way, Emart 24, and Story Way stores, where the price varies from model to model starting with 3000 KRW and reaching up to 7000 KRW. At each automatic recharging machine, those in the subway, there is the possibility to supply a transport card with a maximum amount of 50,000 won, at once, but at each of the stores mentioned above, you can also supply the card only with cash. Another option, a little more complicated, would-be ATMs at the bank, but not all of them have this option and sometimes they only accept T-money Mobile. The transport card is validated every time you get on and off the bus or every time, you enter and leave the platform on the subway.

This dish is amazing if you like to pass through a hot summer! A cold soup for you to get refreshed. Best combined with friend meat or donkas (돈까스). Below you have the recipe for this amazing food! Ingredients (for 2 servings) 280 grams dried naengmyeon noodles (you can buy them separately or with a package of pre-made ingredients) 2 packs of liquid or powdered concentrated broth (that comes with the package of naengmyeon noodles or you can just buy it separately) 2 packets of mustard oil (that comes with the package of naengmyeon noodles or you can just buy it separately, or you can make it yourself) 1 Korean pear (or 2 bosc pears) ~ not mandatory ½ teaspoon salt 1½ teaspoon sugar 1 tablespoon white or apple cider vinegar 1 hard-boiled egg, cut in halves ~ not mandatory 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds, ground ice cubes (or you can freeze the pack of liquid concentrated broth) Preparing the soup 1. Place the concentrated broth packages in a bowl. and add  4 cups water. Combine the two. 2. To make it slushy or semi frozen, place it in the freezer for 4 to 5 hours. (If you don't have time to cook the broth ahead of time, use simply 2 cups of water and 2 and a half cups of ice cubes. Refrigerate it while you finish the rest of the meal and take it out right before serving.) Preparing the noodles 1. A large pot of water should be brought to a boil. Stir in the noodles with a wooden spoon. Cook for 3 to 5 minutes with the lid on. 2. To taste, take a sample. There should be no hard bits inside the noodles when you chew them. If you overcook them, they will become soggy. 3. Using cold running water, strain and rinse the noodles until they are no longer slippery and completely cool. 4. Fill a large mixing bowl halfway with cold water and ice cubes. Add the noodles and give them one more rinse. 5. Drain and divide the noodles into two large shallow bowls. Preparing the garnishes 1. Combine the sliced cucumber, kosher salt, half teaspoon sugar, and vinegar in a bowl to make quick pickled cucumbers. Set it aside after thoroughly mixing it. 2. Mix 1 cup water with 1 teaspoon sugar to make sweet water. 3. Peel the pear and cut it in half. To prevent browning, slice one half into thin strips and soak them in sweet water. 4. Using a cotton cloth or cheesecloth, squeeze out the juice from the other half of the pear. Pear juice should provide about half cup. Use one for garnish and the other for pear juice if using little bosc pears. 5. Remove the frozen broth bowl from the freezer. Add the pear juice and a squeeze of cucumber pickled juice into the broth. 6. Return the soup to the refrigerator or freezer until the noodles are done. Assemble the dish 1. Pour the chilly broth over the noodles in each bowl. 2. On top, arrange the cucumber and pear. 3. To each bowl, add a package of mustard oil. 4. Add some sesame seed powder to finish. Top each bowl with a half-egg. 5. Serve immediately. Paste of mustard You may also make your own mustard paste by combining 1 tablespoon mustard powder with half tablespoons water and fermenting it for 5 minutes by living it in a warm place. ***** Optional You can use also radish for garnishing the soup, if you don't like pear. You can eat it together with fried meat, or boiled meat. You can add meat on top, if you like it. This dish is a amazing for summer hot days, or after drinking for hangover. Try it for yourself and let us know if you liked it!

If you are an influencer already, or you are preparing to be one, don't miss the opportunity to apply for the K-influencer Academy program! Hundreds of foreigners can apply to enjoy the program presented by KOCIS (www.korea.net). Become the next Korean culture content maker on YouTube. Come to the third season of the K-influencer Academy, a YouTube training program for fans of Korea. Who can apply? You are welcome to apply if you love Korea and wish to be a YouTube creator, regardless of your nationality, language, or region. So, everyone who loves Korea, no matter where you live, can apply. The only condition is to be able to make YouTube videos about it. What should you do? Become the next Korean culture content maker on YouTube. Upload videos on specific themes during the program, be active, take part in online classes and make friends! Program benefits YouTube channel growth consulting Content creation grant YouTube channel promotion & marketing Take part in on/offline festivals The 2022 Best K-influencer will have the opportunity to visit Korea *Individual participation and circumstances may affect the program's benefits. When to apply? Application period: April 18 - May 8, 2022 (KST) Where to apply? K-influencer Academy 2022 Application form Link: https://forms.gle/ddxoq76jwSXSPHTZ9 Inquiries K-influencer Academy Office (kinfluencer2022@gmail.com) Other places to check last year's years' activities K-influencer YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC0M7dSBkOlepWz36Rcch3AQ Korea.net YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/user/GatewayToKorea Personal experience of the member of Flip Korea, Antonia, from 2021 K-Influencer Academy! 2021 was the year when Antonia participated in her YouTube channel called UnfoldSeoul, together with her friend, Vanessa. During the program, their channel was chosen to be K-star, and also, they received the badge of K-Influencer Academy at the end of the program. And during the K-Influencer Academy, they did some LIVE sessions for the Korea.net YouTube channel. Below we will put the videos they made for this program and you can check them out on their channel as well. Being in K-Influencer Academy increased their subscribers and also views. Try to take part in this year's program! It will be amazing and you can make so many, friends! Join the community and take the opportunity to become the next K-Influencer!

Yeon Deung Hoe, also known as the "Lotus Lantern Festival," began as a Buddhist event but has evolved into a cultural festival for all of South Korea. We encourage everyone to celebrate "Yeon Deung Hoe," the Lotus Lantern Festival's millennium history! The event is a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity and Korea's National Intangible Cultural Heritage No. 122, with a history dating back over 1,200 years. It has the most visitors at the event, with about 300,000 local Koreans and 50,000 foreign guests. The Lotus Lantern Festival (Yeon Deung Hoe) draws its spirit from the Buddhist concept of the wider world, in which you and I are not separate but interconnected. The festival's date changes every year since it takes place over the weekend just before the Buddha's birthday, which falls on April 8th on the lunar calendar. The festival took place on April 30th (Saturday) in 2022. Thousands of lotus lanterns brighten the streets, temples, and shopping malls throughout the festival, their brightness reflecting humanity's enlightenment. Several events are taking place during Yeondeunghoe, the most notable of which is a large Lotus Lantern Parade that sweeps through the streets of Seoul's Jongno District for a night. Event Date: 2022.04.30 - 2022.05.01 Venue: Streets of Jongno, Cheonggyecheon Stream, Bongeunsa Temple, Jogyesa Temple Show time: 24 hr. (Refer to website for details) Contact: +82-2-2011-1744~1747 Website: http://www.llf.or.kr/eng/ Price: Free Programs: Lantern exhibition, Eoullim Madang, lantern parade, cultural activities, performances, etc.

★★★ Korea Allimi Special Article - 대한민국 알리미 특별 조항★★★ The Jogyesa Temple is the head temple of the Korean Buddhism of the Jogye Order. The Jogyesa Temple is located in Insa-dong, one of Seoul's most prominent cultural districts and near the Gyeongbokgung Palace. The monks who built Jogye Temple under the name Gakhwangsa Temple in 1910 wished for the independence of Korean Buddhism and the restoration of Koreans' self-esteem. Gakhwangsa Temple was the most important temple in modern Korean Buddhism, as well as the first propagation center that advocated for the authenticity of Korean Buddhism and the very first temple within the city of Seoul's four gates. To remove the remnants of Japanese colonialism, the temple's name was changed to Taegosa in 1938 and then to Jogye Temple in 1954. The architecture of Jogyesa Temple is a combination of traditional temple and palace architecture. The mesh decorations on the Daeungjeon's doors and windows are unique in their own way. The temple also includes the Geuknakjeon (Hall of Supreme Bliss), which houses the Amitabha Buddha, and the Beomjongnu, which holds a bell that enlightens the people with its sound. Daeungjeon Hall is the temple's main hall, and it houses the famous figure of the seated Buddha (the statue is Tangible Cultural Heritage of Seoul No. 126). Baeksong, a more than 500-year-old white pine tree located close to Daeungjeon, is Korea's No. 9 Natural Monument. Due to its central location in Seoul, Jogyesa attracts a large number of tourists seeking to learn about Buddhist culture. The yearly Lotus Lantern Festival and a temple stay program are also held at the temple. Currently, Jogyesa Temple has lots of intangible cultural or natural heritage that are extremely important for Korean culture and traditions. [Lacebark Pine of Jogyesa Temple] Designated as Natural Monument No. 9 (December 7, 1962) [Daeungjeon Hall of Jogyesa Temple] Seoul designated Tangible Cultural Heritage No. 127 (September 10, 2000) [Seated Buddha of Jogyesa Temple] Seoul designated Tangible Cultural Heritage No. 126 (July 15, 2000) [Seokgabuldo of Jogyesa Temple] Seoul designated Tangible Cultural Heritage No. 125 (July 15, 2000) Major events inside the Temple: Spring Buddha's birthday that's in May. This is the event, which has been designated as Korea's Important Intangible Cultural Property No. 122 and is held at Jogyesa and Bongeunsa temples, as well as along Jongno Street. The event's origins may be traced back to the Unified Silla era, when it was held on Daeboreum, a day commemorating the first full moon of the lunar calendar; during the Goryeo Dynasty (918-1392), Yeondeunghoe became a festival commemorating Buddha's birthday. The Lotus Lantern Festival, conducted every year to commemorate Buddha's birthday, was named an Intangible Cultural Treasure by UNESCO making it Korea's 21st intangible cultural heritage. Summer Lotus Festival (July~August), Chilsoek, July 7th in the lunar calendar, the seventh day[evening] of the seventh month of the lunar calendar. Autumn Chrysanthemum Festival (September~October), Hangawi, Korean Thanksgiving Day (August 15th in the lunar calendar), Jungyangjeol, the ninth day of the ninth lunar month. Winter Dongji, winter solstice, New Year's Eve (December 31st). Temple Stay: www.templestay.com Templestay is a cultural integration program that allows participants to gain a deeper understanding of Korean traditional culture and Buddhism. This brief temple stay, which includes chanting, meditation, tea chat, and Buddhist meals, will provide you with a fresh perspective on life. We hope that while staying at a temple, you discover your 'True-self.' Jogyesa is part of this program, so if you would like to experience this, check their website for more information and reservation. Address 03144, 55, Ujeongguk-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul Transportation - Anguk Station (subway line 3) exit 6, 10 min. away on foot - Gwanghwamun Station (subway line 5) exit 2, 15 min. away on foot - Jonggak Station (subway line 1) exit 2, 10 min. away on foot Phone +82 2-768-8523 (ENG) / +82 2-768-8660 (KOR) Website https://www.jogyesa.kr/eng/index.php Hours of Operation Opening hours vary depending on what Buddhist ceremonies are taking place and the temple schedule We hope you will try to visit this amazing temple and take lots of pictures, also temple stay is a great opportunity to learn 1:1 from monks about how they live their peaceful life. Stay tuned for the next article for Korea Allimi! #MOFA, #UnboxingKorea, #KoreaAllimi, #언박싱코리아, #대한민국알리미, #UniqueKorea, #SpecialExperience,

With the weather getting warmer, I'm delighted to share one of my favorite types of food with you: Korean cold noodles. I'll be the first to admit that the concept of cold noodles looked strange and exotic to me when my friends first introduced me to them. For you to try this summer, we've compiled a list of our TOP favorite Korean cold noodle meals. So, let's get this party started! 1. Kimchimari Guksu (김치말이국수) The noodles will be dipped into an ice-cold, spicy kimchi soup. Cucumbers, sesame seeds, boiled eggs, and Asian pears are frequently used to garnish this dish in Korea. 2. Bibimmyeon (비빔면) Bibimmyeon is a spicy Korean cold noodle dish made with gochujang (fermented red pepper paste from Korea). The noodles are chilled by rinsing them in cold water. The noodles are then mixed with the spicy sauce and served in a bowl with cucumbers, sesame seeds, and boiled eggs on top. 3. Kimchi Bibim Guksu (김치 비빔 국수) Kimchi bibim guksu is a spicy cold mixed noodles variety. Instead of freshly prepared kimchi, you should use thoroughly fermented kimchi for this recipe. Your fall kimchi should be perfectly ready for this recipe by the time summer arrives! 4. Jaengban Guksu (쟁반 국수) The dish Jaengban guksu is designed to be shared by everyone at the table. On a huge platter, Koreans serve this dish. The words 'jaengban' and 'guksu' translate to 'big platter/tray' and 'noodles,' respectively. The noodles occupy the center of the dish. The noodles are surrounded by a variety of fresh veggie alternatives. A wonderfully spicy and tangy sauce is served on top of the dish. 5. Jjolmyeon (쫄면) Jjolmyeon is a type of Korean cold noodle that is spicy and chewy. The Korean word 'Jjolgit-jjolgit ()' is the source of the word 'jjol.' This word is used in Korea to denote a specific form of chewiness in certain foods–in this example, highly chewy noodles. 6. Dongchimi Guksu (동치미국수) Dongchimi Guksu is a Korean cold noodle style made using radish-water kimchi as the basis. There are two different versions of this meal in Korea. The original version has a peppery flavor. The broth is red, as you can see. The second form is devoid of spices. You'll notice that the broth in this version is clear. 7. Kongguksu (콩국수) Kongguksu, or noodles in cold soybean soup, is a nutritious and tasty summer delicacy and one of the most refreshing forms of Korean noodles. More cooling ingredients, such as cucumber, cold tomatoes, or watermelon, are simply placed on top of Kongguksu. Ice cubes might be added on occasion. 8. Mul Naengmyeon (물냉면) In both North and South Korea, naengmyeon is a popular cold noodle meal. The word'mul' means 'water.' The preference for naengmyeon differs based on where a person comes from. Vinegar, mustard oil, and sugar, for example, are frequent additives in North Korea. Sugar is rarely used in South Korea. 9. Bibim Naengmyeon (비빔냉면) The spicy and sour gochujang-based sauce used in bibim naengmyeon is mixed into the noodles. Unlike mul naengmyeon, these noodles are not generally served in a chilly, watery broth. This sauce is indeed sweet and spicy, thanks to the Asian pears and gochujang! Boiling eggs, beef brisket, sliced pear, and radish are popular additions to this dish. 10. Korean Soba noodles with sweet and chili sauce (소바) The sweet chili soy sauce is the star of this noodle meal. It's light and slightly salty, but also sweet and tangy. The chilled cucumber and soba noodles brought out all of the greatest flavors. 11. Milmyeon (밀면) Milmyeon is similar to North Korean naengmyeon and has essentially identical ingredients, with the exception of the most significant ingredient: noodles. Milmyeon employs milguksu, or wheat flour noodles, instead of buckwheat noodles. Milmyeon, in addition to the noodles, substitutes meat broth for the typical dongchimi. Boiled eggs, cucumbers, radish, and meat are among the toppings. 12. Makguksu (막국수) Makguksu, like naengmyeon, contains buckwheat flour noodles. The main difference is that makguksu has a higher buckwheat ratio. This is due to the fact that the province of Gangwon, where makguksu was born, is the world's greatest buckwheat producer. Makguksu is usually served in a cold dongchimi or chicken broth with a gochugaru-based sauce on top. However, makguksu's adaptability is part of what makes it so unique. 13. Jatguksu (잣국수) Gapyeong is known for its jatguksu. Pine nuts, or jat, are famous in Gapyeong, Gyeonggi Province. Jatguksu is similar to kongguksu, but instead of soybeans, it uses ground pine nuts in its cold broth. Before grinding pine nuts, they must either be soaked in water or lightly toasted. Noodles made from wheat flour or buckwheat flour are ok. 14. Memil guksu (메밀국수) Korea's version of Japanese soba noodles is memil guksu, or buckwheat noodles. The light and clear flavor of this favorite summer dish is well-known. Traditional memil guksu is served in a soup consisting of myeolchi (anchovy stock), mushroom, kelp, rice wine, soy sauce, and sugar, rather than the noodles and broth of Japanese soba. Korea will be a dream come true for you when it comes to noodles. Noodles in Korea come in all sorts of shapes and flavors, including japchae, naengmyeon, bibim guksu, and ramyeon, to name a few. The concept of cold noodles may be unusual and unknown to some individuals, especially Westerners. The excellent thing is that these Korean noodle variations are among the most delicious and refreshing ways to beat the heat during the summer's hottest months. Tell us which ones did you try and what is your favorite!

In Korea, there are different types of transportation that you can choose from and they use most of them inside the country. Below you have a list and ways you can use transportation as you please for easier access to the cities. 1. Airport When it comes to airports, most flights from other continents land at Incheon International Airport, located west of Seoul in Incheon. It has 2 terminals, both connected to Seoul's metro and bus network. For details on the airport transport options, visit the official Incheon International Airport website for up-to-date information. The second most important airport is Gimpo International Airport, from which you can fly domestically or around Korea. If you fly to Busan, you will land at Gimhae International Airport (ticket prices vary depending on the season), and to Jeju at Jeju International Airport. All airports in Korea are connected to the local transportation network, all details are provided on the official airport pages or on the Maps, Naver Map (Android | iOS), and Kakao Map (Android | iOS) applications, which we will talk about in a different post. Incheon airport guide | Incheon airport online reservation | Incheon airport Map 2. Subway Seoul Metropolitan Metro has 728 stations serving Seoul and its satellite cities, including Incheon. The next station is also announced in English, both vocally and on LCD screens, and the halls have colorful signs that guide you when you want to change the subway. The program of subway stations can be checked in real-time on one of the Korean applications that can also be set in English: KakaoMetro (Android | iOS), Subway Korea (Android | iOS), Korean Subway (Android | iOS). If you have NFC on your phone, you can connect your T-money smart pay card through the system and use your smartphone directly to enter the subway or a Korean debit/credit card with the T-money function. The price of a trip starts at 1,250 won for 10 km, and for every extra 5 km, 100 won is added. The subway is also found in Busan, Daegu, Gwangju, and Daejon. 3. Buses Buses are particularly efficient, with neighborhood buses, long-distance city buses, regional buses, and buses to other cities connecting major terminals. The bus schedule in the city can be found in real-time with the help of applications Naver Maps, Kakao Maps, KakaoBus (Android | iOS), and applications that also have English configuration. Buses next to arrive are also announced on station screens and by voice message. If you want to travel to other cities, you can buy bus tickets at one of the bus terminals, or with the help of the application 고속 버스 티머니 (Android | iOS), there is the possibility to choose the type of bus: normal, fast, premium, etc. 4. Train Another way to travel between cities is by train. It is of several kinds: , ITX, KTX, in order of speed (and price). Tickets can be purchased at the train station, online on the Korail website, or using the 코레 일톡 APP (Android | iOS). There are also discounts or seasonal promotions, but in order to easily navigate the site and the application and discover them, knowledge of the Korean language is required. A Seoul-Busan one-way ticket costs about 50,000-60,000 won with KTX, while 무궁화 is only 28,600 won, however it takes longer. 5. Ferry With over three thousand islands, South Korea has many ferry services which travel both domestically and to other nearby countries including China and Japan. Passengers are required to carry a valid personal identification in the form of a passport or an alien registration card. When traveling domestically you can use your ID card only, however for Japan or China you require your passport, check-in procedures are relatively simple, however, travelers are recommended to arrive at the port terminal ahead of their departure time. Walk-in passengers are asked to arrive at the passenger terminal at least 40 minutes prior to departure. Passengers bringing vehicles are asked to arrive at the appropriate departure gate at least 1-2 hours before departure for ticket issuance and boarding. Please note that ticketing booths close 10 minutes before departure, and after the ticketing booths are closed, even passengers with reserved tickets will be unable to pick up their ticket, and will not be allowed to board the ferry. Remember that besides the ferry ticket you will have to pay for the fuel type as well so be prepared. Website for JeJu internally, Incheon and Pyeongtaek internationally. Busan internationally. 6. Taxi A taxi is a safe but slightly more expensive form of transportation. Our recommendation is to order a taxi through the APP to make sure you don't pay more than necessary. The application we recommend is KakaoTaxi (Android | iOS), an application that is constantly evolving, becoming easier and easier to use. Recently, through the KakaoTaxi application, you can also buy train tickets. These are the major means of transportation. For more details about T-money cards and some other things check our other articles.

For those of you who want to visit Korea for a short term and only need unlimited data, there are three options to choose from depending on your pick-up location and length of stay in Korea. You will stay connected anywhere in Korea, including Jeju Island, Nami Island, and DMZ and you will use the LTE network of KT (Olleh), the largest wireless operator in Korea. Below you have some SIM card options. Prices range from KRW 36,000 to KRW 58,000. But on the official website you can see new options every month: Different options: Option 1: Unlimited data + optional voice and SMS (1 ~ 30 days). Lifting locations can be: Incheon International Airport (Terminals 1 and 2), Hongik University. Option 2: Unlimited data only (3/7 days). Lifting locations can be Hongik University. Option 3: Unlimited data only (1 ~ 30 days). Lifting locations can be: Airport Incheon International (Terminals 1 and 2), Gangbyeon Station (Technomart), Gangnam Area (Near Yeoksam Station), Bundang Area (Near Seohyeon Station), Suwon Area (Near Station) Suwon City Hall). Reload applications: In Korea, recharging your phone through an application using a bank transfer is very easy and convenient. One of these applications is called Recharge Mobile 00796 and gives you the option to recharge your card with money for calls or mobile data only. They can help even when your ID card has expired and needs to be renewed in the database, and any recharge receives 50 international minutes that can be used. The SIM card can be recharged with a minimum of 10,000 KRW, and everything takes up to 5 minutes. They have full service in English, but also offer other languages. This is the easiest and fastest option. They also have a points system, and at 10,000 points you can reload for free.

Condoms (콘돔) The Morning-after pill in Korea (사후 피임약) Pregnancy tests (임신 테스트) Ovulation test (배란 검사) Birth control pills (피임 약) Being a woman in Korea is very important to know the basics when it comes to your sexual life. And even if it may sound embarrassing, we have all been in this situation before. When you live abroad you may not be aware of the system, culture, or even prices when it comes to intimate life. So, we want to help all women to feel comfortable in Korea and to have all the information needed. Condoms (콘돔) Korean teenagers don’t have many opportunities to receive sex education and this may be an issue when having sex in this country. Since a lot of the boys refuse to wear a condom, or they are not used to doing so. You have to insist sometimes and it may be embarrassing for them to go to buy some. You can purchase condoms from every 24h open stores such as GS25, CU, and 7Eleven, and also in subways or some public toilets there are vending machines, some marts and pharmacies have these as well. The prices start at around 7,000 per pack, however, there are some cheaper brands in the vending machines in case you don't have money. The Morning-after pill in Korea (사후 피임약) In Korea, it is pretty hard to take the morning after pill because the process is totally different from any other country. Here you have to go to the hospital and after consultation, they will provide a paper for the pharmacy like a prescription to go and buy the pill. One thing to mention is that you have to pay a lot of money for this. Without insurance, the consultation is @20,000 KRW and the pill (which is not covered by insurance most of the time) is @28,000 KRW. Which makes it quite pricey. The process is to find a gynecologist and go there asking for the pill. They will guide you to the doctor who will ask you a few questions, give you a prescription then buy the pill at the pharmacy. One gynecology that we recommend would be: 연세더블유산부인과의원 합정점 (48, Yanghwa-ro, Mapo-gu, Seoul) Pregnancy tests (임신 테스트) Most convenience stores such as GS25, CU, and 7Eleven do not carry pregnancy tests but it is worth checking them out anyway, and the small neighborhood marts do not have them either. Daiso does have them however it is written that not all locations stock them. Usually, pharmacies do carry them, and it is the easiest way is to go up to the pharmacist and ask them for an 임신검사 or 임신 테스트 (pregnancy test) or show them a photo of the test and they will help you. Also, they can be found at Homeplus or Emart, although they are located near the health and beauty section next to items such as condoms. You can also buy them online, although the prices tend to be higher than buying them in-store and you have to pay for shipping costs. There are usually two options available, a strip version for W3,900 and a stick version for W7,500. There However the safest option is to see a gynecologist. The prices may vary depending on whether you have health insurance or not. Ovulation test (배란 검사) Ovulation tests will be sold at convenience stores and supermarkets like pregnancy tests. Daiso also does have them, however, it is written that not all locations stock them, so check in advance. Most of the time pharmacies are the best option and maybe the easiest. You can also buy them online. Prices vary from 5,000 to 30,000 KRW for the package. Birth control pills (피임 약) The most popular brands in Korea at the moment are called Mercilon (머시론) and Sense day (센스 에이) both being a monophasic oral contraceptive that contains 21 pills. There are tons of pharmacies in Korea, so if you’re ready to get your birth control, just go to the nearest closet to your home. The first time going to the pharmacy bring your previous birth control with you. In case you never used birth control, we suggest you ask the medic about it, but you can also just go and tell the pharmacist. The 21-day pill pack costs 9,000 KRW and on the back of the pill pack, you’ll find written each day however this is just a recommendation for which day to take the pills since these pills are monophasic, which means that it delivers the same number of hormones every day, you don’t need to worry about taking the pills in a certain order, however, it is better to do so. In case you use pills with a higher dosage of hormones those should be taken by prescription from a doctor. So, visit a clinic and ask them for a perception. We hope this article helped you with information and don't forget to comment on your own experience and share it with us!

If you are in Korea and want to experience the culture and learn more about the country by also making new friends these programs are exactly what you are looking for! There are lots of SNS supporters programs for expats and they provide free experiences about Korean culture. Below you have a list of some of them. 1. Global Seoul Mates It is organized by the governmental tourism organization Visit Seoul. Global Seoul Mates is an annual Seoul tourism promotion program that takes place from January to February. The program aims to recruit foreign residents living in Seoul to promote the city through personal social platforms. More details can be found on their website. 2. Bibigo Friends It is organized annually; the program aims to recruit Korean and foreign residents to promote CJ Bibigo products through personal social platforms. At this moment due to Corona, they postponed it, however, check their Instagram account for any update! 3. Seoul Global Center Supporters This program aims to recruit foreign residents to work and promote the center. The program is paid and it mostly works as an internship. Check their website for more information. 4. Funday Korea It is a non-governmental organization that organizes various trips and programs and promotes activities on foreign participants' social platforms. More details are on their website. 5. CultureUs They organize programs related to Buddha's birthday and the Lotus lantern festival, annually. They offer free programs in return for promoting them on SNS platforms. On their website, you can get more information regarding the event. 7. KINSA (Korean Foreign Students Association) The association organizes various cultural programs for foreign students. Try to check what they offer here. 8. Allimi or Unboxing Korea This program is organized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Korea and it aims to promote Korean tourism to foreigners. They also offer workshops and various programs for expats. Check their page for more information. 9. K-influencer Academy Organized by Korea.net, this program helps video producers to increase their views and channels by promoting Korean culture. They recruit foreigners from Korea and abroad and they also offer classes for everyone to learn. Check their Instagram page for more. 10. Honorary reporters Organized by the same organization Korea.net, The Korea Culture and Information Service (KOCIS) of the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism are recruiting Honorary Reporters for Korea.net to promote Korea to the world. They seek foreign nationals abroad to produce Korea-related content in various forms to help the world learn more about all things Korean. Check their website or Instagram for more information. 11. Yeongdeungpo Medical Smart zone SNS supporters This program is made by the Yeongdeungpo center and it aims to promote through Korean and foreign supporters medical tourism in Korea. The program is fully in Korean; however, it offers various cultural programs so you can learn more about the medical smart zone. Check their Instagram page for updates.

As an expat in South Korea, the lifestyle is new and especially the unknown world must be very scary and many of us are wondering where can we live while staying in this country. Questions like how much I will pay or how I will manage to rent an apartment if I do not know Korean many ask themselves just before they arrive in Korea. But we are here for you to help and especially to explain all the options you have, in order to make the best decision. After all, finding a place to live comfortably is the most important step for a successful adaptation to an unknown country. Below you have a list of places that you can rent or choose as your option during your time in Korea as an expat. 1. Apartments Renting an apartment in Korea is quite different from any other country and quite complicated. The prices differ not only because of the area, floor, layout, or utilities but also due to the deposit (보증금) you offer to the owner. Deposit (보증금) So, in Korea, you have to pay a deposit, or some kind of guarantee when you rent an apartment that you will receive back when you move out. And this can be different in many ways, but in the first place let's talk about what this deposit means and what it is used for. Usually, landlords use this guarantee if the rent is not paid on time or if the tenant violates the rules of the contract for various reasons (moves before the contract expires-without bringing a replacement if you do not pay the bills if you do not pay the rent for several months if you bring animals into the house without notifying the owner or destroying the property). But how to differentiate this deposit and why is it so important for Koreans? There are owners who ask only one month in advance as a deposit, or there may be others that require up to $ 10,000 (the equivalent of a 10,000,000 KRW) or even more. You're probably wondering why so much, well, when the deposit increases, the rent decreases, reaching the possibility of no longer paying the rent every month (전세). But automatically when the deposit is small the rent is also relatively high. An example would be, for KRW 2 million rent deposit the rent can reach up to KRW 800,000 for two rooms or KRW 3 million deposit and KRW 450,000 rent per month for a single room (원룸). In addition to deposit (보증금) and monthly rent (월세) in Korea usually, utilities (관리비) (electricity, gas, water, internet) are paid separately, but there are a few cases where they are included in the rent (at the owner's choice) you should check this when you sign the contract. You're probably wondering how, or where to rent rooms or apartments, or what other options if you do not have this amount of money? First of all, Koreans and foreigners can turn to a real estate agency (부동산) for these services. If you call this type of agency, you need to know that their services are paid for. So, once you sign a contract you will have to pay a sum of money, both for the signing of the contract and for the services of the agency, which varies from company to company. Also, you can give the agency the details of the apartment you are looking for, such as the amount you are willing to pay per month and your preferred location. Sometimes you have to visit many more agencies to find one that benefits you, but this should not scare you because in Korea they are practically everywhere. But why do Koreans choose these agencies if they are so expensive? Because you can find exactly what you want, also not be deceived by the owner, and lastly to have the opportunity to claim your rights in case the owner violates the contract. At the same time, you can negotiate with both the agency and the owner much easier, and many of the agencies offer services in English language or you can ask a friend to come with you. If you no longer want to pay the agency fee, you can turn to other solutions. The best known is Craig-list (however not totally recommended). This is a global site that offers many services including apartments for rent. They are usually posted directly by the owner, or by a third party. Also common for strangers is Facebook, where you can find quite a few ads for apartments to rent. The advantage is English, the disadvantage may be the lack of an official contract. Another way to search for an apartment would be Zigbang ( 직방 ) or Dabang ( 다방 ) applications, which you can download from the Google Play Store, and that can help you find valid apartments in the area you want at the price you want. These applications have become a trend in Korea, and many real estate agencies use them to advertise their apartments. *check our article about these apps* But what you must not forget is that many landlords or agents do not rent apartments for less than a year, sometimes forcing you to rent even for 2 years, and if you insist on a contract for less than a year, or for 6 months, the rent can increase a lot. 2. Shared house Another example would be renting a room in an apartment. Specifically, to share an apartment with other people (usually unknown). The advantage of this is that you can meet other people from other countries with different cultures, but at the same time it can be a disadvantage if those people are not used to living together and they may cause problems. Another advantage would be the fact that most of the time the rent and the deposit can be very small, the contract can be made for a period of less than one year, and most of the time the services are in English. 3. Gosiwon / Gositel / Hasukjip Although I gave you some examples of apartments, there are people, like me, who were unable to pay a deposit or rent an apartment when they arrived in Korea, so I turned to the so-called Gosiwon (고시원), Gositel (고시텔) or Hasukjib (하숙집). What are these? The first two are pretty much the same, only the name is different. These buildings have rooms, which the owners rent monthly or annually. There are a lot of benefits to staying in such a place: the rent is very low, many of them do not require a deposit (not even a month in advance), offers free food (ramyeon, rice, and kimchi), and are often situated near schools or populated and central areas, and there is the possibility to use a washing machine and free detergent. But they also have many disadvantages. One of the most important would be the size of the rooms. The rooms are very small, usually looking a bit like a closet. They have a bed, a very small desk, an equally small closet, and a mini-fridge. Most of them also have a TV, but not all of them. The second problem is that many of them do not have their own bathroom, or at least one toilet, which means they have to be shared with the rest of the residents. And some of the rooms do not have a window directly outside, but in a hallway, which does not allow ventilation. Also, the kitchen is shared and some of them do not allow you to cook anything that would exceed 15 minutes, so as not to occupy the kitchen just for you. And many of them do not allow you to bring visitors inside. In addition to the advantages already mentioned, it would be that there is no time to enter the building, like a dormitory, and you have 24/7 security, and many of them offer services in English and they have a specific day dedicated to cleaning. This is a start for anyone who is afraid of living alone or starting a life in a foreign country, away from family. The last of the three, 하숙집 or the Korean house, in free translation, is to rent one room to a Korean family. In other words, you live with someone from Korea, most often an elderly person or an entire family. The benefits are similar to those above (a personal room, food, security, etc.), but sometimes it can be difficult to understand how Koreans think, especially the elderly. The advantage is that you can have a connection much closer to Korean culture and you can learn their habits more easily but also the language. 4. Officetell Another example similar to those already mentioned above, only a little more expensive and modern would be the Officetells (오피스텔). This is a multi-purpose building with residential and commercial units. This is a type of studio apartment or studio flat. An officetel is designed to be a partially self-contained building, such that its occupants can live and work in the same building, minimizing commute time. Because of the convenience of having daily routines located in one building, a significant proportion of the officetel's inhabitants include lawyers, accountants, tax accountants, professors, and artists. Office space is usually parceled out or leased to trading companies and small- to medium-sized businesses. Officetel parcels are commonly 50 to 100 m² in size. Most officetel residential spaces are studio apartments with bathrooms, kitchens, and bed areas. Basic furnishings are usually included with an officetel lease. This is a modern way of living, a little bit more expensive and usually bigger than one room. 5. The student dormitory If you come here with a scholarship, one option would be the dorms. In the dormitory, you usually share the room with at least one person, if not two or three. And in this country, the dorms are divided into floors or buildings for women and men. The room has a bed for everyone, a desk, mini-fridges and some have separate bathrooms, but not all. Most dorms in Korea have a return time, more precisely midnight. If you happen to be out after 12 o'clock, you must enter back after 5:00 am and you must fill in a form specifying that you will not be in the dormitory that evening, otherwise you will receive a penalty, and usually for more than 10 penalties you are kicked out of the dorm. And some of them have weekly or monthly room checks, for cleanliness and presence, but this is something different for every dormitory. Another problem is that very rarely can you stay in the dorm for more than 2 or 3 semesters, and many of the universities require a GPA of over 4.0 so you can keep your bed. Not to mention that many dormitories are quite expensive for what they offer. But because the location of the university is away from an apartment complex or even civilization (sometimes universities are near woods), it is more convenient to choose this alternative. People usually prefer to live in dorms because they think they can make friends easier, it's safer and you always have someone to help you. And of course, not to mention that you don't pay monthly expenses such as water, heat, electricity, and internet. But you can't cook in the room, the kitchen is shared, but not always equipped, and you can't have electronic devices in the room, but only at your own risk and only such (hairdryer, water heater, hair straightener, etc.). And the most important thing is that people who have a scholarship have priority at the dormitory. 6. Guesthouse In Korea, there are these Guest Houses, which are not really a hotel or a motel, but look like those and are pretty good to use for a short period of time, in other countries being a bit similar to pensions. Much cheaper, sometimes it can also provide customers with food, and information related to tourism or culture. One very funny and interesting thing is that you can meet many new people and spend a few evenings of the week together playing board games or cooking, which helps you adjust a lot more easily to a foreign culture. These Guest Houses are much more expensive than any other options already mentioned and usually, payment is made in the hotel regime, few of them accepting a monthly amount. But the advantage is that it can offer students the opportunity of free accommodation in exchange for cleaning or reception services, and all usually offer services in at least two or three languages. 7. Airbnb When it comes to accommodations in Seoul, South Korea, an Airbnb rental is a great option for travelers, since these homes typically come well-furnished and full of great amenities. Airbnb in Korea gives you different options such as modern apartments, traditional Hanok, or places in the middle of the busiest streets. Since hotels may be way more expensive Airbnb is the perfect alternative if you want to have your own little place to live with your friends and family while in Korea. GOOD TO KNOW! - When you live in an apartment and you want to move, you have to notify the owner and the agency three months in advance (sometimes less depending on their agreement), and then one month in advance, otherwise you risk losing the deposit or staying in the same apartment for another three months. - After the contract expires, if you want to continue living in the same apartment you do not have to renew the contract, since it is valid automatically, you just have to announce to the owner that you won't move out. - When you change your home, you have 14 days to report the new address to immigration directly, online on HiKorea, or at the neighborhood center ( 주민 센터 ). If you don't report the new address within 14 days of the date written in the contract you risk paying a penalty (see our article about this topic). - Some apartments do not have a washing machine inside but have a common one upstairs in a specific room. - There is usually a small closet/room in the apartment buildings on each floor where the mail leaves special parcels, but most of the time the parcels will be left in front of the doors. - When you live in the dorm, be nice to the doorman ( 경비실 아저씨 ), sometimes he can help you or overlook if you are late. - When you live somewhere where you have a shared washing machine, put on a timer and go to take out the laundry on time, otherwise, you risk having someone else take out your laundry the way they want, or it may remain inside for a second round, along with other clothes in the washing machine.

In South Korea, post offices can be recognized by their red sign with a distinctive logo that represents swallows (birds). They are open from 09:00 until 17:00 in winter and until 18:00 the rest of the year. They are closed on weekends and holidays so if you want to send a package make sure you check their schedule in advance. Either send boxes full of goods to save space in luggage, or send souvenirs and gifts to friends and relatives, delivery, like many other things in Korea, is extremely simple, accessible, and convenient. In this article, we will show you the step-by-step process of how you can send packages from South Korea abroad and inside the country. Sending packages abroad For starters, it's important to know what options you have. You can choose from the following three options that are listed below the fastest and most expensive to the slowest and cheapest. 1. EMS It offers the advantage of international tracking, is the fastest delivery option abroad and the safest delivery option - your package will arrive in good condition. With this variant, it is allowed to ship over 30 kg per package. But it is also the most expensive option - it can cost three or more than the price of sending normal or surface mail. 2. Airmail Air Mail is the intermediate option between EMS and Surface Mail. Shipping takes longer than EMS while being slightly cheaper. You can expect a shipment of two weeks depending on where you send the package. 3. Surface mail (boat/ship) Although it is the cheapest delivery option, it can take months to reach your destination. It's also the riskiest option, as it can be damaged by water if there are accidents, and tracking your package is not available. Prices If you want an estimate of the cost of your package, you can go to the official website and then navigate to the International Mail Guide, where you can view a chart of delivery charges. The price will depend on the country as well as the method of dispatch. How do we send a package? 1. Go to your local post office to begin the process. The first thing you will need is a box to ship your things. The boxes are available in a range of sizes, with 1 being the smallest and 6 being the largest. There are two ways you can pack your box: - The best option is if the post office is at a convenient distance, the package is light or you have a car - you can pick up a flat box, assemble it at home, and bring it back stuffed. - The second option is to bring your stuff to the post office and fill the box with articles on the spot. This is recommended if the box is heavy and you do not have the means to carry it easily. If you opt for the second option, you will be delighted to know that the post office is equipped with everything you need, from scissors to tape, bubble wrap, glue, and pen, completely free to use. A few things to consider when choosing and packing the box would be that you need to use official boxes available at the post office as no other boxes are allowed. Be sure that you check your country's travel restrictions before choosing the size of the box and packing it. Some countries have a limit on the size and weight of the box and may refuse the package at the border if these limitations are not met. When sending by surface mail, the largest size you can ship is size 5 and it must weigh less than 20 kg. A box of size 6 can only be shipped by air. 2. After sorting your box, take a number to keep your place in the queue. You can fill out the form while you wait for your number to be called. Each shipping method will have its own appropriate form. Make sure you complete the correct one or you will have to do it again. When you're done, don't stick it on the package, because the official must fill in the details through the computer before doing so. The forms listed in 1 to 6 are for the following: domestic parcels, Air / EMS for documents, surface form (with insurance), and Air / EMS form for goods. ~ Writing the Korean address ~ The Korean address system can be a little difficult to navigate. To complete the Korean address of reference, start with the specifics, such as the name of the street, followed by the house number and street number. Then comes the more general information - city and province. Last comes the zip code, which is a 5-digit district number. If you don't know what your zip code is, you can look it up on the site provided by e-post. You will need to enter the city, street name, and building number, then select the correct address from the filtered results (for the online method). 3. After completing the appropriate form, go to the clerk after your number has been displayed or shouted out. From now on, it's pretty simple. You can expect the following things: the officer will ask you if you have restricted items in the package, the package will be weighed, you will be asked if you want your package to be insured (usually if you send a package through the surface, it will ask you what you would like to do if there are any problems with the delivery (for example, if your package is lost in transit). Usually, the insurance should be higher or at least as much as the value of the parcel. Then everything is done! Sending a package in the country or locally The steps are exactly the same, except that you still have a few options, such as: sending through the application of the post office, pick-up service from your home, private delivery services, and delivery services from GS25 or CU. The national post office has the cheapest delivery prices. For the local submission options through the mail, the steps are exactly the same as above, only the form will be different. For sending through GS25 or CU check out the article about those two. Prices usually start at around 4,500 KRW. Sending a package here is convenient and can also be done from your door. It is also cheap and fast!