COVID-19 is still a thing and people still need to get tested before doing certain stuff, like boarding a plane, or going to certain festivals, sometimes even before going to work. Below we tried to explain in detail what to do if you have symptoms, tested positive, or if you had contact with anyone. Where to go to get tested, or what to do. Also, we tried to include some hospitals that test for travel as well. * The information and lists are taken from the official website of Korea: https://www.kdca.go.kr/ for more information you can access it. What is a positive person? Major clinical symptoms: fever (above 37.5℃), cough, shortness of breath, chills, muscle pain, headache, sore throat, loss of smell and taste or pneumonia ○ confirmed patient A person who has been confirmed to be infected according to the test standards for the diagnosis of COVID-19 A person who has symptoms of COVID-19 and is diagnosed by a doctor after the rapid antigen test (for experts) or emergency screening test (for emergency use approved product) is a positive Person. Accordingly, if a positive antigen test is confirmed by a professional rapid antigen test at a local hospital, treatment, consultation, and prescription are provided immediately without having to visit a public health center and perform additional PCR tests. From April 11th 2022 (Monday), the Quick antigen testing is suspended screening clinics and laboratories. From the 11th, the "fast antigen test" will be suspended at the health center's screening clinic and temporary screening test center (including the city's direct inspection center). If you wish to have a "fast antigen test", please visit a local hospital or clinic. ※ However, those subject to priority inspection can conduct PCR tests as before A person who has tested positive for a rapid antigen test for a professional will be immediately informed of precautions and quarantine obligations at the tested hospital and immediately begin isolation and home treatment. On the other hand, in the case of those in their 60s or older, when the results of the rapid antigen test for experts are positive, You can receive a prescription for a treatment that is taken right away (Paxrovid). After testing positive. Go home, and refrain from getting in contact with anyone. Stay in quarantine for 5 days (you should receive a message from the government with the proper measures). After 5 days you can clean your house using the special toxic waste garbage bags to throw your garbage out (in case the message tells you so). Self-quarantine is suggested, since the huge number of cases, you can quarantine with others in the same home, however, they would also have to quarantine as well (unless they were infected prior to six months). Where can you get tested? From April 11th 2022 (Monday), the Quick antigen testing is suspended screening clinics and laboratories. From the 11th, the "fast antigen test" will be suspended at the health center's screening clinic and temporary screening test center (including the city's direct inspection center). If you wish to have a "fast antigen test", please visit a local hospital or clinic. ※ However, those subject to priority inspection can conduct PCR tests as before Hospitals or clinics, which perform RAT testing. International Clinic Location: 501 Hannam building, 211, Itaewon-ro, Yongsan-gu, Seoul Tel. 02-790-0857~9 Hours: Mon, Tues, Wed, Fri: 9 AM - 6 PM / Sat: 9 AM - 2 PM / Closed on all Thursdays E-mail. ksyclinic1@gmail.com Website: https://www.internationalclinic.co.kr:450/index.asp Price: 40,000 (for traveling) Raep Otolaryngology Location: 서울 마포구 양화로 61 1,2층 Website: https://labent.modoo.at/?link=cyw6j8nb Hours: Weekdays 09:00AM - 6:30PM Saturday 09:00AM - 1:30PM, Lunch break: 1PM - 3PM (no lunch break during treatments) Tel: 02-6015-5075 Price: 4,000 KRW for antigen test (the result will come in approx. 3-4h) Naver map: http://naver.me/F4eC93Se How to get relief funds? Check our article for more in-depth information on how to get money if you have corona. We hope this article helped you and now you have more knowledge about what to do in case you test positive! Stay safe out there guys!

If you started a business in Korea you are supposed to pay the taxes, as well as if you work in Korea, there are income taxes you have to pay, and if you live in this country, you should pay the resident tax, car tax and so on. A lot of foreigners have questions about how to pay all of those, we have made an article regarding the tax payment before, but this one is more in-depth on how to use the Home Tax application and website and other types that you can pay using it. *Information taken from the official website and pdf; you can download it below. The E-Tax Filing Service allows taxpayers to prepare and file their tax returns and any attached documents along with them on Hometax. E-Tax filing methods include ①Return preparation and transmission method whereby taxpayers prepare and transmit tax returns themselves on Hometax; and ② Return file conversion and transmission method whereby taxpayers themselves or have a tax agent prepare a tax return file using popular tax accounting software and then convert the file using National Tax Service’s conversion program to transmit the return to Hometax. The service is available from 6:00 to 24:00 during the tax filing period and after this period is over, after-due-date filing and amended filing services are available. On Hometax, taxpayers can e-file all the tax items except for inheritance tax. For some main tax items, including income tax and corporate income tax, services for after-due date filing, amended filing, and requests for correction are available as well. In addition, taxpayers can e-file in PDF format any documents to be attached to their tax returns without the need to visit a tax office. Corporate taxpayers are liable for the minimum tax, which is defined as the greater of 10% (if the tax base is KRW 10 billion or less, 12% on the tax base exceeding KRW 10 billion but not more than KRW 100 billion, 17% on the tax base exceeding KRW 100 billion) of the taxable income before certain tax deductions and credits pursuant to the STTCL or the actual CIT liability after various deductions and credits. For SMEs, the minimum tax is greater than 7% of taxable income before certain tax deductions and credits or actual CIT liability after the deductions and credits. For middle-market companies that exceed the size of SMEs (so-called ‘medium-scale companies’), an 8% minimum tax rate is applicable for the first three years, starting from the year when the size exceeds an SME for the first time, and a 9% rate is applicable for the next two years. Moreover, the e-filing page has been made to look similar to the legally required paper tax return form for taxpayers’ convenience and better understanding. The Pre-Filled service is provided to automatically fill out part of a tax return based on the taxation data retained by NTS, while for taxpayers who are subject to simple expense rates (for composite income tax, etc.), the Full-Filled service is provided so all they need to do is simply transmit their tax returns. If a taxpayer filed both an electronic return and a paper return at the same time or filed by mistake a tax that was not subject to filing, he or she can request Hometax to delete it within two days after the legal filing period. On Hometax, the E-Payment Service allows taxpayers to conveniently pay national taxes by bank transfer or credit card. Taxpayers can use the service all year round (07:00-23:30). After payment, they can immediately confirm their tax clearance details and have a tax clearance certificate issued or check any taxes in arrears. E-Payment was first applied to the predetermined advance payment of value-added tax in April 2002, and it was applied to all the tax items starting from June 2002. Taxpayers who e-file their tax returns or receive an e-notice can immediately check and pay their tax amount due. Those who file paper tax returns can pay their taxes by personally entering the required payment information such as the tax item involved. Users can also pay taxes in place of other taxpayers and pay their composite income tax and the local income tax imposed in connection with it at the same time The Cash Receipt Service enables the NTS to collect cash receipt details from cash receipt business operators and allows consumers and business owners to benefit from a tax credit or deduction based on the details of their cash receipt transactions. If consumers present their debit card, cellphone number, or resident registration number upon a cash transaction, the Cash-Receipt System member business (seller) issues a cash receipt. Then the cash-receipt business operator automatically reports the collected cash receipt details to the NTS. The system was established in 2005 for the first time in the world. The objective of the Cash Receipt System was to complement the tax invoice and credit card systems with the purpose of legalizing the tax bases of self-employed taxpayers. On the website, you can find more about the dates and places you can go in person to fill in the taxes and returns. For more taxation and other services check the pdf below. Home Tax application Android app Home Tax application iOS app National Tax website National Tax website ENG Home Tax website

These days a lot of people prefer the comfort of their own home when they want to send money to others. Wise transfer and GME Remittance and two of the most well-known applications to send money to Korea! GME Remittance GME is a company established in 2016 in Korea and is the first one of this type in this country. Right now, they have Their services: They have various services that you can use, you just have to download their app or go on their website and make an account. They also have consultants on Kakaotalk and 1:1 chat on the website. You can just contact them and ask them about your problems. How to send money? First, you have to log into the application or website, then choose to send money. Check which country you want to send money to. Right now, they have more than 200 countries available but check in advance. Then choose what type or form you want to send money, cash payment, or bank deposit, we suggest you choose a bank deposit. Select the bank you want to send to and complete all the details of the person you send the money to. After you make a new recipient, that will be saved for future transfers as well. Choose the recipient, choose the bank that you linked with the GME account, or your GME money if you have enough. Write the amount you want to send and press continue. Check the details and press agree and send. The money will be sent. GME official website. GME Facebook page. GME google play app GME IOS app WISE Transfer Join over 12 million people who choose Wise for fast and secure online money transfers. They are on average 8x cheaper than leading UK high street banks. Unfortunately, they can't be used to send money FROM Korea to other countries, but you can receive money easily from your home bank account in your Korean one. How to send money? Sign up online or in the app for free. All you need is an email address, or a Google or Facebook account. Tell them how much you want to send. You can see the fees upfront and know when your money should arrive. Fill in the details of your recipient’s bank account. For some currencies, or for large transfers, they may need a photo of your ID. This helps them to keep your money safe. Send your money with a bank transfer, or a debit or credit card. They will handle the rest. You can track your transfer in your account, and they will tell your recipient when the money is coming. Transfer Wise website Transfer Wise google play app Transfer Wise IOS app Both applications are extremely good to be used to send money in Korea, also very easy to use! From now on you can choose the best one that suits you! And don't forget you can always check their website and services and use the call center to be able to get more information.

The International Academy of Cosmetics Procedure & SVF is an academy that held practical seminars for both Korean as well as foreign plastic surgery doctors as well as any professional interested in SVF and the stem cell field. The seminars usually have two parts, the theoretical part where experts are speaking about SVF extraction and usage, and the practical part where the actual extraction and application take part. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the seminars were also conducted online for those who live abroad and cannot attend the offline seminar. The seminar is open to experts who are interested in stem cell and SVF usage and extraction both Koreans and foreigners. Details: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/IACS-SVF-741897279522112 Seminar fee: approx. 100$ Date: to be announced on the official Facebook

Train travel across cities in Korea is among the most practical forms of transport. Bus schedules are subject to change due to traffic, but this is not the case with the railroad, which allows passengers to establish precise travel arrangements and arrive at their destinations on time. Everyone prefers the train; however, they may be more expensive so we will give you the bus alternative. Below we tried to write the major bus and train stations and detailed information about them. Korean Trains Korean trains are categorized depending on their speed and onboard facilities. The express trains KTX and KTX-Sancheon, normal trains ITX-Saemaeul and Mugunghwa, and KORAIL tourist trains are all classified. The cost of a ticket is determined by the kind of train and the distance traveled. Gyeongbu Line and Honam Line are the two primary railway lines, although other railway lines include the Jeolla and Gyeongjeon Lines, which run all the way to Yeosu and Changwon on the southern coast. Tourists can acquire the KORAIL Pass, the exclusive railway pass for foreigners that permits unlimited usage of all trains, including the KTX, for a set number of days, for an affordable trip around Korea. Train Types Korea Train Express (KTX) In April 2004, Korea's express train, suitably named the KTX, entered service. This high-speed train will be capable of reaching speeds of up to 305 kilometers per hour. ITX-Saemaeul This train replaces ordinary Saemaeul trains on the Gyeongbu, Honam, and Gyeongjeon Lines, and runs at a slightly quicker speed. Mugunghwa When the udeung (luxury) rail line began service in 1984, Mugunghwa was born. This train differs from the KTX or ITX-Saemaeul trains in that it stops at smaller stations that the KTX or ITX-Saemaeul trains avoid. Super Rapid Train (SRT) From Suseo Station, the SRT (super-fast train) runs on the Gyeongbu and Honam Lines. To get more information go to the official page: KORAIL website: info.korail.com (Korean, English) KORAIL PASS page: www.letskorail.com (English, Japanese, Chinese) SRT Website: etk.srail.co.kr (Korean, Japanese, Chinese) KORAIL Customer Service Center: +82-1599-7777 (English, Japanese, Chinese) SRT Customer Service Center: +82-1800-1472 (English) Train Stations Seoul Station Seoul Station connects to Subway Lines 1 and 4 and is the starting point for the Gyeongbu Line, Gyeongui Line, and Incheon International Airport. It is considered to be the gate of Seoul, and some 90,000 people use the station daily. The Saemaul train, Mugunghwa train, and KTX are operating on the Gyeongbu Line. The Tongilho, Saemaul, and Mugunghwa trains go toward Daejeon, Gimcheon, Dongdaegu, and Busan; whereas KTX goes toward Gwangmyeong, Daejeon, Dongdaegu, and Busan. The Gyeongui Line in the metropolitan area goes toward Ilsan, Geumchon, and Munsan. Address: 405, Hangang-daero, Yongsan-gu, Seoul (서울특별시 용산구 한강대로 405) Yongsan Station The Honam Line, Jeolla Line, Janghang Line, and Gyeongwon Line all terminate at Yongsan Station. It is also a Line 1 metro station, situated between Namyeong Station and Noryangjin Station. The metropolitan Jungang Line's beginning and last stations are located here. It is used as the first and last station for the ITX Cheongchun Railway, which passes through the Jungang Line and the Gyeongchun Line. Operates the KTX, Saemaul train, and Mugunghwa train, which go to the Honam Line. It processes passengers and cargo, and does ticket sales. Address: 55, Hangang-daero 23-gil, Yongsan-gu, Seoul (서울특별시 용산구 한강대로 23길 55) Cheongnyangni Station Cheongnyangni Station is situated between Wangsimni Station and Hoegi Station on the Gyeongwon Line. It is also the Jungang Line's first and last station. A transfer passage between Cheongnyangni Station of Subway Line 1 and the above-ground station of the Jungang Line has been opened. It operates the Saemaul train between Cheongnyangni to Andong It is the last station for the sub-express railway Gyeongchun Line, “ITX-Cheongchu,”’ which was opened in Feb. 2012. Address: 214, Wangsan-ro, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul (서울특별시 동대문구 왕산로 214) Yeongdeungpo Station On the Gyeongbu Line, is a train station. It is located on Seoul Subway Line 1 between Singil and Sindorim stations. An express train stopped at this station for the first time in 1971. It operates the Saemaul train, the Mugunghwa train, and the metropolitan subway. It deals with passengers, cargo, and does ticket sales. As of Nov. 2010, KTX also stops at this station. It is a privately funded station, and a Lotte Department Store is located near this station. Address: 846, Gyeongin-ro, Yeongdeungpo-gu, Seoul (서울특별시 영등포구 경인로 846) Suseo Station (SRT) The SRT (Super Rapid Train) was established in December 2016 and runs from Gangnam to different important cities across the country. The SRT now runs trains from Seoul's Suseo Station to Busan and Mokpo Stations. Website: https://etk.srail.kr/ Address: 99, Bamgogae-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul (서울특별시 강남구 밤고개로 99) Bus Stations Using the express buses is one way of getting to the outskirts of Seoul. The express bus terminals in Seoul are as follows: the Seoul Express Bus Terminal, the Central City Terminal, Nambu Terminal, the Dongseoul Terminal, and the Sangbong Intercity Bus Terminal. Seoul Express Bus Terminal The terminal is also called Gangnam Express Bus Terminal. It is Seoul’s main bus terminal, along with the Subway Line 3 Express Bus Terminal. Operation Lines: Gyeongbu Line, Guma Line, and Yeongdong Line. From Banpo-dong in Seoul, it goes to Gangneung, Gyeongju, Gongju, Gumi, Geumsan, Gimcheon, Gimhae, Daegu, Daejeon, Government Complex-Daejeon, Donghae, Masan, Busan, Busan Sasang, Samcheok, Sangju, Seonsan, Sokcho, Anseong, Anseong Gongdo-eup, Anseong Jungdae, Anseong Pungrim, Anseong Hangyeong, Yangyang, Yeoju, Yeongcheon, Onyang (Asan), Yongin, Ulsan, Wonju, Icheon, Jeomchon, Jecheon, Jochiwon, Jinju, Changwon, Cheonan, Cheongju, Tongyeong, Pyeongtaek, Pohang, Hwanggan, and Hoengseong It has an underground shopping mall that sells clothing at reasonable prices, so many people visit the mall. Address: Banpo 1(il)-dong, Seocho-gu, Seoul (서울특별시 서초구 신반포로 194) Central City Terminal This terminal is operating as the Honam Line after being moved from Seoul Express Bus Terminal. The Central City Terminal has department stores, theaters, synthesized terminals, and hotels within the building. It is located next to the Seoul Express Bus Terminal and is connected to the Express Bus Terminal Station of Subway Line 3. It is like a complex leisure town where visitors can enjoy shopping and watching movies at the department stores and theaters that are located within the terminal. Address: 190 Sinbanpo-ro, Seocho-gu, Seoul (서울특별시 서초구 신반포로 190 (반포동)) Nambu Terminal This terminal was constructed to operate the intercity bus lines that used to be operated by the Seoul Express Bus Terminal. It is located at the Nambu Terminal Station of Subway Line 3. It operates lines going to the metropolitan area, Chungcheong-do, Jeolla-do, and Gyeongsang-do areas. The Gangwondo Line, which goes to Jumunjin, was opened here on May 27, 2013. It is located near the Seoul Arts Center and the International Electronics Shopping Mall, so visitors can enjoy both shopping and entertainment. Address: 292, Hyoryeong-ro, Seocho-gu, Seoul (서울특별시 서초구 효령로 292 (서초동)) Dongseoul Terminal This terminal is located in Seoul Gwangjin-gu. It provides transportation convenience to residents in the eastern and northern areas of Seoul and has helped to revitalize the Jungbu Expressway. It is equipped with 15 express bus lines (Daegu, Daejeon, Masan, Busan, Jinju, Changwon, Cheongju, Gangneung, Gwangyang, Sokcho, Donghae, Samcheok, Yangyang, Jeonju, and Jeongeup), as well as with 110 intercity bus lines. A total of 35 bus companies are in business here. It has major intercity bus lines that go to Gyeonggi-do and Gangwon-do. The terminal also operates lines that go across the nation such as Gyeongsang-do, Jeolla-do, and Chungcheong-do. It operates 1,200 buses daily and can transport a daily average of 30,000 passengers. Its maximum daily transport capacity is 70,000 passengers. Address: 50 Gangbyeonyeokro (Gu-wi dong 546-1), Gwangjin-gu, Seoul (서울특별시 광진구 강변역로 50 (구의동)) Sangbong Intercity Bus Terminal This terminal was opened on September 2, 1985. It operates intercity buses that go to Gaegun, Gwangtan, Gyomun-ri, Guri, Guksu-ri, Daesin, Sinwon-ri, the Asia Center for Theological Studies and Mission, Yangpyeong, Yeoju, Yongdu,Yongmun, and Cheonseo-ri in the metropolitan area; as well as going to Gangneung, Naksan, Danwol, Dunnae, Munmak, Mulchi, Bokjigol, Saemal,Sokcho, Sinnam, Yangdeokwon,Yangyang, Osaek,Wonju, Wontong, Yuhyeon, Inje, Jangsudae, Jangpyeong, Jinbu, Pungsuwon, Hangyeryeong, Hongcheon, Hoenggye, and Hoengseong in the Gangwondo area. Address: 117, Sangbong-ro, Jungnang-gu, Seoul (서울특별시 중랑구 상봉로 117) Some information is taken from the official Seoul Metropolitan website. We hope this article helped you and if you have more questions don't hesitate to send us a message or comment.

Personally, I am a very clumsy person, from putting food on my shirts until losing my belongings in public transportation. I still remember it was 2014 and I just arrived here when my friend lost her phone in the subway. We never thought of finding it, because in our country it would have been long gone. But now, I can tell you where to go, if you lose something on public transportation. 1. Lost & Found for the Subway Subway Lost & Found Services are located at each subway district, if you don't know where you can check their website below. You can easily find a lost item if you know the subway train information (line, time, subway train number- usually this is displayed above the doors or on the screen from the station). The subway Lost & Found is open from 7:00 am to 10:00 pm during weekdays. Seoul Metro Lost & Found ☎ 1577-1234 Website (http://www.seoulmetro.co.kr→ User Guide → Lost & Found) 2. Lost & Found for intra-city buses If you lost something in the big Red buses also called Intra city buses, then you can check their website or call them at the number. Seoul Bus Transport Association Lost & Found Center ☎ 02-415-4101~8 Website (http://www.sbus.or.kr→ Lost & Found) 3. Lost & Found for Taxis For the taxi you may find it a little bit difficult since there are two types of them, some are private and some are from the city. In case you lose something, you should remember the taxi number, but if not, maybe the time and the address and tell them the information. Also, on the Kakao taxi application you can check the driver’s number and call him if it is easier or check the taxi number as well. Seoul Private Taxi Association ☎ 1544-7771 Website (http://www.spta.or.kr→ Customer Center → Register Lost Item) Seoul Taxi Association ☎ 02-2033-9200 / Website (http://www.stj.or.kr→ Customer Center → Lost & Found) 4. Lost & Found for Trains Trains are probably the most common place where people will lose their belongings. Sometimes after 3 or 4 hours of staying there you might forget how many bags you had, so for that you can just check their website or call the centre for more information. In case you still have the ticket, it will be extremely easy to get your things back. Let’s KORAIL ☎ 1544-7788, 1588-7788 Website (http://www.letskorail.com→ Customer Center → Lost & Found) 5. Lost & found portal sites There is also a general lost section and found for the whole public transportation with a short free number that you can access in case you forget all of the above. And you can always call the police if you lose something more important like your ID card, there are a lot of people who just give them to the police agencies to be kept safe. Public Transportation Lost & Found ☎ 120 Website (www.seoul.go.kr/v2012/find.html?SSid=560_10) Lost112 Lost & Found Information (Provincial Police Agency) ☎ 182 / Website (www.lost112.go.kr) Now you know, if you lose something there are ways to find it pretty easily. Also, if you find something, always give it to the police, you may save them a trip to the immigration office or city hall for a new ID card. Let’s take care of each other and think that we can be in their place. Some of the information was taken from: @seoulglobalcenter

If you want to work in Korea and you don’t know what visa you are eligible for, I will tell you right now. The name of the visa is E-7 or Foreign National of Special Ability. Below I will give you more information about how to apply for it and what documents do you need. Eligible Applicants are foreign administrative and functional officers in Korea, those who are employed by diplomatic missions in Korea, foreign cultural centers in Korea, foreign chambers of commerce in Korea, and who are also citizens of a country that they are working in for, can apply. There are some eligibility requirements to apply for this visa. Bachelor’s degree and less than 1 year of work experience or, Master’s degree or higher in the occupation you are applying for or, Less than 5 years of work experience in the occupation you are applying for Have a year of work experience at the World’s top 500 companies (Prospective) graduates from World’s top 200 universities Received Bachelor’s degree or a higher degree from a Korean university Prospective graduates from a Korean university Have a recommendation letter or reference Required Documents Visa Application Form, passport, one standard size photograph, the fee (130,000KRW) – when applying for the first time Employment certificate (apostille if needed) Documents proving the level of your education or career (e.g., student certificate, diploma, work certificate)​ (apostille if needed) House contract And the company should give you the following documents Copy of employment contract (근로계약서) Company registration certificate (사업자등록증) List of the current employees (사업장가입자명부) The document provides the necessity of hiring a foreigner, explaining what they will be doing and claiming responsibility for the employee (고용사유서, 활용계획서, 신원보증서) Visa Issuance Period of Stay: 1 year or less, single-entry visa valid for 3 months * Even if the period of contract is 2 years, a visa in which the period of sojourn is 1 year will be issued only then you can renew it or extend it. We hope this short guide will help you either to apply alone or ask the company for the right documents so immigration won’t put you back and forth. If you have any other questions, always feel free to ask us.

D-4(General Trainee, Korean Language Program) visa is for those who go to education lower than University level or do research, study or train at an educational organization, academic research center, private enterprise and other groups that do not fall under D-2 categories. ※ Korean Language Program must be operated by Korean Language School under University. (No Private Korean Language Institution/ Academy.) A lot of times if you come in Korea to study the language you may find it difficult to make your own ID card or even extend the visa, since your language abilities are not that good. There are some ways you can do this without having to struggle. 1. Make an in-person reservation on hikorea.go.kr 2. Make an online application on the same website 3. If your university has a visa application office/person in charge go directly there For all three of the ways above you will need the same papers. - Alien Registration Card (for extension) - Visa Application Form filled out by hand - 1 color passport photo, taken with a white background within the last 6 months (only for changing of the ACRC or making a new one) - Passport Original & Photocopy (Should be valid at least 6 months) - House contract - Visa application fee (60,000 KRW for extension of ID card and 130,000 KRW for a new ID card) - Official Certificate of Admission from host university from Korea (Acceptable scan copy, Print out yourself) - Certificate of business registration (사업자등록증명) of the host university from Korea (Acceptable scan copy Print out yourself) - Bank deposit, according to the university issued from a Korean bank (the sum may vary from 5million KRW to 10million KRW) * When you issue the ID card for the first time, certificates from your own country may be asked, so prepare then with apostille in advance. We know how hard it is to get the right information and how to do all of the steps one by one, so we hope we can make it easier for you.

Being able to communicate anywhere and with anyone is vital nowadays. And how could you do that if you don't have a Korean phone number? In this article, we will explain how you can buy a Korean number and also a device. First of all, what everyone should know is that Korean phone numbers are a bit of a chore and hard to buy, and many companies don't provide a number if you don't have a Korean ID card and sometimes if you do not have a bank account in this country. But as a tourist, you have another choice that we speak about in another article. Some general information: A Korean phone number includes 9 to 11 digits, starting with 010 for mobile, and for any other type of call, the locality code must be entered. And of course, if you want to call Korea from another country, don't forget to add +82, which is the country code. As mentioned above, all mobile phone companies in Korea use the same type of code initially composed of 010. This law was passed in January 2004, and since then the system of choice for a number has changed. It should be noted that in Korea when you choose a number of phones, the first 4 digits following 010-XXXX are chosen from a list provided by the phone company, then the last 4 digits, 010-xxxx-yyyy, to be customized. This is due to the fact that in Korea the telephone number is very often used for cards or online payment and the last 4 personalized digits provide some kind of security both for the seller and the buyer. SIM Card types: 1. GS25 prepaid sim A first option would be the sim card (EG Sim) purchased from a non-stop store called GS25. This card gives you a phone number and the ability to text or call, but it doesn't contain anything special otherwise. They charge a lot of money; the calls are quite expensive and you do not have any kind of benefit as a subscriber. Recharging at any GS25 store. Also being mentioned that they can only be used with a Korean phone. 2. A Sim already purchased by someone else before A second option is to purchase a phone number already used by someone else, before you, which is also called EG sim. There are shops in Itaewon, Gangnam, or Euljiro from which you can buy a rechargeable card that has already been used by a Korean or another stranger before you. Basically, these people had a subscription, and the number was sold to these types of stores so that they can be purchased later by someone else. Sounds good, doesn't it? They are good, although it sounds convenient and the purchase price is lower than that of the GS25, the problem is that sometimes people who have had the number before can contact you thinking you are someone else. Like any SIM card, it has no benefits and can only be recharged with money, and a few are with the internet included. Another drawback would be that these cards only recharge from the store you bought them from, or by bank transfer. In conclusion, this card is one that was recycled and reused. 3. A free SIM card A few years ago, in Korea there was a boom and a trend with these free cards for foreigners, moreover, by purchasing them you could also receive a gift. These are normal cards, prepaid, from large companies, such as SKT, KT, or LGU + called prepaid (알뜰). But you can't buy one unless you have a Korean ID card. These are normal SIM cards, can be recharged at any company store respectively or even by bank transfer and they work very well. With them you can connect to subway internet on the network you have with your SIM certificate checking system and you can use them for coupons or discounts on certain applications. The advantage is that you can load it with a minimum of 10,000 KRW and you can call or use the internet or send messages. The downside would be that once you've run out of money, you have to recharge, and sometimes you can end up paying more than a monthly subscription for these services. By the way, you don't have to go to a store to pick up these SIMs you receive at home for a fee (usually 2,500 KRW), within a maximum of 2 days from the order. 4. A prepaid card that you pay monthly as a subscription There are companies in Korea, one of the best known for this being LGU +, which offers a card that you pay monthly as a subscription, but which gives you the opportunity for a minute, free internet, and messages for the price you pay. They are also called prepaid(알뜰) and they must be purchased by phone, with a Korean ID card and a bank account. You can choose the option to automatically withdraw the money per month on a certain day. You can keep your previous phone number if you want or request a new one. When you subscribe, you will receive your SIM card at home with activation instructions in a few days. The major advantage is that these subscriptions are very cheap and have very good options, especially for students. This card can be used only for 3 months and after that, you can change it, or cancel it. It does not oblige you to subscribe for one or two years. 5. Mobile subscription The most well-known way for everyone is to buy a monthly subscription for a period determined by one or two years from a Korean company such as LG U +, SK Telecom, KT, or Onse Telecom (the one from the mail). For that, you need a stable address, a Korean ID card valid for more than one year, and a Korean bank account. If you come as a student or work, this option can be the most advantageous and the cheapest, depending on the needs of each of us. At the moment, the lowest subscription is over 40,000 KRW and contains unlimited messages and minutes and a few MB of mobile data, which differs from company to company. With a subscription, you can accumulate some points and you have lots of benefits, and when you become a VIP, you get a free phone or free movie tickets, etc. Although you have to be a customer of the same company for a long time, you have the possibility to change your tariff plan or to buy a phone after 6 months, or even when you subscribe. Usually, phones are purchased with a subscription have a discount and can be paid in monthly installments. But this can lead to a very large monthly amount which many students cannot afford. 6. Second-hand phones The purchase of a phone can be made from the mobile phone shops, from their websites, or from certain people who sell used and second-hand phones. Craigslist would be one of the variants, but also Facebook. The problem with purchasing them is the same as in other countries, some companies block the phone only on one network, that's why you have to be very careful. Another solution is the stores specified above, in Itaewon, or Gangnam Euljiro that cell phones and SIM cards. Obviously, in addition to buying a Korean phone, there is also the possibility of using your own phone from your country, but often companies do not support this option (subscription-specific) and many SIM cards are not supported. Here are some links where you can buy a Korean mobile phone: www.seoul.craigslist.co.kr https://www.facebook.com/smartechkoreaglobal Short numbers for assistance: 100 - KT customer service 101 - LG U + Customer Service 106 - SK Broadband Customer Service 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.

Without knowing when your visa expires you can face challenges, penalties, and also fees. If your ID card doesn't specify it, or the ink may have faded, you can totally check it online. What do you need to do? 1. Go to, hikrorea.go.kr 2. Then press on "Expiry date Check" 3. After you input your personal data (such as passport number, country, and date of birth) 4. Press confirm

Since last year Korea changed it's rules regarding the entry of the tourists in the country. 2023 is hoped to be an year of full recovery and there ae expected to come more and more people. Below we made a list of, what you need to prepare before entering. Right now, foreign nationals except, China, Hongkong and Macau, should, only prepare the KETA and Q-code upon arrival. However the previously mentioned countries will have to present a negative PCR test before and after arrival. KETA- what is it and how to use it: Nationals of the 112 countries and regions that were previously eligible for visa-free entry must now apply for K-ETA in order to receive a boarding pass. In general, the K-ETA authorization is good for up to two years or until the expiration of your passport, whichever comes first. Please click here for more information and apply for K-ETA here. Last year on September 1st, 2021, the Korean authorities announced the reopening of authorization (K-ETA) for European travelers (tourists) to come to South Korea without a visa for less than 90 days. But remember that K-ETA is not a visa, and it doesn't guarantee your entrance to South Korea, the immigration officer has the last word when it comes to this issue. PCR testing, quarantine and COVID-19 regulations: Starting 8th June 2022, visitors that come to Korea quarantine for unvaccinated international arrivals and flight regulations at Incheon International Airport will be completely lifted. Prime Minister Han Duck-soo on June 3rd 2022 told in a meeting of the Central Disaster and Safety Countermeasures Headquarters at Government Complex-Seoul, "A seven-day quarantine was mandatory for unvaccinated international arrivals. From June 8 2022, however, this rule will be lifted regardless of vaccination status." Overseas visitors must enter their vaccine records to Q-CODE prior to arriving in Korea and scan the provided QR code upon immigration. Q-CODE will require personal information (passport number), entry information (departure country, airline, address in Korea, phone number), and vaccine records, no matter the time of the vaccine. Beginning on 21st March 2022 proof of vaccination must be registered through the 'Q-code system' before departure and you should scan the QR code upon arrival. ○ The QR code issued is for one-time use, so please issue a new QR code on the next arrival. Q-CODE website for application,. This measure will continue in case you have a vaccine registered. Entrants from Country (except China) Koreans /Long-stay Foreigner(Proof of identity required) can do their PCR test at the Public Health Center. Short-stay Foreigner can take their PCR at Incheon Airport COVID-19 Test Center (at their own expense) or any Medical Institution (at their own expense). However, the PCR test within 3 Days after Entry will be Optional. In case of symtoms or pozitive testi People from China, Hongkong and Macau, are mandatory to submit a negative PCR teste before and after coming to Korea. FAQ on registration of screening results after arrival for those coming from China. What is the standard for testing and issuing the “COVID-19 test” before entry that is applied from January 5, 2023? ○ Submit “Negative Confirmation Certificate” performed (the sample collected) and issued within 48 hours of the departure date, or supervised negative professional RAT result taken and issued within 24 hours of the departure date * (Example) If you are departing from a country to Korea on May 23 at 10:00, 2022, you must submit your negative PCR test result taken after 00:00 on May 21, 2022 or supervised negative RAT result taken after 00:00 on May 22, 2022. Can “Negative Confirmation Certificate” written in Chinese rather than Korean or English be uploaded in Q-CODE? ○ It can be acknowledged if the ‘screening method’ of Negative Confirmation Certificate is described in Korean or English. - However, if the screening method is described in Chinese language, upload the Korean or English translation version along with the translation notarization document (translation certification) in Q-CODE. * Personally translated document must be notarized by public notary or Embassy I completed entering information into Q-CODE and got a QR code. Do I have to bring “Negative Confirmation Certificate” separately when I enter Korea? ○ Please make sure to bring a separate “Negative Confirmation Certificate” when entering the country in preparation for mis-entering information and checking additional quarantine officers. Where can I undergo PCR screening after arrival in the Republic of Korea? ○ (Domestic persons or long-term stay foreigners) community health center with jurisdiction over place of residence * (Long-term stay visa) A-1~3, D-1~10, E-1~10, F-1~4, F-6, H-1~2, G-1 ※ Visit community health center by bring document to verify that your are an entrant from China (plain ticket and passport, etc.) and ID card (resident registration card, alien registration card and certificate of reporting of residence in Korea, etc.) (responsible to prove one’s identity) ○ (Short-term stay foreigner) COVID-19 screening center at the airport (traveler to bear the costs of screening) * (Short-term stay visa) B-1, B-2, C-1, C-3, C-4 2. How can I register (submit) results of PCR screening underwent after arrival in the Republic of Korea in the Q-CODE? ○ Visit Q-Code website(https://cov19ent.kdca.go.kr) →Click ’REGISTRATION OF POST-ENTRY INSPECTION’ →Enter Passport Number, Date of Birth, Arrival Date and ’Inquiry’ → Click ’Input your PCR result’ → Enter Test Date, Test Result and upload Test Report (or text sent by the testing institution) → Click ’Save’ Can I upload the results of PCR screening that the screening institution sent through text messaging in the Q-CODE? ○ Please capture (screenshot) the text indicating your name, testing institution name, PCR result and upload in Q-CODE website. **** All information is taken from the official Website, so all the credits are going there! Incheon Airport, COVID testing centers and information: https://www.airport.kr/ap_cnt/en/svc/covid19/medical/medical.do Flip Korea wants all new tourists to have complete information upon arrival so make sure to check our website for new updates every time!