South Korea
Country Wide Information
Banking and Finance
- ๐ฆBank Account Setup
Guidelines and requirements for opening a bank account in South Korea, including necessary documents and processes.
- ๐ณCredit and Debit Cards
Details on obtaining and using credit and debit cards in South Korea, including eligibility and application processes.
- ๐ณCurrency and Payment Systems
Overview of the South Korean Won (KRW), cash usage, and popular digital payment systems like KakaoPay and Samsung Pay.
- ๐ก๏ธInsurance Systems
Introduction to South Korea's insurance options, including health, life, and property insurance, and how to enroll.
- ๐International Money Transfers
Information on sending and receiving money internationally, including remittance services and bank transfer options.
- ๐Investment Opportunities
Overview of investment options in South Korea, such as stocks, bonds, and real estate, and the regulations governing them.
- ๐ Loans and Mortgages
Information on accessing personal loans, student loans, and mortgages in South Korea, including eligibility and repayment terms.
- ๐๏ธRetirement and Pension Plans
Details on South Korea's national pension system and private retirement savings options for residents.
- ๐ฐTaxes and Financial Obligations
An introduction to South Korea's tax system, including income tax, VAT, and other financial responsibilities for residents.
Citizenship
- ๐ก๏ธCitizenship
Guidelines on acquiring South Korean citizenship, including naturalization processes and dual citizenship policies.
- ๐Immigration Policies
An overview of South Korea's immigration laws and policies, including entry restrictions, overstaying penalties, and deportation rules.
- ๐ Residence Permits
Details on obtaining and maintaining residence permits for long-term stays in South Korea, including alien registration requirements.
- ๐Visa Types
Overview of the different types of visas available for entry into South Korea, including tourist, work, student, and family visas.
- ๐ผWork Permits
Information on permits required for foreigners to legally work in South Korea, including eligibility and application processes.
Culture and Customs
- ๐Education System
An introduction to South Korea's education system and its cultural significance, including the emphasis on academic achievement.
- ๐จโ๐ฉโ๐งโ๐ฆFamily and Community Values
The importance of family, respect for elders, and community-oriented values in South Korean society.
- ๐Festivals and Holidays
Major national holidays and cultural festivals, such as Chuseok and Seollal, and their significance.
- ๐ฒFood and Dining Culture
Insights into Korean cuisine, dining customs, and the importance of shared meals in Korean culture.
- ๐ฃ๏ธLanguage and Communication
Understanding the Korean language, common phrases, and communication etiquette, including honorifics and non-verbal cues.
- ๐Public Behavior and Norms
Expected behavior in public spaces, such as public transportation etiquette and respecting personal space.
- ๐Religion and Spirituality
An overview of the major religions in South Korea, including Buddhism, Christianity, and Confucian influences.
- ๐คSocial Etiquette
Key customs and manners, such as bowing, gift-giving, and dining etiquette, that are important in Korean society.
- ๐Traditional and Modern Culture
An overview of South Korea's blend of traditional practices, such as hanbok and festivals, with modern trends like K-pop and technology.
- ๐ผWorkplace Culture
Understanding hierarchy, teamwork, and work ethics in South Korean professional environments.
Economy
- ๐ฆBanking and Finance
Details on opening a bank account, using ATMs, and understanding the financial system in South Korea.
- ๐ฐCost of Living
Information on the general cost of living in South Korea, including housing, food, transportation, and utilities.
- ๐ณCurrency and Payment Systems
Information about the South Korean Won (KRW), cashless payment methods, and currency exchange options.
- ๐ผEmployment Market
Overview of South Korea's job market, key industries, and employment opportunities for locals and foreigners.
- ๐ก๏ธSocial Security System
Explanation of South Korea's social security programs, including health insurance, pensions, and unemployment benefits.
- ๐Taxes
An overview of South Korea's tax system, including income tax, VAT, and tax obligations for residents and non-residents.
- ๐Trade and Business Environment
Overview of South Korea's trade policies, business culture, and opportunities for entrepreneurs and investors.
Education System
- ๐After-School Programs
Information about hagwons (private academies) and other extracurricular programs that are common in South Korea.
- ๐Curriculum Standards
Details about the national curriculum set by the Ministry of Education, including core subjects and educational goals.
- ๐ฐEducation Costs
Overview of tuition fees, additional costs, and government support for education in South Korea.
- ๐Examination System
Details about the importance of exams, including the CSAT (Suneung), and their role in academic progression.
- ๐Higher Education
Information about universities, colleges, and vocational schools, including entrance exams and application processes.
- ๐International Schools
Information about international schools in South Korea, catering to expatriates and foreign residents.
- ๐ฃ๏ธLanguage of Instruction
Details about Korean as the primary language of instruction and the availability of English or other language programs.
- ๐ขPublic vs. Private Schools
Explanation of the differences between public and private schools, including costs, admissions, and quality of education.
- ๐ซSchool Levels
Overview of the structure of the South Korean education system, including kindergarten, elementary, middle, high school, and higher education.
- โฟSpecial Education
Overview of support systems and schools for students with disabilities or special needs in South Korea.
Emergency Services
- ๐ขEmergency Alerts System
Details on South Korea's nationwide emergency alert system, including text alerts for disasters and public safety warnings.
- ๐Emergency Contact Numbers
Key nationwide emergency numbers, such as 119 for fire and medical emergencies, and 112 for police assistance.
- ๐ฅFire Emergencies
Steps to take during fire emergencies and how to contact fire services nationwide.
- ๐Foreign Language Assistance
Services available for non-Korean speakers during emergencies, such as translation support via hotlines.
- ๐ฅMedical Emergencies
Information on accessing emergency medical care, including ambulance services and major hospitals.
- ๐ช๏ธNatural Disaster Response
Guidelines for responding to natural disasters such as earthquakes, typhoons, and floods, including evacuation procedures.
- ๐ฎโโ๏ธPolice Services
Overview of police assistance for crime reporting, safety concerns, and public security.
- ๐ฆ Public Health Emergencies
Information on handling public health crises, such as pandemics or outbreaks, and accessing government resources.
Government Structure
- ๐ก๏ธCitizenship
Guidelines on acquiring South Korean citizenship, including naturalization and dual citizenship policies.
- ๐Education System
Details on South Korea's education system, including public and private schooling options for children of immigrants.
- โ๏ธHealthcare System
Information on South Korea's national healthcare system, including health insurance and medical services for residents.
- ๐Immigration Policies
An overview of South Korea's immigration laws and policies, including entry requirements and restrictions.
- ๐๏ธNational Government
Structure and roles of South Korea's central government, including the executive, legislative, and judicial branches.
- ๐จPublic Safety
Overview of South Korea's public safety measures, including law enforcement and emergency services.
- ๐ Residence Permits
Details on obtaining and maintaining residence permits for long-term stays in South Korea.
- ๐ฐTaxation System
Overview of South Korea's tax system, including income tax, VAT, and obligations for residents and non-residents.
- ๐Transportation System
Information on South Korea's nationwide transportation infrastructure, including trains, buses, and air travel.
- ๐Visa Types
Overview of the different visa categories available for entry into South Korea, including tourist, work, and student visas.
- ๐ผWork Permits
Information on permits required for foreigners to legally work in South Korea, including eligibility and application processes.
Healthcare System
- ๐Eligibility and Enrollment
All residents, including foreigners staying for more than six months, are required to enroll in the National Health Insurance system.
- ๐Emergency Medical Services
Emergency services are available nationwide, and ambulances can be accessed by dialing 119. Emergency care is provided regardless of insurance status.
- ๐ฉบHealth Checkups and Preventive Care
The government encourages regular health checkups and provides free or subsidized screenings for certain conditions, such as cancer and chronic diseases.
- ๐ฐHealthcare Costs and Coverage
The system covers a significant portion of medical expenses, but patients are responsible for co-payments for services such as doctor visits, prescriptions, and hospital stays.
- ๐Language and Accessibility
Many medical facilities offer services in English or other languages, but it is recommended to check in advance or use translation services if needed.
- ๐จMedical Facilities and Services
South Korea has a wide range of modern medical facilities, including public and private hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies, offering high-quality care.
- ๐ฅNational Health Insurance
South Korea operates a universal healthcare system through the National Health Insurance Service (NHIS), which covers most residents, including foreigners with long-term visas.
- ๐Pharmaceuticals and Prescriptions
Pharmacies are widely available, and prescriptions are required for most medications. Over-the-counter drugs are also accessible for minor ailments.
- ๐Private Health Insurance
In addition to the National Health Insurance, private health insurance is available to cover services not included in the public system or to reduce out-of-pocket costs.
Immigration and Visas
- ๐ณ๏ธCitizenship
Guidelines on acquiring South Korean citizenship, including naturalization processes and dual citizenship policies.
- ๐Immigration Policies
An overview of South Korea's immigration laws and policies, including entry requirements, restrictions, and enforcement.
- ๐ Residence Permits
Details on obtaining and maintaining residence permits for long-term stays in South Korea, including alien registration requirements.
- ๐Visa Types
Overview of the various visa categories available for entry into South Korea, including tourist, work, student, and family visas.
- ๐ผWork Permits
Information on permits required for foreigners to legally work in South Korea, including eligibility and application processes.
Overview
- ๐ณBanking and Finance
Information on opening bank accounts, managing finances, and understanding the currency system in South Korea.
- ๐Culture and Etiquette
Insights into South Korean culture, traditions, and social etiquette for newcomers.
- ๐Education
Details about South Korea's education system, including public and private schools, universities, and language programs.
- ๐ผEmployment
Overview of the job market, work culture, and employment regulations in South Korea.
- ๐ฅHealthcare
Overview of South Korea's healthcare system, including national health insurance and access to medical services.
- ๐ Housing
Information on housing options, rental systems, and key considerations for finding accommodation in South Korea.
- ๐Immigration
Information on visa types, work permits, residence permits, citizenship, and immigration policies in South Korea.
- ๐ฃ๏ธLanguage
Introduction to the Korean language, including its importance, learning resources, and common phrases for daily life.
- ๐จSafety and Emergency Services
Guidance on safety measures, emergency contact numbers, and disaster preparedness in South Korea.
- ๐Transportation
An overview of South Korea's transportation system, including public transit, high-speed trains, and driving regulations.
- ๐Utilities and Services
Overview of essential utilities such as electricity, water, internet, and mobile services in South Korea.
Public Holidays
- ๐Festivals and Celebrations
An introduction to nationwide festivals and events that coincide with public holidays, offering cultural and recreational activities.
- โ๏ธHoliday Observance Rules
Information on how public holidays are observed, including rules for substitute holidays when they fall on weekends.
- ๐
National Public Holidays
An overview of the official public holidays recognized nationwide in South Korea, including their significance and observance.
- ๐Traditional Holidays
Details about major traditional holidays such as Seollal (Lunar New Year) and Chuseok (Harvest Festival), which are deeply rooted in Korean culture.
- ๐ขWork and School Closures
Guidelines on how public holidays affect work schedules, school closures, and business operations across the country.
Tax System
- ๐ขCorporate Tax
Tax levied on the income of companies operating in South Korea, with rates varying based on taxable income.
- ๐ฐIncome Tax
South Korea's income tax system applies to both residents and non-residents, with progressive tax rates based on income levels.
- ๐Inheritance and Gift Tax
Taxes applied to inherited assets or gifts, with rates depending on the value of the transferred assets.
- ๐ Property Tax
A tax imposed on property ownership, including real estate, with rates determined by the property's value.
- ๐
Tax Filing and Deadlines
Information on annual tax filing requirements and deadlines for individuals and businesses in South Korea.
- ๐Tax Incentives and Deductions
Available tax benefits, deductions, and credits for individuals and businesses, including those for foreign residents.
- ๐Tax Residency Status
Rules determining whether an individual is considered a tax resident or non-resident, which affects tax obligations.
- ๐Value-Added Tax (VAT)
A consumption tax applied to goods and services, with a standard rate of 10%, applicable nationwide.
Transportation System
- โ๏ธAir Travel
South Korea has multiple international and domestic airports, with Incheon International Airport serving as the main hub.
- ๐ดBicycle Infrastructure
Bicycle paths and rental services are available in many areas, promoting eco-friendly travel options.
- ๐Driving and Car Rentals
Driving in South Korea requires an international driving permit or a Korean license, and car rentals are available for intercity travel.
- โด๏ธFerries
Ferries connect South Korea's mainland to its islands, providing an alternative mode of transportation for travelers.
- ๐High-Speed Rail
The KTX (Korea Train Express) connects major cities across South Korea, offering fast and convenient travel options.
- ๐Public Transportation
South Korea has an extensive and efficient public transportation system, including subways, buses, and trains, which are widely used across the country.
- ๐Taxis
Taxis are readily available and affordable, with options like regular, deluxe, and international taxis for non-Korean speakers.
- ๐ณTransportation Cards
T-money and Cashbee cards are widely used for seamless payment across buses, subways, and even taxis nationwide.
Work Rights
- ๐ซDiscrimination and Harassment
Laws and protections against workplace discrimination and harassment, including gender, age, and nationality.
- ๐Employment Contracts
Overview of the types of employment contracts in South Korea, including full-time, part-time, and temporary agreements, and their legal requirements.
- โ๏ธLabor Dispute Resolution
Processes and resources available for resolving labor disputes, including mediation and legal support.
- ๐ฐMinimum Wage
Information on the national minimum wage and its application to different types of workers in South Korea.
- ๐ก๏ธSocial Insurance
An overview of mandatory social insurance programs, including health insurance, pension, and employment insurance for workers.
- ๐Termination and Severance
Rules and procedures for employment termination, severance pay, and employee rights during layoffs.
- โฐWorking Hours and Overtime
Details on standard working hours, overtime regulations, and rest periods as per South Korean labor laws.
- โ ๏ธWorkplace Safety and Health
Guidelines and regulations ensuring workplace safety and health standards for employees in South Korea.