Busan

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Utilities

Understanding of water, electricity, gas, garbage disposal, and internet services for households.

Sections

1. Electricity

Provider:

  • The primary electricity provider in Busan (and all of South Korea) is Korea Electric Power Corporation (KEPCO).

Average Costs:

  • Monthly Costs:
    • Small apartments: ₩20,000–₩50,000 (USD $15–$40)
    • Larger homes: ₩50,000–₩100,000 (USD $40–$80)
    • Costs increase significantly in summer (due to air conditioning) and winter (if using electric heating).
  • Electricity is billed based on usage, with a tiered pricing system (higher usage = higher rates).

How to Set Up:

  • For Long-Term Residents:
    • If renting, your landlord or real estate agent will typically handle the initial setup with KEPCO.
    • If you need to set it up yourself, visit a KEPCO office or call their customer service (dial 123). English-speaking support is available but may be limited.
    • You’ll need your Alien Registration Card (ARC), lease agreement, and bank account details for automatic payments.
  • For Short-Term Visitors:
    • Electricity is usually included in the rent for short-term stays (e.g., Airbnb, guesthouses, or serviced apartments).

Payment:

  • Bills can be paid via:
    • Automatic bank transfer
    • Online banking
    • Convenience stores (show the bill at the counter)
  • KEPCO also offers an app for bill management, but it’s primarily in Korean.

Tips:

  • Be mindful of energy usage during peak seasons to avoid high bills.
  • If you experience a power outage, contact KEPCO at 123 (press 1 for emergencies).

2. Water

Provider:

  • Water services in Busan are managed by the Busan Water Authority.

Average Costs:

  • Monthly Costs: ₩10,000–₩30,000 (USD $8–$25) for an average household.
  • Water is relatively affordable in South Korea.

How to Set Up:

  • For Long-Term Residents:
    • Water services are typically already connected when you move in. The landlord will transfer the account to your name.
    • If you need to set it up, contact the Busan Water Authority (dial 120 for the Dasan Call Center, which offers English support).
  • For Short-Term Visitors:
    • Water is usually included in the rent for short-term accommodations.

Payment:

  • Bills can be paid via:
    • Automatic bank transfer
    • Online banking
    • Convenience stores

Tips:

  • Tap water in Busan is safe to drink, but many locals prefer to use water purifiers or buy bottled water.
  • Report leaks or water supply issues to the Busan Water Authority.

3. Gas

Provider:

  • Gas services in Busan are provided by Busan City Gas.

Average Costs:

  • Monthly Costs:
    • Summer: ₩10,000–₩30,000 (USD $8–$25)
    • Winter: ₩50,000–₩150,000 (USD $40–$120) due to heating.
  • Gas is used for cooking, heating, and hot water.

How to Set Up:

  • For Long-Term Residents:
    • Your landlord or real estate agent will usually arrange the gas connection.
    • If you need to set it up, contact Busan City Gas directly. You’ll need your ARC, lease agreement, and bank account details.
  • For Short-Term Visitors:
    • Gas is typically included in the rent for short-term stays.

Payment:

  • Bills can be paid via:
    • Automatic bank transfer
    • Online banking
    • Convenience stores

Tips:

  • Gas appliances often have safety features, such as automatic shut-off timers. Familiarize yourself with these.
  • If you smell gas, immediately open windows, turn off the gas valve, and call the emergency number (119).

4. Internet and Mobile Services

Providers:

  • Major internet providers in Busan include:
    • KT (Korea Telecom)
    • SK Broadband
    • LG U+

Average Costs:

  • Internet: ₩30,000–₩50,000 (USD $25–$40) per month for high-speed broadband.
  • Mobile Plans: ₩30,000–₩70,000 (USD $25–$55) per month, depending on data and call allowances.

How to Set Up:

  • For Long-Term Residents:
    • Visit a provider’s store or website to sign up for internet services. You’ll need your ARC, lease agreement, and bank account details.
    • Installation usually takes 1–3 days.
  • For Short-Term Visitors:
    • Many accommodations include Wi-Fi.
    • Alternatively, rent a portable Wi-Fi device or purchase a prepaid SIM card with data.

Payment:

  • Internet bills are typically paid via automatic bank transfer or credit card.
  • Mobile plans can be prepaid or postpaid, depending on your preference.

Tips:

  • South Korea has some of the fastest internet speeds in the world, so expect excellent service.
  • If you face language barriers, consider using an English-speaking service like The Arrival Store to set up internet and mobile services.

5. Other Utilities

Heating:

  • Heating in Busan is typically provided through ondol (underfloor heating) systems powered by gas or electricity.
  • Costs are included in your gas or electricity bill.

Trash and Recycling:

  • South Korea has a strict waste disposal system.
    • Purchase designated garbage bags (종량제 봉투) from convenience stores or supermarkets for general waste.
    • Recyclables (plastic, paper, glass, metal) must be separated and disposed of in designated bins.
    • Food waste must be disposed of in separate food waste bags.
  • Fines may be imposed for improper disposal.

6. Language Barriers and Cultural Considerations

  • Language Barriers:
    • Most utility providers have limited English-speaking staff. However, the Dasan Call Center (dial 120) offers English support for general inquiries.
    • Consider asking a Korean-speaking friend or colleague for assistance if needed.
  • Cultural Considerations:
    • Punctuality is highly valued in South Korea. Be present at home during scheduled installation or maintenance appointments.
    • Utility bills are typically paid on time. Late payments may incur penalties.

7. Advice for Short-Term Visitors

  • Opt for accommodations that include utilities in the rent to avoid the hassle of setting up services.
  • Use portable Wi-Fi devices or prepaid SIM cards for internet access.

8. Advice for Long-Term Residents

  • Familiarize yourself with the utility providers and payment methods early on.
  • Set up automatic payments to avoid missing due dates.
  • Keep a copy of your lease agreement and ARC handy for any utility-related procedures.

9. Dealing with Customer Service

  • Most utility providers have customer service hotlines, but English-speaking support may be limited.
  • Use the Dasan Call Center (dial 120) for assistance with translation or general inquiries.
  • Be patient and polite when dealing with customer service representatives, as this is highly valued in Korean culture.

By following this guide, you should be well-prepared to manage utilities in Busan, whether you’re staying for a short visit or planning to settle down long-term. Let me know if you need further assistance!