Global Major Cities Guide

Sections

1. Electricity

Major Provider

Korea Electric Power Corporation (KEPCO) is the sole electricity provider in South Korea, including Busan.

How to Set It Up

For renters: Electricity is usually already connected in rental properties. You’ll need to transfer the account to your name, which can be done through your landlord or real estate agent.
For homeowners: Contact KEPCO directly to set up a new account. You can visit their local office or call their customer service line (123, press 7 for English).

Voltage and Plugs

Voltage: 220V, 60Hz.
Plug type: Type C or F (European-style two-round-pin plugs). You may need an adapter if your devices use a different plug type.

Average Costs

Electricity is billed monthly and is based on usage.
- Average monthly cost for a small apartment: KRW 30,000–70,000.
- Summer (air conditioning) and winter (heating) months: Costs can rise significantly, sometimes exceeding KRW 100,000.

Payment Procedures

Bills are sent monthly via mail or email.
Payment options:
- Bank transfer (via ATM or online banking).
- Automatic deduction from your bank account.
- Payment at convenience stores (bring your bill).
KEPCO also offers an app for bill management and payment.

Cultural Tips

South Koreans are energy-conscious. Turning off lights and unplugging devices when not in use is common practice.
Be mindful of peak electricity usage during summer and winter to avoid high bills.

2. Water

Major Provider

The Busan Water Authority manages water supply and billing in the city.

How to Set It Up

Water is typically already connected in rental properties. The landlord or real estate agent will ensure the account is transferred to your name.
For new accounts, contact the Busan Water Authority directly.

Average Costs

Water is relatively inexpensive in South Korea.
- Average monthly cost for a small household: KRW 10,000–20,000.
- Costs depend on usage, but water is metered.

Payment Procedures

Bills are issued monthly.
Payment options:
- Bank transfer or online banking.
- Automatic deduction from your bank account.
- Payment at convenience stores.

Cultural Tips

Tap water in Busan is safe to drink, but many locals prefer to use water purifiers or buy bottled water.
Water conservation is encouraged, so avoid excessive use.

3. Gas

Major Provider

Busan City Gas (부산도시가스) is the primary provider for natural gas in the city.

How to Set It Up

Gas is usually connected in rental properties. The landlord or real estate agent will help you transfer the account to your name.
For new accounts, contact Busan City Gas directly. A technician will visit to connect and inspect the gas line.

Average Costs

Gas is used for heating, cooking, and hot water.
- Average monthly cost in summer: KRW 10,000–30,000.
- Average monthly cost in winter (heating): KRW 50,000–150,000 or more, depending on usage.

Payment Procedures

Bills are sent monthly.
Payment options:
- Bank transfer or online banking.
- Automatic deduction from your bank account.
- Payment at convenience stores.

Cultural Tips

Gas heating systems (ondol) are common in South Korea. Be mindful of usage during winter to avoid high bills.
Always turn off the gas valve when not in use for safety.

4. Internet

Major Providers

KT (Korea Telecom)
SK Broadband
LG U+

How to Set It Up

Visit a provider’s store or website to sign up for a plan. You’ll need:
- Alien Registration Card (ARC).
- Korean bank account for payments.
Installation is usually completed within a few days.

Average Costs

Internet in South Korea is fast and affordable.
- Average monthly cost: KRW 25,000–40,000 for high-speed internet.
- Bundled packages (internet + TV) are available for KRW 40,000–70,000.

Payment Procedures

Payment is typically made via automatic bank deduction or online banking.

Cultural Tips

South Korea has one of the fastest internet speeds in the world. Take advantage of public Wi-Fi, which is widely available in cafes, subways, and public spaces.

5. Mobile Services

Major Providers

SK Telecom
KT (Korea Telecom)
LG U+
Budget options: Providers like Altar or U+ MVNO offer cheaper plans.

How to Set It Up

Visit a provider’s store with:
- Alien Registration Card (ARC).
- Passport (if you don’t have an ARC yet, some providers offer prepaid plans).
- Korean bank account (for postpaid plans).
Choose between prepaid or postpaid plans:
- Prepaid: No contract, pay as you go.
- Postpaid: Requires a contract (usually 1–2 years).

Average Costs

Prepaid plans: KRW 10,000–30,000 per month, depending on data and call usage.
Postpaid plans: KRW 40,000–80,000 per month for unlimited data and calls.

Payment Procedures

Prepaid: Recharge at convenience stores or online.
Postpaid: Automatic bank deduction or online banking.

Cultural Tips

South Koreans rely heavily on mobile apps for daily life (e.g., KakaoTalk for messaging, Naver Maps for navigation). Ensure you have a reliable data plan.

General Tips for Utilities and Services in Busan

Language Barrier: Most utility providers have English-speaking customer service or apps with English options. However, having a Korean-speaking friend or using a translation app can be helpful.
Bank Account: A Korean bank account is essential for setting up most utilities and services. Open one as soon as possible after arriving.
Alien Registration Card (ARC): This is required for most contracts, including internet and mobile services. Apply for your ARC promptly after arriving in South Korea.
Convenience Stores: Many bills can be paid at convenience stores like GS25, CU, or 7-Eleven. Bring your bill and pay at the counter.
Bundling Services: Consider bundling internet, TV, and mobile services with the same provider for discounts.
Energy Conservation: South Koreans are mindful of energy and water usage. Adopting these habits will help you save money and integrate into local culture.

By following this guide, you’ll be well-prepared to set up and manage utilities and services in Busan, South Korea. If you need further assistance, don’t hesitate to ask!