Gwangju

1. Electricity (전기 - Jeongi)

Provider:

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

Procedure:

1. Check with your landlord or housing agency: In most cases, electricity is already connected when you move in. You’ll only need to transfer the account to your name or start paying the bills.
2. If electricity is not set up, contact KEPCO:
   • Visit the local KEPCO office in Gwangju or call their customer service (123 from a Korean phone).
   • You can also set up electricity online via the KEPCO website: KEPCO Website (English available).
3. Provide your address and identification details (Alien Registration Card (ARC) or passport if you don’t have an ARC yet).

Required Documents:

• Alien Registration Card (ARC) or passport.
• Lease agreement (to confirm your address).

Costs:

• Electricity is billed monthly based on usage.
• Average monthly cost: KRW 20,000–50,000 for a small apartment, depending on usage.
• Rates increase during summer (air conditioning) and winter (heating).

Payment:

• Bills can be paid via bank transfer, at convenience stores, or through automatic deductions from your bank account.

Local Tips:

• Electricity in South Korea is 220V with a frequency of 60Hz. Ensure your appliances are compatible or use a voltage converter.
• Be mindful of peak usage times (summer and winter) as electricity rates can increase significantly.

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2. Water (수도 - Sudo)

Provider:

• Water services in Gwangju are managed by the Gwangju Metropolitan Waterworks Authority.

Procedure:

1. Check with your landlord: Water is usually included in your rent or managed by the landlord. Confirm whether you need to pay separately.
2. If you need to set up water service:
   • Contact the Gwangju Waterworks Authority at their local office or through their website: Gwangju Waterworks Authority (Korean only).
   • Provide your address and identification details.

Required Documents:

• Alien Registration Card (ARC) or passport.
• Lease agreement.

Costs:

• Water is relatively inexpensive in South Korea.
• Average monthly cost: KRW 5,000–15,000 for a small apartment.

Payment:

• Bills are typically included in your rent or paid monthly via bank transfer or at convenience stores.

Local Tips:

• Tap water in Gwangju is safe to drink, but many locals prefer to use water filters or purchase bottled water.

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3. Gas (가스 - Gaseu)

Provider:

• Gas services in Gwangju are typically provided by Korea Gas Corporation (KOGAS) or a local gas company.

Procedure:

1. Check with your landlord: Gas is often already connected, and you’ll only need to pay the monthly bills.
2. If gas is not connected:
   • Contact the local gas company or KOGAS to request a connection.
   • A technician will visit your home to set up the service and ensure safety.

Required Documents:

• Alien Registration Card (ARC) or passport.
• Lease agreement.

Costs:

• Gas is billed monthly based on usage.
• Average monthly cost: KRW 10,000–30,000 for cooking and hot water. Heating during winter can increase costs significantly (up to KRW 100,000 or more).

Payment:

• Bills can be paid via bank transfer, at convenience stores, or through automatic deductions.

Local Tips:

• Gas heating is common in South Korea, so expect higher bills during winter.
• Always check for gas leaks and ensure proper ventilation when using gas appliances.

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4. Internet (인터넷 - Inteonet)

Providers:

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

Procedure:

1. Visit a local branch of your chosen provider or contact them online/over the phone.
2. Choose a plan based on your needs (speed, data limits, etc.).
3. Schedule an installation appointment. A technician will visit your home to set up the service.

Required Documents:

• Alien Registration Card (ARC).
• Lease agreement.
• Korean bank account details (for payment).

Costs:

• Average monthly cost: KRW 25,000–40,000 for high-speed internet.
• Bundled packages (internet + TV + mobile) can save money.

Local Tips:

• Internet speeds in South Korea are among the fastest in the world.
• If you’re staying short-term, consider renting a portable Wi-Fi device instead of setting up home internet.

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5. Mobile Services (휴대폰 - Hyudaepon)

Providers:

• Major mobile service providers in Gwangju include:
  • KT
  • SK Telecom
  • LG U+
  • Budget carriers like Altarif or U+ Mobile offer cheaper plans.

Procedure:

1. Visit a local branch of your chosen provider.
2. Choose between a prepaid or postpaid plan:
   • Prepaid: Ideal for short-term stays. Recharge as needed.
   • Postpaid: Requires a Korean bank account and ARC.
3. Provide the required documents and choose a plan.

Required Documents:

• Alien Registration Card (ARC) or passport (for prepaid plans).
• Korean bank account details (for postpaid plans).

Costs:

• Prepaid plans: KRW 10,000–30,000 per month, depending on data and call limits.
• Postpaid plans: KRW 30,000–70,000 per month for unlimited data and calls.

Local Tips:

• Many providers offer discounts if you bundle mobile services with internet or TV.
• SIM cards for tourists are available at Incheon Airport or major convenience stores.

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General Tips for Setting Up Utilities in Gwangju

1. Landlord Involvement: In most cases, landlords or housing agencies handle utility setup for tenants. Confirm with them before taking any action.
2. Language Barrier: Many utility providers have limited English support. Consider asking a Korean-speaking friend or colleague for assistance.
3. Payment Methods: Most utility bills can be paid via:
   • Bank transfer (online banking or ATM).
   • At convenience stores (7-Eleven, CU, GS25).
   • Automatic deductions from your Korean bank account.
4. Emergency Numbers:
   • Electricity (KEPCO): 123
   • Gas: 1544-4500
   • Water: 120 (Gwangju City Helpline)

By following these steps and tips, you’ll be able to set up utilities in Gwangju efficiently and enjoy a smooth transition to your new home.