Jeonju

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Utilities

Overview of local utility services, including water, electricity, gas, and how to manage bills.

Sections

1. Electricity (전기 - Jeongi)

Provider

  • Electricity in Jeonju is provided by Korea Electric Power Corporation (KEPCO), the national electricity provider.

Average Costs

  • Residential electricity costs in South Korea are calculated on a tiered system, meaning the more electricity you use, the higher the rate per kWh.
    • Low usage (up to 200 kWh/month): ~60-80 KRW per kWh
    • Medium usage (201-400 kWh/month): ~120 KRW per kWh
    • High usage (above 400 kWh/month): ~280 KRW per kWh
  • Monthly average for a small apartment: 20,000–50,000 KRW (depending on usage and season).
  • Summer and winter months (due to air conditioning or heating) may result in higher bills.

Setup

  • When moving into a new residence, electricity is usually already connected. You’ll need to register the account under your name.
  • Contact KEPCO’s Jeonju branch or call their customer service (123) for assistance in English or Korean.
  • Provide your Alien Registration Card (ARC), address, and phone number.

Payment

  • Bills are issued monthly and can be paid via:
    • Bank transfer (using your Korean bank account).
    • Convenience stores (GS25, CU, etc.)—just bring your bill.
    • KEPCO’s online portal or mobile app.
    • Automatic deduction from your bank account (set up through your bank or KEPCO).

Local Considerations

  • Be mindful of energy conservation, as South Korea emphasizes reducing electricity consumption.
  • Some apartments have smart meters that allow you to monitor usage in real time.

2. Gas (가스 - Gaseu)

Provider

  • Gas in Jeonju is typically supplied by Jeonbuk City Gas (전북도시가스) for residential heating, cooking, and hot water.

Average Costs

  • Gas costs vary depending on usage and season:
    • Summer (low usage): 10,000–20,000 KRW/month.
    • Winter (high usage for heating): 50,000–150,000 KRW/month.
  • Gas is generally more expensive in winter due to heating needs.

Setup

  • When moving in, you’ll need to contact Jeonbuk City Gas to set up your account.
  • Provide your ARC, address, and phone number.
  • A technician may visit your home to ensure the gas supply is functioning properly and to explain safety procedures.

Payment

  • Bills are issued monthly and can be paid via:
    • Bank transfer or automatic deduction.
    • Convenience stores (bring your bill).
    • Jeonbuk City Gas’s online portal or app.

Local Considerations

  • Gas appliances often have a manual shut-off valve—turn it off when not in use for safety.
  • Be aware of carbon monoxide risks in winter. Many homes have gas detectors installed.

3. Water (수도 - Sudo)

Provider

  • Water services in Jeonju are managed by the Jeonju Waterworks Office (전주시 상수도사업소).

Average Costs

  • Water is relatively inexpensive in South Korea:
    • Monthly average for a small household: 10,000–20,000 KRW.
    • Rates are based on usage, typically around 500–1,000 KRW per cubic meter.

Setup

  • Water is usually already connected when you move in. The landlord or building management will register the account under your name.
  • If you need to set it up yourself, contact the Jeonju Waterworks Office and provide your ARC, address, and phone number.

Payment

  • Bills are issued monthly and can be paid via:
    • Bank transfer or automatic deduction.
    • Convenience stores.
    • Through the Jeonju Waterworks Office website.

Local Considerations

  • Tap water in South Korea is technically safe to drink, but many locals prefer to use water purifiers or buy bottled water.
  • Be mindful of water conservation, as South Korea encourages sustainable water use.

4. Internet (인터넷 - Inteonet)

Providers

  • Major internet service providers (ISPs) in Jeonju include:
    • KT (Korea Telecom)
    • SK Broadband
    • LG U+
  • All providers offer high-speed internet, with speeds ranging from 100 Mbps to 1 Gbps.

Average Costs

  • 100 Mbps plan: ~20,000–30,000 KRW/month.
  • 1 Gbps plan: ~30,000–50,000 KRW/month.
  • Bundled packages (internet + TV + phone) are available for ~40,000–70,000 KRW/month.

Setup

  • Visit a local branch of your chosen ISP or call their customer service (English support is available).
  • Provide your ARC, address, and phone number.
  • Installation usually takes 1–3 days, and a technician will visit your home to set up the service.
  • Some ISPs may require a 1- or 2-year contract. Early termination fees apply if you cancel before the contract ends.

Payment

  • Monthly bills can be paid via:
    • Bank transfer or automatic deduction.
    • Online through the ISP’s website or app.
    • At convenience stores.

Local Considerations

  • South Korea is known for its excellent internet infrastructure, so you can expect reliable and fast service.
  • Free public Wi-Fi is widely available in cafes, libraries, and public spaces in Jeonju.

General Tips for Managing Utilities in Jeonju

  1. Language Barrier: While some utility providers offer English support, it’s helpful to have a Korean-speaking friend or colleague assist you during setup.
  2. ARC Requirement: Your Alien Registration Card (ARC) is essential for setting up all utilities. Ensure you have it ready.
  3. Bundling Services: Many providers offer discounts if you bundle internet, TV, and mobile phone services. Consider this option to save money.
  4. Payment Apps: Popular Korean apps like KakaoPay or Naver Pay can be used to pay utility bills conveniently.
  5. Seasonal Variations: Be prepared for higher utility bills in winter (gas) and summer (electricity) due to heating and cooling needs.
  6. Landlord Assistance: In many cases, landlords or building managers handle utility setup for tenants. Confirm this when signing your lease.

By following this guide, you’ll be well-prepared to manage utilities in Jeonju, South Korea. If you have further questions or need assistance with specific providers, feel free to ask!