Global Major Cities Guide

Sections

1. Electricity (전기 - Jeongi)

Provider

Electricity in Seoul is managed by the Korea Electric Power Corporation (KEPCO), a government-run entity that handles electricity distribution nationwide.

Costs

Electricity is billed based on a tiered pricing system, meaning the more you use, the higher the rate per kilowatt-hour (kWh). This is designed to encourage energy conservation.
- Basic residential rates (as of 2023):
  - 1–200 kWh: ~60 KRW per kWh
  - 201–400 kWh: ~125 KRW per kWh
  - Over 400 kWh: ~210 KRW per kWh
- Monthly bills for a small apartment typically range from 20,000–50,000 KRW (USD 15–40), depending on usage and season. Summer (air conditioning) and winter (heating) can lead to higher bills.

Setup

When moving into a new residence, electricity is usually already connected. You’ll need to register the account under your name with KEPCO.
How to register:
- Contact KEPCO via their customer service line (123) or visit their website (available in English).
- Provide your Alien Registration Card (ARC) and lease agreement.
- The landlord or real estate agent may assist with this process.

Payment Options

Monthly billing: Bills are sent via mail or email.
Payment methods:
- Bank transfer (via ATM or online banking)
- Automatic withdrawal from your bank account
- Payment at convenience stores (e.g., GS25, CU)
- Mobile payment apps (e.g., KakaoPay, Naver Pay)

Local Considerations

Power outages are rare in Seoul, but in case of emergencies, you can call KEPCO’s hotline (123).
Energy-saving practices are common, such as turning off lights and unplugging appliances when not in use.

2. Water (수도 - Sudo)

Provider

Water services in Seoul are managed by the Seoul Waterworks Authority.

Costs

Water is relatively inexpensive in Seoul. The cost is calculated based on usage (measured in cubic meters).
- Residential rates (as of 2023):
  - 0–30 m³: ~360 KRW per m³
  - 31–50 m³: ~550 KRW per m³
  - Over 50 m³: ~790 KRW per m³
- Monthly bills for a small household typically range from 5,000–15,000 KRW (USD 4–12).

Setup

Water is usually connected when you move in. The landlord or real estate agent will ensure the account is transferred to your name.
If you need to set it up yourself, contact the Seoul Waterworks Authority (120 Dasan Call Center for English assistance).

Payment Options

Bills are issued monthly and can be paid via:
- Bank transfer or online banking
- Automatic withdrawal
- Convenience stores
- Mobile payment apps

Local Considerations

Tap water in Seoul is safe to drink and is branded as “Arisu”. However, many residents prefer to use water purifiers or drink bottled water.
Water conservation is encouraged, especially during the summer months.

3. Gas (가스 - Gaseu)

Provider

Gas services in Seoul are provided by Seoul City Gas or other regional gas companies, depending on your district.

Costs

Gas is primarily used for cooking, heating, and hot water. Costs vary significantly depending on the season.
- Average monthly costs:
  - Summer: 10,000–20,000 KRW (USD 8–15)
  - Winter: 50,000–150,000 KRW (USD 40–120) due to heating.
- Gas is billed per cubic meter, with rates around 15–20 KRW per m³.

Setup

Gas is typically connected when you move in. You’ll need to register the account under your name.
How to register:
- Contact the gas company directly or ask your landlord/real estate agent for assistance.
- Provide your ARC and lease agreement.

Payment Options

Monthly bills can be paid via:
- Bank transfer or online banking
- Automatic withdrawal
- Convenience stores
- Mobile payment apps

Local Considerations

Gas appliances (e.g., stoves, boilers) require regular maintenance. Gas companies often provide free or low-cost safety inspections.
Be mindful of gas safety. Ensure proper ventilation when using gas appliances and check for leaks.

4. Internet (인터넷 - Inteonet)

Providers

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

Costs

Internet plans are affordable and reliable.
- Basic plans (100 Mbps): ~20,000–30,000 KRW/month (USD 15–25)
- High-speed plans (1 Gbps): ~35,000–50,000 KRW/month (USD 30–40)
- Bundled packages (internet + TV + phone) are available for ~50,000–80,000 KRW/month (USD 40–60).

Setup

To set up internet service:
- Choose a provider and contact them via their website, customer service line, or a local branch.
- Provide your ARC, lease agreement, and bank account details for billing.
- Installation usually takes 1–3 days, and a technician will visit your home to set up the connection.

Payment Options

Monthly payments can be made via:
- Automatic withdrawal
- Credit card
- Bank transfer
- Mobile payment apps

Local Considerations

Seoul is known for its world-class internet infrastructure, so you can expect fast and stable connections.
Free public Wi-Fi is widely available in cafes, subway stations, and public areas.

General Tips for Utility Services in Seoul

Language Barrier: While some utility providers offer English-speaking customer service, it’s helpful to have a Korean-speaking friend or use translation apps when setting up services.
Dasan Call Center (120): This is a multilingual helpline provided by the Seoul Metropolitan Government. You can call for assistance with utility services and other city-related inquiries.
Mobile Apps: Many utility companies have apps for bill management and payment. These apps are often in Korean, but they are user-friendly and can be navigated with translation tools.
Bundling Services: Consider bundling internet, TV, and mobile phone services with the same provider for discounts.
Seasonal Costs: Be prepared for higher electricity and gas bills during summer and winter due to air conditioning and heating.

By following this guide, you’ll be well-prepared to manage your utility services in Seoul. If you have further questions or need assistance, feel free to ask!