What should I pack when moving to Korea?
We asked people living in Korea to list three things they wish they had brought and three they wish they had left behind. They responded...
"When moving to Korea, it is important to pack items that will make the transition easier. Clothing for all seasons is essential, as the weather can vary greatly depending on the region. It is also important to bring any necessary medications, as well as any documents or paperwork that may be needed. Additionally, it is a good idea to bring a few items from home that will make the new home feel more familiar. Finally, it is important to bring a valid passport and any other necessary travel documents," said a member in Korea.
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William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
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"Wished I had brought:
1. Mix packages for sauce preparation. Like Swansons for spagetti sauce, and gravy, etc.
2. Converter for 110 to 220 V. The converters purchased in Korea are not reliable.
3. Floor heaters - I only have two and it gets really cold in Korea. The utilities bill is outrageous. Using the whole house heater really runs up the bill. It would be nice just to heat the required rooms and close the door of the others.
4. More winter clothes - it gets extremely cold here and finding proper size can be difficult.
5. Bug killer bombs - when two houses in my neighborhood were demolished for rebuilding - their bugs moved to my house - ants and roaches. After living in the house for 1 year with no pest problem, I thought I would not have any bug problems. Wrong! With the tearing down of the houses, I have a constant battle. I just wish I could let off a couple of bug bombs - but I cannot find in stores - only bug spray.
6. Gardening items - most landlords expect you to take care of the yard. Finding quality mowers, rakes, brooms, shovels (for snow also), etc. is difficult and the quality may not be up to par.
7. Salting for ice on driveway, walkway, and parts of street. Despite the heavy snow fall and sheets of ice that form, the Seoul city does not clear its streets. Slipping is a constant hazard and finding salting material is near impossible. For 2 months out of the year, my walkway to my front door is a sheet of ice.
Wish I'd left behind:
1. US purchased DVD's. They don't work on a Korean machine.
2. Feminine protection - tampons and pads can be found in ever Korean grocery store.
3. Dryer sheets to eliminate cling. These, and softeners, can be found in any Korean grocery store,"
remarked another expat who made the move to Seoul, Korea.
Other Questions:
- What do I need to know before retiring in Korea?
- How do I meet people in Korea?
- What is life like in Korea?
- Is there a lot of crime in Korea?
- Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Korea accepting of differences?
- What are the schools in Korea like?
- Is the cost of living in Korea high?
- What advice do you have for expats having a baby in Korea?
- What are healthcare services like in Korea?
- Is the cost of living in Korea high?
- What type of recreational facilities are in Korea?
- What is the weather like in Korea?
- Are there good restaurants in Korea?
- Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in Korea?
- What are the visa & residency requirements in Korea?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Korea?
- What do I need to know when buying property in Korea?
- Are foreigners allowed to own property in Korea?
- What appliances are typically included in a rental?
What should I pack when moving to Korea?
If you live in Korea, newcomers to Korea would love to hear your answer to this question.
About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.