Hanamichi - Your Korea Settlement Guide 🇰🇷

  💳 How to Pay & Use Money in Korea (Foreigner Guide 2026) Many people feel confused about payment methods when they first arrive in Korea. Questions such as whether foreign cards work, whether cash is needed, or whether it is necessary to open a Korean bank account can feel unfamiliar at first. 📌 Korea is a Card-Based Society In Korea, card payments are accepted at most cafes, restaurants, convenience stores, and shopping malls. However, foreign cards may sometimes be restricted for online payments or certain kiosks. Some small stores may also prefer cash, so it is recommended to carry a small amount of cash with you. 🚇 Transportation Card (T-money) Transportation cards are practically essential for daily life in Korea. They can be used not only on subways and buses, but also at some convenience stores, and can easily be purchased and recharged at convenience stores. In addition, if you plan to stay in Seoul for a certain period of time, many people also use th...

  📱How to Use Your Phone in Korea Cheaply & Easily One of the most confusing things when you first arrive in Korea is 👉  how to get a SIM card or phone plan . Unlike some countries, the system in Korea depends on : your visa type your length of stay  so the best option can vary a lot.  “Which SIM should I choose?”  “What’s the easiest option when I first arrive?” In this guide, we’ll break down : ✔ The 3 types of SIM cards in Korea ✔ The best option based on your stay ✔ Real tips & things to watch out for 📌 3 Types of SIM Cards in Korea There are 3 main ways to use a phone in Korea 👇 Each option has different features, pricing, and use cases. ① Data SIM (eSIM / USIM) Data only (no phone number) eSIM works instantly via QR code Can be used immediately at the airport 👉 Best for short-term visitors ❗ Cons More expensive No calls or SMS  ✈️ Best for 1–2 week stays ② Prepaid SIM Can be activated with just a passport Available as eSIM or physical SIM...

  Complete Guide to the D-2 Student Visa in Korea If you're planning to study at a university or graduate school in Korea, there is one essential visa you need to know about : 👉 the D-2 Student Visa . You might be wondering : “I want to study in Korea, but where should I start?” “When and how do I apply for the visa?” In this article, we’ll walk you through the entire process—from university application to visa approval—step by step . Compared to language study (D-4), university admission involves : stricter requirements more documents more complex procedures So it can feel overwhelming, especially if it’s your first time. 👉 This article is part of our Korea Visa Guide series: → Part 1: H-1 Working Holiday Visa → Part 2: D-4 Language Training Visa → Part 3: D-2 Student Visa (You are here) 🛂  What is the D-2 Visa? The D-2 visa is a long-term visa for international students enrolled in degree programs such as: Bachelor’s degree Master’s / PhD progr...

  Complete Guide to the D-4 Language Training Visa in Korea In our previous Korea Visa Guide series (Part 1 & 2), we covered different types of housing and visas for foreigners coming to Korea. For many foreigners, finding housing and preparing for a visa in Korea can be challenging due to unfamiliar systems, strict requirements, and language barriers. In this article, we’ll clearly explain the differences between studying in Korea and how to apply for the  D-4 Language Training Visa , including requirements, documents, and practical tips. 👉 This article is part of our Korea Visa Guide series: →  Part 1: H-1 Working Holiday Visa →  Part 2: D-4 Language Training Visa (You are here) →  Part 3: D-2 Student Visa 🛂  What is the D-4 Visa? The D-4 visa is a long-term visa that allows foreigners to study Korean at a university-affiliated language institute. 👉 Important: You must receive an  admission letter from a school before applying for the visa . ?...

  Complete Guide to the H-1 Working Holiday Visa in Korea If you're planning to move to Korea on a working holiday, you’ve probably wondered: What documents do I need? Where do I apply? What can I actually do with this visa? For many first-time applicants, the process can feel complicated and overwhelming. In this article, we’ve organized everything you need to know about the H-1 visa—from basic information to application steps and important tips. 👉 This article is part of our Korea Visa Guide series : → Part 1: H-1 Working Holiday Visa (You are here) → Part 2: D-4 Language Training Visa → Part 3: D-2 Student Visa

  What’s the Difference Between Goshiwon and One-room Tel and Which One Is Better for You? If you're moving to Korea, you’ll probably come across two options very quickly : Goshiwon and One-room Tel At first glance, they might seem similar—or you might not even know the difference at all. And that confusion can actually lead to choosing the wrong place. In our previous articles in the “Finding Housing in Korea” series, we introduced both solo-living options and more standard housing types. However, for many foreigners, finding housing in Korea can still be challenging due to: unfamiliar contract systems administrative processes and language barriers In this article, we’ll clearly explain the difference between goshiwons and so-called “premium goshiwons” (one-room tels). We’ll also cover how to choose a housing option that balances convenience, safety, and comfort , as well as practical tips on how to actually find housing in Korea. Not sure which option is right ...