Moving to Korea is exciting, but once you’ve arrived, everyday administration can quickly take over.

Instead of exploring your new neighborhood or trying every restaurant on your list, you may find yourself dealing with immigration appointments, a Foreign Residence Card, bank paperwork, phone contracts, utility bills, health insurance, and tax documents. Even when a procedure is straightforward, the Korean used in official situations can make it difficult to know exactly what you’re being asked to do.

The good news is that you don’t need perfect Korean to settle in successfully. Knowing which tasks to prioritize, which documents to keep ready, and which Korean phrases to use can make appointments and everyday procedures much less stressful.

This guide walks you through eight important steps for settling into life in Korea, with practical Korean for the situations you’re most likely to encounter.

By the end of this guide, you’ll know how to:

• complete common immigration and foreign-registration procedures
• register and update your place of stay
• open a Korean bank account
• get a Korean phone number
• arrange utilities and internet
• navigate National Health Insurance
• understand basic Korean tax procedures
• communicate more confidently during everyday appointments

Requirements vary according to your nationality, status of stay, employment, and individual situation, so always check the current instructions for the procedure that applies to you.

Table of Contents

Why This Moving to Korea Checklist Is Different

Most “moving to Korea” guides tell you what to do. Register with immigration. Open a bank account. Get a Korean phone number. Set up your utilities.

But they rarely answer the question that matters most once you’re standing at a counter:

“What do I actually say?”

That’s what makes this guide different.

For every major step, you’ll find:

• what the procedure generally involves
• documents or information you may need
• practical Korean phrases
• realistic dialogue examples
• useful vocabulary
• common points to know before an appointment

Think of this as both a moving checklist and a practical survival Korean guide for your first weeks in Korea.

What Should You Do After Moving to Korea?

Quick Answer

Your exact priorities depend on your circumstances, but many new residents should think about these eight areas:

1. Complete the immigration and foreign-registration procedures that apply to you.
2. Register your place of stay and report address changes when required.
3. Open a Korean bank account.
4. Get a Korean phone number.
5. Set up electricity, gas, water, and internet as needed.
6. Arrange National Health Insurance.
7. Understand your Korean tax obligations.
8. Learn practical Korean for everyday life.

Some of these steps depend on one another. For example, your Foreign Residence Card can make banking, phone registration, identity verification, and other services easier to access.

Your First Month in Korea: A Practical Timeline

Not every task will be completed on the same schedule, and some procedures can take longer than a month. A useful approach is to begin time-sensitive procedures first.

Time	What to Do	Why
First days	Move in and organize your passport, housing documents, and immigration information	You’ll use them repeatedly.
As soon as required	Make any necessary immigration reservation or application	Some procedures require advance booking or have legal deadlines.
Within 90 days of entry, if required	Apply for foreign registration	Foreign nationals intending to stay more than 90 days generally need to register.
First weeks	Open a Korean bank account	Useful for salary, rent, bills, and recurring payments.
First weeks	Get a Korean phone number	Useful for appointments, deliveries, and identity verification.
First weeks	Set up utilities and internet if necessary	What you need to arrange depends on your housing.
As applicable	Confirm your National Health Insurance status	Enrollment timing depends on employment and residence circumstances.
Ongoing	Practice practical Korean	Makes every appointment easier.

Foreign nationals intending to stay in Korea for more than 90 days generally need to complete foreign registration within 90 days of entry, although exemptions apply to some statuses.

Documents You’ll Use Again and Again

One of the easiest ways to reduce stress is to keep your important documents together.

Depending on your situation, useful documents may include:

• passport
• visa or information about your status of stay
• Foreign Residence Card (외국인등록증, oegugin deungnokjeung), once issued
• proof of your place of stay
• rental contract
• employment contract or student documentation
• Korean phone number
• Korean bank details
• National Health Insurance information
• tax documents once issued

A few expressions you’ll see frequently are:

외국인등록증
oegugin deungnokjeung
“Foreign Residence Card”

체류지
cheryuji
“place of stay / registered residence”

체류기간
cheryu gigan
“period of stay”

구비서류
gubi seoryu
“required documents”

신청서
sincheongseo
“application form”

Having your paperwork organized can save time when different offices ask for the same information.

Step 1: Complete Your Immigration and Foreign-Registration Procedures

The first step depends on your nationality and status of stay.

Korea Immigration Service handles procedures involving:

• foreign registration
• extension of period of stay
• change of status of stay
• reporting certain changes in registered information
• reissuing a Foreign Residence Card
• other immigration applications

Many procedures use HiKorea for visit reservations or electronic applications. The exact route and required documents depend on your status and the procedure you’re completing.

If you intend to stay in Korea for more than 90 days and are subject to foreign registration, you generally need to register within 90 days of entry.

For more detailed immigration vocabulary and practical expressions, see Korean for the Immigration Office: 40 Visa Renewal Phrases You’ll Actually Need.

What Happens During Foreign Registration?

A typical process may include:

1. Check the requirements for your status of stay.
2. Make a visit reservation through HiKorea if required.
3. Go to the immigration office responsible for your place of stay.
4. Submit your application and supporting documents.
5. Provide fingerprints or other information if required.
6. Pay the applicable fee.
7. Receive instructions about your Foreign Residence Card.

Requirements differ by status, so don’t treat a general checklist as a universal document list.

Essential Korean Phrases

Korean	Romanization	English
외국인등록을 하러 왔습니다.	Oegugin deungnogeul hareo watseumnida.	“I’m here to complete foreign registration.”
방문예약을 했습니다.	Bangmun yeyageul haetseumnida.	“I made a visit reservation.”
예약접수증이 여기 있습니다.	Yeyak jeopsujeungi yeogi itseumnida.	“Here’s my reservation confirmation.”
어떤 서류가 필요합니까?	Eotteon seoryuga piryohamnikka?	“Which documents are required?”
외국인등록증은 언제 받을 수 있습니까?	Oegugin deungnokjeungeun eonje badeul su itseumnikka?	“When can I receive my Foreign Residence Card?”
체류기간을 연장하고 싶습니다.	Cheryu giganeul yeonjanghago sipseumnida.	“I’d like to extend my period of stay.”
하이코리아에서 신청했습니다.	Haikoriaeseo sincheonghaetseumnida.	“I applied through HiKorea.”
죄송하지만 잘 이해가 안 됩니다.	Joesonghajiman jal ihaega an doemnida.	“I’m sorry, but I don’t understand very well.”

Sample Dialogue

Immigration Officer

방문예약을 하셨습니까?
Bangmun yeyageul hasyeotseumnikka?
“Did you make a visit reservation?”

You

네, 예약접수증이 여기 있습니다.
Ne, yeyak jeopsujeungi yeogi itseumnida.
“Yes, here’s my reservation confirmation.”

Officer

여권과 신청서를 주세요.
Yeogwon-gwa sincheongseoreul juseyo.
“Please give me your passport and application form.”

You

네, 여기 있습니다.
Ne, yeogi itseumnida.
“Yes, here they are.”

Officer

체류지 입증서류도 있으세요?
Cheryuji ipjeung seoryudo isseuseyo?
“Do you also have proof of your place of stay?”

You

네, 이것입니다.
Ne, igeosimnida.
“Yes, this is it.”

Useful Immigration Vocabulary

Korean	Romanization	English
여권	yeogwon	“passport”
외국인등록증	oegugin deungnokjeung	“Foreign Residence Card”
신청서	sincheongseo	“application form”
구비서류	gubi seoryu	“required documents”
체류지 입증서류	cheryuji ipjeung seoryu	“proof of residence”
방문예약	bangmun yeyak	“visit reservation”
예약접수증	yeyak jeopsujeung	“reservation confirmation / receipt”
체류기간 연장	cheryu gigan yeonjang	“extension of period of stay”

Step 2: Register Your Place of Stay and Keep Your Address Updated

Korea does not use the same municipal resident-registration system for foreign residents that it uses for Korean citizens.

Instead, registered foreign residents have a place of stay, or 체류지 (cheryuji), recorded through the immigration system.

When you first complete foreign registration, you provide documentation showing where you live. If you move later, you generally need to report the change of your place of stay within the required period.

For most registered foreign residents, a change of place of stay must generally be reported within 15 days. Different rules can apply to certain statuses, including Overseas Korean (F-4) status, so check the requirement that applies to you.

Depending on your circumstances, the report may be possible through:

• HiKorea
• the immigration office
• a local administrative welfare center or other authorized local office

Essential Korean Phrases

Korean	Romanization	English
체류지를 변경했습니다.	Cheryujireul byeongyeonghaetseumnida.	“I changed my place of stay.”
체류지 변경 신고를 하려고 합니다.	Cheryuji byeongyeong singoreul haryeogo hamnida.	“I’d like to report a change of my place of stay.”
이사 왔습니다.	Isa watseumnida.	“I moved here.”
어떤 서류가 필요합니까?	Eotteon seoryuga piryohamnikka?	“Which documents are required?”
임대차계약서가 필요합니까?	Imdaechagyeyakseoga piryohamnikka?	“Do I need my lease agreement?”
온라인으로 신고할 수 있습니까?	Onlain-euro singohal su itseumnikka?	“Can I report it online?”

Sample Dialogue

Employee

무슨 일로 오셨어요?
Museun illo osyeosseoyo?
“What brings you in today?”

You

체류지 변경 신고를 하려고 합니다.
Cheryuji byeongyeong singoreul haryeogo hamnida.
“I’d like to report a change of my place of stay.”

Employee

새 주소를 확인할 수 있는 서류가 있으세요?
Sae jusoreul hwaginhal su inneun seoryuga isseuseyo?
“Do you have a document that can confirm your new address?”

You

네, 임대차계약서가 있습니다.
Ne, imdaechagyeyakseoga itseumnida.
“Yes, I have my lease agreement.”

Address Vocabulary

Korean	Romanization	English
주소	juso	“address”
체류지	cheryuji	“place of stay”
이사	isa	“moving house”
체류지 변경	cheryuji byeongyeong	“change of place of stay”
신고	singo	“report / notification”
임대차계약서	imdaechagyeyakseo	“lease agreement”

Step 3: Open a Korean Bank Account

A Korean bank account can make everyday life much easier.

You may use it for:

• receiving your salary
• paying rent
• paying utility bills
• setting up automatic payments
• online shopping
• transferring money
• linking payment and mobile services

Requirements vary by bank, branch, account type, and your residence status. Banks may ask for identification, your Foreign Residence Card, a Korean phone number, proof of address, and information about why you need the account.

Some services or transfer limits may also differ depending on the documentation you can provide.

Essential Korean Phrases

Korean	Romanization	English
계좌를 만들고 싶습니다.	Gyejwareul mandeulgo sipseumnida.	“I’d like to open a bank account.”
어떤 서류가 필요합니까?	Eotteon seoryuga piryohamnikka?	“Which documents are required?”
외국인등록증이 여기 있습니다.	Oegugin deungnokjeungi yeogi itseumnida.	“Here’s my Foreign Residence Card.”
체크카드를 만들 수 있습니까?	Chekeukadeureul mandeul su itseumnikka?	“Can I get a debit card?”
인터넷뱅킹을 신청하고 싶습니다.	Inteonetbaengking-eul sincheonghago sipseumnida.	“I’d like to apply for online banking.”
이체 한도가 얼마입니까?	Iche handoga eolmaimnikka?	“What is the transfer limit?”
자동이체를 신청할 수 있습니까?	Jadongichereul sincheonghal su itseumnikka?	“Can I set up an automatic transfer?”

Sample Dialogue

Bank Employee

무엇을 도와드릴까요?
Mueoseul dowadeurilkkayo?
“How can I help you?”

You

계좌를 만들고 싶습니다.
Gyejwareul mandeulgo sipseumnida.
“I’d like to open a bank account.”

Employee

외국인등록증과 여권 있으세요?
Oegugin deungnokjeung-gwa yeogwon isseuseyo?
“Do you have your Foreign Residence Card and passport?”

You

네, 여기 있습니다.
Ne, yeogi itseumnida.
“Yes, here they are.”

Employee

한국 전화번호도 있으세요?
Hanguk jeonhwabeonhodo isseuseyo?
“Do you also have a Korean phone number?”

You

네, 있습니다.
Ne, itseumnida.
“Yes, I do.”

Useful Banking Vocabulary

Korean	Romanization	English
계좌	gyejwa	“bank account”
통장	tongjang	“bankbook / account”
체크카드	chekeukadeu	“debit card”
신용카드	sinyongkadeu	“credit card”
송금	songgeum	“money transfer”
이체	iche	“bank transfer”
자동이체	jadongiche	“automatic transfer / direct debit”
수수료	susuryo	“fee”

Step 4: Get a Korean Phone Number

A Korean phone number is useful for much more than making calls.

You may need one for:

• account verification
• banking
• deliveries
• appointments
• online shopping
• government and financial services
• workplace or landlord communication
• identity verification

Korea uses phone-based identity verification, or 본인 인증 (bonin injeung), for many online services.

Depending on your circumstances, you may choose a prepaid SIM, a postpaid plan, or an eSIM. The plans available to you and the documents required can depend on your identification and residence status.

Essential Korean Phrases

Korean	Romanization	English
휴대폰을 개통하고 싶습니다.	Hyudaeponeul gaetonghago sipseumnida.	“I’d like to activate mobile phone service.”
유심만 사고 싶습니다.	Yusimman sago sipseumnida.	“I’d just like to buy a SIM card.”
한 달에 얼마입니까?	Han dare eolmaimnikka?	“How much is it per month?”
약정 기간이 있습니까?	Yakjeong gigani itseumnikka?	“Is there a contract period?”
선불 요금제가 있습니까?	Seonbul yogeumjega itseumnikka?	“Do you have a prepaid plan?”
외국인등록증이 필요합니까?	Oegugin deungnokjeungi piryohamnikka?	“Do I need a Foreign Residence Card?”
본인 인증이 됩니까?	Bonin injeungi doemnikka?	“Will identity verification work?”

Sample Dialogue

Employee

어떤 요금제를 찾으세요?
Eotteon yogeumjereul chajeuseyo?
“What kind of plan are you looking for?”

You

데이터를 많이 쓰는 요금제를 찾고 있습니다.
Deiteoreul mani sseuneun yogeumjereul chatgo itseumnida.
“I’m looking for a plan with a lot of data.”

Employee

외국인등록증 있으세요?
Oegugin deungnokjeung isseuseyo?
“Do you have a Foreign Residence Card?”

You

네, 있습니다. 약정 기간이 있습니까?
Ne, itseumnida. Yakjeong gigani itseumnikka?
“Yes, I do. Is there a contract period?”

Step 5: Set Up Electricity, Gas, Water, and Internet

When you move into a Korean home, the exact setup depends on the type of housing.

In an apartment or officetel, some costs may be included in a monthly management fee, or 관리비 (gwanribi). In other properties, you may need to arrange or transfer services yourself.

Common services include:

• electricity
• city gas
• water
• internet
• building management charges

City gas often requires you to notify the local provider when moving in or out. Depending on the property and the status of the gas supply, an appointment may be needed.

Before opening new accounts, ask your landlord, real-estate agent, or building management office what is already active and which services are billed separately.

Essential Korean Phrases

Korean	Romanization	English
이사 왔습니다.	Isa watseumnida.	“I just moved in.”
전기 명의를 변경하고 싶습니다.	Jeongi myeonguireul byeongyeonghago sipseumnida.	“I’d like to change the electricity account holder.”
도시가스를 신청하고 싶습니다.	Dosi gaseureul sincheonghago sipseumnida.	“I’d like to apply for city gas service.”
관리비에 수도 요금이 포함되어 있습니까?	Gwanriebie sudo yogeumi pohamdoeeo itseumnikka?	“Is the water bill included in the management fee?”
인터넷을 설치하고 싶습니다.	Inteoneseul seolchihago sipseumnida.	“I’d like to have internet installed.”
기사님은 언제 오실 수 있습니까?	Gisanimeun eonje osil su itseumnikka?	“When can the technician come?”
이 요금은 무엇입니까?	I yogeumeun mueosimnikka?	“What is this charge?”

Sample Dialogue

Representative

새로 이사 오셨어요?
Saero isa osyeosseoyo?
“Did you just move in?”

You

네, 이사 왔습니다. 도시가스를 신청하고 싶습니다.
Ne, isa watseumnida. Dosi gaseureul sincheonghago sipseumnida.
“Yes, I just moved in. I’d like to apply for city gas service.”

Representative

주소를 말씀해 주세요.
Jusoreul malsseumhae juseyo.
“Please tell me your address.”

You

네. 그리고 기사님은 언제 오실 수 있습니까?
Ne. Geurigo gisanimeun eonje osil su itseumnikka?
“Okay. And when can the technician come?”

Useful Housing Vocabulary

Korean	Romanization	English
관리비	gwanribi	“management fee”
전기	jeongi	“electricity”
수도	sudo	“water service”
도시가스	dosi gaseu	“city gas”
인터넷 설치	inteonet seolchi	“internet installation”
명의 변경	myeongui byeongyeong	“change of account holder”
요금	yogeum	“charge / fee”

Step 6: Arrange National Health Insurance

Korea’s public health-insurance system is called:

국민건강보험
gungmin geongang boheom
“National Health Insurance”

The organization that administers it is:

국민건강보험공단
gungmin geongang boheom gongdan
“National Health Insurance Service (NHIS)”

How you are enrolled depends on your circumstances.

If You’re Employed

Foreign employees who meet the requirements can be enrolled as workplace-insured members through their employer.

A useful term is:

직장가입자
jikjang gaipja
“workplace-insured member”

If You’re Not Covered Through a Workplace

Many registered foreign residents who have stayed in Korea for more than six months become subject to mandatory National Health Insurance enrollment as self-employed insured members, although the exact rules and timing vary by status of stay and individual circumstances.

A useful term is:

지역가입자
jiyeok gaipja
“self-employed / locally insured member”

Because there are status-specific rules and exemptions, check your own eligibility with NHIS rather than assuming the same rule applies to every foreign resident.

Essential Korean Phrases

Korean	Romanization	English
건강보험 가입 여부를 확인하고 싶습니다.	Geongang boheom gaip yeobureul hwaginhago sipseumnida.	“I’d like to check whether I’m enrolled in health insurance.”
직장가입자로 등록되어 있습니까?	Jikjang gaipjaro deungnokdoeeo itseumnikka?	“Am I registered as a workplace-insured member?”
지역가입자가 되었습니까?	Jiyeok gaipjaga doeeotseumnikka?	“Have I become a locally insured member?”
보험료는 얼마입니까?	Boheomryoneun eolmaimnikka?	“How much is the insurance premium?”
보험료는 어떻게 납부합니까?	Boheomryoneun eotteoke napbuhamnikka?	“How do I pay the insurance premium?”
어떤 서류가 필요합니까?	Eotteon seoryuga piryohamnikka?	“Which documents are required?”
영어 상담이 가능합니까?	Yeongeo sangdami ganeunghamnikka?	“Is consultation available in English?”

Sample Dialogue

Employee

건강보험 관련해서 무엇을 도와드릴까요?
Geongang boheom gwallyeonhaeseo mueoseul dowadeurilkkayo?
“How can I help you with National Health Insurance?”

You

건강보험 가입 여부를 확인하고 싶습니다.
Geongang boheom gaip yeobureul hwaginhago sipseumnida.
“I’d like to check whether I’m enrolled in health insurance.”

Employee

회사에 다니고 계세요?
Hoesae danigo gyeseyo?
“Are you employed by a company?”

You

네, 한국 회사에서 일하고 있습니다.
Ne, Hanguk hoesaseo ilhago itseumnida.
“Yes, I work for a Korean company.”

Employee

직장가입자로 등록되어 있는지 확인해 보겠습니다.
Jikjang gaipjaro deungnokdoeeo inneunji hwaginhae bogetseumnida.
“I’ll check whether you’re registered as a workplace-insured member.”

Step 7: Understand Taxes in Korea

Tax rules can be one of the more complicated parts of moving abroad because your obligations depend on factors such as tax residence, employment, income sources, and individual circumstances.

You don’t need to become a tax expert, but recognizing the basic Korean vocabulary can make forms and workplace conversations much easier to understand.

Important terms include:

소득세
sodeukse
“income tax”

원천징수
woncheon jing-su
“withholding”

연말정산
yeonmal jeongsan
“year-end tax settlement”

종합소득세
jonghap sodeukse
“global income tax”

종합소득세 신고
jonghap sodeukse singo
“global income tax filing”

홈택스
Hometax
“HomeTax”

근로소득 원천징수영수증
geullo sodeuk woncheon jing-su yeongsujeung
“certificate of wage and salary income tax withholding”

Employees commonly deal with year-end tax settlement, or 연말정산 (yeonmal jeongsan), through their employer. People with other types of income may have different filing obligations, including a global income tax return.

The National Tax Service publishes separate guidance for foreign taxpayers, so check the rules that apply to your own income and residence situation.

Essential Korean Phrases

Korean	Romanization	English
연말정산에 필요한 서류가 무엇입니까?	Yeonmal jeongsane piryohan seoryuga mueosimnikka?	“Which documents do I need for year-end tax settlement?”
종합소득세 신고를 해야 합니까?	Jonghap sodeukse singoreul haeya hamnikka?	“Do I need to file a global income tax return?”
홈택스에서 확인할 수 있습니까?	Hometaxeseo hwaginhal su itseumnikka?	“Can I check it on HomeTax?”
원천징수영수증을 받을 수 있습니까?	Woncheon jing-su yeongsujeungeul badeul su itseumnikka?	“Can I receive my withholding certificate?”
이 세금에 대해 설명해 주실 수 있습니까?	I segeume daehae seolmyeonghae jusil su itseumnikka?	“Could you explain this tax to me?”
세금 상담을 받고 싶습니다.	Segeum sangdameul batgo sipseumnida.	“I’d like tax advice.”

Sample Dialogue

Employee

연말정산 서류 준비하셨어요?
Yeonmal jeongsan seoryu junbihasyeosseoyo?
“Have you prepared your year-end tax settlement documents?”

You

아직 다 준비하지 못했습니다. 어떤 서류가 필요합니까?
Ajik da junbihaji mothaetseumnida. Eotteon seoryuga piryohamnikka?
“I haven’t prepared everything yet. Which documents do I need?”

Employee

홈택스에서 확인할 수 있는 자료도 있습니다.
Hometaxeseo hwaginhal su inneun jaryodo itseumnida.
“Some of the information can also be checked on HomeTax.”

You

알겠습니다. 감사합니다.
Algetseumnida. Gamsahamnida.
“I understand. Thank you.”

Step 8: Learn Survival Korean for Daily Life

If there’s one skill that makes every other step easier, it’s practical Korean.

You don’t need to speak perfectly.

What matters most is being able to:

• explain why you’re there
• ask which documents are required
• say that you don’t understand
• ask someone to repeat
• ask someone to speak more slowly
• confirm what you need to do next

For focused practice with essential everyday expressions, the KoreanClass101 Survival Phrases series covers useful Korean for common real-life situations.

Four Sentence Patterns You’ll Use Everywhere

Saying What You Want to Do

~고 싶습니다.
~go sipseumnida
“I’d like to…”

Examples:

계좌를 만들고 싶습니다.
Gyejwareul mandeulgo sipseumnida.
“I’d like to open a bank account.”

인터넷을 설치하고 싶습니다.
Inteoneseul seolchihago sipseumnida.
“I’d like to have internet installed.”

Saying What You Need

~이/가 필요합니다.
~i/ga piryohamnida
“I need…”

Examples:

외국인등록증이 필요합니다.
Oegugin deungnokjeungi piryohamnida.
“I need my Foreign Residence Card.”

추가 서류가 필요합니다.
Chuga seoryuga piryohamnida.
“Additional documents are required.”

Asking for Clarification

한 번 더 말씀해 주세요.
Han beon deo malsseumhae juseyo.
“Please say that one more time.”

조금 천천히 말씀해 주세요.
Jogeum cheoncheonhi malsseumhae juseyo.
“Please speak a little more slowly.”

Saying You Don’t Understand

잘 모르겠습니다.
Jal moreugetseumnida.
“I’m not sure / I don’t understand.”

잘 이해가 안 됩니다.
Jal ihaega an doemnida.
“I don’t understand very well.”

These simple expressions can keep a conversation moving even when you don’t understand every word.

15 Survival Korean Phrases You’ll Use Everywhere

Korean	Romanization	English
안녕하세요.	Annyeonghaseyo.	“Hello.”
감사합니다.	Gamsahamnida.	“Thank you.”
죄송합니다.	Joesonghamnida.	“I’m sorry.”
실례합니다.	Sillyehamnida.	“Excuse me.”
잘 모르겠습니다.	Jal moreugetseumnida.	“I’m not sure / I don’t understand.”
한 번 더 말씀해 주세요.	Han beon deo malsseumhae juseyo.	“Please say that one more time.”
조금 천천히 말씀해 주세요.	Jogeum cheoncheonhi malsseumhae juseyo.	“Please speak a little more slowly.”
영어로 말씀해 주실 수 있습니까?	Yeongeoro malsseumhae jusil su itseumnikka?	“Could you speak in English?”
무엇이 필요합니까?	Mueosi piryohamnikka?	“What is required?”
어떤 서류가 필요합니까?	Eotteon seoryuga piryohamnikka?	“Which documents are required?”
어디로 가야 합니까?	Eodiro gaya hamnikka?	“Where should I go?”
어디에 서명하면 됩니까?	Eodie seomyeonghamyeon doemnikka?	“Where should I sign?”
이렇게 하면 됩니까?	Ireoke hamyeon doemnikka?	“Is this okay / Should I do it like this?”
다음에는 무엇을 해야 합니까?	Daeumeneun mueoseul haeya hamnikka?	“What do I need to do next?”
예약하고 싶습니다.	Yeyakhago sipseumnida.	“I’d like to make an appointment.”

If you can use these confidently, you’ll already be able to handle the basics of many everyday interactions.

Essential Moving to Korea Cheat Sheet

Save this section on your phone – you’ll probably use it more than once.

Most Useful Situational Phrases

Situation	Korean	Romanization	English
Immigration	외국인등록을 하러 왔습니다.	Oegugin deungnogeul hareo watseumnida.	“I’m here to complete foreign registration.”
Address	체류지 변경 신고를 하려고 합니다.	Cheryuji byeongyeong singoreul haryeogo hamnida.	“I’d like to report a change of my place of stay.”
Bank	계좌를 만들고 싶습니다.	Gyejwareul mandeulgo sipseumnida.	“I’d like to open a bank account.”
Phone	휴대폰을 개통하고 싶습니다.	Hyudaeponeul gaetonghago sipseumnida.	“I’d like to activate mobile phone service.”
Utilities	도시가스를 신청하고 싶습니다.	Dosi gaseureul sincheonghago sipseumnida.	“I’d like to apply for city gas service.”
Internet	인터넷을 설치하고 싶습니다.	Inteoneseul seolchihago sipseumnida.	“I’d like to have internet installed.”
Health Insurance	건강보험 가입 여부를 확인하고 싶습니다.	Geongang boheom gaip yeobureul hwaginhago sipseumnida.	“I’d like to check whether I’m enrolled in health insurance.”
Taxes	연말정산에 필요한 서류가 무엇입니까?	Yeonmal jeongsane piryohan seoryuga mueosimnikka?	“Which documents do I need for year-end tax settlement?”
Clarification	한 번 더 말씀해 주세요.	Han beon deo malsseumhae juseyo.	“Please say that one more time.”

Administrative Vocabulary

Korean	Romanization	English
외국인등록증	oegugin deungnokjeung	“Foreign Residence Card”
체류지	cheryuji	“place of stay”
체류기간	cheryu gigan	“period of stay”
신청서	sincheongseo	“application form”
구비서류	gubi seoryu	“required documents”
방문예약	bangmun yeyak	“visit reservation”
계좌	gyejwa	“bank account”
본인 인증	bonin injeung	“identity verification”
관리비	gwanribi	“management fee”
국민건강보험	gungmin geongang boheom	“National Health Insurance”
직장가입자	jikjang gaipja	“workplace-insured member”
지역가입자	jiyeok gaipja	“locally insured member”
연말정산	yeonmal jeongsan	“year-end tax settlement”
종합소득세	jonghap sodeukse	“global income tax”

How to Prepare Before You Move

The easiest way to reduce stress isn’t memorizing hundreds of vocabulary words. It’s practicing the conversations you’re actually likely to have.

Before arriving in Korea, focus on situations such as:

• immigration
• foreign registration
• reporting your address
• opening a bank account
• getting a phone plan
• setting up utilities
• healthcare
• shopping
• asking for directions

These situations can have a major impact during your first weeks.

Learn Complete Dialogues

Many learners memorize individual phrases. A better approach is to practice the whole conversation.

For example:

계좌를 만들고 싶습니다.
Gyejwareul mandeulgo sipseumnida.
“I’d like to open a bank account.”

↓

외국인등록증 있으세요?
Oegugin deungnokjeung isseuseyo?
“Do you have a Foreign Residence Card?”

↓

네, 여기 있습니다.
Ne, yeogi itseumnida.
“Yes, here it is.”

↓

이 신청서를 작성해 주세요.
I sincheongseoreul jakseonghae juseyo.
“Please fill out this application form.”

Learning the whole exchange helps you prepare not just for what you’ll say, but also for what you’ll hear.

Listen Every Day

You don’t need a long study session.

A simple routine could look like this:

• 5 minutes: review useful vocabulary
• 10 minutes: listen to one short dialogue
• 5 minutes: repeat key lines aloud

Consistency matters more than trying to memorize everything at once. The KoreanClass101 Absolute Beginner Lesson Library lets you browse structured Korean lessons, so you can practice vocabulary and listening without planning everything from scratch.

Learn Practical Korean with KoreanClass101

Moving to Korea isn’t just about knowing vocabulary. It’s about feeling comfortable enough to communicate when you actually need something.

Practical Korean can help with:

• immigration
• administrative procedures
• banking
• healthcare
• housing
• utilities
• shopping
• transportation
• everyday conversations

Listening to realistic dialogues is especially useful because it prepares you for both sides of the conversation: what you need to say and what the other person may say back.

You can also practice vocabulary recall with Korean visual flashcards, which provide illustrated vocabulary practice across everyday topics.

Whether you’re preparing before your move or you’ve already arrived in Korea, practicing these situations in advance can make daily life feel much less intimidating.

For a broader collection of practical Korean organized around situations residents encounter every day, read The Ultimate Korean Guide for Living in Korea: 160+ Essential Phrases for Visa, Immigration, Moving & Daily Life.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to register as a foreign resident after moving to Korea?

If you intend to stay in Korea for more than 90 days and are subject to foreign registration, you generally need to register within 90 days of entry.

Some statuses are exempt, so check the rules that apply to your status of stay.

What is 외국인등록증?

외국인등록증
oegugin deungnokjeung

is the Korean identification card issued to registered foreign residents.

Current KoreanClass101 immigration materials use “Foreign Residence Card” in English. Older English-language resources may use terms such as “Alien Registration Card” or the abbreviation “ARC.”

Do I need an appointment for foreign registration?

Korea Immigration Service generally uses HiKorea visit reservations for foreign-registration applications and many other in-person immigration procedures.

Always check the current instructions for your specific application before visiting.

A useful phrase is:

방문예약을 했습니다.
Bangmun yeyageul haetseumnida.
“I made a visit reservation.”

What happens when I move to a new address?

Registered foreign residents generally need to report a change in their place of stay within the applicable deadline.

For many registered foreigners, the deadline is 15 days after the move. Different rules apply to some statuses, so check your own requirement.

A useful phrase is:

체류지 변경 신고를 하려고 합니다.
Cheryuji byeongyeong singoreul haryeogo hamnida.
“I’d like to report a change of my place of stay.”

Can I open a Korean bank account as a foreign resident?

In many cases, yes.

Requirements vary by bank, branch, account type, and your immigration status. You may be asked for your passport, Foreign Residence Card, Korean phone number, proof of address, or documents showing the purpose of the account.

Why is a Korean phone number so useful?

Many Korean services use phone-based identity verification.

The term is:

본인 인증
bonin injeung
“identity verification”

Having a phone number registered in your name can make banking, shopping, delivery, and online-account procedures much easier.

Do foreign residents have to join National Health Insurance?

It depends on your circumstances.

Eligible foreign employees may be insured through their workplace. Many other registered foreign residents become subject to mandatory National Health Insurance after staying in Korea for more than six months, but the exact rules and timing vary according to status of stay and other factors.

Check your own enrollment status with the National Health Insurance Service.

What’s the difference between 직장가입자 and 지역가입자?

직장가입자
jikjang gaipja
“workplace-insured member”

generally refers to someone covered through qualifying employment.

지역가입자
jiyeok gaipja
“locally insured member”

refers to someone insured outside the workplace-insurance system.

What is 연말정산?

연말정산
yeonmal jeongsan

is the “year-end tax settlement” that many employees complete through their employer.

It reconciles the income tax withheld during the year with the amount ultimately due based on the applicable deductions and tax rules.

Do foreigners ever need to file 종합소득세?

Yes, depending on the type and amount of income and your individual tax situation.

종합소득세 신고
jonghap sodeukse singo

means “global income tax filing.” If you’re unsure whether you need to file, check current National Tax Service guidance or seek qualified tax assistance.

What’s the fastest way to improve my Korean after moving?

Practice the conversations you actually have.

Review the vocabulary you heard at the bank or immigration office, repeat useful questions before appointments, and listen to realistic dialogues so those expressions become familiar before you need them again.

Final Thoughts

Moving to Korea comes with a long list of administrative tasks, but you don’t need to master all of them at once.

Start with the procedures that apply to your immigration status. Organize your important documents, complete foreign registration if required, and keep your place-of-stay information current. Then work through banking, phone service, utilities, healthcare, and taxes one step at a time.

And remember: you don’t need perfect Korean.

Being able to say 계좌를 만들고 싶습니다 (Gyejwareul mandeulgo sipseumnida., “I’d like to open a bank account”), ask 어떤 서류가 필요합니까? (Eotteon seoryuga piryohamnikka?, “Which documents are required?”), or simply say 잘 이해가 안 됩니다 (Jal ihaega an doemnida., “I don’t understand very well”) can be enough to keep a conversation moving.

Every appointment gives you another chance to recognize the vocabulary, ask a question, and become more comfortable handling everyday life in Korea.

When you’re ready to keep building practical Korean through dialogues, vocabulary, and listening practice, start learning real-life Korean with KoreanClass101.