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," wrote a member who made the move to Korea.
Get Quote
Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.
Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.
Get Quote
"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,"
explained one expat living in Seoul, Korea.
Other Questions:
- What do I need to know before moving to Korea?
- How do I find a place to live in Korea?
- What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Korea?
- What is the average cost of housing in Korea?
- Should I buy or rent a home in Korea?
- What should I pack when moving to Korea?
- What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Korea?
- Why do people move to Korea?
- What are healthcare services like in Korea?
- What are medical services in Korea like?
- What are typical rents 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 one of the founders of Digital Nomad Exchange and the Founder and President of Expat Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange and Digital Nomad 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.