Spam calls are prevalent in Korea due to high smartphone usage and cultural factors. Foreigners face challenges like language barriers and important calls from unknown numbers. Effective prevention methods include using spam-blocking apps, checking spam databases, and being cautious with personal information. Stay vigilant to reduce spam interruptions while enjoying your time in Korea.
A Personal Custom Code (개인통관고유부호) is a unique identification number issued by the Korea Customs Service for international shipping and online purchases. This code is essential for anyone in Korea who wants to order items from overseas.
The Busan Workation Program offers digital nomads and startups an opportunity to work and explore Busan with significant accommodation discounts, free access to premium co-working spaces, and tourism vouchers. Designed primarily for employees of Korean companies, the program facilitates a smooth application process for locals while providing additional support for international applicants. Participants can enjoy a variety of workspace options, local experiences, and culinary delights, making it an attractive choice for combining work and leisure in South Korea.
Korean winter street food is filled with various snacks that warm both body and soul. Treats like bungeo-ppang (fish-shaped bread), hotteok (sweet pancakes), gunbam (roasted chestnuts), gyeran-ppang (egg bread), odeng (fish cakes), and hoppang (steamed buns) each make winter more special with their unique flavors and aromas. These snacks mean more than just food - they provide precious moments for friends and family to gather and share warm meals together.
Approximately 90% of small businesses in Korea fail within their first two years, often due to a lack of market research and an overemphasis on aesthetic appeal. Cultural pressures and low barriers to entry contribute to hasty business decisions. A more successful approach involves starting small, gaining industry experience, and validating the market before significant investments. This methodical preparation is essential for sustainability in Korea's competitive business landscape.
The Global Startup Center in Seoul provides vital support for foreign entrepreneurs, offering assistance with visas, legal advice, and workspace. Located in Gangnam, it features free co-working spaces, private phone booths, and meeting rooms, fostering a collaborative environment. The center hosts various programs and events to help navigate business in Korea and encourages networking among expatriates. It aims to amplify the foreign community's voice and create a supportive network, making it an essential resource for those looking to establish themselves in Korea.
Korean public bathhouses, known as jjimjilbang, are significant cultural spaces for relaxation and socializing. This guide covers the bathhouse experience, including arrival, changing room etiquette, bathing protocols, and common areas. Key etiquette includes showering before entering pools, embracing nudity, and maintaining a respectful atmosphere. Regular visits are linked to health benefits such as improved circulation and stress relief, making the experience both culturally enriching and beneficial for well-being.
Recent trip to Tokyo, Japan, highlighting differences in language, technology, urban atmosphere, transportation, cafe culture, and convenience store food compared to Korea. They express a desire to learn Japanese and share insights to help others navigate cultural challenges in Korea, emphasizing the importance of fostering understanding between cultures.
This guide provides travelers in Korea with essential information on using self-service laundromats, known as "coin laundries." It covers the benefits of these laundromats, how to find them, and a step-by-step process for using the machines, including payment options and tips for a smooth experience. The guide aims to help travelers maintain clean clothes during their stay in Korea.
Navigating Korean restaurant etiquette involves understanding cultural nuances, such as the importance of researching restaurants, the willingness to queue for popular spots, and the efficient seating and ordering process. Tipping is not customary, and the act of paying is tied to the concept of "Jeong," emphasizing warmth and social bonds. Group dining focuses on shared experiences rather than individual expenses, enhancing the overall dining experience in Korea.
Seoul's public libraries, particularly Mapo Central Library, are excellent resources for digital nomads, offering accessibility without a library card, a quiet work environment, and various facilities like study rooms and multimedia sections. They provide a unique cultural experience, making them ideal for remote workers seeking a distraction-free space. Visitors are encouraged to explore these hidden gems for a comfortable and immersive workspace.
MacBook users in Korea face compatibility issues with essential software, particularly in online banking, government services, and corporate intranets, primarily due to reliance on outdated technologies like ActiveX. While improvements have been made, legacy systems still pose challenges. A viable solution is to use virtual machines to run Windows on MacBooks, allowing access to necessary services. As Korea modernizes its digital infrastructure, cross-platform compatibility is expected to improve further.