Shipping on the Slow Boat to America

Here's the question:

Hey do you know how much the slow boat costs roughly. Lets say I wanted to ship a box from Korea to NYC, filled with clothes and what not.  Lets say it weighs 50 pounds. How does one go about doing this? 

This is a pretty simple one. Since you don't want to deal with FedEx, you can simply visit your local post office. Before going, I'd spend a few minutes looking over the English site of the Korean post office. United States (as well as Canada and the UK) are in Zone 2. Australia, New Zealand and South Africa are in Zone 3. 


Shipping a box around 50lbs (22kg) looks like it'll cost around 40,000 KRW if you go the surface route. By air, it'll run you 120,000 KRW and SAL will cost about 150,000 KRW. If time is not an issue, sending it by boat is easily the cheapest method. There are a few other fees you might want to consider as well before shipping it, but it's pretty simple.

Outlets, Voltage and Transformers in South Korea

Here's the question:

I'm sure this has come up before on your blog but I wasn't able to find it: What are the electric plugs like in Korea? I cannot seems to find a solid answer on this one. I heard they were European plugs, which would be great because I have a ton of adapters for European plugs. If they're different I need to buy a few adapters before I go!

The standard voltage in Korea is 220 volts (60 Hz) . The outlet has two round holes and looks similar to those used in many European countries.



Europe, however, uses 230 volts (50 Hz). Because the voltage and frequency is so close, some people are inclined to use adapters, but don't. You'll end up ruining whatever you try to plug into it. The same goes for converters. While they might work well for low-function clock radios and other low-stress appliances, converters won't tolerate desktop computers or even hair-dyers. You'll need to pick up a transformer. They'll run you more, but you'll be protecting yourself from damaged items as well as the risk of fire. Some people might disagree with me and say you'll be fine, but it's always better to be safe.

Cheapest Ways to Ship Bikes from Korea

Here's the question:

I've been in Ulsan for the last year and I'm trying to get everything together before I leave in September. I've managed to get everything shipped home. That is, everything except my brand new Trek mountain bike. And this is what lead me to you.

If the bike wasn't worth a good deal of money I wouldn't go to all the trouble shipping it home, but it is, so I am.

Here are the details I know. The Korean postal service won't ship it because it is too large and the local postal lady is not a fan of non Korean-speaking individuals. I've looked into UPS and Fedex, but they are seriously expensive. And I would just take it on the plane with me, but I'm flying into Italy and Ireland on separate tickets before I arrive in the US. Not to mention, I don't want to lug the damned thing around for a month.

So my question is, are there any alternatives to shipping it through the Korean postal service/airlines/UPS/Fedex?

Wow. Every time I thought I had a good answer, you had already been down that avenue. The best route would have been shipping the bike by plane with you, but you don't want to be burden by it in Europe. So, what options do you have? I hate to say it, but I don't know. I am totally stumped by this, so I am appealing to anyone who comes across this post for some advice. I have also posted it on my ESL Teacher group on Facebook. I know that someone out there has been in a similiar position, so we'll give it some time.

Luggage Weight Limitations for your Flight to South Korea

Here's the question:

ive just got a job in a public school in seoul in korea, im due to travel on the 23rd of august from the UK. i was wondering what the weight restrictions for luggage are?, your help would be greatly appreciated.

This question gets asked all the time on my Facebook group and no one really ever gets a solid answer. Why not? Well, weight restrictions typically depend on the airline. Some are more lenient than others. I would recommend contacting your airline and asking them. You should also consider that limitations and restrictions change so often that it would not be wise of me to offer advice. Typically, they will allow for a little more weight if you let them know you're going to be abroad for a year. There's a helpful website called "Luggage Guide" that gets updated semi-regularly and has a lot of good links, so drop by there and see what they think.

Rather than worrying about how much you can pack and whether you can push the limits, I would suggest packing as light as possible. Skimp on a few things. Many people get stressed about packing and try to cram everything in when they first come to Korea. This is not necessary. Take a look at my "What to Pack" post and start crossing some stuff off the list. You'll be happy that you did. Remember, South Korea is not a summer camp where you must rely on the canteen for supplies, much of what you need is here.
And if you did forget a thing or two, well you can always ask your parents to send you a package from home or you can ask me where to find it and I'll try my best to help out.

If anybody has any questions, just send me an email at asktheexpat@yahoo.com or leave a comment.

Bringing American DVDs (Region 1) to Korea: Will they work?

Here's the question:

Should I bring my US Region 1 NTSC DVDs to Korea? I thought I could use them not only as time killers when I'm bored, but also use them for class lessons for conversation class.I understand that South Korea is Region 3 and PAL.

Man, I wish I knew about this stuff when I first came over. I brought all of my Arrested Development DVDs with the same idea you have: that if I was bored or needed something familiar in a new country, all I had to do was pop in a DVD and I would be okay. Well, if you're bringing a computer from home, then you'll have no problems viewing the DVDs from its player. However, once here you'll realize that there are scores of DVD bootleggers on the streets selling decent quality movies and TV shows (4 or 5 for 10 bucks) and you're probably going to buy those and want to watch them. There's your problem.

I presume everyone knows what the topic is here, but just in case, each DVD is coded with a region in which they can be viewed. If you are from the US or Canada, you are in "Region 1" (UK: 2, AUS: 3, SA: 4). If you have a stand-alone DVD player, you should be able to change the regional setting with the remote control. If you're using you computer, then it is a little harder. You will either need to bring DVDs that are "Region 0" or try to hack the computer and change the configuration on the hard drive. Some computers allow you to change the region on your hard drive up to five times. Or you can just burn the DVD (and therefore add all regions) and watch them on any player. Most of my DVDs that I bought here play anywhere.

So, yeah. There's no reason not to bring them over. You will feel better if you have them and fail then if you don't have them at all.

As far as teaching a conversation class with them, I guess that would be fine depending on the topic and vulgarity of the movie, but simply giving examples of those expressions would suffice. Some students might appreciate the effort, but others will feel like you're doing something that many conversation teachers tend to do: teach their own life and experiences.

If anybody has any questions, just send me an email at asktheexpat@yahoo.com or leave a comment.

Is Western Medicine Available in South Korea?

Here's the question:

I've read online that some over-the-counter drugs in the U.S. would require a prescription in Korea.

Do you have a resource that tells U.S. expats what is NOT available in Korea or anything that would require extra "work" or extra cost to get? (e.g. prescription drugs, certain foods, toiletries, electronics, etc...etc...)

Medicine in Korea is a little different. For the most part, when you go to a pharmacy (because that's where almost all medicine is sold), there will be very little medicine within reach. By that I mean that you will have to tell the pharmacist what's ailing you and they will make the selection for you. The medicine they give you will not be a bottle of cough medicine or a bottle of pills. Rather, it will be individual packets filled with powder (or something else). The amount is going to be enough only for you to complete your course. They will not give you more than you need.

There's not really an official resource since most over-the-counters in the US don't exist here. There's no need either. Koreans prefer their way and, in all honesty, I actually recover much quicker here than I did in the US.

As for the other part of the question, I think I should refer you to my "What to Pack" and "Western Food" posts. For available food check out EZShop Korea. Those links cover most of that in detail.

If anybody has any questions, just send me an email at asktheexpat@yahoo.com or leave a comment.

Rock & Ice Climbing, Bouldering and Rock Walls in South Korea

Here's the question:

I'm leaving for South Korea (Bundang) in two weeks to teach and want to know if I should bring my climbing gear. I mean, are their any good rocks, walls or boulders there? Is it worth the extra weight?

Thomas G.

Easy question here. Yes, it is worth it (because climbing equipment is very expensive here) and yes there are some excellent rocks to climb around on in Korea. However, I am not speaking from a lot of experience. I have gone climbing only twice since I've been here and one of those times, we were rained out. There does seem to be a close-knit groups of dedicated climbers on the peninsula though.

There's a climbing club called Korea on the Rocks that has endless info about climbing in Korea. They also are pretty big on ice climbing which is not that common in the West. I preferred bouldering while in the States and they even have some good resources on that.

The first time I went climbing here was with Korea on the Rocks. They're all pretty good climbers, but are more than willing to help the noobs. Many of them are long term expats and have cars which is always nice and super convenient for those hard-to-find climbs. If you don't their site provides forums, directions and other helpful links. Also, it never hurts to check out Adventure Korea. They always have some good ideas.

You could also take a gander at...

• Rockclimbing.com
• Asiarooms.com
• Indoorclimbing.com
• World-wildlife-adventures.com
• Iguidekorea.com
• ABCofrockclimbing.com

I'll also mention that the Korean climbers that I have seen are pretty damn amazing and they apparently have that reputation around the world. If you're okay with some traveling, then Korea is a perfect place for you to continue your climbing.

If anybody has any questions, just send me an email at asktheexpat@yahoo.com or leave a comment

What to pack for a year in Korea...

Here's the question:

I know I still have a few months before my intended departure but i was just wondering what kinds of things I should start getting together to bring. I already know to bring enough deodorant lol so that is covered but like what other things are there that one might not think to bring and then wish they had? And what is the typical dress for woman both in the work place and around town. I am a tank top and jeans kinda girl and know this would not be acceptable to wear to the school but what is? And if I dressed as I do in Canada around town would I be looked at funny? Just trying to get some ideas here as what would be important to bring clothes wise and for other things too. Like how cold does it get in the winter? How heavy a jacket would i need? I know people there have smaller feet and shoes but i also dont want to weight myself down bringing lots of shoes so as a size 7/8 how hard would it be to get like a pair of runners or something there if i need them? Is it easy enough to find a converter over there or should i buy one here and bring it with me? Any help you can give would be be very useful. THANKS :D

This is actually a really great question and I want to break it down a bit more. First, let's take a look at a basic list for things you might have not thought about.
I pulled this from Jason Cresswell's recruiting website.

When packing for Korea, you will want to make sure that you have all of the essentials. Before going to Korea, a person should be armed with the knowledge of what to bring. Although it is most comfortable to travel light, there are some things that you will want to be sure you have.

Deodorant: Koreans don’t sweat the way Westerners do, so bring a year’s supply of your favorite deodorant. It is now starting to show up on some shelves, and you can find it in black markets if essential, but it will cost you over $10 apiece.

Big towels: Korean towels are generally small and it can be difficult toweling off with what we would consider a hand towel. Again, you can sometimes find them, but you will be happy to have brought one or two bath towels.

Fitted sheets: If you are a fan of fitted sheets, bring your own. Single size is best. Korean sheets are more like a thin blanket thrown over the bed. Those who enjoy their fitted sheets will find it hard to get a hold of them here.

Dental floss: You can get it at the pharmacy, but it is also over-priced because it is not well used.

Condoms: Condoms are available, but are sometimes more expensive. Some foreigners have also complained of a lack of larger sizes and poor lubrication. Plus, you can usually get them for free at your local health unit, so might as well stock up if you are planning on using them. Also, if you are using birth control pills, you should be sure to get a year’s supply before going.

Tampons: Korean women usually wear pads. Tampons are becoming available, but are less common than pads. If you have a tampon that you are comfortable using, you may want to stock up before going.

Shoes and clothes: If you are a larger or taller person, you may have a hard time finding your size. Clothes for larger people are available, but you have to spend some time searching.

Money for your first month: In Korea, you get paid by the month, not every 2 weeks. So, when you arrive, you will have to budget for your first month. Some schools give advances on pay, but you should check with your school. If you have a credit card available, that would also be helpful.

International driver’s license: You may want to drive in Korea, and it is easy to get your international driver’s license by going to your local CAA, AAA, or by contacting your department of transportation. All it takes is a photo and a form, no test required. Note that they are valid for one year.

Passport: Without one, you are not going. If you don’t already have a passport, make it your first priority. You can request a rush order, but there will be a surcharge for this.

Copies of your birth certificate and passport: In the unlikely event that you lose them, copies can speed up the process to get new ones in a foreign country.

Family pictures: Pictures will remind you of home, and may help you deal with loneliness and homesickness.

Books: The flight is long, and having books to read will help you pass the time. Also, you may want to bring a few of the books you have wanted to read with you. English books are available, but not all titles. However, there are websites that have a great selection, and deliver to Korea.

Vehicle care: You should make sure that your vehicle has the appropriate insurance if you plan to keep it. You should also decide where you are going to store it.

Razor blades and shaving cream: Korean people do not have nearly as much facial or body hair as Westerners. Therefore, razor blades and shaving cream are somewhat more expensive than in North America.

Visit family and friends: Although you will be very busy before going, take some time to enjoy being close with people whom you won’t see for a while. You won’t regret having taken time out to do so.

Spices: If you enjoy cooking and have particular spices that you like to use, consider bringing them. There are not a large variety of spices for home cooking in Korea. Koreans mainly use red pepper in most dishes.

Cigarettes: If you are a smoker and enjoy a certain brand, you may want to bring some of this brand along with you. However, it should be noted that Korean cigarettes are far cheaper than those sold in North America.

A gift for your director: Although it is not necessary, a gift for you director would get you off to a great start. Appropriate gifts would be a small bottle of whiskey for a male director, or perfume for a female director. Of course, you can be as creative as you like. This small gesture could go a long way in ensuring a good year.

Money or other items from your country: Many of the students you will teach will never have been outside of Korea. It can be fun for them to see money from another country, or pictures of you and your family. This can also help break the ice with your first class.

This section has mainly concentrated on the things that you should consider bringing that you might not have thought of on your own. There are obviously many more things that you will need to bring. We suggest making your own checklist and packing well in advance. The more prepared you are, the less stress you will feel.

That's a huge list and one that I think is a pretty good start.

And what is the typical dress for woman both in the work place and around town. I am a tank top and jeans kinda girl and know this would not be acceptable to wear to the school but what is? And if I dressed as I do in Canada around town would I be looked at funny?

Great question. You're right that wearing a tank top in school would not be appropriate, but it would be totally okay on the streets. Korean girl fashion depends on age, locale, and about a hundred other things that don't need to be extrapolated upon. Even though Korean girls are showing more and more skin these days and it is totally okay for Western women to do the same, expect to get extended glances (especially at your chest) if you choose to dress "liberally". Gusts of Popular Feeling has talked in length about the average Korean's perception of Western women.

I usually like to tell people not to over-think when packing. Most items can be found here and the ones that can't be found are only a package from home away. If you're worried about luggage weight, call your airline, tell them you're going to be staying abroad for a year or more and they will usually increase your weight allowance. Don't let packing stress you out. You're not going to camp, you're moving to another country.

If anybody has any questions, just send me an email at asktheexpat@yahoo.com or leave a comment