Your Essential Guide to Moving in Korea

Embarking on a journey: Moving in South Korea

Living in South Korea offers a unique experience, with its sprawling cities and intricate alleyways. It’s crucial to familiarize yourself with its diverse terrains, from bustling city streets to serene countryside roads, especially when moving within major cities such as Seoul, Busan, and Daegu, which embody both modern and traditional lifestyles

What are the Essential Requirements for Moving in South Korea?

For those planning on moving within Seoul or any part of South Korea, specific documents need to be in place:

• Alien Registration Card: A card proving your legal residence in Korea.
• Proof of New Address: Usually a rental contract or purchase agreement of your new home in Seoul or other parts of Korea.
• Visa Documentation: While not always required, some moving companies might ask for it to ensure a smooth transition.

When moving in South Korea, it is imperative to update your address with various entities to ensure a seamless transition:

※Address Updates: A Must-Do Task

When a foreigner who has registered as a foreigner changes his/ her place of residence, he/ she must report the change to the head of the city, county or gu, the community service center, or the immigration office that has jurisdiction over the place of residence within 14 days of the move. This civil service entails changing the place of residence indicated on the alien registration card of the foreigner reporting the change.

• Community Service Center: Reporting your change of address with the community service center and obtaining a confirmation date should be a top priority to ensure accurate records and protect your deposits
• District(Gu) office: Make sure to visit the district(Gu) office that corresponds to your address and update your address on your Alien Registration Card to keep the records up-to-date
• Utilities: Make sure to notify the utilities to update them under your name to avoid any unpaid bills from the previous tenant
• Bank: Contact your bank to update your address details. This not only facilitates seamless banking operations but also helps in receiving any bank communications without fail.
• National Health Insurance Service (NHIS): Keeping the NHIS updated with your current address is vital to continue availing of the health services without any disruptions, ensuring you have access to healthcare facilities in your new locality.

Guide to Moving in South Korea: Application and Processes

Before settling on a moving company for your relocation within Seoul or any part of South Korea, consider the following steps to choose a service that meets your expectations:

• Initial Survey: A qualified representative will conduct an assessment to gauge both the quantity and types of items you intend to move. This can be executed either in-person or via a virtual meeting, depending on your preference.
• Quotation: After the survey, you will receive a comprehensive quote that provides a detailed breakdown of the anticipated costs for your move.
• Date and Time Scheduling: Finally, you’ll need to select a specific moving date and time. It’s advantageous to note that weekdays are generally more cost-effective than weekends.

Packing Materials for Moving in South Korea

One of the essential aspects of moving is securing reliable packing materials. Here are some suggestions to get the best boxes for your move:

• Local Post Office: For those who prefer cardboard boxes, you can purchase them from the local post office, as they offer heavy-duty options that are trusted for securely shipping heavy items
• Local convenience stores or supermarkets: Many supermarkets and convenience stores offer a wide range of free cardboard boxes suitable for moving. It’s a reliable place to find boxes that can cater to your specific needs
• Moving company: The moving company may offer reusable plastic corrugated boxes. Be sure to inquire about this option when receiving quotes from them.

Costs & Equipment for Moving in South Korea

When moving in South Korea, you need to consider the following:

• Costs: The price is influenced by factors such as distance, the number of goods, and additional services like a ladder truck. On average a move within Seoul can range from ₩300,000 for a single room to ₩2,500,000 for a family house.
• Equipment: Professional moving companies offer boxes, tapes, bubble wraps, and specialized gear for fragile items. Some may charge extra for premium packing materials.

Moving in South Korea: A Seamless Transition

Moving in South Korea is more than just shifting belongings; it’s about transitioning to new experiences. With the right knowledge and partners, this journey can be as enriching as it is efficient. 

ThxKorea can assist you in finding a reliable moving company, reporting your new address at the community service center, setting up utilities, and making your move in South Korea a breeze.
With ThxKorea’s assistance, you can focus on settling into your new home comfortably.