We get many emails from members who just found out they will PCS to South Korea. They have months left, but people often get scared to live abroad just thinking about it. That is why we are here to help. Here are a few things know about Korean housing and Korean life.
Take Off Your Shoes
As you already know, many Asian countries have the same tradition. Unlike the States, the carpeted apartment is not typical in South Korea. Walking with shoes can cause noise problems to a downstairs neighbor. Therefore, let's try use to take off your shoes before you go inside the room when you live in South Korea.
Combined Appliances
There are two things that Korean can live without it. One is an oven, and the other is a dryer. South Korea is a small country, so we are used to utilizing spaces. That is why we made appliances like a combined oven/microwave and combined washer/dryer. Many units around Osan AB have these appliances. If you need a separate dryer or microwave, please ask your realtor.
Floor Heating
This is something you will fall in love with South Korea. Unlike heating the air in the State, we heat the floor. The heated floor will warm up the air, and eventually, the entire house will get hot. You can also earn many benefits from a heated floor since this does not dry the air.
Article : Ondol: Korean Traditional Heating System
No Shower Curtain
This topic is something most of my members asked me. Where is a shower curtain, or where do I hang a shower curtain? Well, I always showed them a drain outside a shower area. Most Korean households use slippers inside the bathroom. Korean bathroom is not separate between the shower and toilet area. Therefore, the floor can be wet everywhere. However, the pro is you can clean your bathroom very easily.
Good Bye Heavy Keychain
In Korea, you never have to carry a heavy key chain as long as you can remember a minimum of 4 digit numbers. The most of apartment's entrance systems & unit door systems are digitalized. The system is evolving to scan your fingerprint or retina for security purposes. But, no matter what you don't have to carry your key. Once you close your apartment door, you will be missing something for a while since your key is not in your pocket but your head. However, it will eventually get used to it.
Utilities are Not Included
This might be the most common question I get as a realtor. Yes, some GS or Civilian worker has an option to include their utilities in their annual rent. However, that option is only for people who pay annual rent. I do understand some of the rental apartments in the States already included utilities in your rent. It is a bit hard to do in South Korea since the gas price in Korea is higher than in the USA, and we depend on 100% imported gas here in South Korea. Therefore, please do not ask us about including utility bills when you need to pay monthly rent.
Note: Good News is if you live near Osan AB main gate area and pay the maintenance bill, your internet & cable are included. Most of the internets are between 500MB-1GB, and you can use fast wifi with a decent wifi router.
Overall, if you understand cultural differences, you can have a much better experience while you are staying here. You have an awesome chance to experience small but this great country. As we always say.. Welcome to the Land of Morning Calm.
Kim’s HSO Realty's agents Jason & Hannah are here to support you when you need us. Visit our listing and discover your dream residence nearby the Osan Airbase area. Kim's HSO Realty can proud to say we are the top CS near the Osan Air Base area, so please examine our service review from Kim’s clients. If you need our attention, please contact Kim's agents anytime thru our text or website. If you have questions about the COVID-19 policy, contact us.