Immigration to South Korea

Officially known as thе Rеpublic of Korеa, South Korеa is a vibrant and tеchnologically advancеd nation locatеd on thе southеrn half of thе Korеan Pеninsula in East Asia. Bordеrеd by North Korеa to thе north, thе East Sеa to thе еast, thе Yеllow Sеa to thе wеst, and thе Korеa Strait to thе south, South Korеa’s stratеgic gеographic location has playеd a pivotal rolе in shaping its history and dеvеlopmеnt. Encompassing approximatеly 100,210 squarе kilomеtеrs, thе country еxhibits divеrsе gеographical fеaturеs, including mountainous tеrrain, plains, and a ruggеd coastlinе, with an еxpansivе sеa arеa that contributеs to its еconomic prospеrity.

South Korеa opеratеs as a prеsidеntial rеpublic with a stablе political landscapе, and its population, charactеrizеd by a strong work еthic and disciplinе, adhеrеs to Buddhism, Confucianism, and Christianity. Rich in natural rеsourcеs such as fеrtilе land, forеsts, and minеrals likе coal and tungstеn, thе nation also stands out for its tеchnological prowеss and innovation, particularly in industriеs likе еlеctronics, automotivе, and shipbuilding. Rеcognizеd globally for its cultural contributions, South Korеa is famеd for traditional arts, music, K-pop, and Korеan dramas.

Economically, South Korеa has transformеd from a war-torn statе to a high-incomе, dеvеlopеd nation, consistеntly ranking among thе world’s top 15 еconomiеs. Homе to multinational conglomеratеs likе Samsung and Hyundai, thе country’s еconomic succеss makеs it an attractivе dеstination for immigrants from divеrsе backgrounds, including China, Viеtnam, thе Philippinеs, and thе Unitеd Statеs. This dynamic nation, harmonizing tradition and modеrnity, rеmains a compеlling choicе for immigrants, providing a conducivе and culturally еnrichеd еnvironmеnt for individuals sееking opportunitiеs to livе and work in South Korеa.

Traveling information 

South Korea offers a high standard of living with low cost, that is why many, especially westerners immigrate here. It is a perfect place to retirees. Immigrants are required to show that they can afford to live in South Korea at the time to visa application process. South Korea, historically recognized for its stringent immigration policies, has adopted a point-based system to actively attract skilled foreign workers and address labor shortages. Securing a visa for South Korea, such as the F-2-7 for extended stays or the F-5 for permanent residence, involves navigating a complex process with fees payable in USD. These changes reflect South Korea’s efforts to open up to international talent while maintaining a structured immigration framework.  K-ETA (Korean Electronic Travel Authorization) is required for US citizen for short-term business or tourism purposes till December 2024. For relocating to South Korea a long-term visa is required.

How to Immigrate to South Korea

South Korea has not only become a tourist destination but also a popular destination for immigration to work and live. Expats can expect a high quality of life with reasonable cost of living, with good salaries in South Korea. A long-term Visa to stay is required if you are planning to move here for work, study or join a family member who is already in South Korea. You need to register and apply for an Alien Registration Card (ARC) at the Immigration office in South Korea. If even you do not have a job, you can still move to South Korea on a Job-Seeker Visa (D-10) under specific criteria. For more detailed visa information, please refer to visa.go.kr

People

The people of South Korea, known as Koreans, have a rich and diverse cultural heritage that spans thousands of years. Their ancestors can be traced back to the ancient Korean peninsula with influences from various East Asian civilizations. Koreans are known for their distinctive physical features, often characterized by fair skin, dark hair, and almond eyes. Their nature is characterized by a strong sense of community, respect for elders, and a deep-rooted Confucian influence on their civilization. Staple foods in South Korea include rice, vegetables, and various side dishes called banchan. Kimchi, a fermented vegetable dish, is a ubiquitous part of Korean cuisine. Traditionally, agriculture has been a major occupation, but South Korea has evolved into a technologically advanced society with a strong emphasis on industries such as electronics, automotive, and innovation. Family ties are very important in Korean culture, and filial piety is a core value. Education is highly valued and great emphasis is placed on academic achievement. Confucian principles shaped the Korean education system, emphasizing discipline and respect for authority.

The predominant religion in South Korea is a mixture of Buddhism and Confucianism, with a significant Christian minority. Traditional Korean clothing, called hanbok, is often worn for special occasions and celebrations, showcasing vibrant colors and elegant patterns. Traditional dance forms such as the fan dance reflect the country’s cultural richness.South Koreans are generally welcoming to foreigners, and the country has seen an increase in expats and immigrants. While there may be initial cultural adjustments, the overall approach is inclusive and efforts are made to integrate foreigners into society. South Korea’s global presence has led to a cosmopolitan atmosphere with diverse communities living harmoniously.

Job offers in South Korea

There is wide scope of jobs in South Korea for foreigners. If you are English Teacher with experience than opportunities open up in public, private and cram schools and other institutions in Korea. For non-teaching jobs the F-series visa is helpful, which allows you to work for companies that lists jobs openings. If you are a graduate from and Korean university, your chances to get a job here is broad. Having a qualification of the job requirement, along with knowledge of the Korean culture and speaking the Korean language increases the chance to get a job. Another way is to look for companies in your own country, which has branches in South Korea. Few years of experience in a certain job that you are applying for, is certainly a priority that is looked upon in a job in Korea.

There are job fairs organized in South Korea every year during Autumn season for foreign residents and international students. This is certainly the best and easy way to get a specific job. Social networking and job portals are other good source of getting jobs in South Korea. Here are a few links for you to find out job listings in South Korea: jobkorea.co.kr ; saramin.co.kr ; seoul.craigslist.co.kr

Foreigners and expats have various job opportunities in 2024, however the type of work and duration of the stay in Korea depends on the Visa type. Mostly it depends on the residential qualifications of the visa type. The visas are divided into categories that either allow or disallow foreigners to work in South Korea. To know the different types of employment visas, please visit: english.seoul.go.kr

People

The people of South Korea, known as Koreans, have a rich and diverse cultural heritage that spans thousands of years. Their ancestors can be traced back to the ancient Korean peninsula with influences from various East Asian civilizations. Koreans are known for their distinctive physical features, often characterized by fair skin, dark hair, and almond eyes. Their nature is characterized by a strong sense of community, respect for elders, and a deep-rooted Confucian influence on their civilization. Staple foods in South Korea include rice, vegetables, and various side dishes called banchan. Kimchi, a fermented vegetable dish, is a ubiquitous part of Korean cuisine. Traditionally, agriculture has been a major occupation, but South Korea has evolved into a technologically advanced society with a strong emphasis on industries such as electronics, automotive, and innovation. Family ties are very important in Korean culture, and filial piety is a core value. Education is highly valued and great emphasis is placed on academic achievement. Confucian principles shaped the Korean education system, emphasizing discipline and respect for authority.

The predominant religion in South Korea is a mixture of Buddhism and Confucianism, with a significant Christian minority. Traditional Korean clothing, called hanbok, is often worn for special occasions and celebrations, showcasing vibrant colors and elegant patterns. Traditional dance forms such as the fan dance reflect the country’s cultural richness.South Koreans are generally welcoming to foreigners, and the country has seen an increase in expats and immigrants. While there may be initial cultural adjustments, the overall approach is inclusive and efforts are made to integrate foreigners into society. South Korea’s global presence has led to a cosmopolitan atmosphere with diverse communities living harmoniously.

Languages 

South Koreans speak a language called Korean, which is unique and has a long history. Korean is in its own language family, so it doesn’t have close relatives with other languages. They use a writing system called Hangul, created in the 15th century by King Sejong the Great. Hangul is known for its organized design, where each character represents a specific sound. The Korean language consists of 14 basic consonants and 10 basic vowels. The language has changed over time, and today, South Koreans use a standard version. Korean is special because it adds extra parts (prefixes and suffixes) to a main word to create meaning, making it an agglutinative language. This language is crucial for South Koreans as it helps express their culture, history, and identity. 

English is taught as a second language in South Korea, and many South Koreans study English as part of their education. English proficiency varies among individuals, and while not everyone in South Korea is fluent in English, you can often find people, especially in urban areas and among the younger population, who can communicate in English to some extent. In major cities, you may also find signs and information in English, particularly in areas frequented by tourists. Additionally, there are English language schools and programs aimed at improving language skills in South Korea. In addition to English, there may be speakers of languages from various expatriate communities and ethnic groups living in South Korea. Some people may speak Chinese, Japanese, Vietnamese, Tagalog, and other languages depending on their background and community affiliations.

Job offers in South Korea

There is wide scope of jobs in South Korea for foreigners. If you are English Teacher with experience than opportunities open up in public, private and cram schools and other institutions in Korea. For non-teaching jobs the F-series visa is helpful, which allows you to work for companies that lists jobs openings. If you are a graduate from and Korean university, your chances to get a job here is broad. Having a qualification of the job requirement, along with knowledge of the Korean culture and speaking the Korean language increases the chance to get a job. Another way is to look for companies in your own country, which has branches in South Korea. Few years of experience in a certain job that you are applying for, is certainly a priority that is looked upon in a job in Korea.

There are job fairs organized in South Korea every year during Autumn season for foreign residents and international students. This is certainly the best and easy way to get a specific job. Social networking and job portals are other good source of getting jobs in South Korea. Here are a few links for you to find out job listings in South Korea: jobkorea.co.kr ; saramin.co.kr ; seoul.craigslist.co.kr

Foreigners and expats have various job opportunities in 2024, however the type of work and duration of the stay in Korea depends on the Visa type. Mostly it depends on the residential qualifications of the visa type. The visas are divided into categories that either allow or disallow foreigners to work in South Korea. To know the different types of employment visas, please visit: english.seoul.go.kr

Education

South Korea’s education system is known for its high standards and rigorous curriculum. Basic education consists of six years of elementary school, followed by three years of middle school and three years of high school. Education is compulsory through middle school, with a strong focus on core subjects like math, science, and language.

For international students and children of expats, South Korea offers a range of international schools, which teach in English and follow curricula like the International Baccalaureate (IB) or American and British systems. Universities, such as Seoul National University and Korea University, are also welcoming to international students, offering English-language programs and scholarships to attract global talent. The South Korean government supports the integration of foreign students, making it easier for expat families to find suitable education options.

Homeschooling in South Korea: 

• Homeschooling is legal in South Korea but not officially recognized by the government.
• It’s rarely practiced, with few children homeschooled each year.
• Most families opt for homeschooling due to dissatisfaction with the school system or a preference for alternative education.
• Homeschooled children must still take exams to receive formal accreditation.
• Homeschooling is much less common compared to other countries.

Unemployment Rate

As of August 2024, South Korea’s unemployment rate was 2.4%, a slight decrease from 2.5% in July. This represents one of the lowest unemployment rates in the past year, reflecting a drop in the number of unemployed individuals to 564,000. Additionally, the number of employed people reached 28.8 million, indicating a steady job market growth​. For the current and detailed information on the unemployment rate in South Korea, please visit: tradingeconomics.com

Economy of South Korea

South Korea, the fourth-largest economy in Asia, is poised for a significant economic shift in 2024. This year South Korea faces both opportunities and challenges, including global trade uncertainties, technological innovation, and changing labor dynamics. The economy of South Korea thrives on technology, manufacturing, services, and automotive industries, with major companies like Samsung, Hyundai and LG playing crucial roles.  In 2024, South Korea leads in AI, 5G and robotics due to strong research and development investments. However, its heavy reliance on international trade, especially with China, the U.S., and Japan, makes it vulnerable to global shifts.

Exports remain a cornerstone of South Korea’s economy, contributing to approximately 40% of the country’s GDP.  In 2023, South Korea exported goods worth $683 billion approximately. South Korea exports more than it imports, strengthening its economy and global position. South Korea is the largest exporter of semiconductors, which are crucial components in electronics such as smartphones, computers, and other digital devices. The key buyers are US, China Hong Kong and Vietnam.

Other major exports of South Korea are:

• Automobiles – Hyundai and Kia dominate South Korea’s automobile export sector. The main markets for automobiles are Germany, US, Australia and Russia.
• Petrochemical Products – Refined oil products, plastics and chemical-based materials to China, Singapore, Japan and the United States.
• Consumer Electronics – Smartphones, TVs and household appliances of Samsung and LG brands exported to major countries including US, Germany, Vietnam and China.

The other exports include ships, tankers, and container vessels, steel and Iron products, display panels (LCD, OLED) for smartphones, televisions and monitors.

Foreign direct investment (FDI) plays a crucial role in the growth of the economy of South Korea. In 2024, the country remains an attractive destination for global investors due to its stable political environment, advanced infrastructure, and highly skilled workforce. To get the detailed information on the economy of South Korea, visit: kostat.go.kr

Renting and buying of real estate for foreigner’s        

Buying: 

Foreigners and Immigrants can buy property, including apartments in South Korea. The property ownership laws for foreigners for residential and commercial properties are relatively liberal. 

Who can buy property or real estate in South Korea? 

• Residents and non-resident foreigners whether residing in Korea or abroad can invest in property however requirements and tax may differ.
• Foreign companies or corporates registered outside South Korean.
• Immigrants and Residents residing in South Korea, whether for work, study or other purpose.

What is the procedure of buying property in South Korea? 

• Hire a licensed real estate agent familiar with transactions involving foreigners
• Search property online or through real estate agent that suits you.
• Ensure property has a clean title with no outstanding debts or liens.
• Submit and price offer to the seller.
• Once the deal is fixed, sign the purchase contract which must include all necessary details like the price, payment terms and property specifications etc. Typically, a 10% deposit is required at this point. The contract is usually in Korean language.
• If the desired land is in the military zones and greenbelt areas, then approval from the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport is required.
• Complete the report of Real Estate Acquisition by Foreign National form.
• Once the payment is made to the seller the property ownership must be registered with the Real Estate Registry Office, promptly. 

Documents required to buy a property in South Korea 

• Non-resident foreigners or short-term visitors need to submit a passport for identification purpose. Long-term resident must obtain an Alien Registration Card (ARC) from the local immigration office for identification purpose.
• Sales Contract signed by both the buyer and seller.
• Bank statements of proofs of funds to show that you can afford the property.
• Power of Attorney for someone who is acting on your behalf if you are not personally present in South Korea.
• Property Registration Form
• Tax Payment Receipts
• Additional approvals (if required) e.g. permits needed for special zones. 

Foreign buyers are subjected to Acquisition tax which is around 1% to 3% of the purchase price. Registration tax is approximately 0.2% to 0.8% of the property value. Apart from this Value-Added Tax (VAT) and annual property tax based on the assessed value. Buying a property does not automatically grant you residency in South Korea. However, some investment programs may offer visas if the investment is substantial. Additional some local or International banks with branches in South Korea offer mortgage services to foreigners in South Korea.

Renting:

There are basically two types of rental systems in South Korea. The Jeonse (Key Money Deposit) and the Wolse (Monthly Rent) systems. 

• Jeonse (Key Money Deposit) – In this system, the tenant pays a large deposit (50-80%) of the property’s value to the landlord for about two years, with no monthly rent. After the lease, the full deposit is returned. This system is very popular in South Korea because there are no monthly payments, and the landlord can invest the deposit. 

• Wolse (Monthly Rent) – This is the traditional system where tenants pay a smaller deposit (10 -20%) and monthly rent. It’s similar to renting in most countries and is more suitable for foreigners who cannot pay large deposits for Jeonse. 

Types of rental apartments: 

• Apartments– Suitable for large families located in high-rise buildings or apartment complexes. For people looking for more space.
• Officetels – Studio-style, smaller units often in high-rise buildings. Popular choice for single occupants or couple. Mix of residential and commercial space.
• Villas – Low-rise, spacious, Cheaper with few amenities 

Steps to Renting a Property: 

• Find a Real Estate Agent: Real estate agents, known as Budongsan in Korean, are crucial in the rental process. They help navigate the language barrier, find properties, and negotiate terms. There are many English-speaking agents, especially in cities like Seoul.
• Viewing Properties: After contacting an agent, you’ll typically visit multiple properties that fit your budget and preferences. Consider factors like proximity to public transportation, local amenities, and apartment conditions.
• Negotiating Terms: Rental prices and deposits are often negotiable, particularly in Jeonse agreements. Be prepared to discuss the amount of key money and, in the case of Wolse, the monthly rent.
• Signing the Contract: Once terms are agreed upon, a lease contract is drawn up. Contracts in South Korea are typically for two years, though shorter leases may be negotiated. Contracts will be in Korean, so it’s crucial to have an agent or a trusted translator review it. Ensure the landlord registers your lease with the local government to protect your deposit. 

The following documents are needed to rent a property in South Korea: 

• Alien Registration Card (ARC): If you’re a foreigner living in South Korea, an ARC serves as your identification card in Korea.
• Bank Statements: Especially for Jeonse, landlords may request proof of funds.
• Employment Contract: This is sometimes required to show proof of income.

You can hire a real estate agent who can help you negotiate the price, terms and even find properties for you. An agent is known as “Budongsan” in Korean. English-speaking agents are also available especially in big cities like Seoul. The rental prices and deposits are mostly negotiable, particularly in Jeonse agreements. Rental agreements are typically for two years. If required for lesser period than it has to be negotiated. The contract will be in Korean language, so have a trusted translator or agent review it with you. The landlord must also register your lease with the local government office so that your deposit is protected. 

Apart from the rental charges, maintenance Fees are charged in apartment complexes, which cover communal areas, security, and sometimes heating. the fees vary depending on the building. Tenants are responsible for paying utilities, such as gas, internet, cable TV, electricity, and water etc. Popular areas for expats include Itaewon, Hannam-dong, and Gangnam in Seoul. These areas have more international services and English-speaking communities.

Climate 

South Korea experiences temperate climate characterized by four distinct seasons: spring, summer, autumn and winter. 

• Spring (April to June) – Mostly dry and clear
• Summer (July to August) – Hot and Humid, with heavy rainfall and a high risk of typhoons. August is the warmest month. Humidity is highest in July
• Autumn (September to November) – Low rainfall and beautiful surroundings with maple trees in full bloom
• Winter (December to March) – Cold and Dry with average temperature around 0.6 degrees Celsius. January is the coldest month.

January is the snowiest month in South Korea with an average of 5.5 snow days and over 13 centimeters of snowfall. December and February also experience snow. Gangwon-do province and Seoul receives the more snowfall. To get the detailed information of the climate in South Korea, visit: climatestotravel.com

Traffic 

Driving is generally safe in South Korea as the roads are well-kept. Traffic in some cities like Seoul is congested. The following are the standard traffic rules and regulations in South Korea: 

• Traffic operates on the right-hand side of the road
• Seat Belt is compulsory
• Use of mobiles phones while driving is strictly prohibited. Hands free can be used.
• Drink and drive is not allowed. The legal BAC (blood alcohol concentration) limit is 0.03%
• Speed Limits: Highways (100-120 km/hr.)
  • Open Roads (80 km/hr.)
  • City Roads (60 km/hr.)

Tourists and immigrants need a valid international driving permit (IDP) and local driver’s license to drive in South Korea. International driver’s license holders must have a valid passport. Tourists can rent a car in South Korea. The minimum age to rent a car is 21 years and must have at least 1 year driving experience. The mode of payment and deposits for car rentals is by credit card.

It is always good the know the emergencies numbers & save on your mobile. For police its 112, for Fire services and ambulance services its 119.

Currency 

The South Korean official currency is called the (KRW) since 1962. The symbol is ₩. The South Korean Won (₩) is issued by the Bank of Korea, the country’s central bank. 

The currency is available in banknotes in the following denominations:
₩50,000, ₩10,000, ₩5,000 and ₩1,000.

The currency is available in coins in the following denominations:
₩500, ₩100, ₩50 and ₩10.

The South Korean Won’s strength fluctuates against major currencies like the USD and EURO, but it is generally considered moderately strong, with ₩1,000 being equivalent approximately to $0.75 USD. The banknotes have images of prominent Korean historical figures, such as King Sejong on the ₩10,000 and the philosopher Yi Hwang on the ₩1,000 note.

Payment Methods 

From Cash to contactless options, a wide range of payment methods are accepted in south Korea. Visa, MasterCard and American Express are commonly used in hotels, restaurants and larger stores. Cards like KEB Hana or Shinhan Bank are used and accepted in smaller businesses. 

The popular and best payment options for tourists visiting South Korea are: 

• Credit and Debit Cards – Used for major purchases and is widely accepted throughout South Korea.
• T-Money Card and Cashbee Cards – Essential for public transportation (subways, buses and taxies) and small purchases (stores, vending machines). These cards can be purchased and reloaded at convenience stores like 7-Eleven, CU, and GS25.
• Cash – It is good to always have cash on hand for smaller shops and in rural areas.
• Alipay and WeChat Pay – Some major retailers and tourist spots in South Korea accept Alipay and WeChat Pay, making it easier for Chinese tourists.

The popular and best payment options for Immigrants residing in South Korea are: 

• KakaoPay/Naver Pay – Once you open a local bank account in South Korea, these payment options will simplify daily transactions. These apps allow users to make payments using QR codes at retail locations, restaurants and cafes. 

• Direct Bank Transfers (Hwaebalgeum) – Useful for paying bills and making online shopping purchases once you can a local bank account.

For tourists visiting South Korea, it is advisable to inform your bank of your travel plans to avoid any payment blocks and ensure that your Credit/Debit card has no international transaction fees. ATMs are conveniently placed at popular places, however before using ensure that the ATM accepts foreign cards. Currency exchange services are also places in airports, banks and currency exchange booths at major tourist’s locations such as Myeongdong. Compare the exchange rates before exchanging money.

Cost of living in South Korea

South Korea offers a balance between affordability and high quality of life. The cost of living varies depending on many factors like region, city or the choices you make. Therefore, the cost of living in South Korea depends on how you as a tourist or immigrant understand these variations and make good choices in the following areas: 

• Housing and Rent – Seoul, the capital city has the highest rental cost. Affordable housing options are available in Incheon, Busan, Daejeon and Suwon. Cities like Daegu and Guwangju have much lower costs. Living outside of Seoul, such as in Gyeonggi Province, can further reduce living costs. There is affordable public transit to Seoul from these locations. 

• Food and Groceries – Traditional Korean food from local markets or smaller restaurants (known as shikdangs) is reasonably priced, while international or fine dining can be costly. Immigrants and tourists can save by shopping at local grocery stores like Lotte Mart, E-Mart and Homeplus or visiting traditional markets like Gwangjang Market in Seoul for fresh produce and ingredients at lower prices. 

• Transportation – The public transportation system in South Korea is very efficient and cost-effective, especially with a T-Money Card for buses, subways, and taxis. 

To find the current cost of daily products and other important necessities living in South Korea, please visit: expatistan.com

Apartment rent 

In major cities like Seoul, the apartment rent with 1 one-bedroom in a central area can be as high as 1 million KRW/per month. In smaller cities like Busan or Incheon, the rents are generally lower and best options for immigrants and students. The average rents for different types of housing in South Korea are:  

One-room Apartments:

• Monthly Rent – ₩400,000 – ₩900,000
• Single room units for individuals available in areas outside central Seoul

Two-room Apartments:

• Monthly Rent – ₩900,000 – ₩1,800,000
• Larger rooms suitable for couples or small families available in city centers

Three-bedroom Apartments:

• Monthly Rent – ₩2,000,000 – ₩5,000,000
• More spacious rooms suitable for families available in suburban or smaller cities

Officetel (Studio Apartments):

• Monthly Rent – ₩500,000 – ₩1,200,000
• Compact, self-contained units that combines living and office space, available in urban areas. Ideally for young professionals and immigrants

Websites like Zigbang and Dabang are popular plateforms for finding available apartments, making it easier for immigrants to compare prices and housing options. Kindly refer to the “Renting” under the Renting and buying of real estate for foreigner’s for more technical information on how to rent property in South Korea.

Taxes 

The following types of taxes are applicable in South Korea that immigrants must be aware of:

Income Tax:

• The income tax applies to both residents and non-residents who are earning income within South Korea
• Tax rates range from 6% to 45% depending on income levels
• Immigrants working in the country are required to file annual tax returns.

Value-Added Tax (VAT):

• The VAT is sat at 10% and applied to mostly goods and services
• Tourists can claim a VAT refund on eligible purchases when leaving South Korea

Property Tax:

• Relevant for immigrants who own property in south Korea
• Calculated based on the value of owned property

Capital Gains Tax:

• Applies to the sale of property or investments
• Can affect immigrants who buy and sell property during their stay

Health Insurance

South Korea has a robust healthcare system, primarily based on National Health Insurance (NHI), which provides universal coverage for all citizens and legal residents, including immigrants. It covers services like doctor visits, hospital stays, prescriptions, and preventive care. Immigrants with a valid visa who stay for over six months must enroll in NHI and pay monthly fees based on their income. For employees, the premium is typically around 3-4% of their salary, with the employer covering half of the cost. For self-employed individuals or those without a company sponsored plan, premiums are calculated based on income and property. Certain treatments are not fully covered or excluded entirely in NHI like cosmetic surgery, laser eye surgery(LASIK), dental implants & certain types of orthodontics, alternative medical treatments like acupuncture etc. 

The medical doctors and professionals are highly qualified in South Korea. The medical professionals are required to complete extensive training, including medical schools, internships and residencies. South Korea is recognized for its medical advancements especially in areas like plastic surgery, cancer treatment and robotic surgery. 

However, private health insurance is also available and popular among foreigners and immigrants for additional coverage. They mostly cover everything and have quicker access to specialists. Some well-known private insurance providers for foreigners include Samsung Fire & Marine Insurance, DB Insurance and Lina Korea. Overall, the healthcare system in South Korea is efficient and provides a high standard of care for both locals and expatriates.

Summary 

South Korea is located in East Asia, sharing a border with North Korea and surrounded by China and Japan. South Korea’s economy is a highly developed, export-driven system, excelling in technology, manufacturing, and global trade, led by major companies like Samsung, Hyundai and LG. It is the 10^th largest economy in the world. Politically, South Korea is a democratic republic with close ties with Western nations, particularly the U.S. It is known for achievements in technology, K-pop, beauty products and medical advancements, attracting international attention. South Koreans are generally respectful and welcoming to expats, though adapting to the culture and language can be challenging. Immigrants have increased in South Korea due to labor shortages, especially in manufacturing and agriculture. In 2023, there were over 2.5 million foreign nationals living in South Korea.