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South Korea
South Korea is rich in culture and traditions, with influences from both China and Japan. The country has four distinctive seasons and boasts varied areas of scenic attractions and buzzing festivities throughout the year. Getting around South Korea is efficient and easy with the country's excellent public transport systems.
Country profile of Republic of Korea.
Planning your studies in South Korea
Up to 80 per cent of all Korean institutes in higher education are private, however all institutes whether public or private come under the supervision of the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology.
Links to South Korea Government websites
Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade
Governments on the WWW Korea (Republic)
Ministry of Education, Science and Technology
Ministry of Sports, Culture and Touris
South Korea embassy and consulates in Australia
Embassy of the Republic of Korea
Address: 113 Empire Circuit, Yarralumla ACT 2600, Australia
Phone: (61 2) 6270-4100
Fax: (61 2) 6273-4839
Website: http://www.korea.org.au/
Email: info@korea.org.au
Office hours: Mon-Fri : 09:00-12:00, 14:00-17:00
Consulate General in Sydney
Address: Level 13, 111 Elizabeth St Sydney NSW 2000 Australia
Phone: 61-2-9210-0200
Fax: 61-2-9210-0202
Email: consyd@mofat.go.kr
Australian embassy in South Korea
Address: 11th Fl, Kyobo Building, 1 Jogno 1-Ga, Jongno- Gu, Seoul
Postal: KPO Box 562, Seoul 110-605,
Korea
Phone: 02 2003 0100
Fax: 02 722 9264
Website: http://www.southkorea.embassy.gov.au/seol/home.html
Website (education): www.studyinaustralia.gov.au/korea Email: (general enquiries) seoul-inform@dfat.gov.au
Office hours: Mon-Fri: 09:00- 12:30, 13.30-17:00
Other contacts and links
This site provides a gateway to Korea's traditions, culture and life. Students can get an overview of the country and updated news of current affairs, events and activities. The site also contains a useful and comprehensive page for learning the Korean language. http://www.korea.net/
Visit Korea provides useful facts and information about Korea including tips and advice. Viewers may use this site as a guide to living, working and studying in Korea.
Hi-Seoul the official homepage of the Seoul Metropolitan
Korean Educational Development Institute: aims to be a world class research institute for educational policy and development. Its mission is to conduct excellent research programs with professional accountability and to benefit society through the research results. Students, using this site, may find information on Korea's education system, research projects in a number of fields, and access statistics for research.
The aim of the Seoul Global Centre is to make Seoul the global hub environment which attracts investment, capital, information and people from across the world. The site provides information on living and working in Seoul and various activities for foreigners.
Korea E-government is an online guide for government activity in South Korea. The site gives general information regarding Korea's economic and finance, military affairs, science and technology, crime, law, justice and rights, education and the environment.
English Program in Korea- EPIK seeks to enhance English communicative skills of Korean students and teachers. Other aims of the program include developing cultural exchanges, and to reform teaching methodologies in Korea. More information, pictures, application form and job description can be found on the EPIK website.
Students may find HanStyle useful information on Hanguel (Korean language), Hansik (Korean style food), Hanbok (traditional Korean clothes), Hanok (Korean traditional style house), Hanji (Korean paper), and Hanguk Eumak (Korean traditional music).
ePeople is an online portal system that integrates petition, proposal, and policy discussion services operated by 303 governmental organisations including central administrative organisations, local autonomous bodies and public institutions. Its main function is to be the single online service made for the concerns of people.
The History Foundation aims to promote an understanding of history through comprehensive long-term research and systematic and strategic policy development. Through this site, students may access research documents and publications on Korea's history and be updated with news and contemporary issues.
Cheong Wa Dae contains information detailing current news and affairs about South Korea's President. The President's Speeches and press releases are also published on the website for public view.
Students using this site can learn about Korea's current and previous Prime Ministers. Activities of the Prime Minister are posted on The Prime Minister's Office website for public view including press releases and imaging. Students can also learn about Korea's Constitution and the office's functions.
One stop source of information on Korea for foreigners. Visit Koreaacts as an online directory.
Seoul Metro has information regarding fares, timetables, tourism etc.
Visit Korea has information on how to purchase T-Card or train ticket. Site includes Seoul's subway map for reference.
Tertiary studies in South Korea
The Korean government recognises the importance of education and offers numerous scholarship programs to support international students to cover their tuition and board as well as employment assistance.
Ministry of Education, Science and Technology provides comprehensive overview of Korea's tertiary education system:
Korea.net – For more general background information on Korea's education system:
Fees and funding
For information regarding fees and funding visit the Study in Korea website.
Scholarships
Many universities offer a number of scholarships for foreign students. Depending on student's academic achievements, the funding may cover from 30%- 100% of the tuition costs. For more information on individual scholarships offered, students should contact the admissions staff at their chosen university or the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology.
Korean Government Scholarship Program for Undergraduate Students- Ministry of Education, Science and Technology Arts Major Asian (AMA) Scholarship- Ministry of Culture, Sports & Tourism
Graduate Studies Fellowship for Foreign Students in Korea- Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade. Korean Language Training Fellowship- Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade. The International Scholar Exchange Fellowship- Korea Foundation for Advanced Studies. Scholarship for Students from Abroad- Korea Scholarship Foundation for Future Leaders. At present, universities with an interest in internationalising university education are conducting about 30% of their classes in English. The proportion of classes conducted in English is higher in graduate schools than in undergraduate studies. Some universities have established international faculties in which all the courses are taught in English. Study in Korea provides an extensive list of universities in South Korea. Students can enter a search for a suitable university that is a national or private university, preferred location, scholarships, dormitory options, and major options. The purpose of colleges is to produce mid- level technicians through practical learning so that graduates can contribute to national development through their specialised fields. Visit the Study in Korea website for more information.Studying in English
List of and links to universities in South Korea
List of and links to VET or technical colleges in South Korea
Living in South Korea
Costs and Budgeting
Costs in Seoul are relatively high, especially for university students who may be on a tight budget.
For students on-campus living is the most favoured option because of discounted services. Depending on the area, size and facilities, dormitories usually costs between A$100-$200 per month without food costs. Other options include boarding houses, officetels, apartments, and one- room rentals. Costs vary depending on student's circumstances and location.
Depending on student's location and accommodation internet usage costs about A$30 per month.
Visa and entry
After an international student has received acceptance from an educational institution in Korea they must obtain a student visa. The type of visa depends on a student’s circumstances and study program. Contact the Embassy of the Republic of Korea in Canberra or the Consulate General in Sydney.
Students are required to visit the Immigration Office for latest visa entry requirements.
Managing and accessing money – banking
Money can be obtained conveniently through banks and ATMs via use of an Australian bank card or global credit card; however, costs per transaction can be as high as A$14.60.
If a student wishes to set up a local bank account I.D documents and a passport are required upon request. Students should check with their selected Korean local bank for further requirements on a new account. Foreign account holders receive debit cards different to those issued to local Koreans. However, they work the same and the transaction summary will be in English. Cards with Plus and Cirrus logos are the easiest to use and most widely accepted in Korea.
Korea has both national and local taxes. Value added tax is payable on processed foods, luxury items, restaurant bills over a certain value, and in hotels. Tax is set at 10% on the bill.
Accommodation
For students lodging at university dormitories is most convenient. Universities provide help to students in finding accommodation and understanding contract conditions. Students are advised to find suitable accommodation before leaving their country. Any changes for permanent accommodation can be made after arrival in Korea.
For more information on residential types visit Study Korea/.
Budget options (temporary). Visit Korea includes list of youth hostels.
Health care and insurance
Emergency numbers are 112 for the police, 119 for the fire department, or 1339 for medical emergencies
International students must purchase health insurance at the National Health Insurance Corporation (NHIC) in person in order to be eligible for medical benefits in Korea. Health insurance covers medical services at an affordable price and all hospitals in Korea accept health insurance provided by the NHIC. Students should check with NHIC for further requirements on the insurance policy.
MRS is a 24-hour Medical Referral Service which can be accessed by dialling 010-4769-8212 or 010-8750-8212. Emergency calls are available 20:00 to 08:00. The calls are taken by medically trained, English speaking and Korean volunteers. International clinics are available at large general hospitals including: Severance
National Health Insurance Corporation
Conditions regarding Working in South Korea
Foreign students are entitled to work in Korea so long as the work does not go beyond student status. Eligibility for work requires the student to have studied more than six months at college or higher level educational institution and has received recommendation from a professor at an affiliated university. Students must also have I.D documents and a D-2 visa.
Students on a D-2 visa can conduct work in areas related to their major or work involving translation or interpreting. Students may work up to a maximum of 20 hours per week during semester time and unlimited hours during student's school vacation. For further information, students should refer to the related websites.
Hi Korea: E-government for foreigners.