Setting Up Utilities
In most Korean rentals, utilities are paid separately from rent. Here is what you need to set up when moving in.
Electricity
Provider: Korea Electric Power Corporation (KEPCO). Rates use a tiered system โ the more you use, the higher the per-unit cost. Bills are sent monthly. Summer AC usage can spike your bill significantly.
Website: kepco.co.kr โ Customer service: 123
Gas
City gas is used for cooking and heating (ondol floor heating). Your local gas company depends on your district. Bills arrive monthly. When moving in, call the gas company to activate the meter. When moving out, schedule a meter reading to settle the final bill.
Never go to sleep with the gas boiler running in a closed room without ventilation. Carbon monoxide poisoning from boilers is a serious risk in Korea during winter.
Water
Managed by your local district (gu) office. Bills are bimonthly. Tap water in Korea is treated and safe by regulatory standards, but most Koreans use water purifiers or drink bottled water.
Internet and TV
Korea has among the fastest internet in the world. Major providers: KT, SK Broadband, LG U+. Typical contracts are 1-3 years. Bundle internet + TV + phone for discounts. Installation usually takes 1-3 days after subscription.
Waste Disposal (Trash)
Korea has a strict recycling and waste separation system:
- General waste โ Must use paid trash bags (์ข ๋์ ๋ดํฌ) purchased at convenience stores or supermarkets. Prices vary by size and district.
- Recyclables โ Separate into plastic, paper, glass, cans, and styrofoam. Free disposal on designated days.
- Food waste โ Use designated food waste bags or bins. Some apartments use weight-based RFID bins.
- Large items โ Furniture, appliances. Must purchase a disposal sticker from your gu office or online before leaving the item outside.
Improper waste disposal can result in fines. Ask your building manager or neighbors about the schedule and rules for your area.
Moving Services
Professional moving companies (์ด์ฌ ์ ์ฒด) are widely used. Prices depend on distance and volume. Get quotes from at least 2-3 companies. Many offer package deals that include packing and unpacking.
Search for movers at: ์ด์ฌ๋ชจ์ (isamoa.net) or ์ง์ธ (zimssa.com).
Utility procedures and rates vary by district. Contact your local gu office or building management for specific details.