What should I pack when moving to Korea?

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CitizenM
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We asked people living in Korea to list three things they wish they had brought and three they wish they had left behind. They responded...

"Wished I had brought:
1. Mix packages for sauce preparation. Like Swansons for spagetti sauce, and gravy, etc. 2. Converter for 110 to 220 V. The converters purchased in Korea are not reliable. 3. Floor heaters - I only have two and it gets really cold in Korea. The utilities bill is outrageous. Using the whole house heater really runs up the bill. It would be nice just to heat the required rooms and close the door of the others. 4. More winter clothes - it gets extremely cold here and finding proper size can be difficult. 5. Bug killer bombs - when two houses in my neighborhood were demolished for rebuilding - their bugs moved to my house - ants and roaches. After living in the house for 1 year with no pest problem, I thought I would not have any bug problems. Wrong! With the tearing down of the houses, I have a constant battle. I just wish I could let off a couple of bug bombs - but I cannot find in stores - only bug spray. 6. Gardening items - most landlords expect you to take care of the yard. Finding quality mowers, rakes, brooms, shovels (for snow also), etc. is difficult and the quality may not be up to par. 7. Salting for ice on driveway, walkway, and parts of street. Despite the heavy snow fall and sheets of ice that form, the Seoul city does not clear its streets. Slipping is a constant hazard and finding salting material is near impossible. For 2 months out of the year, my walkway to my front door is a sheet of ice. Wish I'd left behind:
1. US purchased DVD's. They don't work on a Korean machine. 2. Feminine protection - tampons and pads can be found in ever Korean grocery store. 3. Dryer sheets to eliminate cling. These, and softeners, can be found in any Korean grocery store," commented one expat who made the move to Seoul, Korea.

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It's impossible to confuse citizenM with any other hotel. We don't look or sound like anyone else. Bold, vibrant, and artistic - that's us. Our rooms cater to modern travelers - enormous ultra-comfortable beds, unlimited free Wi-Fi and 24/7 food and drinks always waiting at canteenM. And best of all, our ambassadors are every guest's best friend.

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It's impossible to confuse citizenM with any other hotel. We don't look or sound like anyone else. Bold, vibrant, and artistic - that's us. Our rooms cater to modern travelers - enormous ultra-comfortable beds, unlimited free Wi-Fi and 24/7 food and drinks always waiting at canteenM. And best of all, our ambassadors are every guest's best friend.
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"When moving to Korea, it is important to pack items that will make the transition easier. Clothing for all seasons is essential, as the weather can vary greatly depending on the region. It is also important to bring any necessary medications, as well as any documents or paperwork that may be needed. Additionally, it is a good idea to bring a few items from home that will make the new home feel more familiar. Finally, it is important to bring a valid passport and any other necessary travel documents," remarked another expat in Korea.

Other Questions:

What should I pack when moving to Korea?

If you live in Korea, newcomers to Korea would love to hear your answer to this question.

If your answer relates to a specific city or town in Korea, please include the name of the city/town below:


About the Author

Betsy Burlingame Betsy Burlingame is one of the founders of InternationalTravel.ai and the Founder and President of Expat Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange and InternationalTravel.ai, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.

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With over 2 million bookable vacation rentals, Vrbo connects homeowners with families and vacationers looking for something more than a hotel for their trip.
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VRBO Vacation RentalsVRBO Vacation Rentals

With over 2 million bookable vacation rentals, Vrbo connects homeowners with families and vacationers looking for something more than a hotel for their trip.
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