Life in Korea (8/19)
Postal System & Shipping Packages Abroad
Postal Services & Sending Parcels Abroad Postal services in Korea are known for their speed, reliability, and convenience, often considered among the most efficient in the world. 1. Registered Mail (Document Shipments within Korea) (Korean = 등기 우편) Registered mail is used for sending important documents or valuable items that require proof of delivery and tracking. Within Korea, registered mail typically arrives within one business day through Korea Post, offering both speed and security. Korea Post English Website 2. Parcel Delivery (Korean = 택배) Standard Parcel Delivery Major logistics companies such as Korea Post, CJ Logistics, Lotte, Logen, and Hanjin provide parcel delivery services across the country. Most standard parcels are delivered within 2–3 business days. Korea Post is widely regarded as the most reliable and fastest option, with most deliveries reaching their destination within one business day, except for remote areas like Jeju Island or rural regions. Convenience Store Delivery (“Half-Price Taekbae”) (Korean: 편의점 반값 택배) For lighter packages, customers can use the convenience store delivery service, commonly known as “Half-Price Taekbae.” This affordable option costs around 1,800 KRW, roughly half the price of standard parcel delivery. Senders can drop off parcels at GS25 or CU convenience stores, and recipients collect them from a designated store location. Delivery usually takes 3-4 days, offering a flexible and cost-effective alternative for small items. GS Half-Price Taekbae Website: CU Half-Price Taekbae Website: You can also send normal parcel shipments through the convenience store. 3. International Shipments For overseas deliveries, customers can choose from Korea Post’s EMS (Express Mail Service) or private carriers such as DHL and FedEx. EMS provides reliable service to over 200 countries, with full tracking and efficient customs processing. 4. Standard Mail (“Snail Mail”) For regular letters and postcards, standard postal delivery, often referred to as “snail mail”, is still widely used for personal correspondence and official documents. It typically takes 3-4 business days within Korea and costs under 1,000 KRW, making it a very economical option. Receiving international parcels (or sending things to Korea)? In Korea, you need to have a ‘Personal Customs Code (개인통관고유부호)” to expedite any shipments coming into Korea. If your name, phone number and address don’t match up with what is registered, you will not be able to receive your parcel or it will be significantly delayed. Make a personal customs code: https://www.customs.go.kr/english/cm/cntnts/cntntsView.do?mi=10801&cntntsId=5502 (You need to have your ARC number to make this) If you are trying to send your belonging to Korea before coming to Korea, ask the school to provide the school’s mailing address and information. (English name of the recipient, address, cell phone number). *Prohibited items (in Korea) that you would’ve never imagined Poppy seeds (everything bagel seasoning) Melatonin Herbal mixes with “vague” ingredients
