Packing for Korea as an English Teacher: What to Bring (and What to Leave Behind)

 

Getting ready to move to South Korea to teach English can feel overwhelming—especially when it comes to packing. After living and teaching in Korea for over 4 years, I now have a much clearer idea of what’s actually useful, what’s easy to buy locally, and what you’ll wish you had brought from home. Here’s my advice for packing smart before you start your teaching adventure.

 

Essentials:

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• Passport & Visa
• Driver’s License (International Driving Permit if needed)
• Health Insurance Info (or enrollment in Korean National Health Insurance)
• Important Documents (birth certificate, work/school contracts, etc.)

Clothing (for all seasons):

 

• Winter (Dec-Feb): Warm coat/parka, gloves, scarf, boots
• Spring/Fall (Mar-May, Sept-Nov): Light jacket, sweaters, comfortable shoes
• Summer (Jun-Aug): Lightweight clothing, umbrella, sunscreen, breathable shoes

*Clothes are relatively cheap in Korea, but offline stores may have limited sizes. Summers are hot and humid. Winters are cold and snowy. 

 

Toiletries & Personal Care:

 

• Basic Toiletries (products that you absolutely need from your home country)
• Prescription Medications (with a doctor’s note)* 

*Please check in advance if your medication is permitted in Korea before bringing it with you (maximum of 6 bottles). 

 

Electronics:

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• Phone & Charger
• Laptop (check plug type: Korea uses 220V with Type C/F plugs)
• Power Adapter (for Korean outlets)
• Portable Charger
• External Hard Drive or USB Drive

Money & Banking:

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• Bank Cards & Cash (some cash in Korean won for initial expenses)
• Banking Info (for setting up a local account)

Food & Snacks:

 

• Favorite Snacks (things you can’t find easily in Korea)
• Special Diet Foods (if applicable)

Miscellaneous:

 

• Reusable Water Bottle

• Personal Items (photos, mementos, small gifts)