pre-departure guide
South Korea
Korea is waiting. Are you ready?
Congratulations! Soon you’ll be in South Korea therefore to help you prepare for your time in Seoul, we’ve compiled a bunch of essential information and some logistical details into this guide. Find a comfy chair, grab your favorite beverage and take 20 minutes to go through this information. We’d also encourage you to share this guide with anyone important to you.
We have also included some tips for the Hop Well-Come. This well-come orientation has been specially designed to ease your transition into South Korea, meet other students and our team, plus you will have a little fun in the bustling and lively Seoul. We think you will love it.
Thank you for trusting us to be your partner in this journey. We are going to be right there by your side, every step (or hop) of the way.
Enjoy the guide, reach out if you need anything and safe travels. We look forward to meeting you in Korea.
YOUR TEAM@HOP
essential documents
Passport: The big one! Numero Uno! This is the single most essential piece of documentation you’ll need during your time abroad. So it goes without saying that it is important to know where it is at all times and especially when traveling.
HOP HINT: Identify a place in your carry-on, or backpack where it goes and check EVERY TIME you move. Do the big three check - Passport, Phone and Wallet/Purse.
Students have left passports on check-in counters and airline seat backs multiple times before creating unnecessary stress to start the journey. When not in use, it is equally as important to stow your passport away in a safe place at your housing. We advise taking a pic of your passport and storing it on your phone in your favorites. If you were to ever lose your passport, it’s easier to obtain a new one if you have copies of the old one. When you move into your housing, some students choose to lock their passport into their unused luggage to keep track of it. You can also now buy passport holders that incorporate air tags as an additional security measure.
Student Visa: Your South Korea student visa is currently in process with our visa agency. They are actively reviewing and preparing your application, and no action is needed from you at this time. We’ll keep you updated as soon as there are any changes or if additional information is required.
Health Insurances: You are covered under multiple health insurance policies, both via your host university and Hop Education Abroad. You may also have coverage with your U.S. institution or otherwise; more on health insurance functionality below. Please print and keep copies of your health insurance identification information for each policy you have.
Prescriptions: If you are traveling to South Korea with any prescription medications, you are instructed to keep the original prescriptions readily available in your luggage to show TSA officials if asked for.
Remember:
Do not lose your passport.
Make copies of your student visa, passport and health insurance identification information.
Check your medications before travel.
health insurance
You are covered under at least two health insurance policies while in country. One is provided by Hop Education Abroad and the other may be from home university or parents coverage. If you ever have questions on which policy to use, please reach out to Hop and we can guide you. Generally we would encourage using our policies to request reimbursements. Please ensure you have receipts for all expenses you wish to claim when using the policy.
In partnership with the CHUBB Group of Companies and AXA Travel Partners Assistance, Hop enrolls all students in our combined Health and Travel policy. Should you be traveling outside of your host destination during the program, you are advised to use this insurance (or any other relevant coverage you may have with your home institution or personally).
Below is a summary of included Hop benefits:
BENEFIT | MAXIMUM | NOTES |
|---|---|---|
Total Accident and Sickness | $USD 500,000.00 | Deductible $0 |
Hospital Room and Board | Included Above | Semi Private Room Rate |
Mental Health | $USD 5,000.00 | In Patient Treatment |
Prescription Drugs | 100% of Expenses Covered | In or Out Patient, Co-insurance |
Emergency Medical Evacuation | 100% of Expenses Covered | |
Emergency Medical Reunion | $USD 12,500.00 | |
Home Country Emergency Care | $USD 10,000.00 | Extension Benefit of further $10K (Up to 30 days) |
Security Evacuation | $USD 25,000.00 | Aggregate Limit of $250,000.00 |
Chiropractic Care | $USD 500.00 | $USD 50.00 per Visit (Up to max of $USD 500.00) |
Accidental Death | $USD 50,000.00 | Includes Dismemberment |
Repatriation | 100% of Expenses | |
Personal Belongings | $USD 1,000.00 | |
Cancellation/Delay/Interruption | $USD 6,000.00 | Max of $2,000 each Category |
Lost Luggage | $USD 500.00 | $500 per Bag |
Lost Credit Cards or Cash | $USD 500.00 | Cash Limit of $250.00 |
Hop Education Abroad carries Commercial General Liability Insurance through the CHUBB group of $USD 5,000,000.00 with a $USD 3,000,000.00 amount for each occurrence.
Crisis24 Horizon
At Hop Education Abroad, student safety is always a top priority. That’s why we provide access to Crisis24 Horizon, a powerful global travel risk and assistance app designed to help keep you informed, supported, and prepared wherever you are in the world. Crisis24 Horizon delivers real-time security alerts, health updates, and detailed country and city risk insights—all in one easy-to-use platform.
Available on iOS and Android, the Crisis24 Horizon app puts critical support right in your pocket. Students can receive location-specific alerts, stay up to date on evolving situations, identify nearby medical providers, and access multilingual assistance when it matters most. The app mirrors the robust tools available on desktop, ensuring reliable support on the go.
Backed by a dedicated global intelligence team and an international network of more than 40,000 vetted medical providers, Crisis24 Horizon offers 24/7 access to timely information and assistance. We’re proud to offer this essential resource so students—and their families—can feel confident knowing support is always within reach.
Key features include:
Health, medical, safety, and security insights by location
Country and city risk ratings with detailed profiles
Real-time news and security alerts with customizable notifications
Travel tips to help you prepare and stay informed
Access to a global network of trusted medical providers
With Crisis24 Horizon, Hop students can explore the world with greater confidence—knowing help and information are always close at hand.
Remember:
You have health coverage with multiple insurance providers for the full duration of your program.
Depending on the situation, one insurance policy may be preferred to use over the other.
When traveling outside of your host destination, you have health coverage with Hop’s coverage via CHUBB/AXA, but not the policy chosen by your host university.
Please download the Crisis24 Horizon app.
medications abroad
Traveling with Prescriptions:
You may bring up to three months’ worth of prescription medications with you to South Korea for personal use. Medications should be:
Clearly labeled with your name
In their original pharmacy packaging
Packed in your carry-on luggage (strongly recommended)
Keeping prescriptions in your carry-on allows you to easily answer any questions if airport security or customs officials inquire. Birth control medications and vitamins are typically permitted in larger quantities.
We strongly recommend bringing:
A copy of your prescription, and/or
A doctor’s letter explaining the medication and dosage
This is especially important for controlled or regulated medications. As per the U.S. Department of State guidelines, South Korea enforces strict regulations regarding the import and export of narcotics, prescription medications, and nonprescription health supplements. These rules apply not only to items carried by travelers upon entry but also to those sent through international mail or shipping services.
The Narcotics Policy Division of the Korean Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS, also known as the KFDA) explicitly prohibits the importation of marijuana and all cannabis-related products, including cannabidiol (CBD) oil, regardless of whether they are prescribed by a doctor or carried during an airport layover. Possessing such substances—even in small quantities or for personal medical use—can be interpreted as drug trafficking under Korean law.
South Korea maintains a zero-tolerance policy toward illegal drugs. Violations of these laws can result in severe criminal penalties, including lengthy prison sentences and substantial fines. It is important to note that U.S. citizens are subject to the same legal consequences as Korean nationals. Neither the U.S. government, your host university, nor Hop can intervene or provide legal protection if you are arrested or prosecuted for violating South Korea’s drug laws.
You are strongly advised to thoroughly review South Korea’s medication and drug import regulations before arrival to ensure full compliance with local laws. If you plan to bring any prescription medication containing opiates, amphetamines, and benzodiazepines into South Korea, you must contact the MFDS at +82-43-719- 2813 or by emailing narcotics@korea.kr and submit a written application for approval. This application can also now be found online, on the MFDS website.
Non-Controlled Prescription Medications:
Many common non-controlled prescription medications and over the counter (OTC) medications are allowed into South Korea. You can bring up to three months worth of medications with you, and you’ll want to have it clearly marked with your name/prescription on the label in its original packaging, and kept inside your carry on luggage.
It's encouraged that you keep any prescriptions in your carry-on so you can answer any questions about it should airport security inquire. Below is a list of common prescription and OTC medications safe to travel with.
Antidepressants (e.g., Lexapro, Zoloft)
Antiepileptics (e.g., Depakote)
Thyroid medications (e.g., Levothyroxine)
Gastrointestinal medications (e.g., Esomeprazole)
Pain relievers (e.g., Acetaminophen, Ibuprofen)
Anti-diarrheals (e.g., Loperamide)
Vitamins and minerals (excluding anything with THC or CBD)
Lactase supplements
Melatonin (Note: While melatonin is not sold in Korea, it is permitted for personal use when brought in.)
If You Need More Medication While in South Korea
Since you will be in South Korea for longer than 90 days, you will need to plan for ongoing access to your medication locally.
If additional medication is required:
You may need to visit a Korean doctor after arrival to receive a local prescription.
Your Hop Go-To will help guide you through this process on the ground, including how to access healthcare services and pharmacies.
All students have health insurance coverage during their program and will receive information about medical services and clinics during orientation.
We recommend scheduling any needed medical appointments as soon as possible after arrival, as appointment availability may be limited.
Mailing Prescriptions
Mailing prescription medications internationally into South Korea is not recommended and may result in delays, confiscation, or destruction at customs—especially for controlled or restricted substances.
Instead, students should plan to:
Bring an initial supply of medication with proper documentation
Transition to local medical care and prescriptions if additional medication is needed
Your Hop Go-To will assist you in understanding your options and navigating the healthcare system once you arrive in South Korea.
communications abroad
Cell Phones: You have several different options when it comes to using your phone in Korea. A few of the common options are details below:
International phone plan: Your U.S. phone carrier may offer an international phone plan. Please note that these can be quite expensive and may not be the best solution for each student. For example both Verizon and AT&T charge around $100 USD per month to access international networks.
Korean eSIM card: If your phone is “unlocked”, meaning it can be used with a different cell phone carrier than the one you purchased the phone from, you could buy a Korean SIM or eSIM card. These can be purchased at the airport or local convenience stores. To check if your phone is unlocked, contact your phone carrier before you depart the US. South Korea has several mobile providers offering prepaid SIM cards, which are ideal for shorter length stays.
Wi-fi hot stop: Another option is purchasing a local wi-fi hot spot device. This way you can continue to use your phone via the internet whenever you go with the pocket wi-fi device. Since your program is short and these can be costly depending on how much you use it, an eSIM may be preferred.
Internet: The internet in South Korea is among the fastest and most reliable in the world. Wi-fi is available almost everywhere — in cafes, public transport, libraries, and on campus at Korea University. Overall, you’ll find that using the internet in Seoul is a smooth, efficient, and highly connected experience.
Local emergency numbers to keep handy:
SERVICE | NUMBER | DETAILS |
Emergency (Police) | 112 | For reporting crimes or needing police assistance. |
Emergency (Fire & Ambulance) | 119 | For medical emergencies, fire, or rescue services. |
Emergency Medical Information Center | 1339 | For medical advice and information, available 24/7. |
Immigration Contact Center | 1345 | For visa and immigration-related inquiries. |
Korea Travel Hotline | 1330 | Multilingual tourist support and travel information. |
National Center for Mental Health | 1577-0199 | 24/7 mental health crisis counseling and support |
These numbers are available 24/7 and have multilingual support. Calling 119 or 112 connects you directly to the emergency service required. They are the equivalent to the U.S. number 911.
Important App Downloads
NaverMaps Probably the most reliable map and navigation app in South Korea, this tool offers highly accurate walking, driving, and bus/subway directions, along with real-time transit updates and detailed information on local businesses. It’s far more accurate and dependable than most global map apps and is widely used by locals for everyday navigation. | |
KakaoTalk South Korea’s primary free messaging, voice, and video calling app, similar to WhatsApp or Messenger. It’s used nationwide for one-on-one and group chats, file sharing, and calls, and includes additional features like payments, services, and built-in AI tools. | |
Kakao T The go-to transportation app in South Korea—used for taxi hailing, rides, and even bike or scooter rentals. It’s especially helpful if you don’t want to navigate public transportation or need a safe, convenient option late at night. | |
KakaoMetro A helpful subway navigation app you can use while in South Korea to get around major cities like Seoul and Busan with ease. The app provides clear subway maps, station information, transfer guidance, and estimated travel times, making it especially useful for new arrivals. | |
Papago A powerful translation tool that handles text, menus, and signs, with support for voice and camera (image) translation. Ideal for everyday communication and navigating daily life if you don’t speak Korean. |
Basic Korean Words for Survival:
ENGLISH | KOREAN |
|---|---|
Hello | 안녕하세요 (ann-yeong-ha-se-yo) |
Goodbye | 안녕히 계세요 / 안녕히 가세요 (an-nyeong-hee / gye-se-yo) |
Thank you | 감사합니다 (gam-sa-ham-ni-da) |
Please (give me) | 주세요 (ju-se-yo) |
Excuse me / Just a moment | 잠시만요 (jam-shi-man-yo) |
Yes | 아니요 (a-ni-yo) |
No | 네 (ne(h) |
Where is the bathroom? | 화장실 어디예요 (hwa-jang-shil eo-di-ye-yo) |
Please help | 도와주세요 (do-wa-ju-se-yo) |
important contact information
Be sure to save these numbers in your phone in case you need them!
24/7 Hop Emergency Number
+1 (256) HOP-CARE (467-2273)
Remember:
Using a Korean eSIM or physical SIM card will be the most convenient and cost efficient way to use your phone abroad.
The internet in Korea is generally very fast, reliable and accessible.
112 or 119 is the local emergency services number; the equivalent of 911 in the U.S.
budget & finances
Cost of Living Estimates: Designing a personal budget you’re comfortable with prior to your arrival will be helpful in guiding you on how you’d like to spend leisure and social time during the program. Please review the table below for our recommendations!
EXPENDITURES | ESTIMATE BUDGET RECOMMENDATION (USD) |
|---|---|
Food (groceries & eating out) | $1,000–$1,600 |
Personal leisure spending (social activities, etc.) | $600-$1200 |
Local transportation (buses, trains, riding sharing apps like Kakao T) | $200-$300 |
SIM card or internet data | $150-$250 |
Please be reminded these are estimates that are heavily influenced by personal behavior. Depending on the funds available to you or your preferences, you could reasonably spend far less or much more on each expense. If your program includes a meal plan, you can expect to spend less on food and groceries.
Credit Card Usage: Major credit cards such as Visa and MasterCard are most commonly accepted in Korea. Be aware that most credit card companies charge approximately 2-3% for foreign currency transactions. This may vary from card to card, so you are advised to confirm what your specific credit card’s fees are prior to arrival. Be sure to notify your credit card company you will be using your card overseas to avoid any fraud alerts when using your card.
Local Currency: The primary form of currency is the Korean Won (KRW or ₩). Most establishments accept electronic forms of payment, but cash is still good to have for markets, small local eateries, or taxis. We don’t recommend traveling overseas with large amounts of cash on you for security and safety reasons. If you’d like to have some KRW on you in advance as a precaution, your local bank may have some available for purchase.
Exchanging Funds: Alternatively, you could exchange U.S. dollars for KRW at an airport currency exchange upon arrival, but please be aware their exchange rates may not be the best available. You can elect to withdraw directly from an ATM, but be mindful of any ATM withdrawal fees associated with your home bank or local ATM. The exchange rate is about 1 USD to 1,350 KRW. Common bills include ₩1,000, ₩5,000, ₩10,000 or ₩50,000. You can roughly consider ₩1,000 to be $1, ₩5,000 to $3.5, ₩10,000 to be $7, and so on.
Emergency Funds: We advise having a plan in place for accessing money in the event of an emergency or unexpected disruption. You could bring a second credit card that is meant to be used only for this purpose, but otherwise locked away in your housing. Or, ensuring you have access to two separate bank accounts may be most preferred. However it may work best with your family and individual circumstances would be sufficient. Should you lose access to your funds and need emergency assistance, please contact us for assistance!
Remember:
Prepare a personal spending budget you and your loved ones are comfortable with prior to arrival.
Consider the logistics of how you may prefer to spend money, via a local bank account, ATM withdrawals, credit cards, etc.
Have a secondary way of accessing funds in the event of an emergency.
Contact your local bank & credit card companies to tell them you’ll be traveling internationally for an extended period.
Be aware of international transaction fees on your credit cards, and any ATM withdrawals fees associated with making withdrawals or purchases.
packing essentials
Packing Recommendations: It is extremely easy to become overwhelmed when trying to decide what you need on the other side of the world. Almost every student will say in retrospect that they bought too much with them. It is advised to pack no more than what you can carry individually. It’s a long journey overseas and lugging around too much baggage can certainly make the trek more difficult and incur unwanted fees while flying. You are advised to pack as light as possible and for a variety of weather conditions. You’ll be down under for several months and the weather will vary during your time there. Most airlines have a maximum baggage allowance of two checked bags, one carry-on and one personal item and they will have weight limits on these items. Ensure you check the policy with your specific airline before packing.
Weather: You’ll experience a transition from late winter into spring and early summer while in Korea. February and early March are cool, especially in the mornings and evenings, with temperatures gradually warming through April and May. By June, days are noticeably warmer and more humid. Spring is generally mild and comfortable, with occasional rain showers—so light layers and a compact umbrella are recommended. Bring a warm jacket for early in the term and lighter, breathable clothing for later months. Sunscreen is also important as UV levels increase through spring. Average temperatures range from about 30°F to 80°F (−1°C to 27°C) over the course of the term. Linens: Your linens will be provided by KU. Each room comes furnished with a bed, desk, chair, and wardrobe, and includes a bedding set with a pillow, blanket, and sheets. They do not supply towels or toiletries, so be sure to bring your own.
Packing List: The following list is a suggested packing list for the semester:
Layered clothing for both warm and cold weather
Winter jacket & gloves
Socks & underwear
Comfortable walking shoes
Swimwear
Sleepwear
Shower shoes
Accessories (hats, jewelry, etc.)
A couple outfits of formal wear
Sunscreen
Toiletaries
Medications
A weekend bag or smaller backpack for short term travel
Bath towel
Camera
Laptop & other personal electronics (Kindle, iPad, etc.)
Two or more electronic adapters
Journal
Remember:
Pack light, leave room for new clothes and souvenirs you’ll purchase.
Review your airlines’ baggage regulations.
Review our suggested packing list while you’re getting ready to depart.
well-come abroad
Arrival: Upon arrival to South Korea on February 19th, 2026, you will be greeted by the local Hop orientation team at the airport in Incheon (INC). We will be eagerly awaiting your arrival in the arrivals area for international flights.
You can expect to spend 20-60 minutes in Customs after you deplane. Our team will be monitoring your flight and stay aware of any travel delays; you will not be left behind at the airport as a result of any in-air delays. Once all students have arrived and are accounted for, we will travel as a group to Wonju-si via bus. Hop Well-come Abroad: The exclusive Hop Well-Come Abroad program is designed to provide a holistic, fun and supportive start to your time in South Korea. The Wonju Mountains provide the perfect setting for an active program that focuses on your mental and physical health. Each session aims to equip you with the tools and mindset needed for a smoother transition and a meaningful connection to your new home, all wrapped up in cultural moments and laughter. Plus, we throw in a mountain resort, museum visits, incredible scenery, and some great Korean food.
Host University Orientation: Your host university will hold a formal orientation before classes begin, lasting from just one day to one week. It is strongly encouraged to attend this orientation as it’s a great way to meet more students and you’ll receive useful information about your campus. This information could include helpful facts about academic enrollment assistance, health insurance enrollment, medical facilities, security, university-sponsored trips and activities, and more. You’ll also have the chance to survey what student clubs and organizations you may be interested in joining.
Remember:
The Hop team will be eagerly waiting to greet you upon your arrival to the Incheon International airport (INC) on Thursday, February 19th, 2026.
The Hop Well-come Orientation will take place in Wonju-si, South Korea from February 19th to February 22nd, 2026.
We will commute as a group to Wonju-si after all students have safely landed and been accounted for.
This orientation is designed to focus on mindfulness and provide you with tools to excel personally and academically during your semester.
You are strongly encouraged to attend your host university’s orientation and associated activities/sessions.