What to Prepare When Studying Abroad in Korea

What Should You Bring When Studying Abroad in Korea?

1) Preparing Your Luggage for Studying Abroad in Korea

To begin, you will need two medium-sized suitcases (20–25kg each) and one small suitcase or backpack (7kg) as carry-on luggage.

It is best to choose suitcases made from fabric or soft plastic, as these are lighter (1–2kg) and give you more weight allowance for your belongings. Some hard-shell suitcases weigh 5–7kg, which may significantly reduce the amount you can pack. Soft materials also provide flexibility, allowing you to fit in smaller items more easily.

Important documents such as your passport, visa, health insurance, and admission notice must not be forgotten, as these are essential for entry and verification upon arrival in Korea.

2) Preparing Clothing for Korea

Korea has four distinct seasons—spring, summer, autumn, and winter—with different clothing needs for each. This makes packing a unique challenge for many international students.

• If you start your semester in spring, summer, or autumn, you can bring a moderate amount of clothing suitable for the season.

• If you begin your studies in winter, you should bring warm clothing such as padded jackets, coats, sweaters, and thermal wear to withstand the cold weather.

Avoid overpacking clothes that may end up unused—it wastes space and weight.
Once in Korea, you can purchase clothing that fits each season, as the country is known as a fashion hub.

Both male and female students should bring plenty of underwear, as buying these items in Korea may feel inconvenient or more expensive.

3) Preparing Footwear

Male students usually rely on sneakers.

Female students should avoid bringing many ballet flats or high heels—walking long distances in these shoes can be painful.

Why sneakers are essential:

1. Public transportation in Korea mainly involves buses and subways, which require a lot of walking.

2. The distance from your accommodation to school or stations may be long.

Bring 2–3 pairs of good sneakers or purchase a quality pair in Korea to make commuting more comfortable.

4) Preparing Books and Study Materials

• For students studying for a Master’s or Doctoral degree, or those who have already studied Korean in Vietnam, bringing books may not be necessary.

• Students attending language centers should bring at least one Korean-language textbook. Teachers in Korea teach entirely in Korean, so having a reference book—or using translation apps—will be helpful.

Additionally, bringing a laptop and relevant electronic devices will greatly support your studies and help optimize your learning experience.

5) Preparing Medicine

Upon arriving in Korea, many students may experience illness due to sudden weather changes or unfamiliar foods. Common issues include headaches or stomachaches.

While families often pack supplements such as eye or brain health vitamins, these are not essential. You should instead prepare a small first-aid kit containing:

• Antiseptic ointment

• Bandages

• Basic painkillers or medicine for common symptoms

These items are useful when dealing with minor injuries or discomfort.

6) Preparing Food

Some people say, “Korean food is delicious, so you don’t need instant noodles.”

This is not true. Korean cuisine varies greatly—salty, spicy, or bland—and may not suit everyone immediately.

Students should bring:

• Instant noodles

• Instant porridge

• Other non-liquid, odorless, and dry foods

If you bring foods with strong smells—such as dried meat or fish—wrap them carefully, use aluminum foil, and vacuum-seal the packages.

Most Vietnamese students bring instant noodles, considered the “national comfort food,” as the taste is familiar and comforting.

To help relieve homesickness, you may also bring small keepsakes or family photos. These sentimental items can be a source of emotional comfort during your time abroad.

Important Notes

• Arrive at the airport 3–4 hours early. This gives you enough time to handle unexpected issues or forgotten items.

• Always carry a pen with you to fill out immigration forms. Waiting to borrow one can cost valuable time.

Conclusion

These are essential items you may want to prepare before studying abroad in Korea. Each student has different needs, so pack according to what suits you best.

For more insight into studying abroad in Korea, scholarship information, and application procedures, please contact us via Hotline: 094.994.3688 – 090.389.3688 to receive FREE consultation from GEA!