Your first week can be one of the toughest times when settling down in Korea. So what can you do to alleviate the stress as well as make sure you start off on the right foot?

The wonderful Mesmi from the YouTube Channel MesmiLJas gives Korvia her list of top tips for your first week in Korea.

From how to make sure you never get lost to having your emergency contacts ready for quick reference, here are some things you can do in your first week that can change the course of the rest of your time in Korea:

Watch the video above!

 

Tip 1: Get that T-MONEY!

Get a T-MONEY or CashBee card as soon as you want to start using public transportation. It’s the easiest and cheapest way to get from place to place!

Tip 2: The Best Way to Familiarize Yourself with Locations!

Download a Subway app or map on your smartphone so that you can learn key locations and places!

Tip 3: Keep THIS in Your Wallet!

Keep emergency contact numbers in your phone as well as in your wallet! Also it’s smart to keep your Korean address in your wallet so that you can show it to taxi driver if you get lost!

Tip 4: Say “NO” to Dead Smartphone Batteries

If you have a smartphone, carry an extra charger for emergencies. There are outlets in many places in Korea. Including the subway!

Tip 5: Daiso Will be Your Best Friend

Daiso is an inexpensive multipurpose store with just about everything. Expect to never leave empty handed!

Tip 6: Prepare for the Unexpected!

You never know when or where you will get sick. As soon as you receive your health insurance card, keep it close!

Tip 7: Online Shopping Will Save You Time and Money!

A lot of times you can snag stuff online for prices cheaper than in the store as well as get it delivered to your house in just 1-2 days!

Tip 8: Get Insider Tips About Your Area

Join a MeetUp group and/or your local town Facebook group. These groups can help you meet and make new friends as well as be a place to ask current teachers living in your area what the best places and restaurants are in the area!

Tip 9: Don’t Break the Bank When Calling Home

Before you come to Korea, get a Skype subscription to call home. It’s a lot cheaper than you may think!

Tip 10: Breathe

Breathe in. Breathe out. Repeat.

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We hope this video was helpful for you! If you like what Mesmi has to say, check out her official YouTube Channel MesmiLJas!