🏦 How to Open a Bank Account in Korea as a Foreigner

 

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🏦 How to Open a Bank Account in Korea as a Foreigner

Planning to stay in Korea for work, study, or long-term travel? One of the first things you'll need is a local bank account. This guide walks you through the process step-by-step so you can manage your finances smoothly while in Korea.

1. Requirements for Opening an Account

Most Korean banks require the following documents:

  • Valid passport
  • Alien Registration Card (ARC)
  • Korean phone number (for SMS verification)
  • Local address (hotel or residence)
  • Sometimes: Proof of employment or school enrollment

2. Best Banks for Foreigners

Here are a few banks with good support for foreigners:

  • KB Kookmin Bank: Offers English service and convenient mobile app
  • Woori Bank: Known for foreigner-friendly policies and airport branches
  • Shinhan Bank: Multi-language support and global partnerships
  • KEB Hana Bank: Excellent for international transfers and travel cards

3. Tips for a Smooth Process

  • Visit the bank in the morning to avoid crowds
  • Bring all required documents in original form
  • Politely ask for English service: "μ˜μ–΄ μ„€λͺ…은 μ•ˆλ κΉŒμš”? (Does anyone can explain in speak English?)"
  • Keep your ARC updated—it's required for most financial services

4. Useful Korean Phrases

  • μ§€μ—­ κ³„μ’Œ κ°œμ„€μ„ ν•˜κ³  μ‹Άμ–΄μš”. (I want to open a local account.)
  • μ–΄λŠ 은행이 μ™Έκ΅­μΈμ—κ²Œ 더 μœ λ¦¬ν•΄μš”? (Which bank is better for foreigners?)
  • μ „ν™”λ²ˆν˜Έλ₯Ό λ“œλ¦½λ‹ˆλ‹€. (Here is my phone number.)

5. πŸ€” Did you know?

In Korea, you can even open a bank account at major airports like Incheon International. Woori Bank and KEB Hana Bank have branches at Terminal 1 and Terminal 2, helping new arrivals set up accounts before even entering the city!

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Want to build your Korean skills for real-life tasks like banking? Book a class with me on italki and learn practical, everyday Korean! πŸ‡°πŸ‡·

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