Cost of Working in Korea

South Korea is now one of the favorite destinations for migrant workers, especially from Asia. It's no wonder, because this country offers quite promising job opportunities with decent salaries compared to their home countries. In addition, the unique and modern Korean culture also makes many people interested in trying their luck there. But before you go to Korea, it's very important to know about the work costs that you will incur. Starting from the cost of processing documents, plane tickets, to living expenses during the initial work there. If you don't prepare carefully, your work plan could end up being complicated and emptying your pockets.

Initial Costs Before Departing for Korea

If you plan to work in Korea, it is very important to know the details of the costs that must be prepared. Here is a complete explanation of the various costs that usually arise before and when starting work in the Land of Ginseng.

a. Korean Language Training Costs (EPS-TOPIK)

One of the main requirements is to pass the EPS-TOPIK exam, so you must take Korean language training first. This course can be done at official or unofficial institutions with a cost range of around IDR 3 million to IDR 7 million, depending on the place and facilities. The training usually lasts for 1-3 months with the aim of making you fluent in basic communication and ready to face the exam.

b. Exam and Administration Fees

To take the EPS-TOPIK exam, there is a registration fee of around IDR 500 thousand to IDR 1 million. In addition, you also need to take care of important documents such as passports and document legalization, the costs of which vary between hundreds of thousands to millions of rupiah depending on the type of service.

c. Placement Fee by LPK or PPTKIS

If you use the services of a placement agent (LPK/PPTKIS), there is usually a placement service fee that can reach several million rupiah. This fee includes processing work documents, additional training if any, and assistance during the departure process.

d. Medical and Vaccination Fees

Before leaving, you must undergo a complete health check including blood tests and x-rays with an estimated cost of around IDR 1-2 million. You must also be vaccinated according to Korean immigration requirements such as hepatitis B or influenza, the costs of which vary depending on the health facility.

e. Airfare and Initial Accommodation

The average price of airfare from Indonesia to Korea is around Rp4-6 million one way depending on the flight season and the airline you choose. After arriving there, also prepare funds for living expenses for the first few days such as food, local transportation, and temporary accommodationusually a minimum of around 1-2 million won (around 12-24 million rupiah).

Cost of Living in Korea After Arrival

After arriving in Korea, the business is not over. This is where the real struggle beginsespecially regarding the cost of living. Things you need to pay attention to First, regarding accommodation. If you work in a company that provides dormitories, it's pretty good because it's usually free or you only have to pay a small fee. But if you have to rent your own, be prepared to spend around 200,000400,000 won per month, depending on the area.
Regarding food, you can save money if you cook for yourself. Buying ingredients at traditional markets or discount supermarkets can be very economical. But if you buy ready-to-eat food every day, it can empty your walletone meal can cost 5,0008,000 won.
Transportation in Korea is safe, public transportation is comfortable and on time. Bus or subway fares are around 1,250 won one way. Some companies also provide transportation subsidies, so you can save even more.
Well, don't forget other costs such as phone credit, internet (around 30,00050,000 won/month), winter clothes (a must!), and daily needs. If you are not smart in managing your finances, your salary can run out before you have time to save it. The point is, you have to be smart in managing your lifestyle so that working in Korea is not just for "passing through", so that you can send money to your family back home smoothly or later you can also bring home the results.

Potential Income and Savings

When talking about working in Korea, the most exciting thing is the income. The minimum salary for foreign workers in Korea currently ranges from 2 million to 2.2 million won per month (before deductions). But make no mistake, that's just the basic salary. If you are diligent and get overtime, you can really increase your income. OT in Korea is calculated per hour and the pay is higher than regular working hours. Not to mention if there are incentives from the company, such as attendance bonuses or night shift allowances. Not bad, right?

Now, about savings, it depends on each person's lifestyle. If you live in a company dormitory and cook for yourself, you can save a lot. Usually, workers can save around 800 thousand to 1.5 million won per month, or even more if the OT continues. But remember, don't forget to set aside some for emergencies or send it to your family at home.

The point is, if you can live simply and not waste money, working in Korea can be a golden opportunity to collect capital. There are many who come back from Korea and can start their own businesses! So, being smart in managing money is the main key.

Cost Saving Tips

So that your salary doesn't just pass by, it's really important to know how to manage your expenses while working in Korea. One surefire trick is to cook for yourself. In addition to being more economical, you can also arrange the menu according to your taste. One purchase of ingredients can be used for several days, compared to buying ready-to-eat food which can cost 5,000-8,000 won per meal.

Also, try to shop at traditional markets. There, the price of groceries is usually cheaper and you can buy in small quantities according to your needs. The bonus is, you can also learn a little Korean while bargaining!

For accommodation, try sharing with friends. Living in a boarding house together can help cut rent, electricity, and internet costs. Rather than living alone, it's more economical and you have someone to chat with too.

Now, one thing that is often forgotten: emergency funds. Try to set aside a little from your salary each month for unexpected needs, such as illness, job loss, or other sudden needs.

Then it's really important to know how to mitigate legal problems. If you are involved in a legal case, immediately contact the Indonesian Embassy in Seoul or the nearest Consulate General. They can help with legal assistance or mediation. Don't be afraid or keep quiet, the Indonesian Embassy is our official partner abroad!

Last and most important: manage your finances wisely. Record all income and expenses, even small ones. Don't be tempted to buy cute things if you don't necessarily need them. Remember the initial goal of working in Korea: save and bring home the results. So, the more carefully you manage your money, the faster your dreams will come true!