Korean Job Discussion Forums

[Porksta]

My computer is US with a three prong adapter. I currently own a two prong Korean plug adapter. Are there adapters out there that I can plug my computer into, or will the two prong Korean work just fine?

[Keeper]

I don't understand your question. You need a 3 prong to a two (round Korean) plug adapter. If you have that you should be set as most laptops run on either 110 or 220v. If you are looking for that type of adapter then Homeplus has them.

[Porksta]

So the three to two prong adapter will provide the benefit of grounding? Otherwise I do not see what the adapter will do other than provide a space for the third prong.

[Keeper]

I'm not an electrical expert but I recall searching on 220v and grounding in a different country. There it was virtually non-existent. I have no idea if that is the case here.

The wall does not accept 3 prong adapters here so you will need to find one that will go from 3 to 2 round prongs otherwise there is no possibility of power. There are automatic power convertors (APC) or step-down transformers for 110v only devices but chances are your laptop doesn't need it.

[comm]

[peacemaker]

The Korean plugs with the fat round ends are grounded. Instead of having a third pin, then have a sort of clip on the side.

That said, the right approach here is to buy a cord rather than an adapter. You can get a replacement cord that goes from the box in the middle of you laptop cord to the outlet for around 3000 won. I got mine at a shop in Yongsan, but I imagine that any shop that sells computers would have them, as would Gmarket or other online shopping sites.

[Porksta]

So this is basically all I can do?

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e3/Porksta/DSC02649_zps015fee04.jpg

[ajuma]

Look at the other end of the plug. Is it removable from the power box? If it is, you can get the correct cord here and not have to worry about 2/3 prongs.

[Porksta]

I'm too lazy, will my current setup work without a hitch?

[ajuma]

I'm to lazy to figure it out. Maybe yes, maybe no.

[nora]

Work, yes, work safely, no. Having the ground exposed like that means that when you plug it in, the hot could arc across. Using it in a 110 system is fine because the lower voltage doesn't arc as easily, but at 220, the distance between the prongs will allow an arc to occur. When it's all plugged in, this isn't really an issue, BUT as you plug it in, it could happen.

Also, by not grounding it, you're inviting disaster. A device that has sensitive electronics in it, or that could injure someone if the neutral were to fail needs to have a ground. If it doesn't, you could end up buying new stuff.

A quick rundown on wiring. AC power has two wires - hot and neutral. When you have a third wire, the ground, it connects up with the neutral back in the breaker box anyway, BUT the purpose is so that if something fails, the ground can act as the neutral and trip the breaker, saving you from injury or destruction of the device.

Long story short, it will work but you're better off buying the adaptor that has the clips on the side for the ground plug. They are generally sold right next to the little black one you have now. Or buy the proper cord.

If you fail to do this and the device is damaged, warranties won't cover you in this situation. FYI.

[ajuma]

Laptop with power box with 220 rating, you're good and can find a cord here. PC? Easy Peasy. Cords are available at any mega-store (HomePlus, Emart, Lotte) or any computer store. You can also buy them at the airport but they're pricey.