Korean Job Discussion Forums

[Joe_Cool]

I've heard that South Korea, like central Japan, gets very hot and humid in the summertime. I suppose that's why it's better to live by the coastline rather than the interior (?).

Is air conditioning readily available in South Korea? Is it easy to purchase portable air conditioning devices in that country? I've seen them in the department stores in Canada and the United States in the range of $100-$300. They usually cool an 8' x 10' room. In the event that I went to South Korea, I wouldn't mind purchasing one. If it's difficult to buy them in SK, or maybe get one shipped over there. (?)

Which brings me to my next question--would appliances built for North America even work in SK? I thought that since the US had an established military presence and reconstructed the place after the Korean War, that American/Canadian appliances might effortlessly plug into a wall socket and work seamlessly. Yes? No? Maybe? What is AC/DC voltage in SK?

Would appreciate some feedback on this. Thanks.

[Wangja]

Voltage in Korea is the international standard, 220/240V.

There are 45 million people in Korea of whom around 40,000 are north Americans and dwellings for the 44,960,000 Koreans and other foreigners are not generally equipped with non-standard power supplies.

Korea formerly used the non-standard 110/120 but converted some time ago.

Some apartments near US installations are (illegally) equipped with a 110v circuit in addition to 200V.

[kathycanuck]

Hey Joe, one thing to be aware of is the surcharge for use of electricity above a certain amount. My electricity bill went from 38,000 won to over 400!! in one month; my bill times 10 for the surcharge. Use the air conditioner with discretion.