Korean Job Discussion Forums

[jgarci17]

Hi, so my school set me up with an account at Shinhan Bank (yes I've read about some of the people on here having bad experiences with them, but the school set this up for me), and I have a few questions.

The first question I have is in regard to internet banking. I looked around on their site for a while, but I didn't see anything for signing up for it, only signing in if you had it. Do I have to sign up for this in person at one of their branches? Is this pretty easy to do? And do most of their locations have someone who speaks English, even if it's only a little, on staff?

My last question is in regards to this bank card I received from them, which I got along with the bank book. It has the 12 digits on it, and says "Smart One" on it, and has this chip on the front. Is this just an ATM card, or is this something I can use for purchases in stores? It's not the normal debit cards I'm used to seeing because it doesn't have a Visa or MC logo on it, so I'm just curious to what this card can do in Korea.

Appreciate any help!

[fugitive chicken]

I don't know about internet banking, but I don't think its in English...at least I haven't checked.

For your next question, it depends on the plan you got. My first card was just a cash card where I could only withdraw from ATMs...then I lost that card and requested a check card (debit card) both of which have that little gold chip on the front. The only difference was that my check card had my name and expiration date on it and the ATM card didn't. You probably have the ATM only card. If you want a check card, simply "lose" it and go to a bank and request a new one!

[lowpo]

[sugarloaf82]

I use internet banking with Shinhan and it's in English. You can transfer money, check your statements, balance, etc.... It's quite straightforward. You should ask at a branch about setting it up.

Also, they gave me an international MasterCard debit/check card that I can use abroad (and have).

I've had no problems thus far with Shinhan.

[jgarci17]

Thanks for the info so far guys! If I go into the branch, will they understand me even if someone there doesn't speak English? Also, with the international MC debit card, did they mail that to you or give it to you there? Thanks again!

[Jake_Kim]

Setting up a bank account and setting up internet banking service are two separate procedures. I'm guessing your employer handled the former but not the latter. You need to visit the managing branch of your account, sign up for online banking and security certificate. Take your passport/ARC and passbook with you, and perhaps your laptop as well.