Step-by-Step Guides to Help You Navigate Daily Life

Adjusting to life in Korea as part of the Camp Humphreys community comes with its unique challenges and rewards. These practical guides are tailored to help military personnel and their families settle in smoothly and live like a local pro.

Understanding Public Transportation

Understanding Public Transportation

STEP 1

Get a T-Money Card

A T-Money card is essential for using buses, trains, and even taxis. Available at convenience stores like GS25 and CU.

STEP 2

Use Local Transit Apps

Download KakaoMap or Naver Map for accurate transit schedules and directions in English.

STEP 3

Know Your Options

  • Buses: Regular routes connect Camp Humphreys to Pyeongtaek and other nearby areas.
  • Trains: Use Pyeongtaek Station for local and high-speed KTX trains.
  • Taxis: Use Kakao Taxi for easy rides; it’s more reliable than hailing a cab on the street.

Paying Bills and Setting Up Utilities

Simplify Your Household Setup

  • Electricity & Water: Most bills can be paid via online banking or at convenience stores. Ask your landlord or housing office for account details.
  • Internet and Mobile Services: Providers like SK Telecom, KT, or LG U+ offer reliable services. Check with the base IT office for advice on getting the best deals.
  • Gas Services: Gas payments often come as monthly invoices. You can pay these at local convenience stores like 7-Eleven.

Grocery Shopping Like a Local

Where to Find the Essentials and Treats

  • Base Commissary: Stocked with American brands and products familiar to military families.
  • Korean Supermarkets: Explore stores like E-Mart, Lotte Mart, or Homeplus for fresh produce, snacks, and household items.
    Tip: Use a translation app to navigate Korean product labels.
  • Local Markets: Visit traditional markets for fresh produce and unique local goods. Cash is preferred, so bring small bills.

Dining and Ordering Food

Savor Korea’s Culinary Delights

Dining Out

  • Try local specialties like Korean BBQ, bibimbap, and bulgogi at nearby restaurants.
  • Learn key phrases like “I don’t eat spicy food” (maepji anayo) to customize your order.

Food Delivery

Use apps like Baemin (Baedal Minjok) or Coupang Eats. Many offer English options, making ordering easy.

Local Customs and Etiquette

Blending In with Ease

  • Shoes Off Indoors
    Always remove your shoes when entering homes or traditional Korean restaurants.
  • Bowing
    Bowing is a common way to show respect in Korea, especially to elders or in formal situations.
  • Dining Etiquette
    Wait for elders to begin eating before you start. Avoid sticking chopsticks upright in your rice, as this is seen as a sign of bad luck.