💡 Introduction
Living in Korea as a foreigner? Understanding how utility bills work is just as important as signing your lease. Let’s break down what you’ll pay, how you’ll pay it, and how you can save money every month.
🔌 1. What Utility Bills Are You Responsible For?
Here are the most common utility bills tenants are expected to pay:
- Electricity (전기) – Korea Electric Power Corporation (KEPCO)
- Water (수도) – Provided by the local district office
- Gas (도시가스) – Mostly used for heating and hot water
- Internet & Cable TV (인터넷/TV) – Optional but common
- Maintenance Fee (관리비) – Includes building cleaning, security, sometimes heating
💡 Tip: In studio apartments (원룸), some utilities may be included in the rent. Always confirm before signing.
💳 2. How to Pay Utility Bills
- 📱 Mobile Apps: Use KakaoPay, Toss, or your bank’s app
- 🏦 ATM or Bank Visit: Bills come with barcodes you can scan
- 💬 Help from your landlord: Many landlords offer assistance for foreign tenants
📌 Bills usually arrive monthly and are often placed in your mailbox or delivered via KakaoTalk/email.
🧾 3. Average Costs (Monthly Estimates)
| Utility | Studio Apt (1 person) | Family Apt (3 people) |
|---|---|---|
| Electricity | ₩30,000–₩60,000 | ₩70,000–₩150,000 |
| Water | ₩5,000–₩10,000 | ₩20,000–₩40,000 |
| Gas | ₩10,000–₩20,000 (summer) |
markdown복사편집 ₩40,000–₩100,000 (winter) | ₩100,000–₩200,000 |
| Internet/TV | ₩30,000–₩40,000 | ₩40,000–₩60,000 | | Maintenance Fee | ₩50,000–₩100,000 | ₩100,000+ |
💸 4. Real Ways to Save on Utility Bills
✅ Use LED bulbs and turn off appliances
✅ Limit underfloor heating time (especially in winter)
✅ Wash clothes with cold water
✅ Unplug electronics (Korea uses 220V, so standby power = real cost)
✅ Choose plans with combined internet + mobile to save
📝 5. Final Checklist Before You Sign a Lease
- Ask what utilities are included
- Confirm how bills are paid (you or landlord?)
- Request average monthly bills from previous tenant
- Check if there’s automatic payment or app option
- Clarify about maintenance fees and what they include
📎 Bonus Tip:
Save all your monthly bills — they’re useful when moving out to prove you’ve paid everything.
🔚 Summary
Utility bills in Korea aren’t hard to manage — once you know what to expect. This guide helps you avoid surprise costs and gives you practical ways to save money every month.
Stay tuned for Episode 5: The Ultimate Move-Out Checklist — you don’t want to miss it!