🏦 Opening a Bank Account in Korea as a Foreigner: What You Should Know Before You Go
A young foreigner at a Korean bank counter, holding their ARC and passport, while a Korean bank employee explains banking app setup. A security token (OTP), Korean bank logos, and signs in both Korean and English are visible. Setting up a bank account is one of the first things you’ll need to do if you’re staying in Korea for more than a few weeks. Whether you're here for work, study, or long-term travel, having a local bank account will make everything easier—from receiving payments to using Korean apps. But as a foreigner, the process can be a bit tricky , especially if you’re new to Korean bureaucracy. Here's your full guide to help you through it. 📄 What Documents Do You Need to Open a Bank Account in Korea? The required documents can vary slightly from bank to bank, but most will ask for the following: Document Purpose Alien Registration Card (ARC) Main form of ID—must be valid and not expired Passport To verify nationality and visa type Korean Phone Number Required for...