Once you have a place to live, the next job is getting it running — power, gas, water, and the internet that modern life depends on. Some of this may already be handled by your landlord, so the first step is always to ask.
Step 1 — Ask your landlord what is included
Before arranging anything, confirm with your landlord or agent:
- Which utilities are billed to the unit and which are included in rent or maintenance fees
- Whether there is a maintenance fee (gwallibi) that already covers water, cleaning or security
- The account or customer numbers for existing utility connections
In many apartments and officetels, water and building services are bundled into the monthly maintenance fee, and you only handle electricity, gas and internet.
Electricity
Electricity is supplied by KEPCO. In most cases the supply is already connected and you simply take over the billing:
- Note the meter reading on move-in day so you are not charged for the previous tenant
- Bills can be paid by bank auto-transfer, the app, or at a convenience store / ATM
- Summer air-conditioning and winter heating can spike bills — Korea uses a tiered rate, so heavy use costs more per unit
Gas
City gas (for heating and hot water in many homes) is run by regional providers. To start or transfer service you usually call the local gas company to schedule a connection or safety check, especially when moving in. Keep the provider number your landlord gives you.
Water
Water is billed by the local city or district. In apartments it is often part of the maintenance fee; in standalone units you may receive a separate bill. As with electricity, record the move-in meter reading.
Internet (the part you will care about most)
Korea has some of the fastest, cheapest internet in the world. The three main providers are:
- KT
- SK Broadband
- LG U+
How to set it up:
- Choose a provider and plan (often bundled with IPTV or a phone line for a discount)
- Sign up by phone, online, or through a reseller — you will need your ARC and a payment method
- Book an installation visit; a technician usually comes within a few days
- Expect a contract of one to three years; early cancellation has penalties
Tip: ask neighbours or your landlord which provider gives the best signal in your specific building — performance varies by location and wiring.
Paying your bills
The easiest approach is to set up automatic payment from your bank account or card for every utility, so nothing is missed. Otherwise you can pay each bill via your banking app, at any convenience store, or at an ATM using the barcode on the bill.
Common mistakes
- Forgetting the move-in meter readings, then disputing inflated first bills
- Signing a long internet contract right before moving again — match the term to how long you will stay
- Ignoring the maintenance fee, then double-paying for something already included
Start by asking your landlord exactly what is included, record your meter readings on day one, set every bill to auto-pay, and pick the internet provider with the best signal in your building.