Winter in South Korea can bring very low temperatures, snow and icy conditions. International students should prepare not only for warm clothing but also for higher heating bills, transport expenses and other seasonal necessities. Planning ahead can help students manage their budgets and avoid unexpected costs.

1. Winter clothing and warm accessories

Students should prepare suitable clothing to stay warm when temperatures drop. Essential items include:

• A thick winter coat or padded jacket

• Thermal underwear and warm layers

• Gloves, scarves and hats

• Warm, non-slip shoes

• Thick socks

Students do not need to buy everything at once. Compare prices and prioritise essential items. Second-hand clothing in good condition can also help reduce initial expenses.

2. Heating and utility bills

Heating is one of the main additional expenses during winter. Depending on the accommodation, students may need to pay for gas, heating, electricity, hot water and building management fees.

Actual costs vary according to the size of the room, insulation, type of heating system and usage. Before renting accommodation, students should check which utilities are included in the rent and which must be paid separately.

To manage expenses, keep windows and doors properly closed, avoid leaving heating on unnecessarily and ask the landlord or accommodation manager how to use the heating system efficiently.

3. Transport costs

Cold weather, snow and icy roads can affect daily travel. Students should allow extra time to get to school or work and check public transport updates when necessary.

Bus and underground fares may become a regular expense, while taxis can cost more if used frequently. Preparing a monthly transport budget and choosing convenient accommodation can help control these costs.

4. Food and drinks

In winter, students may spend more on hot meals and drinks. Cooking at home is often a practical way to manage food expenses.

Students can save money by preparing meals in advance, bringing a thermos of hot water or tea and limiting frequent purchases of drinks and snacks outside.

5. Other winter essentials

In addition to clothing and heating, students may need to buy:

• A thick blanket or warmer bedding

• Heat packs for cold days

• Moisturiser and lip balm to protect against dry weather

• An umbrella or waterproof clothing

• Items to improve grip and reduce the risk of slipping on icy surfaces, where needed

Students should prioritise items based on the weather, their accommodation and their daily routine rather than buying everything immediately.

6. How to plan a winter budget

Students can divide their winter budget into three categories:

• Regular expenses: rent, food, transport and utility bills.

• Initial purchases: winter clothing, bedding and other essential items.

• Emergency funds: money set aside for unexpected expenses, such as additional heating costs or necessary purchases during severe weather.

During the first month of winter, students should record their actual spending and adjust their budget accordingly. This helps them estimate future expenses more accurately.

7. Checklist before winter arrives

Before temperatures drop, students should:

• Prepare warm clothing and suitable footwear.

• Ask the landlord or accommodation manager about heating and utility payments.

• Check blankets, windows and room insulation.

• Set aside money for heating, transport and other seasonal expenses.

• Keep an emergency fund for unexpected costs.

• Follow weather forecasts and safety guidance during snow, freezing conditions or icy weather.

Preparing early helps international students adapt to winter in South Korea while keeping their living costs under control.

CONTACT INFORMATION

Songda Tohoku Joint Stock Company

Address: L02-L01, Area A, Duong Noi Urban Area, Duong Noi Ward, Hanoi, Vietnam

Hotline: 0989 044 852

Email: tohokusongda2014@gmail.com

Website: https://tohoku.vn