Korean Expat Community for National Disasters

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I was born and raised in Korea, but whenever I watch a foreign friend walk into a convenience store for the first time, I am reminded of just how unusual this place must seem from the outside. The look on their face "all of this is available at a convenience store?" makes me see something I had completely taken for granted in a whole new light.

GS25, CU, 7-Eleven — these stores sit on practically every corner and are open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Triangle kimbap, cup ramen, steamed buns, soft-serve ice cream — if you are hungry at 3am, a five-minute walk is all it takes. Most stores have a microwave and a small eating area, so you can heat up your food and eat right there on the spot. The idea of putting together a full meal for under 5,000 won tends to genuinely shock people who are new to Korea.

And it goes well beyond food. Sending packages, paying utility bills, printing documents, picking up concert tickets all of it can be done at the convenience store counter. If you are just starting out in Korea, my first piece of advice would be to find your nearest convenience store and make it your friend.