How does the Korean postal system work?
How does the Korean postal system work? How can foreigners send domestic and international mail, and what services does Korea Post offer?
1 Answer
Korea Post (우체국) is very reliable and affordable. For domestic mail, a regular letter costs about 400 won and arrives within 1 to 2 days anywhere in Korea. You can find post offices in every neighborhood, usually open from 9am to 6pm on weekdays. Sending packages domestically through Korea Post is also cheap, starting from around 4,000 won for a small box depending on weight and distance.
For international mail, Korea Post offers regular airmail, EMS (Express Mail Service), and K-Packet. EMS is the fastest option at around 3 to 5 business days to most countries, while regular airmail takes 1 to 2 weeks. You can calculate shipping costs and track packages on the Korea Post website at epost.go.kr, which has an English version. To send a package, just bring it to the post office and they will help you fill out the customs form. You can also order boxes and packing supplies at the post office for a small fee. One handy tip is that you can schedule package pickups from your home through the Korea Post website or app so you do not even have to visit the post office.