About Korea

Currency

The unit of currency in Korea is the "won". Though the rate of exchange does fluctuate, 1 Canadian dollar is approximately 870 won.  The US dollar is about 900 to 1000 won.  Major credit cards such as VISA and American Express will adjust your overseas charges according to their own exchange rates, which may slightly vary from one credit card company to another.

Upon your arrival in Korea, you will be at least two weeks away from your first pay-check, so you should bring around $1000 Canadian to cover your first month's expenses.  Teachers are usually paid once a month, either at the very beginning or at the end of the month.  

Given the low cost of living in Korea, saving money is easy.  With a bit of planning and budgeting, you can say goodbye to that student loan or save up some extra cash for a rainy day.