Getting Around

Jeju is small and there are many ways to get around. If you are used to big city living then it may take some getting used to - and most people need a car. You can, however, get to most places that you need to go either on foot, by bicycle or on the very efficient public bus system. Most importantly, our housing is walking distance to school making life simpler for you and your family.

Cars

Before you arrive do make sure that you have organised a 12-month International Driving Licence. Without this licence, or a Korean licence, you will not be able to secure a car or drive on the island. The minimum age for driving in Jeju is 18 for cars and 16 for motorcycles.

You can also exchange your UK Driving Licence to a Korean one but for this you will need to have the original licence apostilled in the UK and also obtain a Certificate of Entry and Exit from the GEC Office. Charges are minimal.

Buying A Car

Many staff prefer to buy a car, as it is a cheaper longer-term alternative to car rental. Prices are similar to the UK/Europe. Dealers can help you buy a car and assist with the relevant paperwork. It usually takes at least 24 hours for them to arrange. Also - teachers who are leaving - and other GEC residents may be selling their cars before they go, so it is worth checking the Facebook groups or asking your buddy as you may find exactly what you want!

Most people find it easy to find a car that suits their lifestyle. They are mainly Kia or Hyundai.

Insurance

You do need to remember to budget for insurance which is in the region of KRW900,000 per annum or above. Most insurance policies include breakdown assistance as standard.

Leasing A Car

During the induction week, there will be a car rental company in school for staff wishing to rent a car. This is not the only company on the island and there is no obligation for staff to use this company.

Approximate car rental costs are below as a guide. (Prices can be higher for anyone under 26 years of age.) Prices are for monthly rental and include taxes and insurance, and may be subject to change by the time of arrival.

KIA Morning, 4 People, 1000cc Petrol, KRW440,000

Hyundai Accent, 4 People, 1400cc Petrol, KRW 480,000

KIA Sportage R, 5 People, 2000cc Diesel, KRW 660,000

Typical rental per month based upon a two year contract.

Current exchange rate GBP 1 = KRW1,514.

Driving Here

Driving on the island is relatively easy, in that there are many quiet roads. There are, however, many speed cameras on Jeju and fines are common, although no points are awarded for exceeding the speed limit and they are relatively small (up to around KRW90,000). Parking tickets are around KRW40,000 and, you should take care in the GEC. Drivers and all passengers must wear safety belts.

Drinking and driving is a serious offence in Korea and it is highly recommended that no alcohol is consumed when planning to drive as the tolerance level is very low.

More information on the driving rules in South Korea including round abouts and traffice lights can be found on the Korea4expats website, https://korea4expats.com/Living-in-Korea-qa. html.

Taxis

Taxis are not expensive in Jeju. When you arrive at Jeju airport there is a rank immediately outside Arrivals. Make sure that you have the address of the School in Korean as well as English as sometimes the drivers do not speak English. It’s good to be on the safe side. Once in the GEC you may occasionally see taxis around but it is much easier to ask Security to call you one or use an app - KakaoTaxi, for example.

A taxi from Jeju Airport to NLCS Jeju costs in the region of KRW30,000 ~ 40,000.

제주도 서귀포시 대정읍 글로벌에듀로

145번길 33 33 Global Edu-Ro, 145 Beon-gil, DaejeongEup, Seogwipo-Si, Jeju-Do

Buses

There are regular buses from Global Education City to Jeju City (no. 151 and 255.) These buses take on average 45 mins to an hour to reach the city. They are extremely cheap and efficient and run every 30 mins or so. They also run to Moseulpo on the coast where you can find many lovely bars, cafes and restaurants. Some tips:

• Buy a universal payment ‘T-money’ card from GS25 or CU to tap on tap off

• Free wifi on buses and at bus stops.

• Bus routes http://jejubnb.net/eng/transportation/

Bicycles

Bikes are a great way to get around and see the island, which is regarded as one of the world’s best places for cycling. Many of our teachers buy bikes for the whole family and use them for leisure and for chores. Cycling is encouraged and safe here and there is an extensive cycle track network. There are cycling groups and great trails and tracks for all ages. There is a bike shop in the GEC, Alton Bikes in Seogwipo and several large-brand shops in Jeju City, catering for all levels and requirements. You can also have bikes delivered or buy from teachers

Walking https://jejuolletrailguide.net/

Walking is one of the great joys of living on Jeju. You can walk to all the daily conveniences - and, of course, walk to work. Most of us love walking at weekends and in the long summer evenings. Hike coastal paths, forest trails and up the Oreums. Get a free guide to the 425km of Olle Trails from the airport or Olle huts and; buy an Olle Passport to collect the stamps and record your walks. Follow the Olle Trail Facebook page, or ask around and join one of the many informal groups.

Most walks are easy with lots of ‘carpeted pathways’ in forests and up hills. Climbing Hallasan is a must-do for everyone! It’s the highest mountain in Korea and a beautiful, if strenuous, day out.

Our staff are very competitive and lots of us have completed them all!

Other favourites are:

• Olle 11, Moseulpo to Mureung

• Olle 1-1 Udo Island

• Olle 14.1 from the GEC (Osulloc) to Jeoji

• Olle 13 via the Chair Park

• Olle 7 along the Seogwipo Coast

• Olle 14 past the chocolate factory to HyeopJae