Htet Htet Ei (Dept. of Optics and Mechatronics Engineering, 23), an international student at Pusan National University (PNU), has been living in Korea for four years, but she is still unaware of the support benefits available for international students. She confessed, “Even when I go to the bank, I don’t know what would be good or suitable for me, so I often end up just nodding along to whatever the bank teller says.”

As of May 22nd, 2025, various organizations such as Busan Metropolitan City, Hana Bank, and more provided related services in areas including finance, transportation, education, and culture to support the stable settlement of international students. To prevent international students like Htet Htet Ei from missing out on various support programs due to difficulties in accessing information, “Channel PNU” has compiled five useful support programs for those residing in Busan.

① Free International Student Identity Card (ISIC) Issuance

Hana Bank is issuing International Student Identity Cards (ISIC) free of charge to enrolled students and those on leave of absence from PNU until May 31st, 2025. The international student card offers discounts on preferential currency exchange services, airline tickets, transportation, cultural site admissions and more. If you apply for the card during the promotional period, Hana Bank will fully cover the 19,000 won card issuance fee for a card valid for one year.

Applying is easy. First, click on “Apply for ISIC International Student Card” on the Hana Bank MyBranch homepage and complete the online application form. The academic verification process takes one business day. Afterward, applicants receive a text message notifying approval and a customer confirmation number needed for check card issuance on their registered mobile phone number.

For international applicants, you can apply for an ISIC check card along with the opening of a bank account by visiting the nearest Hana Bank branch with your printed issuance confirmation, passport, and alien registration card. However, you must first confirm ISIC card availability before visiting, and card issuance takes approximately 5-7 business days.

② EMS (Express Mail Service) Fee Discount

According to Busan Metropolitan City and Busan Regional Communications Office (BRCO), international students residing in Busan can receive approximately a 10% discount on EMS service fees. This service, which began on February 18th, 2025, is one of the international student support projects established through an agreement between Busan Metropolitan City and BRCO.

Eligible recipients include holders of study (D-2), general training (D-4), job-seeking (D-10) visas, and the discount applies to all post offices within Busan. Simply present your alien registration card when submitting mail, and if a representative submits mail on your behalf, they should provide a copy of your alien registration card along with their identification. Additionally, applications submitted through the Post Office app or internet post office receive an additional 3% discount for EMS services (excluding premium).

③ International Student Counseling

Programs designed to alleviate difficulties experienced in an unfamiliar city are also available. Busan Global City Foundation (BGCF) operates a free professional counseling service called ‘International Student Counseling’ for international students. You are eligible for expert assistance in areas such as information on living in Busan, international student program guidance, psychological, residency, and human rights. Operating hours are from 9am to 6pm on weekdays, and applications can be made by phone (1577-7716) or by visiting the center.

④ Busan Korean Language School

BGCF also operates free Korean language courses called “BGCF Korean Class” for foreigners. In addition to regular Korean language courses including TOPIK regular courses, intensive conversational Korean sessions, and intensive writing correction sessions, the foundation also provides free Korean cultural experience programs. Any international students residing in Busan with study (D-2), general training (D-4), job-seeking (D-10), and overseas Korean (F-4) visas can apply.

Course registration is available on the BGCF website. Applications for “the 3rd semester Korean classes” running from July 28th to September 18th, 2025, will be accepted from July 1st to 14th, 2025. The 4th semester lectures will be held from September 22nd to November 13th, 2025 following a two-week registration period from September 1st to 14th, 2025. Upon registration, a 50,000 won deposit must be paid in cash on the first day of class, but a full refund is possible if attendance rate exceeds 60%. Detailed information can be found on the BGCF website or through Busan Global Center (1877-7716).

⑤ BUSAN Pay

Using the “BUSAN Pay” app allows you to receive discounts throughout Busan. According to Busan Metropolitan City, this app is designed to help both Busan citizens and foreigners residing in or visiting Busan to access local information and living services, supporting Korean and English languages. Particularly for international users, useful features for them unfamiliar with Busan include local currency Dongbaek Card payment (charging and usage), cashback benefits, Busan tourist attractions/restaurant information, subway pass “Dongbaek Metro” purchase, and taxi calling services.

Reporter Seo Yoo-Jung, Thadar-Soe

Translated by Thadar-Soe