Arriving and Settling In
The moment you land at Incheon International Airport, you will notice that Korea operates with remarkable efficiency. Immigration for EPS workers is typically smooth if your paperwork is in order. Have your work permit (E-9 visa), passport, and employer contact information readily accessible. Your employer or a company representative will usually be waiting at the arrivals hall to take you directly to your accommodation.
Most EPS workers are housed in company-provided dormitories near the workplace. These are functional and include basic amenities — a bed, wardrobe, shared kitchen, and bathroom. While the rooms may feel compact compared to home, they are well-heated and clean. You will receive a Korean SIM card during onboarding, which is essential for staying connected with family and registering for government services.
Daily Life and Routine
Korean workplace culture values punctuality and dedication above all else. Work shifts typically run 8 to 10 hours, and overtime is common, especially in manufacturing and construction sectors. Sunday is generally a rest day, though this varies by company. Korean coworkers are professional and disciplined — many factories have diverse, multicultural workforces and are accustomed to Bangladeshi employees.
For meals, company canteens usually serve Korean food at subsidised prices. Dishes like kimchi, rice, soup (국, guk), and grilled meats will become familiar very quickly. Many Bangladeshi workers maintain halal practices by cooking in shared dormitory kitchens on rest days. Major supermarkets like Emart, Homeplus, and Lotte Mart stock a range of international spices and vegetables, and areas with larger migrant communities often have South Asian or Bangladeshi grocery stores nearby.
Transportation
Public transport in Korea is world-class. Cities like Ansan, Suwon, Changwon, and Ulsan — which host large EPS worker communities — have excellent bus and subway networks. A T-money card (rechargeable transport card) is the simplest and most economical way to travel. It works on buses, subways, and even some taxis nationwide. Download Naver Maps or Kakao Maps on your smartphone — both support English navigation and are indispensable for getting around.
Managing Your Money
Your monthly salary is deposited into a Korean bank account, typically with Industrial Bank of Korea (IBK) or Nonghyup Agricultural Bank. Sending money home is straightforward through registered remittance services such as Wise, Moneygram, or direct bank wire transfers. Be cautious of any unofficial transfer services, as they may be illegal and unreliable. With disciplined budgeting, it is entirely possible to save a substantial portion of your monthly earnings to send home to your family.
Staying Healthy
Korea has one of the most comprehensive healthcare systems in Asia. As a registered EPS worker, you are enrolled in the National Health Insurance (NHI) scheme, which covers a significant portion of all hospital and clinic costs. Local clinics (의원, euiwon) are affordable and widely available for everyday ailments. For more serious conditions, larger hospitals in every major city offer interpretation services for foreign workers. Always carry your health insurance card with you.
Community and Connection
Internet speeds in Korea are among the fastest in the world, making video calls with family back home seamless. Areas like Ansan's Wongok-dong Multicultural Street — known informally as 'Bangladesh Town' — have Bangladeshi restaurants, mosques, money transfer shops, and community gathering spaces. These communities provide a vital support network for newly arrived workers navigating life in a new country.
Final Thoughts
Working in Korea as a Bangladeshi EPS worker is a journey of discipline, opportunity, and personal growth. The first few months require real adjustment, but the financial rewards and professional experience you build are unmatched in our region. Approach every day with respect for local customs, a strong work ethic, and an open mind — and Korea will become a chapter of your life you carry with pride for many decades to come.