Starting a Business in Goyang: Local Regulations & Tax Info (Don’t Even Get Me Started)
okay, so like, I’ve been staring at this laptop for 72 hours straight fueled by instant ramen and the faint hope of actually making something happen. Goyang. seriously, Goyang. it’s… it’s a thing. I’m trying to figure out if I can actually, you know, do something here. I’m a touring session drummer, which basically means I’m perpetually broke and slightly terrified, but I’ve got this idea for a custom drum kit repair shop - ‘Rhythm & Rust,’ something like that. Sounds cool, right? Let’s get into the nitty-gritty, because honestly, the paperwork is already giving me hives.
First off, the weather. It’s this weird, persistent drizzle - like someone’s been crying for three days. Not a bad drizzle, just… relentless. It’s like the sky’s permanently damp, which is honestly kind of depressing. But, you know, Seoul’s only a short flight away if you need a shot of sunshine and overpriced coffee. And Busan? A quick train ride - salty air, seafood, and enough questionable street food to keep you going for a week. I’m talking about a vibe, man. A wet vibe.
Let’s talk about the legal stuff. I’ve been digging through the Goyang City Hall website (which, by the way, is about as user-friendly as a rusty trombone) and it’s a mess. Apparently, you need a ‘business license’ (which costs around ₩50,000 - that’s like, $40 USD, give or take a few won) and then you gotta register with the local tax office. The website is in Korean, obviously, so I’ve been relying on a friend who’s studying law to translate. He keeps saying things like, ‘it’s complicated’ and ‘you’ll need a lawyer.’ A lawyer! Seriously? I’m a drummer, not a corporate titan.
*Cost of Living Breakdown (Rough Estimate - Don’t Quote Me):Category Monthly Cost (KRW) USD Equivalent (Approx.) Rent (Studio) 800,000 - 1,500,000 $600 - $1,000 Utilities 150,000 - 300,000 $110 - $220 Food 300,000 - 500,000 $220 - $370 Transportation 100,000 - 200,000 $75 - $150 Entertainment/Misc. 200,000 - 400,000 $150 - $300
Seriously, that rent is brutal. I’ve been looking at places in Ilsan - it’s a bit quieter, feels safer, but it’s further out. I checked out some listings on this Yelp page and they’re mostly tiny. Like, you could probably fit a small drum kit in the living room.
Tax Info - Brace Yourselves:
Okay, this is where it gets really depressing. I’ve heard rumors (drunk advice, mostly) that the small business tax is a nightmare. You’re supposed to file quarterly, and the forms are… well, let’s just say they’re not designed for the faint of heart. I found a Reddit thread (this subreddit) that said something about needing to hire an accountant - which, again, adds to the cost. Apparently, there’s a ‘flat tax’ system, but it’s complicated. I’m thinking of just setting up a sole proprietorship - that seems simpler, but I’m not entirely sure. I’m also terrified of accidentally underreporting my income. Don’t judge.
Overheard Gossip (From a Local Bar): “Starting a business here? Good luck. The regulations are a joke, and the competition is fierce. You’ll need a good lawyer and a lot of patience. And don’t even think about trying to undercut the established shops - they’ll crush you.” Yeah, thanks, buddy. That’s exactly what I needed to hear.
Another Overheard Rumor: “The Goyang City Hall staff? They’re… efficient. Let’s just say they’re not known for their warmth. Bring a thick skin and a lot of persistence.” Okay, noted. I’m picturing a very beige, very bureaucratic experience.
Safety Note:* Goyang is generally considered a safe city, but like anywhere, you gotta be aware of your surroundings. I read on TripAdvisor (this TripAdvisor page) that petty theft can be an issue in crowded areas, especially at night. Just saying.
Anyway, that’s where I’m at. It’s overwhelming, it’s confusing, and it’s probably going to end in me eating ramen for the rest of my life. But hey, at least I’m documenting the chaos, right? Let me know if you’ve got any tips - seriously, any tips. I’m desperate. And maybe send me some sunshine.
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