Moving to Seoul, Korea
Last updated on Jul 05, 2023
Summary: Expatriates are drawn to Seoul, Korea for its vibrant culture, delicious cuisine, and bustling nightlife. The city is also known for its excellent public transportation system, making it easy to get around. Additionally, Seoul is home to a variety of international schools, making it an ideal destination for expats with children. Before moving to Seoul, it is important to be aware of the cost of living, which is higher than in many other cities. Additionally, it is important to be aware of the language barrier, as English is not widely spoken in Korea. It is also important to be aware of the cultural differences between Korea and other countries, as this can help expats adjust to their new home. Finally, expats should research the visa requirements for living in Korea, as these can vary depending on the individual's nationality.
What do I need to know before moving to Seoul?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Seoul, they said:
"Before moving to Seoul, expats should familiarize themselves with the language and culture of Korea. It is also important to research the cost of living in Seoul, as well as the availability of housing and transportation. Additionally, expats should be aware of the visa requirements for entering and staying in Korea. It is also important to research the job market in Seoul and the availability of healthcare services. Finally, expats should be aware of the cultural norms and etiquette in Korea, such as the importance of respecting elders and the use of honorifics," commented one expat who made the move to Seoul.
"Live close to work. Life is hard enough without a 1-2 hour commute--especially if it's on a bus, subway or (for the purely insane) driving your own car here. For an expat, who should be thinking of a compromise between their home culture/lifestyle and their adopted one, getting a smaller place that's closer to work may be better than a large apartment (no houses here, unless you're way out of town or really loaded) that is far away may be the difference between happiness and h#ll," remarked one expat in Seoul, Korea.
How do I find a place to live in Seoul?
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About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.
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