Incheon, Korea
Last updated on Jul 10, 2023
Summary: Expats, digital nomads and retirees talk about what it is really like living in Incheon, Korea. They offer advice about meeting people, cost of living, finding a home and more.
What do I need to know before moving to Incheon?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Incheon, they said:
"Incheon is a bustling city with a rich history and culture, and there are several things expats should know before moving there. Firstly, the official language is Korean, and while English is taught in schools, not everyone may be fluent in it. Therefore, learning basic Korean phrases can be beneficial. The cost of living in Incheon is relatively lower compared to Seoul, but it's still higher than in many Western countries. Housing can be expensive, especially in popular expat areas. Incheon has a well-developed public transportation system, including buses, subways, and taxis, which are relatively affordable. The city is known for its food culture, with a variety of local and international cuisines available. However, Korean food can be quite spicy, so it may take some time to get used to it. Incheon has a humid subtropical climate, with hot, humid summers and cold, dry winters. Healthcare in Incheon is of a high standard, with both public and private hospitals available. However, it's recommended to have health insurance as healthcare can be expensive. Incheon is generally safe, but like any city, it's advisable to take precautions, especially at night. The city has a mix of modern and traditional culture, with plenty of historical sites, museums, and festivals to enjoy. Lastly, Koreans value respect and politeness, so it's important to familiarize yourself with Korean etiquette and customs," remarked one expat who made the move to Incheon.
How do I find a place to live in Incheon?
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.
Other Questions:
- What do I need to know before moving to Incheon?
- What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Incheon?
- What is the average cost of housing in Incheon?
- How do I meet people in Incheon?
- What do I need to know before retiring in Incheon?
- What should I pack when moving to Incheon?
- Where should I setup a bank account in Incheon?
- Will I be able to find a job in Incheon?
- What is life like as an expat in your area?
- What do people like (and dislike) about Incheon?
- What type of social life can someone expect in Incheon?
- What is the social scene like in Incheon?
- What advice to expats in Incheon have about housing?
- What are medical services in Incheon like?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Incheon?
- Is the cost of living in Incheon high?
- What are the visa & residency requirements in Incheon?
- Why do people move to Incheon?