What do I need to know before retiring in Seoul?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Seoul, they said...
"Before retiring in Seoul, expats should familiarize themselves with the local culture and customs. It is important to research the cost of living in Seoul, as well as the availability of healthcare and other services. Expats should also consider the language barrier, as English is not widely spoken in Korea. Additionally, expats should research the visa requirements for retirement in Korea, as well as the tax implications of living in the country. Finally, expats should consider the climate in Seoul, as the city experiences hot, humid summers and cold, dry winters," commented one expat who made the move to Seoul, Korea.
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"Come here first for a couple of weeks. Take a look around. Check out the sights (once you start working you'll hardly ever get out). Come again for another stay. Meet people. Visit again 2 or 3 times to build connections and solidify relationships (as well as you can)...but if the right offer comes along don't be backward about accepting. Plan on being here for 2-5-7 years....Koreans like to see a long term mindset. You have to mean it, though, as you may be presented with a long term contract and be expected to sign it. Learn as much hangul (Korean anphabet) as you can. Even if you can't understand very much, knowing the written language makes things a lot easier. Meet people here as much as you can. Many meetings and meals and drinking nights are needed to get things on track," remarked another expat in Seoul, Korea.
Other Questions:
- What should I pack when moving to Seoul?
- Where should I setup a bank account in Seoul?
- Will I be able to find a job in Seoul?
- What is life like in Seoul?
- What do expats in Seoul appreciate most about the local culture?
- What do expats find most challenging?
- Is there a lot of crime in Seoul?
- Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Seoul accepting of differences?
- What are the schools in Seoul like?
- What are healthcare services like in Seoul?
- What are medical services in Seoul like?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Seoul?
- What are emergency services like in Seoul?
- Will I need to travel to see a specialist?
- Are common prescription medications available in Seoul?
- How are local medical facilities in Seoul?
- As a foreigner living in Seoul, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?
- What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?
What do I need to know before retiring in Seoul?
If you live in Seoul, newcomers to Seoul would love to hear your answer to this question.
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.