Moving to Yongin, Korea

"Yongin is a major city in the Gyeonggi province of South Korea, known for its cultural attractions and modern amenities. Before moving to Yongin, expats should be aware of several important factors. Firstly, the official language is Korean, and while English is taught in schools, not everyone may be fluent. Therefore, learning basic Korean phrases and understanding the alphabet can be very helpful. The cost of living in Yongin can be high, especially when it comes to housing. Expats should be prepared for this and budget accordingly. The city has a well-developed public transportation system, including buses and subway lines, making it easy to get around. However, traffic can be heavy during peak hours. Yongin has a humid subtropical climate with four distinct seasons. Winters can be quite cold with occasional snowfall, while summers can be hot and humid. The city is home to several international schools, making it a suitable place for expats with children. Healthcare in Yongin is of a high standard, with a number of hospitals and clinics available. However, it's recommended to have health insurance as medical costs can be high. Yongin is known for its cultural attractions, including Korean Folk Village and Everland, South Korea's largest theme park. Expats can enjoy a variety of recreational activities. South Korean cuisine is a highlight of living in Yongin. From traditional Korean barbecue to street food, there are plenty of culinary delights to explore. South Koreans work long hours and the work culture can be intense. It's important for expats to be prepared for this aspect of life in Yongin. Lastly, South Korea is a safe country with low crime rates. However, like anywhere else, it's important to take basic precautions to ensure personal safety," commented one expat who made the move to Yongin.

"Finding a place to live in Yongin involves several steps. First, you need to determine your budget and the type of accommodation you're looking for. This could range from a small studio apartment to a larger family home. Next, you should research different neighborhoods in Yongin to find one that suits your lifestyle and needs. Consider factors such as proximity to work or school, access to public transportation, safety, and the availability of amenities such as shops, restaurants, and parks. Once you have a clear idea of what you're looking for, you can start your search. There are several online platforms where you can find listings for rental properties in Yongin, such as Zigbang, Naver Real Estate, and Craigslist Seoul. These websites allow you to filter results based on your preferences, and you can view photos and details of the properties. Another option is to hire a real estate agent, or "budongsan," who can help you navigate the local property market. They can provide valuable advice, arrange viewings, and assist with the negotiation and contract process. When you find a property you're interested in, arrange a viewing to inspect the condition of the property and the surrounding area. If you decide to proceed, you'll need to negotiate the terms of the lease, including the rent and the deposit amount. In Korea, it's common to pay a large deposit, or "jeonse," which is typically equivalent to 50-80% of the property's value. However, there's also the "wolse" system, where you pay a smaller deposit and monthly rent. Once you've agreed on the terms, you'll sign a lease agreement. Make sure to read it carefully and understand all the terms before signing. Finally, you'll need to set up utilities and internet, and then you can move into your new home in Yongin," explained one expat living in Yongin, Korea.

"A typical expat home or apartment in Yongin, is usually modern and well-equipped with all the necessary amenities. These homes are often located in high-rise buildings, offering stunning views of the city. The apartments are usually compact, yet efficiently designed to maximize space. They often feature an open-plan living and dining area, a small but functional kitchen, and one or two bedrooms. The bathrooms are typically modern and clean, often equipped with high-tech features common in Korea, such as heated toilet seats. The apartments are usually furnished, featuring a mix of Western and Korean-style furniture. They often come with appliances like a refrigerator, washing machine, and sometimes even a television. The buildings these apartments are located in often have amenities like a gym, a convenience store, and 24-hour security. Many expat homes in Yongin are located in expat-friendly neighborhoods, close to international schools, supermarkets selling foreign goods, and English-speaking medical facilities. These neighborhoods are often well-connected to other parts of the city by public transportation. Despite being in a bustling city, many apartments are located in quiet residential areas, offering a peaceful living environment. In terms of style, the apartments often feature a minimalist design, with neutral color schemes and clean lines. Some apartments may also have floor-to-ceiling windows, allowing plenty of natural light and offering panoramic views of the city. Despite the modern design, some homes may also feature traditional Korean elements, such as heated floors known as "ondol". Overall, a typical expat home in Yongin offers a comfortable and convenient living environment, blending modern amenities with traditional Korean features," said one expat who made the move to Yongin.

"The average cost of housing in Yongin can vary greatly depending on the type and size of the property. For instance, the price of an apartment can range from moderately priced to very expensive. As of recent data, a typical three-bedroom apartment in the city center may cost around the mid to high hundreds of thousands in USD. However, the price can be significantly lower if the property is located outside the city center. It's important to note that these prices are subject to change and may vary based on various factors such as the exact location, the age and condition of the property, and the current state of the real estate market," explained one expat living in Yongin, Korea.

"The decision to buy or rent a home in Yongin, largely depends on your personal circumstances, financial situation, and long-term plans. If you plan to stay in Yongin for a long period, buying a home could be a good investment. Owning a home allows you to build equity over time and offers stability and the freedom to make changes to your property as you see fit. On the other hand, renting a home in Yongin could be a better option if you're not planning to stay long-term or if you prefer flexibility. Renting doesn't require a large upfront investment and it's often cheaper in the short term. It also allows you to move easily if your circumstances change. It's also important to consider the real estate market conditions in Yongin. If property prices are high and predicted to fall, it might be better to rent for a while and wait for prices to drop before buying. Conversely, if prices are low and expected to rise, it could be a good time to buy. Lastly, consider your financial situation. Buying a home requires a significant financial commitment and ongoing costs for maintenance, taxes, and insurance. Make sure you have a stable income and enough savings to cover these costs before deciding to buy. In conclusion, both buying and renting a home in Yongin have their pros and cons. It's crucial to consider your personal circumstances, financial situation, and long-term plans before making a decision," commented one expat who made the move to Yongin.

"When moving to Yongin, it's essential to pack clothing suitable for all four seasons, as the city experiences a wide range of temperatures throughout the year. You should include lightweight clothing for the hot and humid summers, as well as warm clothing for the cold winters. Don't forget to pack a good quality raincoat and umbrella, as the monsoon season can bring heavy rainfall. Pack enough toiletries to last for the first few weeks, including any specific brands you prefer, as they may not be readily available in Korea. The same goes for any prescription medications you take, ensure you have enough to last until you can arrange a local supply. Bring a good pair of comfortable walking shoes, as you'll likely be doing a lot of walking. Also, consider packing a pair of indoor slippers, as it's customary in Korea to remove your shoes when entering a home. If you're planning on cooking, you might want to pack some of your favorite spices or food items that might be hard to find in Korea. However, keep in mind that Korea has strict customs regulations, so check beforehand to see what food items are allowed. Pack a universal power adapter, as the plug type in Korea might be different from your home country. Also, consider bringing a portable charger for your electronic devices. Bring copies of important documents, such as your passport, visa, and any necessary medical records. It's also a good idea to have a few passport-sized photos on hand, as they're often required for various forms and applications in Korea. Lastly, consider packing a few items from home to make your new place feel more comfortable and familiar. This could be anything from photos of loved ones to your favorite blanket or pillow," said one expat in Yongin.

"In Yongin, it's considered rude to blow your nose in public, especially at the dining table. Avoid touching someone, especially an elder or a person of the opposite sex, unless you are very close or intimate with them. When meeting someone for the first time, it's customary to bow slightly as a sign of respect. Avoid using red ink to write someone's name, as it symbolizes death. It's also considered impolite to refuse a drink offered by an elder or superior. When receiving or giving something, use both hands or your right hand with your left hand touching your right elbow as a sign of respect. Avoid pointing or beckoning someone with one finger, as it's considered rude. Instead, use your whole hand with your palm facing down. It's also considered impolite to step on the threshold when entering a traditional Korean house. In Korea, it's customary to remove your shoes before entering someone's home. Avoid showing the soles of your shoes to others, as it's considered disrespectful. It's also considered impolite to talk loudly in public places, especially in temples or other sacred places. Avoid making critical or negative comments about the country or its leaders, as it's considered disrespectful. It's also important to respect the local customs and traditions, even if they are different from your own. When dining, wait for the eldest person to start eating before you start. Avoid sticking your chopsticks vertically into your rice bowl, as it's associated with funerals. It's also considered impolite to leave food on your plate, as it implies that you didn't enjoy the meal. In Korea, it's customary to pay for the meal if you are the one who invited others. However, it's also common for people to fight over the bill as a sign of generosity. Avoid arguing about the bill, as it's considered impolite. Lastly, remember to be polite and respectful at all times, as Koreans value manners and etiquette," said one expat in Yongin.