Digital Nomad Life in Jeju Island, Korea

"Finding a place to live in Jeju Island 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 apartment to a larger house, depending on your needs and financial situation. Next, you should research different neighborhoods on the island to find one that suits your lifestyle and preferences. Some areas may be closer to the beach, while others may be more urban or closer to nature. Once you have a general idea of where you'd like to live, you can start looking for specific listings. There are several online platforms where you can find rental listings, such as Zigbang, Naver Real Estate, and Craigslist Seoul (which also includes listings for Jeju). You can also work with a real estate agent, known as a "budongsan" in Korea. They can help you navigate the local real estate market and handle negotiations with landlords. To find a reliable agent, you can ask for recommendations from locals or expat communities. When you find a place you're interested in, make sure to visit in person before making any commitments. Check the condition of the property, the amenities, and the surrounding area. Finally, once you've found a place you like, you'll need to sign a lease and pay a deposit. In Korea, it's common to pay a large deposit upfront, which is usually refundable at the end of your lease. Make sure to read the lease carefully and ask any questions you may have before signing. Remember, moving to a new place can be challenging, especially in a foreign country. Don't rush the process and take your time to find a place that feels like home," remarked one member in Jeju Island.

"Expats in Jeju Island often appreciate the warm hospitality and friendliness of the local people. They are known for their welcoming nature and willingness to help newcomers settle in. The local culture is also deeply rooted in tradition and history, which many expats find fascinating. From the island's unique mythology to its traditional haenyeo (female divers), there is a rich cultural tapestry to explore. Expats also appreciate the slower pace of life on Jeju Island compared to the bustling cities of mainland Korea. The island's laid-back lifestyle, combined with its stunning natural beauty, makes it a peaceful and relaxing place to live. The local food is another aspect of Jeju culture that expats often rave about. The island is famous for its fresh seafood, locally grown fruits, and traditional Korean dishes. Lastly, many expats appreciate the strong sense of community on Jeju Island. Despite being a popular tourist destination, the island maintains a close-knit, small-town feel where neighbors look out for each other," remarked one member in Jeju Island.

"Expats in Jeju Island often find the language barrier to be the most challenging aspect of the local culture. The majority of the population speaks Korean, and while some may have a basic understanding of English, it is not widely spoken. This can make everyday tasks like shopping, dining out, or asking for directions quite difficult. Another challenge is understanding and adapting to the local customs and etiquette. Korean culture is deeply rooted in Confucian principles, which emphasize respect for elders, hierarchy, and harmony. This can be quite different from Western norms and values, and it may take some time for expats to fully grasp and adapt to these customs. The food can also be a challenge for some expats. Korean cuisine is known for its bold flavors, with dishes often being spicy, fermented, or both. While many people enjoy Korean food, others may find it difficult to adjust to, especially if they are used to a different type of cuisine. Lastly, the pace of life and work culture in Korea can be quite intense. Koreans are known for their hard work and long hours, and this can be a shock for expats who are used to a more balanced lifestyle. It can also be challenging to build a social network, as locals may not always be open to making new friends, especially with foreigners," said one person in Jeju Island.

"If you are planning to stay in Jeju Island for a while, the type of visa or residency document you need will depend on your purpose of stay and your nationality. If you are a tourist from one of the 189 countries that are visa-exempt for Jeju Island, you can stay for up to 30 days without a visa. This applies to tourists who enter the island directly from a country outside of Korea. If you plan to work or study in Jeju Island, you will need to apply for the appropriate visa. For work, you will need an E-series visa, and for study, you will need a D-series visa. The specific type of visa within these series will depend on the nature of your work or study. If you plan to stay in Jeju Island for more than 90 days, you will need to apply for a long-term stay visa, such as the F-series visa for foreigners with Korean heritage or the H-series visa for working holidaymakers. In all cases, you will need to apply for your visa at a Korean embassy or consulate in your home country before you travel to Jeju Island. You will need to provide various documents, such as a passport, visa application form, and proof of your purpose of stay. If you are already in Korea and wish to extend your stay or change your visa status, you will need to apply at the immigration office in Jeju Island. You will need to provide similar documents as for a visa application, as well as proof of your current visa status. Please note that visa requirements can change, so it's always a good idea to check the latest information from the Korean embassy or consulate in your home country or the Korean immigration office," said one expat who made the move to Jeju Island.

"When visiting Jeju Island in Korea, it's important to respect the local customs and traditions. Avoid making loud noises or causing disturbances in public places, as Koreans value peace and quiet. Do not disrespect or make fun of the local dialect or accent, as it is a significant part of their cultural identity. Avoid pointing with your finger, especially at people, as it is considered rude. Instead, use your whole hand to gesture. Do not tip at restaurants or taxis, as it is not customary in Korea and can sometimes be seen as offensive. Avoid refusing food or drinks offered by locals, as it can be seen as a sign of disrespect. Do not wear revealing clothing, especially in religious or sacred places, as it is considered disrespectful. Avoid touching someone without their consent, as personal space is highly valued in Korean culture. Do not blow your nose in public, as it is considered impolite. Avoid discussing sensitive topics such as politics and history, as these can lead to uncomfortable situations. Lastly, always remember to remove your shoes before entering someone's home or certain traditional restaurants," said one person in Jeju Island.