Digital Nomad Life in Seoul, Korea

"There are quite a few clubs now that bring together expats and Koreans. Both give the other what they want most: for expats it's comraderie and a chance to see the sights of Korea/Seoul and learn a little bit about Korean people, culture, language and food; for the Koreans it's much the same...but with an emphasis on friendship and language. Some I've found, but could not really take full advantage of, are: www.seoulclub.co.kr (a language/events club), www.adventurekorea.com (an event/language club) and www.ccck.org (Canadian Chamber of Commerce in Korea). Bar-hopping in Itaewon (especially during a Rugby or Football/Soccer game) is sure to turn up many, many expats from all over the globe. For those who prefer more Godly gatherings there is the (reputed) largest church in the world in Yeoido, where I live, that has a congregation of something like 700,000 as of a couple of years ago--traffic is pretty brutal on Sunday as many are bussed in for the SIX packed services throughout the day," explained one expat living in Seoul, Korea.

"Expats in Seoul often join clubs and activities such as language exchange groups, hiking clubs, and sports teams. Expats can also meet people by attending events such as art exhibitions, music concerts, and festivals. Additionally, many expats find it helpful to join online forums and social media groups related to their interests, as well as attending meetups and networking events. Finally, expats can also meet people by simply exploring the city and talking to locals," said one person in Seoul.

"For men the priority is WORK...bar none...well, after work they like to go to the bar too. That doesn't mean that Koreans are all fuddy-duddies, but they are definately less laid-back than, say, Canadians or Americans--especially Canadians. This focus means that most of their friends are from work, from previous work or (if they are upwardly mobile) future working groups. For women the Job One is clear: family. Get a good husband, raise a good family and have a good life. Keep everyone well fed, warm, healthy and happy (hubby is in charge of keeping everyone wealthy, but wife usually controls the purse-strings). For all Koreans family is first...maybe before work for some guys (but, admittedly, not that many). All Koreans have a strong bond to past present and (somewhat) future family members--especially children and elders. Children are like gold and elders are treated with respect--not in all cases, but in many. Every social event will have a few key articles: (i) picnic basket or delivered food...Koreans like to eat; (ii) soju, beer or some other drink...even the ladies may have a beer or so, you'd be surprised; (iii) blankets and such...as even with the alcohol Koreans like to always keep warm. Koreans have many sport interests. Some play street and arena basketball, many rollerblade(or, as they say, inline skateing), but the big sport is soccer. Tears flow whether they are winning or losing or even watching 2 visiting teams play. Everyone, in their words, goes crazy for it," said one person in Seoul.

"Life for expats and digital nomads in Seoul is generally quite pleasant. The city is modern and vibrant, with plenty of opportunities for work, leisure, and exploration. The cost of living is relatively low, and the public transportation system is efficient and reliable. Expats and digital nomads can find a wide variety of accommodation options, from traditional Korean-style apartments to modern high-rise buildings. The city is also home to a diverse range of international restaurants, cafes, and bars, making it easy to find a place to socialize and meet new people. Seoul is a great place to live for those looking for a unique and exciting experience," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Seoul.

"I lived with my in-laws for a few months, which was a great load-off. Then scouted out places near work. After a few weeks of looking on my own I brought in my boss to negotiate the fees--and he did a GREAT job. The place is about a 10 minute walk through the (safe) park to work, if brand new and less than I'd have paid downtown back home. Definately take a local to negotiate if at all possible," explained one person living in Seoul, Korea.

"One of the best ways to find a place to live in Seoul is to use online resources such as real estate websites. These websites allow you to search for properties in specific areas of Seoul, and they often provide detailed information about the properties, such as the size, amenities, and rental prices. Additionally, you can use online forums and social media groups to connect with people who are already living in Seoul and can provide advice and recommendations about the best places to live. Finally, you can also contact local real estate agents who can help you find a place to live that meets your needs," said one expat in Seoul.

"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," said one expat who made the move to Seoul.

"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," explained one foreigner living in Seoul, Korea.

"Expats in Seoul appreciate the city's vibrant culture, which is a mix of traditional and modern influences. They enjoy the city's bustling nightlife, its delicious cuisine, and its friendly people. They also appreciate the city's rich history and its many cultural attractions, such as the palaces, temples, and museums. Additionally, expats appreciate the city's efficient public transportation system, which makes it easy to get around. Finally, expats appreciate the city's commitment to safety and security, which makes it a great place to live," explained one person living in Seoul, Korea.

"One of the most challenging aspects of the local culture for expats in Seoul is the language barrier. Many Koreans speak only limited English, making it difficult for expats to communicate with locals. Additionally, the Korean culture is very hierarchical, and expats may find it difficult to adjust to the expectations of respect and deference that are expected of them. Furthermore, the Korean work culture is very demanding, and expats may find it difficult to adjust to the long hours and intense work ethic. Finally, the Korean culture is very conservative, and expats may find it difficult to adjust to the strict social norms and expectations," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Seoul.

"If you plan to stay in Seoul for a while, you will need to apply for a long-term visa. Depending on your nationality, you may need to apply for a D-2 visa, which is a long-term visa for those who wish to stay in Korea for more than 90 days. You will also need to apply for an Alien Registration Card, which is a form of identification for foreign nationals living in Korea. Additionally, you may need to provide proof of financial stability, such as a bank statement, in order to obtain a visa," said one expat who made the move to Seoul.

"It is important to be mindful of cultural differences when visiting Seoul. It is considered rude to point with your index finger, so it is best to use an open hand when gesturing. It is also important to be respectful of the elderly and to show respect when addressing them. It is also important to dress modestly and to avoid wearing revealing clothing. Additionally, it is important to remove your shoes when entering someone's home or a temple. Finally, it is important to be aware of the local customs and to avoid speaking loudly in public," explained one person living in Seoul, Korea.

"Healthcare services in Seoul, are known for their high quality and accessibility, with a well-developed infrastructure of hospitals, clinics, and medical centers. The city boasts a mix of public and private healthcare facilities, offering a wide range of services, from primary care to specialized treatments. Public hospitals in Seoul are generally large and well-equipped, with highly trained medical professionals providing affordable healthcare services to both residents and foreigners. Private hospitals and clinics, on the other hand, offer more personalized care and shorter waiting times, but at a higher cost. Seoul's healthcare system is supported by the National Health Insurance (NHI) program, which covers a significant portion of medical expenses for Korean citizens and long-term residents. This universal healthcare system ensures that everyone has access to essential healthcare services, regardless of their income or social status. Foreigners living in Seoul can also enroll in the NHI program, making healthcare services more affordable and accessible. In addition to the NHI program, Seoul also has a well-established network of international clinics and hospitals that cater to the needs of expatriates and tourists. These facilities often have English-speaking staff and offer a wide range of medical services, from routine check-ups to emergency care. Some of the most renowned international hospitals in Seoul include Severance Hospital, Samsung Medical Center, and Asan Medical Center, which are known for their state-of-the-art facilities and cutting-edge medical technology. Seoul's healthcare services also extend to traditional Korean medicine, which has been practiced for centuries and is still widely used today. Many hospitals and clinics in the city offer traditional treatments, such as acupuncture, herbal medicine, and therapeutic massage, alongside conventional medical care. Overall, healthcare services in Seoul are comprehensive, efficient, and easily accessible, ensuring that residents and visitors alike can receive the medical care they need," said one member in Seoul.

"Expats and digital nomads generally like the following aspects of living in Seoul: 1. High-speed internet: Seoul has some of the fastest and most reliable internet connections in the world, making it an ideal place for digital nomads who rely on the internet for work. 2. Public transportation: Seoul has an extensive and efficient public transportation system, including buses, subways, and taxis, making it easy to get around the city. 3. Food: Korean cuisine is diverse and delicious, with a wide variety of dishes to suit all tastes. There are also many international restaurants in Seoul, catering to expats and tourists. 4. Safety: Seoul is considered a safe city with low crime rates, making it a comfortable place for expats and digital nomads to live and work. 5. Cultural experiences: Seoul offers a rich cultural experience, with numerous historical sites, museums, and galleries to explore. There are also many festivals and events throughout the year. 6. Shopping: Seoul is a shopper's paradise, with a wide range of shopping options, from traditional markets to high-end department stores and trendy boutiques. 7. Nightlife: The city has a vibrant nightlife scene, with numerous bars, clubs, and entertainment venues to suit all tastes. However, there are also some aspects of living in Seoul that expats and digital nomads may dislike: 1. Language barrier: While many people in Seoul speak English, the language barrier can still be a challenge, particularly when dealing with government offices or local businesses. 2. Air pollution: Seoul has a problem with air pollution, particularly during the spring and winter months, which can be a concern for those with respiratory issues or who are sensitive to poor air quality. 3. High cost of living: Seoul can be an expensive city to live in, with high housing costs and prices for everyday items. 4. Work culture: The work culture in Korea can be quite intense, with long hours and a strong emphasis on hierarchy. This may be difficult for some expats to adjust to. 5. Lack of green spaces: While there are some parks and green spaces in Seoul, the city is densely populated and can feel quite crowded and concrete-heavy. 6. Cultural differences: Some expats may find it challenging to adapt to certain cultural differences, such as the importance of age and hierarchy in social situations, or the concept of saving face. 7. Limited job opportunities: For those looking to work in Seoul, job opportunities may be limited, particularly for those who do not speak Korean or have specialized skills," said one digital nomad in Seoul.

"I absolutely loved living in Seoul. I would not have traded my experience for anything. Generally speaking, I had a very positive experience with working and socializing with Koreans as well as with other ex-pats. I have so many great memories of my time there from 2018 thru early 2020. I would definitely consider relocating to Korea, if the right professional situation was offered," commented a person living in Seoul, Korea.