Digital Nomad Life in Busan, Korea

"Finding a place to live in Busan 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 the different neighborhoods in Busan to find one that suits your lifestyle and needs. Some popular areas for expats include Haeundae, Seomyeon, and Gwangalli. Consider factors such as proximity to work or school, access to public transportation, and the presence 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 apartments and houses in Busan, such as Craigslist, Zillow, and Airbnb for short-term rentals. Another option is to work with a real estate agent. They can help you navigate the local market, arrange viewings, and negotiate with landlords. You can find English-speaking agents through expat forums or recommendations from friends or colleagues. When you find a place you like, you'll need to sign a lease. In Korea, it's common to pay a large deposit (known as key money) and then relatively low monthly rent. Make sure you understand all the terms of the lease before signing. Finally, before moving in, you should check the condition of the property and ensure that all utilities are set up. It's also a good idea to familiarize yourself with the rules and regulations of your new building or neighborhood," said one expat in Busan.

"Expats in Busan often appreciate the local food culture, which offers a wide variety of delicious and unique dishes. They also value the warm hospitality and friendliness of the locals, who are often willing to go out of their way to help foreigners. The efficient public transportation system is another aspect that expats appreciate, making it easy to navigate the city. Many expats also enjoy the vibrant nightlife in Busan, with its numerous bars, clubs, and restaurants. The city's rich history and tradition, visible in its many temples and festivals, is another aspect that expats find appealing. Additionally, the cleanliness and safety of the city are highly appreciated by expats. Lastly, the natural beauty of Busan, with its beautiful beaches and mountains, is something that many expats love about living in the city," explained one person living in Busan, Korea.

"The smiles of the people, the helpful attitudes that many have after just struggling with a simple Korean hello. Most will help you with anything. The ability to bend over backwards running around like nuts to help you and then in the end, nothing was really done. (here instead of just doing A to B, they do A, D, F, Z, N, Q, H, then B)," said one expat in Busan.

"Expats in Busan often find the language barrier to be the most challenging aspect of the local culture. Korean is a difficult language to learn and not everyone in Busan speaks English, which can make everyday tasks like shopping or asking for directions difficult. Another challenge is the hierarchical nature of Korean society. This is reflected in the language, social interactions, and workplace culture. It can be difficult for expats to understand and navigate these social hierarchies. The fast-paced lifestyle in Busan can also be a challenge for expats. Koreans often work long hours and the city itself is always bustling, which can be overwhelming for those used to a slower pace of life. Food can also be a challenge for some expats. Korean cuisine is quite different from Western food, and some people may find it hard to adjust to the spicy and fermented flavors. Lastly, the concept of "saving face" is very important in Korean culture. This means avoiding public embarrassment or criticism, both for oneself and others. This can sometimes make communication difficult, as people may avoid direct confrontation or criticism, even when there is a problem," said one expat who made the move to Busan.

"Remembering that you chose to live abroad. Stop comparing and embrace where you are," explained one foreigner living in Busan, Korea.

"If you are planning to stay in Busan for a while, you will need a valid passport and a visa. The type of visa you need depends on the purpose of your stay. If you are going for tourism or business purposes and plan to stay for less than 90 days, you may be eligible for visa-free entry if you are from one of the 112 designated countries. However, if you plan to stay for more than 90 days, you will need to apply for a long-term visa. This could be a D-2 visa for students, a D-10 visa for job seekers, an E-2 visa for English teachers, or an F-2 visa for long-term residents. In addition to your visa, you will also need to register for an Alien Registration Card (ARC) within 90 days of your arrival in Korea. This card serves as your ID card and is required for various transactions such as opening a bank account or getting a cell phone contract. Please note that visa requirements can change, so it's always a good idea to check with the nearest Korean embassy or consulate before your trip," said one expat who made the move to Busan.

"In Busan, it is considered rude to blow your nose in public, especially at the dining table. Avoid pointing with your finger, as it is considered impolite; instead, use your whole hand. When receiving or giving something, use both hands as a sign of respect. Avoid touching someone, especially someone of the opposite sex, unless you are very close or intimate with them. It's also important to respect the elderly in Busan, as Korean culture places a high value on age and seniority. Do not sit in seats reserved for the elderly on public transportation. When eating, wait for the oldest person to eat first before you start your meal. Avoid talking loudly in public places, as it is considered disrespectful. Also, be mindful of your attire, especially in religious places like temples. Dress modestly and avoid showing too much skin. In Busan, it's considered rude to refuse a drink from an elder or superior. However, turning your head to the side while drinking in their presence is seen as a sign of respect. Lastly, do not write a person's name in red ink as it is associated with death and is considered very unlucky," said one person in Busan.