Sejong City, Korea

"Sejong City is a planned city, specifically designed to be the new administrative capital of South Korea, so it has a very modern and clean aesthetic. The city is located in the central region of South Korea, making it accessible to other major cities like Seoul and Daejeon. The city is home to many government offices and agencies, so it has a high population of civil servants. The official language is Korean, and while English is taught in schools, not everyone may be fluent, so learning some basic Korean phrases would be beneficial. Sejong City is less crowded and has less traffic compared to Seoul, making it a more comfortable place to live for those who prefer quieter environments. The city is also known for its green spaces and parks, providing plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities. The cost of living in Sejong City is relatively lower compared to Seoul, but it's still considered high compared to other cities in South Korea. Housing can be expensive, especially in the newer, more modern apartments. The city has a well-developed public transportation system, including buses and a high-speed rail service that connects to other major cities. However, owning a car can be beneficial for more flexibility in travel. The food in Sejong City is a mix of traditional Korean cuisine and international food. There are plenty of restaurants, cafes, and food delivery services available. Healthcare in Sejong City is of a high standard, with several hospitals and clinics throughout the city. However, it's important to note that healthcare in South Korea is not free, so having health insurance is essential. The education system in Sejong City is highly regarded, with a number of public and private schools, as well as international schools. However, the school year and system may be different from what expats are used to. The city has a relatively low crime rate and is considered safe. However, it's always important to take standard precautions and be aware of your surroundings. Lastly, the weather in Sejong City has four distinct seasons, with hot, humid summers and cold, dry winters. It's important to prepare for these changes in climate when moving," commented one expat who made the move to Sejong City.

"Finding a place to live in Sejong City 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 Sejong City to find an area that suits your lifestyle and needs. 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 rental properties in Sejong City, such as Zigbang, Naver Real Estate, and DaBang. These websites allow you to filter listings based on your criteria and view photos and details of the properties. If you're not comfortable navigating these platforms in Korean, you might consider hiring a real estate agent. An agent can help you find properties that meet your criteria, arrange viewings, and negotiate with landlords. When you find a property you're interested in, it's important to visit it in person before making a decision. This will allow you to check the condition of the property, ask questions, and get a feel for the neighborhood. Finally, once you've found a place you're happy with, you'll need to sign a lease agreement. In Korea, this typically involves paying a large deposit (known as "key money") and monthly rent. Make sure to read the lease carefully and understand all the terms before signing. Remember, finding a place to live can take time, so it's a good idea to start your search well in advance of when you plan to move," wrote a member in Sejong City.

"A typical expat home or apartment in Sejong City, is modern and well-equipped with all the necessary amenities. The apartments are usually high-rise, offering stunning views of the city. They are often located in convenient areas, close to public transportation, shopping centers, and international schools. The interior of the apartments is usually spacious, with a living room, kitchen, one to three bedrooms, and one or two bathrooms. The living room often has large windows, allowing plenty of natural light to enter. The kitchen is typically equipped with modern appliances such as a refrigerator, stove, and microwave. The bedrooms are usually comfortable, with enough space for a large bed and storage. The bathrooms are typically modern and clean, often equipped with a shower and a bathtub. Some apartments may also have a small balcony or terrace. The buildings often provide additional facilities such as a gym, swimming pool, and parking space. Security is usually high, with key card access and 24/7 security guards. The style of the apartments can vary, but they are often decorated in a modern and minimalist style. Some expats may choose to add personal touches to make the space feel more like home. Despite being in a foreign country, these apartments provide a comfortable and convenient living environment for expats in Sejong City," explained one expat living in Sejong City, Korea.

"The average cost of housing in Sejong City can vary greatly depending on the type and size of the property. As of recent data, the price for purchasing an apartment in Sejong City is typically in the mid to high hundreds of thousands in USD. For renting, the cost can range from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars per month. However, these prices are subject to change and can fluctuate based on the economy and housing market," said one expat in Sejong City.

"Expats considering retirement in Sejong City, should be aware of several key factors. Firstly, they should have a basic understanding of the Korean language, as English is not widely spoken, especially among the older population. They should also familiarize themselves with the local culture and customs to integrate more easily into the community. Sejong City is a planned city, designed to be a hub for government offices, so it has excellent infrastructure and public transportation. However, it lacks the historical and cultural attractions found in older Korean cities. Healthcare in Korea is of a high standard and affordable, but expats should ensure they have adequate health insurance. The cost of living in Sejong City is lower than in Seoul, but still higher than in many Western countries, so a sufficient retirement fund is necessary. Korean cuisine is a significant part of the culture, and while it is delicious, it can be quite different from Western food. Expats should be open to trying new foods and also be aware that vegetarian or vegan options may be limited. The climate in Sejong City is temperate, with four distinct seasons, including a hot, humid summer and a cold winter. Expats from warmer climates may need time to adjust. Lastly, while Koreans are generally welcoming and friendly, there can be a degree of xenophobia, and foreigners may feel like outsiders. Joining expat groups and making an effort to learn the language and understand the culture can help mitigate this," explained one expat living in Sejong City, Korea.

"Expats in Sejong City often appreciate the local culture's emphasis on community and social harmony. They enjoy the warm hospitality of the locals, who are always willing to help and make them feel welcome. The rich history and traditions that are deeply embedded in the city's everyday life are also highly appreciated. Expats love the local cuisine, which is diverse, healthy, and delicious. They also admire the city's commitment to cleanliness and orderliness, which is evident in its well-maintained public spaces. The efficient public transportation system is another aspect that expats appreciate, making it easy to navigate the city. Lastly, the high regard for education and the arts in Sejong City is something that many expats find admirable," explained one expat living in Sejong City, Korea.

"Expats in Sejong City often find the language barrier to be the most challenging aspect of the local culture. Korean is the primary language spoken, and while some locals may speak English, it is not as common as in larger cities like Seoul. Another challenge is the deep-rooted Confucian values that influence many aspects of Korean society, including respect for elders and authority, family obligations, and social hierarchy. These cultural norms can be difficult for expats to understand and navigate. Food can also be a challenge for some expats, as Korean cuisine is quite distinct and can be very different from Western food. It is heavily based on rice, vegetables, and meats, with a strong emphasis on spicy and fermented foods. The work culture in Korea is also often cited as a challenge. Koreans are known for their strong work ethic, which often involves long hours and a high level of dedication to their jobs. This can be a stark contrast to the work-life balance that many expats are used to. Lastly, the indirect communication style in Korea can be confusing for expats. Koreans often use non-verbal cues and avoid direct confrontation, which can lead to misunderstandings for those unfamiliar with this style of communication," said one expat who made the move to Sejong City.

"Sejong City, is generally considered a safe city with a relatively low crime rate. The city is a planned city, primarily populated by government employees, and has a strong police presence. Violent crimes are particularly rare, and petty crimes like theft or vandalism are not common either. However, like any city, it is always advised for residents and visitors to take basic safety precautions. The city's administration is also actively working on various measures to further improve public safety and security," wrote a member in Sejong City.