Busan, Korea

"Before moving to Busan, expats should know that the city is the second largest in South Korea, known for its beaches, mountains, and temples. It's important to understand that the official language is Korean, and while English is taught in schools, not everyone may be fluent or comfortable speaking it. Expats should familiarize themselves with the Korean alphabet, Hangul, as it will make navigating the city and reading signs much easier. The cost of living in Busan is lower than in Seoul, but it's still higher than in many Western countries. Housing can be expensive, especially in popular areas, and it's common for landlords to ask for a large deposit upfront. The city has a reliable public transportation system, including buses, trains, and a subway system, which is often the most convenient way to get around. Korean food is a significant part of the culture, with local specialties including seafood and spicy dishes. Expats should also be aware of the importance of social hierarchy in Korean culture, which influences social and business interactions. Healthcare in Korea is of a high standard, and expats will be required to contribute to the National Health Insurance scheme. Lastly, the climate in Busan is relatively mild, with four distinct seasons, including a hot summer and a cold winter," said one expat in Busan.

"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," explained one expat living in Busan, Korea.

"A typical expat home or apartment in Busan, is usually a modern, high-rise apartment with a compact and efficient layout. These apartments often come fully furnished with essential furniture and appliances such as a bed, sofa, dining table, refrigerator, washing machine, and television. The kitchen is typically small but functional, equipped with a stove, microwave, and sometimes a dishwasher. The living area is often combined with the dining area to maximize space, and large windows are common to let in natural light and offer views of the city or ocean. The bedrooms are usually modest in size, with built-in wardrobes for storage. Bathrooms are typically equipped with a shower, sink, and toilet, and some may have a small bathtub. Most expat apartments in Busan also come with modern amenities such as air conditioning, heating, and internet access. The apartment buildings often provide additional facilities like a gym, swimming pool, parking lot, and 24-hour security. The location of these apartments is usually in expat-friendly neighborhoods, close to international schools, supermarkets, restaurants, and public transportation. Despite the compact size, these apartments are designed to provide a comfortable and convenient living experience for expats in Busan," commented one expat who made the move to Busan.

"The average cost of housing in Busan can vary greatly depending on the location and size of the property. For instance, in the city center, you might expect to pay a higher price compared to the outskirts. As of recent data, the average price for an apartment in the city center could be quite high, while in the outskirts it could be significantly lower. However, these prices are subject to change and can fluctuate based on the real estate market. It's always best to check with a local real estate agent for the most accurate and up-to-date information," said one expat who made the move to Busan.

"When moving to Busan, it's important to pack clothing suitable for all four seasons, as the city experiences a hot summer and a cold winter. Lightweight clothing for the summer months and heavier, warmer clothing for the winter months are essential. Don't forget to pack a good quality raincoat and umbrella, as Busan experiences a monsoon season. Comfortable walking shoes are also a must, as the city is known for its hilly terrain and you'll likely be doing a lot of walking. Pack your essential toiletries, but keep in mind that Korea has excellent skincare and beauty products. If you have specific brands or products you can't live without, make sure to bring them along. Bring any necessary prescription medications and a copy of your prescription. While Korea has a good healthcare system, it may be difficult to find specific medications. Pack a universal power adapter for your electronics. South Korea uses a different plug type and voltage than many other countries. Bring copies of important documents, such as your passport, visa documents, and any other identification. It's also a good idea to have digital copies stored somewhere safe. If you're planning on cooking at home, you might want to pack some of your favorite non-perishable food items. While you'll find most things in Korea, some specific items might be hard to come by or more expensive. Lastly, pack some items that remind you of home. Photos, favorite books, or small mementos can help make your new place feel more comfortable and familiar," explained one expat living in Busan, Korea.

"Before retiring in Busan, expats should know that the cost of living is relatively low compared to other major cities in Korea, but higher than in many Western countries. They should be aware that the primary language spoken is Korean, and while English is taught in schools, not everyone is fluent. Expats should familiarize themselves with the Korean healthcare system, which is universal and high-quality, but may require some out-of-pocket expenses. They should also understand the visa requirements for long-term stays in Korea, which typically involve proving a steady income or significant savings. Expats should be prepared for a different diet, as Korean cuisine is heavily based on rice, vegetables, and meat, with a strong emphasis on seafood due to Busan's coastal location. They should also be aware of the cultural importance of respect for elders in Korea, which is deeply ingrained in social interactions. Expats should familiarize themselves with the local customs and etiquette, such as removing shoes before entering a home and not writing a person's name in red ink, which is considered bad luck. They should also know that public transportation in Busan is efficient and affordable, with a comprehensive network of buses, subways, and taxis. Lastly, expats should be aware that the climate in Busan is temperate, with four distinct seasons, including hot, humid summers and cold, dry winters," wrote one member 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," said one expat who made the move to Busan.

"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)," explained one expat living in Busan, Korea.

"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," commented one expat who made the move to Busan.

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

"Busan, like any other major city, experiences some level of crime. However, compared to other cities of similar size, the crime rate in Busan is relatively low. The city is generally considered safe, with violent crimes being rare. Most common crimes are petty ones such as pickpocketing or minor theft, particularly in crowded areas or tourist hotspots. South Korea as a whole has a strong focus on maintaining law and order, and Busan is no exception. The city has a visible police presence, and there are numerous safety measures in place, such as CCTV cameras throughout the city. However, it's important to note that while crime rates are low, they are not non-existent. Visitors and residents alike should still exercise common sense and take basic precautions to protect their personal safety and belongings. In recent years, there has been an increase in cybercrime, including online scams and identity theft. This is a growing concern for authorities and efforts are being made to combat this issue. In conclusion, while Busan does experience crime, it is generally considered a safe city with a low crime rate," remarked one expat who made the move to Busan.

"1. Busan International Foreign School (BIFS): BIFS is an International Baccalaureate (IB) World School that offers an international curriculum from Pre-K to Grade 12. The school is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) and the Council of International Schools (CIS). The school's curriculum is designed to foster critical thinking, intercultural understanding, and respect for others. [Website](http://www.bifskorea.org/) 2. Busan Foreign School (BFS): BFS is an international school that offers an American-based curriculum. The school serves students from kindergarten through high school. BFS is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) and offers a variety of Advanced Placement (AP) courses for high school students. [Website](http://www.busanforeignschool.org/) 3. International School of Busan (ISB): ISB is an independent, coeducational day school that offers an international curriculum from Pre-K to Grade 12. The school is accredited by the Council of International Schools (CIS) and the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC). ISB's curriculum is designed to foster a love of learning, creativity, and critical thinking. [Website](https://www.isbusan.org/) 4. Busan Global Village: Busan Global Village is a public school that offers a bilingual education in Korean and English. The school serves students from kindergarten through high school. The curriculum at Busan Global Village is designed to foster global citizenship, critical thinking, and intercultural understanding. [Website](http://www.bgv.co.kr/) 5. Busan Japanese School: This is a private school that offers a Japanese curriculum for students from kindergarten through high school. The school is accredited by the Japanese Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology. The curriculum at Busan Japanese School is designed to foster a deep understanding of Japanese culture and language. [Website](http://www.busan-nihonjin.ac.kr/)," commented one expat when asked about in Busan.