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Korea

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The Korean Peninsula, located in East Asia, is divided into two sovereign countries: North Korea and South Korea. South Korea, officially known as the Republic of Korea, is renowned for its advanced technology, vibrant culture, and bustling cities like Seoul, its capital. The country has a rich history that dates back to ancient times, with numerous historical sites and cultural heritage. The Korean language is the primary language spoken, and the country has a unique writing system called Hangul. South Korea's economy is one of the largest in Asia, with significant contributions from industries such as electronics, automobiles, shipbuilding, and pop culture, including K-pop and Korean dramas. The country is also known for its educational fervor, with a strong emphasis on academic achievement. North Korea, officially the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, is known for its authoritarian government led by the Kim dynasty. The country has a centrally planned economy, and information about its culture and society is limited due to its isolation from the rest of the world. North Korea's interactions with other nations are often centered around its nuclear program and diplomatic relations with countries like China, Russia, and the United States. The Korean Peninsula experiences four distinct seasons, with cold winters and hot, humid summers. The cuisine is another highlight, with dishes like kimchi, bibimbap, and Korean barbecue being popular. Traditional arts such as calligraphy, pottery, and the performance of court and folk music are also integral parts of Korean culture. Both North and South Korea are known for their natural beauty, featuring mountains, forests, and coastlines with beautiful beaches. The demilitarized zone (DMZ) between the two countries is a significant and heavily fortified border, symbolizing the ongoing tension and hope for eventual reunification. Despite the political divide, the Korean people share a strong sense of national identity and cultural pride.

Cost of Living

The cost of living in Korea, particularly in South Korea, is considered high, especially in major cities like Seoul. Housing, transportation, and dining out can be expensive, although the cost can vary depending on the lifestyle and location within the country.

Weather

Korea experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Winters are usually long, cold, and dry, while summers are short, hot, and humid. Spring and autumn are pleasant but also short in duration. The country is affected by the monsoon season during the summer, which brings heavy rainfall.

Educational System Korea

The educational system in South Korea is known for its rigorous and competitive nature, with a strong emphasis on academic achievement. Education in South Korea is compulsory from age 6 to 15, covering elementary and middle school. Elementary education starts with Grade 1 and continues to Grade 6. Middle school consists of Grades 7 to 9. High school, which is not compulsory but attended by the vast majority of students, covers Grades 10 to 12. The school year begins in March and ends in February, with breaks in between. The South Korean education system is divided into public schools, which are government-funded, and private schools, which can be more expensive. The curriculum is standardized, and students are often subject to high-stakes testing, with the College Scholastic Ability Test (CSAT) being a critical exam for university admissions. The quality of education is generally high, with South Korea consistently performing well in international assessments. However, this has also led to a highly competitive environment, with many students participating in after-school tutoring or "hagwons" to improve their academic standing. Parents moving to South Korea can expect a strong focus on mathematics, science, Korean language, and English in the curriculum.

Best Places to Live in Korea
Discover the top-ranked towns in Korea. Click on the town's name for a full profile of each town.
Rankings are based on a combination of many factors including schools, recreation, family-friendliness, cost of living and crime.
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Visa & Residency

Obtaining a residency visa in Korea involves several steps and the process can vary depending on the type of visa. For expatriates, the F-2 Long-Term Residency Visa and the E-7 Special Occupation Visa are among the most popular. The F-2 visa is for those who have stayed in Korea for an extended period on a different visa and wish to change their status to long-term residency. Applicants must meet certain eligibility criteria, such as having a certain level of income, points based on age, Korean language proficiency, and volunteer activities. The E-7 visa is for those who have specialized skills in fields that Koreans cannot fulfill. To obtain this visa, an applicant must have a job offer from a Korean company and the company must prove that the role cannot be filled by a Korean citizen. For digital nomads, the H-1 Working Holiday Visa is a popular choice. This visa is available to citizens of countries that have a reciprocal holiday agreement with Korea. It allows young people, usually between the ages of 18 and 30, to live in Korea for up to 12 months, during which they can work and travel. The application process for the H-1 visa typically requires a valid passport, proof of financial support, a return ticket or funds to purchase one, and a plan for the stay in Korea. The process for obtaining a residency visa generally starts with securing a job or other qualifying activity in Korea, which is often the most challenging part. Once an individual has a sponsor or an employment contract, they can apply for the visa at a Korean embassy or consulate in their home country. The application requires various documents, including a completed application form, passport photos, and relevant certificates or letters from the employer or sponsor. The processing time can vary, but it usually takes a few weeks to a few months. After arriving in Korea, the individual must report to the immigration office to obtain an Alien Registration Card. The difficulty of the process can vary greatly depending on the applicant's circumstances, the type of visa, and the current immigration policies. However, it is generally considered to be of average difficulty compared to other countries.

Living in Korea

Healthcare in Korea

The healthcare system in South Korea is a mix of public and private healthcare services. The National Health Insurance (NHI) program, which is mandatory for all residents, covers a wide range of medical services at affordable rates. Private healthcare providers also exist and are known for their high-quality services, often with shorter wait times and more advanced facilities, but at a higher cost. The cost of healthcare is generally reasonable due to the NHI's price control measures. Expats and digital nomads can gain access to public healthcare once they are registered with the NHI, which typically requires them to have a long-term visa and a residence address in South Korea. They must pay monthly contributions based on their income to remain eligible for the benefits.

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