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Living in Korea: Cost of Living, Healthcare and What to Know About Living in Korea | Expat Exchange
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Living in Korea

By Betsy Burlingame

Last updated on Jan 02, 2024

Summary: The approximate population of Korea is 51.5 million people. The largest cities in Korea are Seoul (10.6 million people), Busan (3.6 million people), Incheon (2.8 million people), Daegu (2.5 million people), and Daejeon (1.5 million people). Expats love living in Korea for its vibrant culture, delicious food, and friendly people. Life in Korea is often described as fast-paced, exciting, and full of opportunities. Popular foods in Korea include kimchi (fermented vegetables), bibimbap (rice with vegetables and meat), bulgogi (marinated beef), and tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes). The cons of living in Korea include the language barrier, the high cost of living, and the lack of privacy. The average cost of living for an expat is around $2,000-$3,000 USD per month. This includes rent, food, transportation, and other expenses.

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What do I need to know about living in Korea?

When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Korea, they said:

"Expats should research the cost of living in Korea before retiring there, as it may be higher than they are used to. It is also important to familiarize oneself with the local culture and customs, as well as the language, to ensure a smooth transition. Additionally, expats should research the healthcare system in Korea and consider purchasing health insurance to cover any medical costs. Finally, expats should consider the visa requirements for retirement in Korea, as they may need to apply for a long-term visa," said one expat in Korea.

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How do I meet people in Korea?

When we asked people living in Korea about club and activities where newcomers can meet others, they responded:

"There are many clubs and activities. If you let me know your interests I can help you find what you need," said one expat in Suwon.

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What is life like in Korea?

When we asked people living in Korea what life is like and how people spend their time, they said:

"Living in Taean for a few months. I have found that it is like living in the country. We do have our little city and it does have events such as the Fall Festival and Christmas concert which they held. The traffic is not like Seoul or the other major cities. I have seen other foreigners but have not met them. Looking to do that. The neighbors have been friendly and the town councilmen have been around and introduced themselves. The city is active in making sure the people are taken care of. So far so good," remarked one expat living in Korea.

"Living in Korea as an expat or digital nomad can be an exciting and rewarding experience. The country is known for its vibrant culture, delicious food, and friendly people. Expats and digital nomads can find plenty of opportunities to explore the country, from visiting ancient temples to exploring the bustling cities. The cost of living in Korea is relatively low, making it an attractive destination for those looking to stretch their budget. The country also offers excellent public transportation, making it easy to get around. Expats and digital nomads can also take advantage of the country's high-speed internet, making it easy to stay connected with friends and family back home," wrote one member in Korea.

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Is there a lot of crime in Korea?

We asked people if there is a lot of crime. They answered:

"Crime in Korea is relatively low compared to other countries. However, there have been reports of violent crimes such as robberies, assaults, and murders. In addition, there have been cases of cybercrime, fraud, and corruption. The government has taken steps to address these issues, such as increasing police presence and introducing tougher laws," wrote one member in Korea.

Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Korea accepting of differences?

"Korea is a diverse country with a variety of ethnicities, religions, and cultures. People in Korea are generally accepting of differences and strive to create an inclusive environment. There are many organizations and initiatives that promote diversity and acceptance in Korea, such as the Korean Diversity Network and the Korean Diversity Forum. Additionally, the Korean government has implemented various policies to promote diversity and inclusion in the country," wrote one member in Korea.

"We've always felt very welcome here and the object of curiosity. We attract a lot of attention particularly with the children who are all blonde. The Korean culture is interesting and they appreciate any interest you show in trying to speak Korean or in their culture. The Christian religion is a small part but I haven't noticed any intolerance," remarked one expat who made the move to Seoul.

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What are the schools in Korea like?

"The Seoul Foreign School (SFS) is one of the best international schools in Korea. Located in the heart of Seoul, SFS offers a comprehensive education program for students from pre-kindergarten to grade 12. The school is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges and provides a rigorous academic program that prepares students for college and beyond. SFS also offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, including sports, music, and art. The Seoul International School (SIS) is another top international school in Korea. Located in the Gangnam district of Seoul, SIS offers a comprehensive education program for students from pre-kindergarten to grade 12. The school is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges and provides a rigorous academic program that prepares students for college and beyond. SIS also offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, including sports, music, and art. The Korean International School (KIS) is a top bilingual school in Korea. Located in the Gangnam district of Seoul, KIS offers a comprehensive education program for students from pre-kindergarten to grade 12. The school is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges and provides a rigorous academic program that prepares students for college and beyond. KIS also offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, including sports, music, and art, as well as a bilingual program that teaches students both Korean and English," said one parent with children at in .

"It is a Christian school, so Bible and chapel are required, but the faculty have a broad range of Christian beleifs, and many students are non-Christians, so there is openness to many faith stances. It also has very strong academics and is very demanding, especially in the upper grades," commented one expat when asked about Taejon Christian International School in Daejeon.

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Is the cost of living in Korea high?

We asked people how much they someone comfortably live on in Korea, they wrote:

"The cost of living in Korea varies depending on the city and lifestyle. Generally, the cost of living in Korea is considered to be relatively affordable compared to other developed countries. Basic necessities such as food, transportation, and housing are generally quite affordable, while luxury items such as designer clothing and electronics can be more expensive. Additionally, the cost of living in Korea is affected by the exchange rate of the Korean won to other currencies," said one expat in Korea.

"The cost of living in Korea is generally considered to be quite affordable. However, the cost of living in the larger cities such as Seoul and Busan is higher than in the rest of the country. The rental price for a nice 1 bedroom apartment in Korea is typically around $1,000 USD per month, while a nice 2 bedroom apartment is around $1,500 USD per month. Eating dinner at a moderately priced restaurant in Korea will usually cost around $10 USD per person," said an expat in Korea.

What type of recreational facilities are in Korea?

When we asked people living in Korea about recreational activities, they mentioned:

"In Korea, residents enjoy a variety of recreational facilities, such as parks, beaches, and sports complexes. Parks are a popular destination for families, offering a variety of activities such as walking, jogging, and picnicking. Beaches are also popular, providing a great place to relax and enjoy the sun and sand. Sports complexes offer a variety of activities, such as basketball, tennis, and swimming. Other recreational facilities include amusement parks, ski resorts, and golf courses," said one expat.

What is the weather like in Korea?

"The weather in Korea is generally mild and humid, with four distinct seasons. In spring, temperatures range from cool to warm, with occasional rain showers. Summer is hot and humid, with occasional typhoons. Autumn is mild and dry, with clear skies and colorful foliage. Winter is cold and dry, with occasional snowfall," remarked one expat living in Korea.

Are there good restaurants in Korea?

"One of the most popular restaurants in Korea is Gogung, a traditional Korean restaurant located in Jeonju. Gogung serves a variety of traditional Korean dishes, including bibimbap, bulgogi, and kimchi. The restaurant is known for its high-quality ingredients and traditional cooking methods, making it a favorite among locals and tourists alike. Another popular restaurant is Myeongdong Kyoja, located in Seoul. This restaurant specializes in kalguksu, a type of handmade noodle soup. The restaurant is known for its delicious broth and generous portions, making it a favorite among locals and tourists. Finally, there is the popular Korean BBQ restaurant, Samgyeopsal. This restaurant is known for its delicious marinated pork and beef, as well as its variety of side dishes. Samgyeopsal is a favorite among locals and tourists alike, and is a great place to enjoy a delicious meal," remarked one expat living in Korea.

Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in Korea?

"People living in Korea typically buy groceries from traditional markets, supermarkets, and convenience stores. Other shopping can be done at department stores, shopping malls, and online stores," said an expat in Korea.

What are the visa & residency requirements in Korea?

"In order to visit or stay in Korea, foreign nationals must obtain a visa from a Korean embassy or consulate. The process of applying for a visa involves submitting an application form, a valid passport, a passport-sized photograph, and other documents such as a bank statement or proof of employment. Depending on the purpose of the visit, additional documents may be required. In order to apply for residency in Korea, foreign nationals must submit an application form, a valid passport, a passport-sized photograph, and other documents such as a bank statement or proof of employment. Depending on the purpose of the residency, additional documents may be required. In addition, applicants must provide proof of financial stability, such as a bank statement or proof of employment. Once the application is approved, the applicant will receive a residence permit, which must be renewed every year," mentioned one expat inKorea.

Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Korea?

"Healthcare and health insurance in Korea can be expensive, depending on the type of coverage and services needed. Generally, the cost of healthcare in Korea is higher than in other countries, due to the high cost of medical services and the lack of public health insurance. However, the government does provide some subsidies for those who cannot afford health insurance, and there are also private health insurance plans available. In addition, the government has implemented a number of measures to make healthcare more affordable, such as capping the amount of out-of-pocket expenses for certain treatments and providing subsidies for certain medical services," said an expat in Korea.

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About the Author

Betsy Burlingame Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.

Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.

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