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Moving to Suwon, Korea | Expat Exchange
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Moving to Suwon, Korea

By Betsy Burlingame

Last updated on Jul 09, 2023

Summary: Many expats are attracted to Suwon, Korea for its convenient location near Seoul, its vibrant culture, and its low cost of living. Suwon is a great place to experience traditional Korean culture, as it is home to many historical sites, such as the Hwaseong Fortress and the Suwon Hwaseong Museum. Additionally, Suwon is known for its excellent public transportation system, making it easy to get around the city. Before moving to Suwon, it is important to be aware of the language barrier, as English is not widely spoken. Additionally, it is important to be aware of the cultural differences between Korea and other countries, such as the importance of respecting elders and the importance of maintaining a harmonious relationship with neighbors.

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What do I need to know before moving to Suwon?

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

"Suwon is a vibrant city located in the Gyeonggi Province of South Korea. It is known for its rich cultural heritage and modern infrastructure. Before moving to Suwon, expats should be aware of the cost of living, which is generally higher than other parts of South Korea. Additionally, expats should research the local transportation system, which includes buses, subways, and taxis. It is also important to be aware of the language barrier, as English is not widely spoken in Suwon. Finally, expats should research the local customs and etiquette, as they may differ from their home country," remarked one expat in Suwon, Korea.

How do I find a place to live in Suwon?

We asked expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:

"One way to find a place to live in Suwon is to search online for rental listings. Websites such as Goshiwon, Naver, and Daum are popular resources for finding rental listings in Suwon. Additionally, you can search for rental listings on social media platforms such as Facebook and Instagram. You can also contact local real estate agents who specialize in rental properties in Suwon. Finally, you can ask friends and family who live in Suwon for recommendations," commented one expat who made the move to Suwon.

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What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Suwon?

"Expat homes and apartments in Suwon are typically modern and spacious, with large windows that let in plenty of natural light. Many of the apartments come with amenities such as air conditioning, high-speed internet, and modern appliances. Many of the buildings also have a gym, pool, and other recreational facilities. Expat homes and apartments in Suwon are usually located in convenient areas, close to shopping, restaurants, and other attractions," said one expat in Suwon.

What is the average cost of housing in Suwon?

If you are thinking about moving to Suwon, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:

"The cost of housing in Suwon varies depending on the size and location of the property. Generally, the average cost of a one-bedroom apartment in Suwon is around 500,000 won per month, while a two-bedroom apartment can cost up to 800,000 won per month. Prices for larger apartments and houses can range from 1 million won to 3 million won per month," remarked one expat who made the move to Suwon.

Should I buy or rent a home in Suwon?

If you have not spent a lot of time in Suwon, you should rent before even thinking about buying. We asked expats there about the buy vs. rent decision:

"Buying a home in Suwon can be a great investment, as the city is growing rapidly and property values are increasing. However, it is important to consider the cost of living in the area, as well as the availability of rental properties. Renting a home in Suwon can be a great option for those who are not ready to commit to a long-term purchase, as it allows for more flexibility and can be more cost-effective in the short-term. Ultimately, the decision to buy or rent a home in Suwon should be based on individual needs and preferences," remarked one expat in Suwon, Korea.

What should I pack when moving to Suwon?

We asked people living in Suwon to list three things they wish they had brought and three they wish they had left behind. They responded:

"When moving to Suwon, it is important to pack clothing suitable for the climate. Suwon has hot, humid summers and cold, dry winters, so it is important to bring clothing that can be layered. Additionally, it is important to bring any necessary medications, as well as any important documents such as passports and visas. It is also a good idea to bring a few items from home to make the transition easier, such as photos, books, and other small items. Finally, it is important to bring any necessary electronics, such as a laptop, phone, and charger," remarked one expat who made the move to Suwon.

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What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Suwon?

We asked people in Suwon if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. For new expats, keep in mind that these incidents are an inevitable part of expat life. Learning to laugh about them is the key!:

"It is important to be mindful of cultural norms when visiting Suwon. It is considered impolite to point with your index finger, so it is best to gesture with your open hand. It is also important to show respect to elders by bowing when greeting them. Additionally, it is important to remove your shoes when entering someone's home or a temple. Finally, it is important to be aware of the local customs and dress appropriately, as some clothing may be considered offensive," said one expat in Suwon.

Why do people move to Suwon?

When we asked people why foreigners move to Suwon, they responded:

"Suwon is an attractive destination for expats due to its convenient location near Seoul, its vibrant culture, and its low cost of living. The city is well-connected to Seoul by public transportation, making it easy for expats to explore the capital city and its many attractions. Suwon is also home to a variety of cultural attractions, including the Hwaseong Fortress, the Suwon Hwaseong Museum, and the Korean Folk Village. Additionally, the cost of living in Suwon is relatively low compared to other cities in Korea, making it an attractive option for expats looking to save money," commented one expat who moved to Suwon.

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SJB-Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model. Our clients benefit from their country’s most favorable tax environment by utilizing the efficient investment vehicles we offer. Our commitment to quality service is reflected in our stellar reviews, with over 300 testimonials boasting 95% five-star ratings.
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How are healthcare services Suwon?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Suwon, they replied:

"Suwon, boasts a well-developed healthcare system with numerous hospitals, clinics, and medical centers offering a wide range of services. The city is home to several large general hospitals, such as Ajou University Hospital and Suwon Medical Center, which provide comprehensive medical care, including emergency services, inpatient and outpatient care, and specialized treatments. Additionally, there are numerous smaller clinics and specialized medical facilities that cater to specific needs, such as dental care, ophthalmology, and traditional Korean medicine. The healthcare professionals in Suwon are highly skilled and well-trained, with many doctors and nurses having studied at prestigious institutions both in Korea and abroad. Most healthcare providers in the city are proficient in English, making it easier for foreign residents and visitors to access medical services. The public healthcare system in Suwon is supported by the National Health Insurance (NHI) program, which covers a significant portion of medical expenses for Korean citizens and registered foreign residents. Private healthcare options are also available for those who prefer or require additional coverage or specialized services. Overall, healthcare services in Suwon are of high quality, easily accessible, and cater to the diverse needs of the city's residents and visitors," commented one expat living in Suwon.

What are medical services in Suwon like?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Suwon, they replied:

"Medical services in Suwon, are generally of high quality, with numerous hospitals and clinics available throughout the city. Both public and private healthcare facilities are well-equipped with modern technology and staffed by skilled medical professionals. Many doctors and nurses in Suwon can speak English, making it easier for foreign patients to communicate their needs. The city also has several international clinics that cater specifically to the needs of expatriates and foreign visitors. In addition to Western medicine, traditional Korean medicine is also widely available, offering alternative treatments and therapies. Overall, medical services in Suwon are reliable, efficient, and easily accessible," wrote one expat living in Suwon.

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.

SJB Global
SJB Global

SJB Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model.
Learn More

SJB GlobalSJB Global

SJB Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model.
Learn More

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