Moving to Seoul, Korea

"Live close to work. Life is hard enough without a 1-2 hour commute--especially if it's on a bus, subway or (for the purely insane) driving your own car here. For an expat, who should be thinking of a compromise between their home culture/lifestyle and their adopted one, getting a smaller place that's closer to work may be better than a large apartment (no houses here, unless you're way out of town or really loaded) that is far away may be the difference between happiness and h#ll," remarked one expat in Seoul, Korea.

"Before moving to Seoul, expats should familiarize themselves with the language and culture of Korea. It is also important to research the cost of living in Seoul, as well as the availability of housing and transportation. Additionally, expats should be aware of the visa requirements for entering and staying in Korea. It is also important to research the job market in Seoul and the availability of healthcare services. Finally, expats should be aware of the cultural norms and etiquette in Korea, such as the importance of respecting elders and the use of honorifics," said one expat in Seoul.

"One of the best ways to find a place to live in Seoul is to use online resources such as real estate websites. These websites allow you to search for properties in specific areas of Seoul, and they often provide detailed information about the properties, such as the size, amenities, and rental prices. Additionally, you can use online forums and social media groups to connect with people who are already living in Seoul and can provide advice and recommendations about the best places to live. Finally, you can also contact local real estate agents who can help you find a place to live that meets your needs," said one expat who made the move to Seoul.

"I lived with my in-laws for a few months, which was a great load-off. Then scouted out places near work. After a few weeks of looking on my own I brought in my boss to negotiate the fees--and he did a GREAT job. The place is about a 10 minute walk through the (safe) park to work, if brand new and less than I'd have paid downtown back home. Definately take a local to negotiate if at all possible," explained one expat living in Seoul, Korea.

"Expat homes and apartments in Seoul are typically modern and well-equipped. Most have air conditioning, high-speed internet, and modern appliances. Many expat homes and apartments also have balconies or terraces with views of the city. Expats can also find homes and apartments with amenities such as gyms, pools, and saunas. Expat homes and apartments in Seoul are typically located in the city center, close to public transportation, shopping, and entertainment," said one expat who made the move to Seoul.

"I have a 13 pyoung (285 sq ft) place, but about 100 sq ft of it is balcony so the living space is a little cozy...no matter, the place is new, it's high enough and has enough windows to have a TON of sunlight streaming in (assuming I wash the windows) and there are cameras all over the halls just in case. Most expats live in Itaewon or at a serviced suite, but I prefer the closeness of my place to work and have no real problems getting things done in Korean (meaning I get my co-workers to do a lot of translating for me)," explained one expat living in Seoul, Korea.

"The cost of housing in Seoul can vary greatly depending on the area and type of housing. Generally, the average cost of renting an apartment in Seoul is around $1,000 to $2,000 per month, while the average cost of buying a home is around $500,000 to $1,000,000," said one expat in Seoul.

"It's about the same as at home, assuming you're in a big city and downtown or in the financial district. My rent is about 800 USD for the 285 square...which may be a lot for a little, but once you're here you adjust to the space difference pretty easily," said one expat who made the move to Seoul.

"Buying a home in Seoul can be a great investment, as the city is a vibrant and growing metropolis. However, it is important to consider the cost of living in Seoul, as well as the availability of housing. Renting a home in Seoul 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. Ultimately, the decision to buy or rent a home in Seoul should be based on individual needs and preferences," said one expat in Seoul.

"Wish I had brought: My wife and baby. They are still at home...the phone bills are not too bad (like 100won/8 US cents a minute) but it's a little tough sometimes to connect completely. More books about finance and business. Kyobo book has a few in the store but to get the ones I wanted I needed to order online though their site (Amazon had outrageous shipping costs) for a pretty penny. More gifts. My original stash of salmon, cheese, meat and such are gone...I go back every couple of months and stock up (cheese is almost impossible to get here, and the prices!) but could always use more. Things I wish I left behind: All my clothes. Well, I needed something to start out with, but found I could get good, cheap and well-fitting clothes here with little problem (of course my Korean in-laws helped). 2 suits, 2 pants, 4 shirts, 4 undershirt and 2 ties for about 550 USD. (And I am about 6 foot...not the easiest size to fit over here.) Japanese language books. I took some courses in college and thought I'd get time to hop over there, but things are so busy (and there is so much to see here, and going home is a better option right now) that I doubt that I'll get there at all. My old leather briefcase. No one has an old briefcase here. The first thing my boss said when he hired me was "Get a new attache". Luckily they are cheap, plentiful and easy to find here. Thing I was glad I brought: My slow-cooker (crock-pot). It was my surrogate oven (they usually use their ovens as grills, which makes it hard to make lasagna and such). Webcamera. This thing is great for communicating with my wife and child," commented one expat who made the move to Seoul.

"When moving to Seoul, it is important to pack clothing suitable for the climate. Layering is key, as temperatures can vary greatly between day and night. It is also important to bring comfortable shoes, as Seoul is a very walkable city. Additionally, it is a good idea to bring a few items from home to make the transition easier, such as photos, books, and other sentimental items. Finally, it is important to bring any necessary documents, such as a passport, visa, and other important paperwork," remarked one expat in Seoul, Korea.

"It is important to be mindful of cultural differences when visiting Seoul. It is considered rude to point with your index finger, so it is best to use an open hand when gesturing. It is also important to be respectful of the elderly and to show respect when addressing them. It is also important to dress modestly and to avoid wearing revealing clothing. 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 to avoid speaking loudly in public," commented one expat who made the move to Seoul.

"Seoul is an attractive destination for expats due to its vibrant culture, modern infrastructure, and exciting nightlife. The city is home to a wide variety of attractions, from ancient palaces and temples to modern shopping malls and entertainment districts. The city also offers a wide range of job opportunities, with many international companies having offices in Seoul. Additionally, the cost of living in Seoul is relatively low compared to other major cities, making it an attractive option for expats looking to save money. Finally, the city is well-connected to the rest of the world, with two international airports and a high-speed rail system," offered one expat living in Seoul.

"Healthcare services in Seoul, are known for their high quality and accessibility, with a well-developed infrastructure of hospitals, clinics, and medical centers. The city boasts a mix of public and private healthcare facilities, offering a wide range of services, from primary care to specialized treatments. Public hospitals in Seoul are generally large and well-equipped, with highly trained medical professionals providing affordable healthcare services to both residents and foreigners. Private hospitals and clinics, on the other hand, offer more personalized care and shorter waiting times, but at a higher cost. Seoul's healthcare system is supported by the National Health Insurance (NHI) program, which covers a significant portion of medical expenses for Korean citizens and long-term residents. This universal healthcare system ensures that everyone has access to essential healthcare services, regardless of their income or social status. Foreigners living in Seoul can also enroll in the NHI program, making healthcare services more affordable and accessible. In addition to the NHI program, Seoul also has a well-established network of international clinics and hospitals that cater to the needs of expatriates and tourists. These facilities often have English-speaking staff and offer a wide range of medical services, from routine check-ups to emergency care. Some of the most renowned international hospitals in Seoul include Severance Hospital, Samsung Medical Center, and Asan Medical Center, which are known for their state-of-the-art facilities and cutting-edge medical technology. Seoul's healthcare services also extend to traditional Korean medicine, which has been practiced for centuries and is still widely used today. Many hospitals and clinics in the city offer traditional treatments, such as acupuncture, herbal medicine, and therapeutic massage, alongside conventional medical care. Overall, healthcare services in Seoul are comprehensive, efficient, and easily accessible, ensuring that residents and visitors alike can receive the medical care they need," wrote one expat living in Seoul.

"Medical services in Seoul, are known for their high quality and accessibility. The city is home to numerous well-equipped hospitals, clinics, and medical centers, many of which have English-speaking staff. Both public and private healthcare facilities are available, with the public system offering affordable care and the private sector providing more specialized services. The healthcare system in Seoul is supported by a national health insurance program, which covers a significant portion of medical expenses for residents. In addition to Western medicine, traditional Korean medicine is also widely practiced and available in various clinics and hospitals. Emergency medical services are efficient, with a dedicated hotline for foreigners and ambulances equipped with advanced medical equipment. Overall, Seoul offers a comprehensive and reliable healthcare system for its residents and visitors," offered one expat living in Seoul.