Gyeongju, Korea

"Gyeongju is a city rich in history and culture, known as the museum without walls due to its many historical sites and artifacts. Before moving to Gyeongju, expats should familiarize themselves with the Korean language, as English is not widely spoken outside of the tourist areas. The cost of living in Gyeongju is relatively low compared to other Korean cities, but expats should still budget carefully as imported goods can be expensive. The city has a well-developed public transportation system, including buses and trains, making it easy to get around. Gyeongju has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, so expats should pack a variety of clothing. Healthcare in Gyeongju is of a high standard, with a number of hospitals and clinics available. However, expats should ensure they have adequate health insurance as medical costs can be high. The food in Gyeongju is a highlight, with many traditional Korean dishes to try. However, those with dietary restrictions may find it challenging as vegetarian and vegan options can be limited. Gyeongju is generally safe, but like any city, it's important to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings. Expats should also familiarize themselves with Korean customs and etiquette, as Koreans place a high value on respect and politeness. Finally, expats should be prepared for the fast-paced and hard-working culture of Korea, as it can be a significant adjustment from other countries," explained one expat living in Gyeongju, Korea.

"Finding a place to live in Gyeongju 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 different neighborhoods in Gyeongju to find an area that suits your lifestyle and needs. Consider factors such as proximity to work or school, access to public transportation, and the availability 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 rental properties in Gyeongju, such as Zigbang, Naver Real Estate, and Craigslist Seoul. These websites allow you to filter listings based on your criteria and view photos and details of the properties. Another option is to work with a real estate agent. An agent can help you navigate the local rental market, arrange viewings, and negotiate with landlords. You can find real estate agencies in Gyeongju through an online search or by asking for recommendations from locals or expat communities. Once you've found a property you're interested in, you'll need to arrange a viewing. This is an important step to check the condition of the property and ask any questions you may have. If you decide to proceed with a rental, you'll need to negotiate the terms of the lease and pay a deposit. In Korea, it's common to pay a large deposit (known as "key money") and lower monthly rent. Finally, before moving in, you should ensure that all utilities are set up and that you understand how to pay your bills. You may also need to arrange for internet and TV services if they're not included in your rent. Remember, finding a place to live can take time, so it's a good idea to start your search well in advance of your move to Gyeongju," remarked one expat living in Gyeongju, Korea.

"A typical expat home or apartment in Gyeongju, is usually a modern, high-rise apartment building located in the city center. These apartments are often fully furnished with contemporary furniture and appliances, including a refrigerator, washing machine, and air conditioning. The living room is usually spacious with a dining area, and the kitchen is typically equipped with a stove and ample storage space. Bedrooms are often carpeted and come with built-in wardrobes. Most apartments have large windows that allow plenty of natural light and offer stunning views of the city or nearby mountains. Some apartments may also have a small balcony. The bathrooms are usually tiled and come with a shower and a modern toilet. In terms of amenities, many apartment buildings in Gyeongju offer facilities such as a gym, a communal garden, and sometimes even a swimming pool. Security is typically high, with key card access and 24-hour security guards. The location of these apartments is also a key feature, with many being close to public transportation, supermarkets, restaurants, and schools. Despite being in the city center, the neighborhoods are usually quiet and safe. While the style and size of the apartments can vary, the overall standard of living for expats in Gyeongju is generally high. The city offers a blend of modern conveniences and rich cultural experiences, making it an attractive place for foreigners to live," remarked one expat living in Gyeongju, Korea.

"The average cost of housing in Gyeongju can vary greatly depending on the type and location of the property. For instance, a one-bedroom apartment in the city center may cost around $400 per month, while the same type of apartment outside the city center may cost around $300 per month. If you're looking to buy property, the average price per square meter in the city center can be around $3,000, while outside the city center it can be around $1,500. However, these prices can fluctuate based on market conditions and other factors," remarked one expat living in Gyeongju, Korea.

"When moving to Gyeongju, it's important to pack clothing suitable for all four seasons, as the city experiences a wide range of temperatures throughout the year. This includes lightweight clothing for the hot and humid summers, as well as warm clothing for the cold winters. Don't forget to pack a good quality raincoat and umbrella, as Gyeongju receives a significant amount of rainfall, especially during the monsoon season in late summer. Comfortable walking shoes are a must, as Gyeongju is a city rich in history and culture with many sites to explore on foot. Pack your personal toiletries, although most items can be easily purchased in local stores. However, if you have specific brands you prefer, it might be a good idea to bring them along. Bring any prescription medications you need, along with copies of your prescriptions. While Korea has a good healthcare system, having your prescriptions will make it easier to get the medication you need. Pack a universal power adapter for your electronic devices, as the power outlets in Korea may be different from those in your home country. Bring some local currency (Korean Won) for immediate expenses upon arrival. Pack important documents such as your passport, visa documents, driver's license, and any other identification you might need. If you're planning to cook, you might want to pack some of your favorite spices or food items that might be hard to find in Korea. Lastly, bring some items from home to make your new place feel more comfortable and familiar. This could be photos, a favorite blanket, or anything else that brings you comfort," wrote one member in Gyeongju.

"Expats considering retirement in Gyeongju should be aware of several key factors. Firstly, it's important to understand that the cost of living in Gyeongju is relatively low compared to other major cities in Korea, but it's still higher than in many Western countries. Healthcare in Korea is of a high standard and affordable, but it's recommended to have a comprehensive health insurance plan. Gyeongju is a city rich in history and culture, offering many opportunities for exploration and learning. However, English is not widely spoken, so learning some basic Korean phrases would be beneficial. The climate in Gyeongju is temperate, with four distinct seasons, including a hot, humid summer and a cold winter. Korean cuisine is diverse and delicious, but it can be quite spicy and different from Western food, so it might take some time to adjust. Public transportation in Gyeongju is reliable and inexpensive, but driving can be challenging due to different road rules and heavy traffic. Korea has a high standard of living and is generally safe, but like any place, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take basic safety precautions. Lastly, it's important to understand and respect Korean customs and traditions, as the society is quite hierarchical and places a strong emphasis on respect for elders," said one expat in Gyeongju.

"Expats in Gyeongju often appreciate the rich history and cultural heritage of the city, which was once the capital of the ancient Silla Kingdom. They enjoy exploring the numerous UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including ancient temples, royal tombs, and archaeological sites. The local cuisine is another aspect that expats appreciate. Gyeongju is famous for its unique and delicious dishes, such as Gyeongju bread and Ssambap, which offer a taste of the city's history and culture. Expats also appreciate the warm hospitality and friendliness of the local people. They often mention how welcoming and helpful the locals are, making them feel at home in a foreign land. The city's natural beauty is another aspect that expats love. Gyeongju is surrounded by mountains and has beautiful parks and lakes, offering plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities. Lastly, expats appreciate the slower pace of life in Gyeongju compared to other Korean cities. The city's tranquil atmosphere, combined with its cultural and historical richness, makes it a great place for those seeking a more relaxed and meaningful lifestyle," wrote a member in Gyeongju.

"Expats in Gyeongju often find the language barrier to be the most challenging aspect of the local culture. Korean is a complex language to learn, especially for those who are not familiar with Asian languages. This can make everyday tasks like shopping, ordering food, or asking for directions quite difficult. Another challenge is understanding and adapting to the social norms and etiquette in Korea. For instance, the importance of age and hierarchy in social and professional settings, the custom of bowing to show respect, and the specific rules around drinking and dining can be quite different from Western norms. The work culture in Korea can also be a challenge for expats. Koreans are known for their hard work and long hours, and this can be a shock for foreigners who are used to a more balanced work-life culture. Additionally, the food can be a challenge for some expats. Korean cuisine is quite unique and can be very spicy, which may not suit everyone's palate. Lastly, dealing with the indirect communication style of Koreans can be difficult for expats who are used to a more direct and straightforward way of expressing themselves. This can sometimes lead to misunderstandings or confusion in both personal and professional relationships," said one expat who made the move to Gyeongju.

"Gyeongju, like any other city, experiences some level of crime. However, it is generally considered a safe city with a relatively low crime rate. Most of the crimes reported are minor offenses such as petty theft or pickpocketing, particularly in crowded tourist areas. Violent crime is rare, and crimes against tourists are uncommon. The local police force is efficient and responsive, contributing to the overall safety of the city. Nevertheless, residents and visitors are advised to take standard precautions, such as not leaving belongings unattended and being aware of their surroundings, especially at night," wrote one member in Gyeongju.

"Gyeongju, is a city rich in history and culture, but it does not appear to have a significant number of international or bilingual schools. Most of the educational institutions in Gyeongju are Korean public schools or universities. However, there are a few options for English education in the nearby city of Pohang, such as the Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH) which is one of the top universities in Korea and offers many courses in English. There's also the Handong Global University, a private Christian institution that offers a bilingual education in Korean and English. For younger students, there's the Pohang Jecheol Elementary School which offers an English immersion program. In the nearby city of Daegu, there's the Daegu International School, which offers a full K-12 education in English. It's also worth noting that many Korean schools offer English as a second language programs, so even if a school isn't officially bilingual, students may still have the opportunity to learn English. 1. Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH): https://www.postech.ac.kr/eng/ 2. Handong Global University: https://www.handong.edu/eng/ 3. Pohang Jecheol Elementary School: http://www.pjc.es.kr/ 4. Daegu International School: http://www.dis.sc.kr/," commented one expat when asked about in Gyeongju.