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Seoul, Korea | What is life like as an expat in your area? | Expat Exchange
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What is life like as an expat in your area?

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When we asked people living abroad what life is like in their areas and how people spend their time, they said...

"Life for expats and digital nomads in Seoul is generally quite pleasant. The city is modern and vibrant, with plenty of opportunities for work, leisure, and exploration. The cost of living is relatively low, and the public transportation system is efficient and reliable. Expats and digital nomads can find a wide variety of accommodation options, from traditional Korean-style apartments to modern high-rise buildings. The city is also home to a diverse range of international restaurants, cafes, and bars, making it easy to find a place to socialize and meet new people. Seoul is a great place to live for those looking for a unique and exciting experience," said a member in Seoul, Korea.

"For men the priority is WORK...bar none...well, after work they like to go to the bar too. That doesn't mean that Koreans are all fuddy-duddies, but they are definately less laid-back than, say, Canadians or Americans--especially Canadians. This focus means that most of their friends are from work, from previous work or (if they are upwardly mobile) future working groups. For women the Job One is clear: family. Get a good husband, raise a good family and have a good life. Keep everyone well fed, warm, healthy and happy (hubby is in charge of keeping everyone wealthy, but wife usually controls the purse-strings). For all Koreans family is first...maybe before work for some guys (but, admittedly, not that many). All Koreans have a strong bond to past present and (somewhat) future family members--especially children and elders. Children are like gold and elders are treated with respect--not in all cases, but in many. Every social event will have a few key articles: (i) picnic basket or delivered food...Koreans like to eat; (ii) soju, beer or some other drink...even the ladies may have a beer or so, you'd be surprised; (iii) blankets and such...as even with the alcohol Koreans like to always keep warm. Koreans have many sport interests. Some play street and arena basketball, many rollerblade(or, as they say, inline skateing), but the big sport is soccer. Tears flow whether they are winning or losing or even watching 2 visiting teams play. Everyone, in their words, goes crazy for it," remarked another expat who made the move to Seoul, Korea.

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What is life like as an expat in your area?

If you live in Seoul, newcomers to Seoul would love to hear your answer to this question.


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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