Moving to South Korea

Living in South Korea as an expat

Moving to South Korea means discovering a fiercely competitive modern country still steeped in ancient history and tradition. This mountainous country is dotted with valleys and wide coastal plains in the west and south, with 51.6 million inhabitants populating its many large cities and smaller rural towns scattered throughout its varied terrain.

South Koreans enjoy entertainment, and the country’s nightlife is fantastic, especially in the larger cities. There are several cultural festivals celebrated throughout the year, and the country has a bustling K-pop scene that frequently attracts international stars.

The country is incredibly safe with low crime rates. While South Korea isn’t the most foreigner-friendly Asian country when it comes to institutional support, locals are generally kind to foreigners, and you’ll find a tight-knit expat community ready to help you settle in.

Moving to Seoul 
Moving to Busan 
Safety in South Korea

Working in South Korea

Most foreigners find employment teaching English in Korean schools or working in electronics, finance, IT, engineering, and technology sectors. As the home of industry giants such as Samsung and LG Electronics, South Korea has a tech-centric economy. The country has one of the world’s fastest internet infrastructures, ranking among the top globally for mobile speeds. This proves useful for doing business and helps you keep in touch with family and friends back home.

Teaching English in South Korea 
Doing Business in South Korea 
Keeping in Touch in South Korea

Finding accommodation in South Korea

The Korean rental system works differently from Western markets, and finding accommodation in South Korea can be challenging if your employer hasn’t arranged housing. The traditional jeonse system requires a large lump-sum deposit (often 50 to 80 percent of the property value) instead of monthly rent, but this system is thankfully on the decline. The more common wolse system involves a smaller deposit and monthly rent payments.

Many expats move to Seoul, the country’s capital, its most densely populated city and the chief industrial centre. Like many Asian cities, it’s dominated by high-rise buildings and apartment blocks. Between all the high-tech, modern buildings, though, is an interesting array of temples, palaces and museums, all conveniently connected by Seoul’s efficient subway system.

Apartments tend to be compact, especially in Seoul, and rental prices remain high. Many expats benefit from employer-provided accommodation, which is standard practice and removes much of the stress from the moving process. Those searching independently should expect a competitive market where properties move quickly.

Accommodation in South Korea

South Korean culture

Korean culture is rooted in Confucian values of hierarchy, respect and collectivism. It is crucial to understand age and seniority – these factors shape everything from how you bow to who speaks first in meetings. The workplace follows strict hierarchical structures, and senior members hold decision-making power while junior staff defer to their superiors.

After-work socialising, known as hoesik, forms an important part of Korean business culture. These gatherings typically involve food and drinks (often soju) and serve as team-building exercises where hierarchies can relax slightly. Learning at least basic Korean greatly improves your daily life and shows respect, although English speakers can manage in major cities. The culture values humility, group harmony and adherence to social norms over individual expression.

Local Culture in South Korea 
Diversity and Inclusion in South Korea

Cost of living in South Korea

The cost of living in South Korea is relatively high, particularly in the capital, Seoul, which ranks among the world’s more expensive cities for expats. While the rest of the country tends to be more affordable, you should still be prepared for certain high expenses, especially in major cities.

That said, salaries are competitive, and many employment contracts include benefits such as accommodation and schooling, helping to ease the financial burden. Korean staples like rice, kimchi and local produce are affordable, but imported items such as cheese, beef, chocolate and Western groceries can cost 20 to 30 percent more than you might expect. Transport is cheap and efficient. Eating out at local restaurants often costs less than cooking at home, while international dining will stretch your budget. Electronics and locally manufactured goods offer good value, although Western toiletries and imported products carry premium prices.

Cost of Living in South Korea

Living in South Korea with children

The healthcare system in South Korea is excellent, with high-quality facilities and easy access to physicians. The country leads in medical technology innovation and digital healthcare adoption, giving families peace of mind about healthcare provision.

South Korea has many family-friendly activities. Seoul has theme parks like Lotte World, aquariums such as COEX Aquarium, and public spaces including the Cheonggyecheon stream walk. Parks and outdoor spaces are plentiful, though parents should watch for seasonal air quality issues. Yellow dust and fine dust from China can affect outdoor activities during certain months, particularly in spring.

Healthcare in South Korea

Finding a school in South Korea

The standard of education in South Korea is excellent, with international schools often sending a high percentage of graduates to prestigious universities. Expats typically enrol their children in international schools, as the language of instruction at local public schools is Korean. Seoul and major cities offer numerous international school options with various curricula, including the International Baccalaureate (IB), British (IGCSE and A-Levels), and American systems.

Applications for international schools typically open in late fall or early winter for the following academic year. Admission decisions come through by spring, although popular schools may have waitlists. Planning ahead is essential, particularly for Seoul’s most sought-after institutions.

Korean education culture emphasises academic excellence, creating significant pressure on students to perform. The hagwon (private tutoring) industry is extensive, with around 80 percent of Korean students attending these after-school academies. Many international school families also engage tutors to support their children’s learning, particularly for entrance exams or specific subjects.

Education in South Korea 
International Schools in South Korea

Getting around in South Korea

Getting around in South Korea is straightforward thanks to the country’s extensive and efficient transport network. The KTX and SRT high-speed trains connect Seoul, Daejeon, Daegu, and Busan, and the journey from Seoul to Busan takes as little as 2 hours and 15 minutes. These trains link the nine provinces through an extensive rail system that makes intercity travel fast and convenient.

Urban public transport in major cities is excellent. Seoul’s metro system is consistently rated among the world’s best, with English signage throughout and smartphone apps providing route information. The T-money card works across buses and subways nationwide, making payment seamless. Free transfers between subway lines and buses make commuting economical.

You can get around major South Korean cities easily without a car. Taxis are plentiful and affordable, and apps like Kakao T have English-language service. Those living in suburban areas or planning frequent travel outside major cities may want a vehicle, although parking in Seoul can be challenging and expensive. International driving permits are valid for short stays, while longer-term residents can convert their home country licence after meeting certain requirements.

Transport in South Korea

Climate and weather in South Korea

The climate in South Korea comprises four distinct seasons. Winters run from December to March. Temperatures average around 32°F (0°C), although Seoul can drop well below freezing. The traditional ondol floor heating system keeps homes warm during the coldest months. Summers from June to August are hot and humid, with temperatures often reaching up to 86°F (30°C). The monsoon season brings heavy rainfall during these months. July and August see the most precipitation.

Spring and autumn have the most comfortable weather, but they pass by quickly. Spring temperatures range from 50 to 68°F (10 to 20°C), and cherry blossoms typically bloom in late March to early April. Autumn has similar mild temperatures from September through November, and the season is marked by spectacular fall foliage. Most expats consider these transitional seasons the best times to arrive.

Air quality can fluctuate, particularly in spring when yellow dust from China affects outdoor activities. Typhoon season runs from June through October, although most storms occur in August and September. The dramatic seasonal changes mean you’ll need a varied wardrobe, but they also offer distinct experiences throughout the year.

Climate in South Korea

Despite certain challenges, Korean culture is intriguing and rewards those who seek an understanding of its traditions. The country is incredibly safe with low crime rates, and expats moving to South Korea can expect a warm welcome from locals and other foreigners.

Fast facts

Official name: Republic of Korea

Population: Over 51.7 million

Capital city: Seoul (also the largest city)

Other cities: Busan, Incheon, Daegu, Daejeon

Neighbouring countries: North Korea, Japan and China

Geography: South Korea occupies the southern portion of the Korean Peninsula. The country shares a border with North Korea to the north. It’s separated from China by the Yellow Sea to the west, and from Japan by the Korea Strait and Sea of Japan to the east. Mountains and hills cover about 70 percent of the land, with coastal plains along the west and south coasts.

Political system: Presidential constitutional republic

Major religions: Christianity, Buddhism, but largely secular

Main language: Korean/Hangul (official). English is widely spoken in business circles in large cities, but less so elsewhere.

Money: The South Korean Won (KRW) is divided into 100 jeon. The banking system in South Korea is modern and efficient, and ATMs can be found almost everywhere.

Tipping: It isn’t usual to tip in South Korea. Top restaurants and luxury hotels sometimes add a service charge of 10 percent to the bill.

Time: GMT +9

Electricity: 220V, 60Hz. ‘Type C’ and ‘Type F’ rounded, two-pin plugs are used. Adapters are widely available at the airport and city convenience stores.

Internet domain: .kr

International dialling code: +82

Emergency contacts: 112 (police), 1345 (foreigner information service), 119 (fire and ambulance)

Transport and driving: Cars drive on the right-hand side of the road. South Korea has a reliable and efficient transport system, with buses and taxis in all cities and metro stations in the main cities.