Pros And Cons Of Moving To Ulsan, South Korea part 1 – that will be the topic of today’s article.

Before introducing this article, if you are interested in our core services which are expat financial, insurance and mortgages, you can contact me here. 

The best time to consider your financial situation is when you are moving to a new country.

Introduction

When someone thinks of Korea in general, many things come to mind. For example, one might think of technology giants like Samsung or Hyundai. You may also think of the popular k-dramas with beautiful actors and actresses.

However, there is one place people do not often think about in Korea: Ulsan. But, why should they? After all, the city has little in common with Seoul or Busan. Moreover, if you want to experience Korean culture without the hustle and bustle of Seoul or Busan, then Ulsan may be a good place for you.

So, what exactly is there to do in Ulsan? For starters, this city by the sea has beautiful beaches. At Yonghwa beach, for example, you can enjoy watching ships dock at one of South Korea’s largest ports as well as relax on the shore (notably during peach blossom season). Moreover, there are several museums and temples in the area.

For those who do not like beaches, Ulsan has mountains and hiking trails as well. In particular, Mt. Biseul has some of the best views in the city. Another fun outdoor activity is biking along Ulsan’s many lakes, such as Taehwa or Dongbaek. There are also several amusement parks in the area. The most famous is Lotte World Adventure which was modeled after Disney World’s Magic Kingdom.

For those who do not have an international driver’s license, then public transportation might be difficult for them to get around. Not to talk much, we have compiled this article to explain everything you need to know about moving to Ulsan. Have you been surfing the web long ago? Well, check what we have now!

Factors to Consider When Moving To Ulsan

The city of Ulsan attracts many expats with its gorgeous beaches and attractive metropolitan cityscape. However, newcomers should consider seven factors before moving to Ulsan. This will give them a sense of what living in this beautiful city entails. Without further ado, below are the factors to consider!

Factor 1: Transportation

Ulsan offers a good public subway system that runs throughout the city. It also has a convenient bus system that runs from the subway locations to major shopping centers and residential areas. In addition, taxis are affordable and easy to use.

That being said, Ulsan’s public transportation system is not as developed as that of the larger cities, such as Seoul. Therefore, newcomers who plan to live in Ulsan for an extended period may find it easier to buy a car.

Factor 2: Cost of Living

Expats should check how much it costs to live in Ulsan before moving there. Housing is more expensive than the national average. In addition, taxes and healthcare costs tend to be higher in Ulsan than the national average. However, entertainment tends to cost less in Ulsan because of its proximity to Masan, a more affordable city with a thriving bar scene.

Factor 3: Utilities

In terms of housing utilities, renters pay for water, and tenants pay for their electricity, gas, and internet. In fact, tenants often have to pay some of their utilities in advance when they first move into an apartment.

Tenants must also pay a security deposit and a fee for the rental agency, usually one month’s rent. On the other hand, many landlords offer free internet access for tenants with fibre connections (fibre is available in most areas).

Factor 4: Education

Ulsan has several international education institutions, including Ulsan University and Kyungnam University. However, other schools tend to be lacking in English-language instruction. Thus, newcomers to Ulsan may want to enroll their children in an international school or organize for them to travel back and forth from Seoul.

Factor 5: Healthcare

Although Ulsan’s medical care is cheaper than in most big cities, the quality of hospitals does not match that of major medical centers, such as Seoul National University Hospital. If international citizens are moving to Ulsan with the intention of staying long-term, they may want to consider purchasing international health insurance.

In addition, expats who intend to live in Ulsan long-term should consider that the cost of living depends on how far from the city center a person lives. For instance, housing costs more if an expat lives closer to Ulsan’s metropolitan area. In sum, international citizens should consider how much they can afford to pay for housing and utilities before making decisions about moving to Ulsan.

Factor 6:  Employment Opportunities

Ulsan is a manufacturing hub with many large corporations, such as Hyundai and POSCO. Thus, expats who want to work in the manufacturing industry will have an easier time finding employment in Ulsan than if they move to cities that are more culture-based or tourism-based.

Factor 7: Climate/Weather Condition

This is another important factor to consider when planning a move. The weather in Ulsan can be hot and humid during the summer, with temperatures between 18-35 degrees Celsius (64 – 95 degrees Fahrenheit) and cold in winter (between 3-17 degrees Celsius or 37-63 degrees Fahrenheit).

Thus, expats should choose housing that has heating and cooling systems. Expats should also pack warm clothing, no matter the season, especially during wintertime.

Overview of the Pros of Moving To Ulsan

Nestled on the southeast coast of South Korea, Ulsan is often overlooked by potential expats and travelers exploring Korea’s many different regions. However, like the rest of South Korea, Ulsan has a lot to offer in terms of food, culture, and outdoor activities.

Most importantly, it is home to several notable industries that contribute to the continuing success of South Korea. These include shipbuilding, automobile manufacturing, and petrochemical production. Nonetheless, let’s quickly take a look at the pros and cons of moving to Ulsan, South Korea as an expat.

Incredible Expat Community

There’s a large and active community of foreign professionals in Ulsan, South Korea. It’s common to see special events for holidays like Halloween and Christmas, regular barbecues with people from all different countries retreating to the mountains for camping and hiking, bachelor parties at the casino or sky bars, even weekly “Spanish Nights” with live music and free salsa lessons.

An Affordable Place to Live

Although Ulsan is a large metropolitan city, it’s very affordable compared to other major cities around the world. For example, an apartment in downtown Seoul will cost you five times as much as one in Ulsan. The cost of the living index even includes such familiars as Apple computers and Nike shoes, which are cheaper than almost anywhere else in the world.

Reliable Transportation System

The Ulsan metropolitan subway system is very reliable – you never have to worry about being late for a meeting because of a sudden delay or accident on the way there. The buses, although not always on schedule, are cheaper and more convenient than in most other major cities around the world.

Safety

The crime rate is nearly zero, making Ulsan one of the safest places you can live. The police force is highly trained, professional, and extremely strict with law enforcement. Streets are clean and well-kept, unlike some major cities around the world, and there are no homeless people downtown or begging in the streets.

Beautiful Nature

Ulsan is surrounded by mountains, making it an ideal getaway for camping, hiking, fishing, biking, skiing/snowboarding (in winter), picnics at the park with friends or family, etc. It’s a great place to get back in touch with nature.

The City Attracts Dedicated People

Ulsan is a city that attracts hard-working people, especially those who love the outdoors and want to do things like mountain biking, hiking, fishing, etc. There’s not much pollution, and there are so many natural resources available for the taking.

Delicious Food

Ulsan is home to many delicious local foods, including the famous Ulsan Hankook-Tteokbokki (rice cakes in red pepper sauce), Dak-ttongjip (chicken legs – best eaten with raw garlic and spicy mustard), Sundae (Korean blood sausage), and Gomtang (beef bone soup). The street food is also delicious, including Samgyeopsal (Korean bacon-wrapped rice cake), hotteok (sugar pancake filled with peanuts/sesame seeds), and bindaetteok (pancake made from mung beans).

Cons

Fewer Western Amenities

The U.S. military has a large population in South Korea, but there are not many American restaurants or stores geared toward this audience. Most shopping centers are run by Korean companies catering to Korean tastes and following Korean customs. If you want an American steak, fried chicken, or grocery items, you’ll probably have to cook it yourself.

High Cost Of Living with High Unemployment

The cost of living is high in South Korea, but the income is relatively low for most people, with an average per capita income of $25,000. With this meager salary, South Koreans are expected to pay their rent, buy food and keep up with the latest fashions. However, the cost of living in Ulsan is higher than most places finding everything 50% more expensive than other locations in South Korea.

Strict Cultural Norms

Koreans live under stringent cultural norms that are stringently enforced. Most bars are segregated by gender, with separate entrances for men and women. Even in the most modern cities, the older generation still does not approve of interracial dating, so it is important to be careful when dating outside your race.

Difficult to Get A Job

The unemployment rate in South Korea is around 8%. Still, it doesn’t seem like the government has done much about the issue since it has been allocating 1.5% of its GDP toward job creation and 2% or more toward education, health care, and welfare programs every year.

Underemployment plagues the economy, with many people getting part-time jobs or simply giving up looking for work. Many international companies also do not recognize South Korean degrees and expect more than the average job candidate can offer.

Language Barrier

There are about 80 million people in South Korea, but only around 50 million speak English, leaving visitors who don’t speak Korean feeling excluded and frustrated. As a non-Korean speaker, you will need to work harder at restaurants and stores that do not have many English speakers or bring an interpreter with you if possible.

Lack of Mental Health Care

Lack of mental health support is a serious issue in South Korea. A World Health Organization report has noted that only 20 psychiatrists per 100,000 people in South Korea while the OECD countries average 216 for every 100,000. With such little care available, many people who need help do not get it, or they turn to alcohol or other substances.

Relatively Few English-Speaking People

About 70% of foreigners living in South Korea speak Japanese as their first language, leaving only 30% to speak English fluently. This makes it difficult for many non-Koreans to integrate into society and can be frustrating if you need help from a stranger and do not speak Korean.

If you need English help, your best bet would be to look for a job teaching English or ask at the international schools where teachers tend to be non-Koreans with strong English skills.

Before introducing this article, if you are interested in our core services which are expat financial, insurance and mortgages, you can contact me here. 

The best time to consider your financial situation is when you are moving to a new country.

Introduction

The Republic of Korea (unofficially – South Korea) is located in the eastern part of Asia, washed by the Yellow, Japanese and East China Seas, has a strong economy focused on the production of high-tech products. The main cultural, financial, scientific, political center and capital of the country is Seoul, which is in the TOP-5 of the richest cities in the world, ahead of such European cities as London and Paris.

The population of South Korea is 51.3 million people. Moreover, more than 99% identify themselves as ethnic Koreans. In addition, several tens of thousands of Chinese live here. Other major diasporas include the Vietnamese, Thais, and Filipinos.

Pros and cons of living in South Korea

South Korea is one of the most developed and successful countries in Asia. Thanks to the economic achievements of the state, Korean citizens can boast of a high standard of living and general well-being. Of course, life in South Korea also has its drawbacks. Let’s highlight the positive and negative aspects of living in Korean territory.

The pros of living in South Korea

• South Korea is a beautiful country with a comfortable climate and a low crime rate.
• Investing and doing business in South Korea is very profitable, which is confirmed by the 5th place in the well-known rating of the Doing Business agency.
• The country hosts a lot of bright festivals and large-scale sports events, where you can have an interesting and fun time.
• Korea’s infrastructure is nearly perfect, with free Wi-Fi and many other cutting-edge technologies available everywhere.
• As a rule, the locals are friendly to foreigners and speak good English.

The cons of living in South Korea

• Living in South Korea is quite expensive.
• It is very difficult to find comfortable housing within the city limits.
• Korean is hard to learn.
• Working in South Korea, including the schedule and corporate culture, is not suitable for all foreigners.
• Despite significant progress in establishing peaceful relations with neighboring North Korea, the risk of escalating tensions still exists.

Tax rates in South Korea in 2021

Corporate income tax:

• Turnover up to 200 million won – 10%.
• Turnover from 200 million to 20 billion won – 20 million, plus 20% of the amount over 200 million won.
• Turnover from 20 billion to 30 billion won – 3.98 billion, plus 22% of over 20 billion won.
• Turnover over 30 billion won – 65.58 billion, plus 25% of over 30 billion.

Dividends (interest, royalties) – 22%

Real estate tax – from 0.24 to 0.6%

Income tax:

• Annual income up to 12 million won – 6%.
• Annual income of 12 million to 46 million won – 720 thousand won, plus 15% of the amount over 12 million.
• Annual income of 46 million to 88 million won – 5.82 million won, plus 24% of over 46 million won.
• Annual income between 88 million won and 150 million won – 15.9 million won, plus 35% of over 88 million won.
• Annual income of 150 million to 300 million won – 37.6 million won, plus 38% of over 150 million won.
• Annual income of 300 million to 500 million won – 94.6 million won, plus 40% of over 300 million won.
• Annual income over 500 million won – 170.6 million won, plus 42% of over 500 million won.

Work and salary in South Korea

For employment in Seoul and other major cities in South Korea, a foreigner must first obtain a work visa. Depending on the specialization of the applicant and the vacancy, the country’s immigration system has 9 types of visas that allow you to work or do business. The most in-demand professions in South Korea are related to the automotive, IT, shipbuilding, finance and electronics industries.

The national minimum wage in South Korea in 2021 is 8,720 won per hour, which is the equivalent of 6.5 euros. For full-time employment, a Korean worker must earn at least 1,822,480 won (approximately € 1,345) monthly. According to the Korea Economic Research Institute and Statistics of the local Ministry of Employment and Labor, the average salary in South Korea is 48,040,020 won per year (about 35,095 euros).

Medicine in South Korea

South Korea has built one of the most efficient, quality, and versatile healthcare systems in the world. Funding comes from the mandatory National Health Insurance Scheme, which covers about 97% of the population. Basic services are provided free of charge to both Koreans and foreigners permanently residing in South Korea. Patients can choose between the Western model of medicine or the traditional Eastern methods of treatment.

In conclusion, we note that the average life expectancy at birth in South Korea in 2021 is 82.5 years, while women live about 85.8 years, and men 79.3.

Higher education in South Korea

South Korea’s economic success was achieved largely thanks to qualified specialists who received a good education in local universities. Currently, there are more than 370 higher educational institutions – universities and colleges in the country. The main language of instruction is Korean, but many programs are taught in English, in particular master’s.

In the prestigious international ranking QS World University Rankings 2021, 30 South Korean universities are represented, while the TOP-100 includes 5 higher educational institutions. The best are Seoul National University, Korea Institute of Advanced Technology, and Pohang University of Science and Technology. The average cost of education in South Korea is about 4-9.5 thousand dollars per year.

Between, afterwards we will mainly talk about education in South Korea, more precisely about the best international schools that expats can trust and send their kids there for a good education.

International schools in South Korea

As with many other countries in Asia, South Korea’s education system is known for its strengths. Students regularly perform above average in all areas, especially math and science. You will be delighted to know that international schools in Seoul meet or exceed these standards.

South Korea offers expats a well-developed international education system for their children. An international school in South Korea is a good option for expats who want to keep their children in the international education system while living and working abroad.

As a rule, international schools have a high quality of teaching and the price is, accordingly, more expensive than in a Korean school. International private primary school tuition costs around 5,000 euros per year, with an increase to around 6,500 euros for a secondary school, and in addition, the entry fee is around 1,000 euros.

International schools are located in all major cities in South Korea, but the most famous and reputable ones are located in the capital of the country, Seoul. The upmarket Gangnam area – yes, the same Gangnam that PSY sings about – has a group of top schools. The rest are scattered throughout Gyeonggi, its surroundings, and the city itself.

Seoul’s international schools are dominated by American, British, and international curricullum. Naturally, this means that English is the language of instruction almost everywhere. If your child attended a school that does not teach English, they may be required to take an English proficiency test as part of the application process.

There are also several schools offering European curricula with relevant languages ​​(eg French curriculum taught in French). Learning Korean is optional, but in all cases it is offered as an additional language. Mandarin is also often offered.

Applications for admission to international schools in Seoul are accepted on a first come, first served basis. Your child must meet the criteria set at the government level, but don’t worry! There is nothing crazy about this and it is standard in many parts of the world. Some schools also have their own additional criteria, but again, this is not a cause for concern.

And you don’t need us to tell you this, but the sooner you apply to your chosen international school, the better.

A day at an international school in Seoul starts at 8 am and lasts until about 3-4 pm. When lessons are over, your child has extensive extracurricular activities. The sport is especially popular in Seoul; many international schools have excellent outdoor sports facilities.

However, you can expect all the usual bells and whistles other than all-weather fields. Admittedly, the high price you will pay to educate your child at an international school in Seoul will include daily freshly-prepared hot meals. In some cases, you can even take a private bus to and from the surrounding areas of the city for your child.

Native English teachers are standard as they are much smaller than average. Even the international schools with the largest class size will have less than 20 students.

At the opposite end of the scale, the smallest international schools will continue to have small classes and very diverse enrollment. You will find at least 10-20 students from different countries. In larger schools, the number of nationalities will be double or more.

International schools in Seoul are often guided by a Christian spirit. This can include mandatory uniforms and somewhat stringent codes of conduct. However, if this isn’t yours, don’t worry. Seoul has a large selection of schools and you are sure to find a school that is perfect for you and your child.

Below you will find the overviews of some best international schools in Seoul. However, there are 17 more schools in the city. You can find the best international school for your child by personalizing the results.

Requirements for candidates

For admission to one of the international schools in South Korea, international students usually need to provide the following:

• Completed application form (provided by the international school)
• Proof of eligibility for admission to a foreign school in Korea
• Copies of relevant forms from schools attended in the past two years. (If the forms are in any language other than English, a translated version is required.)
• Reference letter from a recent teacher
• Photocopy of the main page of the passport
• Most recent test scores (usually English, math and science) for 2nd to 9th grade students only
• Two full pages of original written work (in English) from recent school assignments, verified by the signature of a school official.
• The last two math assignments or test scores
• Medical forms
• Entry and registration fees

Some international schools also require entrance tests for prospective students in grades 1-9. The entrance test includes interviews, reading, writing and math tests.

Most international schools accept applications during the year, but the system operates on a first come, first served basis (among other criteria). The best option is to apply as early as possible, before the start of the school year. British, European and American systems have different timetables, be sure to check the relevant timelines before applying.

Choosing an international school

Choosing an international school for your children is never an easy decision. When deciding to send your children to an international institution in another country, there are several important factors to consider: your child’s level of English, educational level, educational system in your original country, educational level, school location and length of stay. These factors can vary from one foreigner to another and influence the choice of an international school.

Below is a list of some of the top international schools in South Korea:

Korean International School (KIS)

The Korea International School offers students on Hong Kong Island an alternative to the IB program, offering UK A-level education.

While the Korea International School (KIS) was founded in 1960 with just six students to meet the needs of the Korean community in Hong Kong, today it offers both Korean and international flow to the international student community. The international section is significantly larger: 400 students compared to 110.

The International Section of KIS offers British-style training for the English speaking community in Hong Kong. Tuition is based on the UK Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) at admission and later on the Cambridge International Primary Program for students in grades 1-13; Students take IGCSE exams in grade 10 and A Level exams in grade 13. The school has a decent academic record; in 2017, 74% of all IGCSE grades were A * – C and over 50% of A Level grades were A * – C. Most of the students here go on to university in the UK, followed by Hong Kong or the United States.

The languages ​​offered are Chinese and Korean; high school has a BYOD program; and KIS offers a variety of extracurricular activities, sports clubs, environmental initiatives and charitable projects outside of educational institutions.

Amenities on campus at Sai Van Ho (which is close to Delia Canadian School) include a recently renovated library with an extensive collection of Chinese, Spanish and Korean books. Fees range from HK $ 100,900 per year 1 to HK $ 112,300 per year 13.

Yongsan International School of Seoul (YISS)

Conveniently located in the heart of Seoul, YISS is a diverse K-12 community with more than 960 students in over 50 countries. YISS is fully accredited by WASC and the Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI).

The Yongsan International School of Seoul (YISS) is a K-12 private school in downtown Seoul offering an American curriculum to the international community. They welcome families and students of all religions and worldviews from over 50 countries, providing a rich multicultural experience based on the values ​​of truth, excellence and diversity.

In this supportive environment, the pursuit of individual student success is supported by a team of highly qualified, passionate Christian teachers and staff who inspire a love of learning and unleash the potential of each student to achieve goals. Located in the heart of Seoul, our state-of-the-art campus fosters learning by creating a safe educational environment conducive to research.

Studying at YISS is an exceptional educational experience that empowers students and prepares them for success in college and beyond, anywhere in the world.

Dulwich College Seoul

This is a new school located in the central Seocho District. 600 students from toddlers to 13-year-olds (24 months to 18 years).

Dulwich College is one of the oldest independent schools in the UK, founded in South London as a boys’ school in 1619. Dulwich International College (DCI) was founded to provide Dulwich education to students around the world and is now one of the fastest growing schools. UK Independent School Networks.

Dulwich College Seoul offers exemplary, British-style international education for 700 international students aged 4 to 18 from over 40 different countries. The curriculum is in line with best practice in the Early Childhood Foundation and the National English Curriculum.

Through our accreditation of the Cambridge International Exam (CIE), they offer the IGCSE program, and its status as an International Baccalaureate School allows students to continue their studies with the IB Diploma program. The college is accredited by the International Schools Council (CIS) and the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC).

The campus is located on a specially designed urban campus south of the Han River in the central Socho district. The campus has outdoor playgrounds, an all-weather sports field, a five-a-side football pitch, as well as an indoor gym, and a 25-meter indoor pool.

Services also include a 250-seat auditorium, a black box theater, dance studio, self-contained suites with music rooms, two fully stocked learning resource centers and libraries, science labs, an open rope course, food technology cabinet, art, and design workshops. and a stove room.

Seoul InternationalSchool (SIS)

Accredited by the WesternAssociationofSchoolsofColleges (WASC), the school provides students with a challenging American curriculum and boasts state-of-the-art amenities.

Seoul International School (SIS) is an academic institution that aims to provide a sophisticated curriculum in the United States to meet the primary and secondary education needs of international students living in Seoul, Korea. The school is committed to the arts, humanities, and sciences as the best preparation for higher education, service to humanity, and lifelong learning in their rapidly changing world.

They efforts are aimed at maximizing the intellectual, creative, moral, physical, and emotional abilities of students in collaboration with parents and the world community. SIS strives to offer a wide range of educational programs, both educational and complementary, in a safe, orderly and supportive environment.

Seoul International School develops inquisitive, independent thinkers and cooperative students who acquire the necessary knowledge to be caring and creative participants in the world around them.

Seoul International School, conveniently located south of Seoul, provides a safe and secure learning environment for your child. Significant and constant updates keep us up to date with the ever-changing needs of their curriculum. The current campus is spread over three buildings that include a swimming pool, three gyms, a state-of-the-art auditorium, an atrium, music and music rooms, fully equipped science labs, state-of-the-art classrooms, and more.

Taejon Christian International School (TCIS)

The school is currently a K-12 school with about 600 students. Located next to Korea’s main research area, the school has a state-of-the-art high school building with high-speed wireless Internet access.

One of the first things that stands out at TCIS is the combination of top-notch scientists and the spirit of the Christian community. TCIS is one of the few schools in the world to offer all three IB programs in a Christian context. TCIS was the forerunner of IB’s investment in South Korea, becoming the first school in the country to offer all three programs.

Each year, students are distinguished by their academic excellence, athletic performance, visual and performing arts, and compassion to serve the needs of their fellows. Using educational excellence and preaching love and hope, they work to educate internationally capable students who are competent, compassionate and strong leaders.

For families living outside of Daejeon and Korea, TCIS offers an on-campus residency program. Students thrive here, it is more than just a place to live, they grow in personal character and responsibility. There are many benefits to being a TCIS Boarding Care member. In fact, they had local families who allowed their children to enter a boarding program to reap the benefits and experience of preparing for university life right now, in a safe and manageable way.

Before introducing this article, if you are interested in our core services which are expat financial, insurance and mortgages, you can contact me here. 

The best time to consider your financial situation is when you are moving to a new country.

Introduction

Since the Korean War, this country has emerged as one of the more politically and economically free nations. It’s home to companies like Samsung, Hyundai, and many others, to mention a few. South Korea’s economy has been growing for years, and this has become a model for other countries in Asia.

Before beginning your life in Korea, it’s essential to prepare for what’s to come. And not just going to the country without preparing. Like everywhere else, South Korea definitely has its pros and cons, and life in this country may be quite different for a foreigner than it would be for a citizen.

However, many expats would love to opt to go to South Korea for many different reasons. As we already detailed in our post on moving to South Korea expat guide, the key pros and cons of living in this country can be different. That’s why you’ve landed on the right platform to know more!

If you’re looking to relocate to South Korea permanently, you must know the living procedures. This country, in no doubt, is a fascinating country in which to live, and study is relatively easy. In fact, the government offers expats a good standard of living at a reasonable price level as of 2021.

Meanwhile, some living expenses such as housing and food may be more expensive than in your home country.  Not to worry, we’ve got you covered in this article. Our foremost priority is to walk you through the ultimate guide of living in South Korea. Does that sound interesting? Read further to know more!

Living Condition Facts in South Korea The cost of living in South Korea is generally considered to be quite high.  On the other hand, expatriates should be aware that prices do vary significantly. Sometimes, it varies according to location, size, and the larger cities have much high property prices. Without further ado, let’s walk you through these facts.

Life Expectancy Range

It’s no doubt that the life expectancy rate in South Korea is one of the highest in the world. This means the country has a benefit to having free, universal healthcare coverage. Aside from this fact, Koreans’ diets consist of steam-cooked rice, meats, vegetables, and more, constituting a long and healthy life.

Credit Card Usage

Among the countries globally, South Korea remains the lead when it comes to credit card transactions. Additionally, it’s illegal for businesses in this country to refuse credit cards, even for a smaller purchase. With these interesting facts, the country has created a bustling tourism and shopping industry.

High Death Rate

Surprisingly, the suicide rate in South Korea is on the rise.  It is believed that this high death rate is due to long work hours and stress in the workplace.  While the country has taken preventative measures to combat such a tragic statistic, the country legislature continues to update and improve its mental Health Act.

Unemployment in South Korea

While the country’s economy is strong, youth still find it challenging to find a job. Also, many smaller businesses are having trouble cementing themselves into Korean society because of the large companies. With research, more than 11 percent of young people between the age of 15 and 29 find it hard to get a lucrative job in the country.

Climatic Change

To learn more about climate change, the country’s environmental research institute has begun working with the environmental protection agency. Besides, these organizations have focused on monitoring air quality and how climate change has led to respiratory illnesses.

Violence Rates

When it comes to low violence rates, South Korea is among the leaders. They have great respect for their rule of law, and the citizens also have a lot of respect for the rule of the society and the court. So, if you’re moving to this country, it would be better to stay calm and not cause violence to avoid deportation.

Overcrowded Prisons

It’s not funny how South Korea’s prisons became the most overcrowded prisons in the world. By estimation, the country exceeds the standard amount of prisoners by 21.8 percent while averaging more than 2,000 people per prison. It’s not because of the crime rate, but the issue has been linked to the rise of poverty-induced crimes and lack of government funding for prisons.

Home to Largest Drinks

It may not come as exactly what you think South Korea is home to the largest drinks in the world. Of course, no! But it’s home to the largest drinks in Asia.  In fact, many are surprised that the country was listed as one of the top drinkers in Asia by far. Meanwhile, it can be rooted in their tradition and culture.

Guys Own Valentines Day

Just when you thought that valentine’s day is for women, you’ll be amazed to see a different culture in South Korea. The most interesting fact about this country is that Valentine’s Day is solely when males receive chocolates from females, while the females receive sweets on a white Day.

Medical Tourism Vacation

South Korea is a popular destination for medical tourism, especially for cosmetic surgery. If you’re craving plastic surgery, this is the right country to visit. Also, people come from different countries to have their looks enhanced during their visitation to South Korea.

Pros and Cons of Living in South Korea

While South Korea is not the most common choice for expats compared to other nearby Asian countries, there are endless benefits. If you’ve been reading our blog, you’ll understand what it takes to relocate to the country. Now, let’s take a look at the Pros of living in South Korea.

Healthcare Facilities

The healthcare facilities in South Korea are very affordable and highly developed. Besides, the citizens normally go to the hospital even for minor symptoms. Also, if you work in South Korea, it is mandatory to have a full body check every two years, usually paid by the company.

Excellent Transportation Network

Many people own a car in South Korea, but they are really cheap and convenient. They have a highly developed speed train network, and it’s rare to see a bus, train, or subway be late in South Korea. Perhaps, the first time you’ll enjoy the country is by exploring the city with the citizens.

Food and Culture

Since its inception, food has been the major center of Korean culture. The country’s food includes dishes based on soy sauce, toasted sesame seed oil, and many others, to mention a few. Even after 10 years, you may discover new dishes that taste completely different from what you’re used to in the country.

Home to Imported Goods

You’ll nearly find imported foods from all over the country in South Korea.  In other news, foods are imported from UK, New Zealand, Australia, America,  and many others, to mention a  few. Also, don’t be surprised to see new food but the problem is that they can be expensive.

A Friendly Community

In this country, you’ll enjoy a tight-knit expat community. In fact, the locals will welcome you in such a way that you’ll feel overwhelmed. On the other news, everybody knows everybody, and everybody calls you a friend even if they don’t know you. Also, you can counts on group gatherings for western holidays.

World-class Convenient Stores

In South Korea, you don’t need to walk very far to get what you want. Many convenient stores operate daily. Since drinking is legal in the country, you can even place your seating outside of the stores to eat and enjoy your meal. And these specials are amazing when it comes to the end of the month/year due to different bonus offers.

Strict Recycling

There are strict regulations regarding waste disposal in South Korea, and when you’re living in a country without a proper recycling process, you could be fined. Here, recycling includes separating your food waste, papers, and glass bottles into a specific colored bag.

Cons

Considered As an Expensive Nation

If you want to live in South Korea, you should expect a high cost of living. This is why we advise nearly all our emigrants who would love to relocate to South Korea to be financially buoyant. Rental costs are high, foodstuffs can be price-tiring, and exploring the cities could be pretty expensive. Therefore, ensure you do plenty of research before you make your move to this country.

Gender Inequality in SK

 Be prepared to be faced with gender inequality in South Korea. Things continue to improve with feminism becoming more accepted in recent times. More so, you can experience some drawbacks as a foreigner. This is because; there’s more staring than what you’re used to in your home country.

Cost of Housing and Spending

The average apartment in South Korea can make you quit living in the country. So, if you opt for having a more comfortable lifestyle, you should plan and consider bringing enough funds while enjoying your stay in South Korea. Meanwhile, the majority of the attractions are full of activities, so prepare to spend.

Jobs and Employment opportunity in South Korea

Many bloggers will tell you that one of the easiest ways to move to South Korea is through jobs and employments. The truth is, that’s the best option for expats. Meanwhile, having a job doesn’t only guarantee your visa, but it helps many foreigners integrate into the country and start meeting locals.

For native Koreans, the South Korean job market has been on the low compare to recent years. While the country boasts Asia’s fourth-largest economy, it still struggles to find adequate placement for a fast becoming overqualified workforce for the available jobs.

However, many citizens in South Korea tend to enter a job and stay with the company until they retire. Nowadays, they struggle to enter the market and turn to international opportunities in nearby countries such as Japan, China, and even the United States.

Therefore, expats, on the other hand, will have a bit easier time securing a lucrative job in the country. Foreigners are not only being welcomed into the job market to add and improve relations but for the need to speak languages other than Korean. Let’s quickly talk about how to get jobs in South Korea.

How Foreigners Can Get a Job in South Korea

With the country’s mixture of beautiful coastlines and wonderful cosmopolitan cities, South Korea is becoming an increasingly popular destination for expats. If you’re one of the many people that’d love to relocate to this country, we’ve got you covered on the steps you need that’d help you land the perfect job.

Online Job Search

If you’re looking to get a job before you travel to South Korea, there are many job boards to use. Some of the job boards include; JobKorea, Saramin, PeopleNJob, and many others, to mention a few. In addition to these, you can also use different job search sites such as Craigslist and LinkedIn.

Korean Newspapers

While this job board method seems older than other countries, there are jobs often published in newspapers. You can also get jobs on different online websites or being printed on physical paper. Some of the South Korean newspaper to check out for includes The Korea Herald, The Korea Times, The Seoul Times, and many others to mention a few.

Job Fair Board

South Korea hosts different job fairs that specifically target emigrants. They are usually split into two different categories, which are; job fairs for international students and job fairs for international residents. To find the dates of these South Korean fairs, visit the Seouljobfair for more information.

Job Opportunities for Foreigners

As aforementioned, one of the greatest opportunities for expats wanting to relocate to this country is by teaching English. For newcomers, teaching English does not require extensive knowledge of Korean, and some schools even prefer their students to be forced to learn and speak the English language.

In addition to teaching English, other industries like general office administration, IT, manufacturing, Health, and many others in South Korea will find many opportunities teaching, learning, and speaking in the English language aside from the country’s native language.

Minimum Wage and Average Salary in South Korea

Throughout the expats community, South Korea has a reputation for having a high salary. That’s why you’ll see many emigrants wanting to relocate to this country.  Meanwhile, this reputation comes largely from foreign English teachers being given expat packages to teach the language in the country.

The average salary in this country as of 2021 is amounting to 44,812,260 KRW per year. Besides, in Seoul, the average salary is 65,431,200 KRW. Now, what is a good salary in South Korea? Of course, this depends on where you decide to live in the peninsular country. Below is an average salary chart in South Korea.

Average Salary for a family of Four

Average Salary for a Single Expat

Most In-Demand Jobs in South Korea

Expats who work in the following fields will find the greatest opportunities to enjoy what it feels like to relocate to the country. Some of the most in-demand jobs in this country are; Editor/content writer, sales and marketing, public relations, securities analyst, programmers, English teachers, and many more.

Self-Employment in South Korea

The majority of self-employment in South Korea is an option for many expats. Moreover, the country has many handfuls of self-employment visas for foreigners to bring their business ventures to the Land of Morning Calm. While moving to this country may be tough, self-employed people are so common.

Tips for Finding Freelance Work

As mentioned earlier, one way to search for employment opportunities in South Korea is to look online. As a hyper-modern society, this country relies on technology for its day-to-day needs, including job finding. Some of the best sites to search for freelance works in South Korea are; Knong, Soomgo, Upwork, Wishlet, and many others, to mention a few.

As with working for a traditional company in South Korea, it is best to understand Korean to work as a freelancer in the country. You do not need to be fluent, but you must have a basic knowledge of the language. This will even boost your hiring chances as you will be able to communicate with more potential clients.

Self-Employment Jobs in South Korea

Self-employed expats who work in the tech industry or other computer-related professions will find many freelance opportunities in the country. In contrast to IT work, translation work also plays an important role. Meanwhile, those interested in the gaming industry or innovative design will be especially sought after. That’s why the country is still gaining international recognition.

Bilingual expats will also find it easy to get jobs in South Korea. Some of the popular self-employment jobs in the country are; UX designer, content writer, graphic designer, web developer, and many others, to mention a few.

Business Culture and Etiquettes in South Korea

Whether you’re moving to South Korea for work or you want to enjoy your summer vacation, you must know the business etiquette. However, research made it known that the country sees more foreigners, but the country is still deeply rooted in their traditions of respect.

Hierarchy in South Korea

As mentioned above, it is essential to establish a hierarchy from the first time you visit your workplace. The citizens have great respect for seniority, both in age and profession, and you must also abide by this tradition even if you’re hearing it for the first time.

Meeting in South Korea

While in South Korea, don’t be surprised to see citizens scheduling meetings a few weeks in advance. That being said, you shouldn’t be surprised if the meeting was canceled a few minutes to start. It’s not meant to be rude, but that’s their culture indicating that other colleagues are not ready to have a meeting.

Punctuality at Work

Unlike other countries in Asia, punctuality is seen as a sign of respect in South Korea. This means you should always arrive at your workplace 10 to 15 minutes early. If you know or suspect that you may probably come late, you should make the necessary move to alert those in the meeting.

Fashion Sense (Dress Code)

In South Korea, culture leans towards the dress code in your workplace. Men are normally seen wearing a white button-up shirt with dark suits while the women always put on darker colors aiming for business skirts, suits or suits.

Social Security and Work Benefits

When it comes to the social security and work benefits in South Korea, you should know that it operates similarly to what is done in many other countries. Not to worry, the SSN (Social Security Number) is a 13-digit number that all residents are required to have, indicating their credentials.

Paternity and Maternity Leave in South Korea

Well, if you ask me how long paternity and maternity leave in South Korea is, I will tell you that it’s up to 90 days, depending on your work ethic. On the other hand, this leave could be split with at least 45 days being used for birth leave while the Unemployment Insurance Fund funds other days.

Round-Up Session

While we know that South Korea is relatively a small country, it’s one of the biggest economies in the world.  After China and Japan, South Korea is among the biggest in Asia. It’s home to one of the world’s best airports, and you can also find the busiest air route on Earth in the country.

Conclusion

While the level of tension that South Korea’s immigration places on emigrants are high, it remains one of the best destinations for expat. Korean food is incredibly spicy, and you can enjoy different outdoor activities. Nonetheless, if you’re planning to relocate to this country, refer to this guide to know better.