Living in Seoul: the ultimate expat guide
Everything you need to know for a successful life in Seoul.
As the world's third megacity, Seoul is South Korea's very dynamic metropolis. It is a harmonious blend of cultures, traditions with modernism, attracting expatriates in large numbers every year.
Seoul is the country's economic, political and social heart and is mainly driven by business and trade. So if you wish to settle and work in South Korea, it may be the ideal destination for you.
Generalities
Get an overview of living in Seoul with general information to discover the destination.
Discovering Seoul
Seoul, the capital of South Korea since the Joseon period (1392-1910) has grown exponentially in ...
The local culture in Seoul
Whether you decide to take the plunge for a vacation or expatriation, you will, of course, be ...
Developing your professional network in Seoul
Whether you arrive with a signed contract ready to go or you hope to find a job on arrival, you ...
Work
Dive into the Seoul labour market, legal framework and tips on how to find a job in Seoul.
Working in Seoul
The Hallyu Wave and the economic position of South Korea, both in Asia and globally, have made the ...
Seoul's labour market
Seoul is a dynamic city with an innovative spirit. The country's high growth rate inevitably ...
Jobs in Seoul
Discover professional opportunities in Seoul and boost your career.
Accommodation
Explore real estate or temporary rentals in Seoul. Find out more about renting or buying a house or a flat, real estate agents, leases and rental agreements.
Accommodation in Seoul
Seoul has become one of the most popular destinations in South Korea but finding a home in this ...
Buying property in Seoul
Today, Seoul is one of the most developed metropolises in the world. Unfortunately, the city's ...
Popular neighbourhoods in Seoul
The city of Seoul is divided into 25 different districts that we call "Gu" and which vary ...
Study
Universities, training courses, student visas, registration procedures: all you need to know about being an international student in Seoul.
Transport
From public transports to renting or buying a car, explore the best options to getting around in Seoul.
Leisure
Sports, leisure, culture and other activities expats can enjoy in their spare time in Seoul.
Things to do in Seoul alone, with your partner or with your family
Seoul life is lived outside, with cafes and restaurants proving popular throughout the day and ...
Gastronomy in Seoul
South Korea has a cuisine all its own; one now recognised around the world not only for its rich ...
Things to do on weekdays in Seoul
Seoul is a city that never sleeps - you will find activities to entertain you at any time of the ...
Articles from the magazine
Laura in Seoul: "The people in my neighborhood are amazing"
Laura comes from Ontario. She moved to South Korea with her boyfriend more than a year ago. Following their stay in Suwon, they moved to Seoul where Laura is an online English instructor.
Annie: "One of the best way to learn the culture of a country is by trying out their cuisine"
Annie is 26. She started travelling in 2011. She travels to get to know the local culture, to capture some pictures... mostly of food. She has indeed a passion for food and even dedicated her blog, "Epicurious Annie", to Korean food.
Britanny in Daejeon: "South Korea is a very homogenous country"
Britanny, ESL teacher, has lived in South Korea for a year and a half. She chose to come back after her studies for her love for the country's people, food and language. Living in South Korea, for her, is a fantastic adventure...
From America to South Korea and everything in between
We move from one place to another for all different reasons. For Keri the journey abroad started off as a teenage adventure. Her love for K-pop took her all the way to South Korea — where she met her other big love, her husband. Keri misses home in America, but cannot yet bid farewell to the South Korean lifestyle, the culture of kindness and respect, and the spicy food. She talks to Expat.com about the country of temples, mighty mountains, and friendly people.
Freelancer Expat: Double Delight
Expatriation involves a great deal of adventure and uncertainty. Freelance work too, comes with a lot of freedom, flexibility, and creativity — all leading to an unconventional reality that can make or break you. Moving abroad is already a challenge when there's a solid employment contract waiting for you, let alone when there's no company, support network of colleagues, and steady income. But you know with all your heart that freelancing is what you want to be doing, and you want to be doing it abroad. Here are a few things to consider before you pack your laptop.
Interview: The story of Anna who lives in and Laura who left South Korea
Anna has been living in South Korea for nine years and Laura left after a year of living in the same country. What is it about South Korea that makes a 19 year old want to leave everything behind for? And on the other hand, what is it about the country that makes someone else leave after a year? Anna and Laura tell us their stories.
South Korea: These sectors are currently facing labor shortages
Will 2023 be the year of a new economic and even demographic boost in South Korea? This is the government's hope and belief as it outlines its plan to revive the South Korean economy. Since important sectors are suffering from acute labor shortages, it is taking new measures to welcome foreign workers. Which are the most affected sectors and are in desperate need of expat workers?
Why you should get a Hallyu visa to South Korea
The Hallyu visa to South Korea is finally available after one year of discussions. Officially branded "K-culture training visa", it should allow foreigners to stay up to two years in South Korea to either discover its unique artistic scene or realize their dream of breaking into the entertainment industry. The government is also considering the introduction of a digital nomad visa.
