,

Moving to South Korea Club

Posted: Saturday, November 2, 2024 – 2:17 AM PST Blogged by: La Tray NOTICE TO EVERYONE: ADVISING TO PAUSE ON TRAVELING TO THE AIRPORTS. PLEASE READ THE COMMENTS! BOOKMARK THIS POST or SEARCH IN THE “SEARCH BOX” If you’ve ever dreamed of moving to South Korea, you’re not alone. Many of us have found ourselves…

De De Tillman

seoul signage

Posted: Saturday, November 2, 2024 – 2:17 AM PST

Blogged by: La Tray

NOTICE TO EVERYONE: ADVISING TO PAUSE ON TRAVELING TO THE AIRPORTS. PLEASE READ THE COMMENTS!

BOOKMARK THIS POST or SEARCH IN THE “SEARCH BOX”


If you’ve ever dreamed of moving to South Korea, you’re not alone. Many of us have found ourselves captivated by the beauty, culture, and vibrancy of this unique country. With the Moving to South Korea Club, we’ve created a space where you can meet others who share your aspirations and have the same questions, plans, and sometimes even fears about relocating.

You can stay in South Korea for 90 days without a visa; however, you can leave for 1 or 2 days to Japan or somewhere close by maybe then return to South Korea. If you are seeking a visa to stay longer or permanent then that will be added as well.

What to chat about or help others with?

Resources

Apartment Renting:

Jeonse and Wolse

Jeonse and Wolse are two distinct rental systems commonly used in South Korea. Jeonse is a unique leasing arrangement where tenants pay a large upfront deposit, typically 50-80% of the property’s value, in exchange for living in the home rent-free for the duration of the lease, usually two years. This deposit is returned in full at the end of the lease term. In contrast, Wolse involves a smaller deposit along with monthly rent payments, offering more flexibility for tenants but requiring ongoing financial commitment. Each system has its advantages, with Jeonse appealing to those who can afford the upfront cost, while Wolse suits those preferring lower initial expenses and regular cash flow.

Jobs:

Job Hunting

If you are moving to South Korea, these are some job resources:

  • JobKorea
  • Linkedin
  • Craigslist
  • Indeed
  • Saramin
  • PeopleNJob

Housing:

Anna Shelter for Women (Mentioned by Gabby)

Airbnb South Korea: https://www.airbnb.com/south-korea/stays

LINK: https://www.airbnb.com/slink/foc1szVf

Info about place: “This is a newly opened private one-room-tel. (separated men and women’s floor)”

Link >>>Airbnb Property 2:

Realtors:

Sean Kim:

Source: Reddit

Kakao ID: SOOOOOA LINE ID: SEANKIM7770 CELL: 010-9261-0713 Korea/Whatsapp/Telegram : +82-10-9261-0713 www.ssre.co.kr

English speaking real estate agents:

English Speaking

Cultural Insights:

Career Networking and Job Opportunities:

Health and Wellness:

Safe Community Support and Chat Groups Topics

Learning Korean Free:

Duolingo

Busuu

Airlines:

United Airlines

United Airlines

The lowest is economy so far. Book economy!

Korean Air

Korean Air

As of right now, Korean Air for economy is around $800 and something but could be cheaper depending on your departure.

Comment below if you have taken Asiana Airlines or you would like to share any airlines that has great deals!

For those who don’t want to fly, this section is for you:

Royal Caribbean

  • From Japan to Busan, South Korea by ferry

Videos on Experiences

Part 1:

Part 2:

Part 3:

Travel Advisories

You can check any country that you want to travel to in order to find out what level of travel it is along with contact information.

Link: Travel Advisories

Link: South Korea

Watch

Most Popular

1,225 responses to “Moving to South Korea Club”

  1. Melinda Avatar
    Melinda

    I didn’t realize before traveling to S Korea this month that Busan is almost the size of New York city (297 square miles vs. 300 square miles). Busan only has 4 main subway lines, though, compared to Seoul’s 23 lines, and you have to rely more on buses and taxis in Busan.
    Luckily we were able to come here before flights got canceled.

    Reply
  2. Elizabeth Avatar
    Elizabeth

    We have one last night/day in Seoul before heading back to the US. Arriving here was such a pain in the ass (had to wait in line for over 5 hours to get checked in, wouldn’t recommend that one).
    We explored Seoul when we arrived for a few days but we arrive from Okinawa in the afternoon and our departure flight don’t leave until the next day at 7pm. Any suggestion for a quick getaway or ideas for something relaxing before we get on a long flight? 🙏

    Reply
  3. Stephanie Avatar
    Stephanie

    Leaving to go back to US tomorrow 😿(not by choice) my flight is at 7:30 pm Korean air. My hotel is in Insadong. I am a nervous kind of traveler so I would rather be early than late. I do have to check bags. I do have tax refunds I could get but not sure if it is worth it. What time should I leave Insadong by taxi?

    Also for items where I might seek a refund, should I put those in my carry on bag so that the tax refund people can see it?

    What is the size fluid ounces that can go thru security in a carry on?

    Sorry for so many questions 😀

    Reply
  4. Cati Avatar
    Cati

    Hi! So I was trying to wave down taxis. Their lights were on. They slowly drove by but didn’t stop. Can I report them? And if so, how?

    Reply
  5. Becky Avatar
    Becky

    Hey, thought I’d share my story as a long time viewer
    Got a taxi for Gangnam —> ICN (I know, I know)

    KakaoT said ~60,000won; I set it to pay the driver (rather than through the app)

    (I speak Korean)

    Got in and the guy was like “you’ll give me 100,000 right?”
    “No”
    “Tip, tip!”
    “No, I’ve lived here 6 years and people don’t tip”

    He put the meter at + 20% which means it’s like adding the rate faster than normal – it’s been ~5 minutes and we’re already at 7,000

    I do want to recognize it’s an hour drive and compensate him fairly, but what should I say? Insist to pay what the app said? It’s only my 3rd time using it, so not sure how to find the original “quote”

    Or just pay what his meter says? (May even be over 100,000 won by the end, idk)

    Reply
  6. Trevor Avatar
    Trevor

    Last night some Korean guy tried starting a fight with me in Itaewon. He was mad about something with white people attacking someone. Don’t know what he was talking about, Don’t care. When I ignored him and tried to be about my business he grabbed me, I pulled away and kept walking, and he followed yelling racial slurs and trying to provoke me into a fight, fortunately for him he didn’t swing or hit me so I couldn’t do anything (thanks Korea self defense laws) and just walked until he decided to go elsewhere.

    My friends told me it’s a waste of time reporting police. I’m on vacation but cutting my trip a bit shorter

    Reply
  7. Cheyanne Avatar
    Cheyanne

    Something terrible happened to me and I need to talk.

    Yesterday afternoon I was in the park with my children, my kids were playing football and there was this guy playing basketball next to us. For the record, the playground has a basketball court adjoining it.l but it’s still a playground.

    For like 30 minutes everything was fine, there was another couple, probably Russian with their son playing football too. Suddenly the guy who was playing basketball bursted out of his court, came to me and started yelling at me. He grabbed my hand and pushed me, I was seated on a bench and he pulled me with his whole strength to push me out of the park.

    Because I didn’t really understand the issue and my Korean is still limited I didn’t get what we did wrong. He became so violent that the Russian guy came to intervene and then it became even worse. He started yelling at me to get back to my country and why all the foreigners were taking his country. He pushed my son and both my kids started screaming and crying, scared of him.

    It was so frightening and people were staring at us. There was a Filipino lady who came to defend me too and I called the police. She talked to the police on the phone explaining what was happening.

    Korean people were there with their kids, or passing and they didn’t even move an inch to help and were just looking. Not until a korean child started crying because it was so terrible and then his mum tried to talk to the guy.

    He then took his bike and left but not before insulting me and my kids, spittingon us. When the police came, the Filipino had a picture of him. They tried to look for him and reassured me to call back if the guy showed up again. Someone else told me because he’s Korean, cops won’t do anything. If he was a non Korean then they would.

    Because my kids were there I tried to keep my composure but after 30 minutes I started shaking and realized how vulnerable I was in this country alone with my kids. No family, some friends but far away.

    I cried the whole night because I have no one to call and I even thought I have to date a korean guy just to not be alone and be accepted in this country. I own a company and I am a very strong woman but this really shook me.

    All of this happened on a playground, not even in a private residence and because I am black and my kids were playing.

    Sorry for the long post and the way I’m describing it in a disorganized manner but I’m still a little shaken.

    Thanks for reading and for any help you could provide. My kids seems fine but still I need to help them with this whole situation.

    Reply
  8. Millie Avatar
    Millie

    Hello, everyone !!

    I am on D-2 ( undergrad student) visa here. I got a job in my university. where I will do some basic interpretation assistance.

    I have been trying for a long time to get permission from the immigration in Seoul. but it seems they are really not willing to give me the permit. first they say you need police clearance from your own country, then when I get that and reapply, they come up with a new excuse to reject, they then say, you are doing a E-2 visa work which is not allowed. when i say , no , it is not an E-2 category work, and reapply with a statement of reason from the employer they come up with a new excuse and reject.

    At this point I am thinking to do without letting the immigration know. But I’m afraid that it can cause me problem as they are gonna pay me through bank transfer.

    This work seemed too hard to loose as it just beside my residence and the pay is good. it would be very nice to have some insights from you nice people !

    Thanks in Advance

    Reply
  9. Robin Avatar
    Robin

    Hello to the world, I’m planning to come to Korea (강릉) studying korean I’ll be 49 years old. The problem is/are that I’m suffering with epilepsy, tdah, Borderline, hyper anxiety and so on… I want to know how people having those diseases are managing their life in South Korea. I don’t plan to live in Seoul cause I can’t bear the stress from a big crowded and noisy places.
    Also will I be considered too old ?
    Thanks for the answers in advance 🫶

    Reply
  10. Gina Avatar
    Gina

    Hi,
    I’m a Chinese in Korea. Is rudeness normal in Korea?

    Reply
    1. Maria Ewulu Avatar
      Maria Ewulu

      They hate Chinese people and Indians. They’re not a big fan of black people either, but if you’re standing in between a Chinese person and Indian person, I swear you feel like a goddess.

      Reply
  11. Cinthia Avatar
    Cinthia

    I have dated a couple of Koreans and within a 1-14days they wanted to put a title on it. (Being their woman/girlfriend). Based on what they shared they had good jobs and have been investing. But at some point they bring up some financial struggle they are having and have ask me to assist, stating that they will pay me back. This made me really uncomfortable because why is a man asking me for money especially as we are still getting to know each other. I suspected a scam, but they never push on it when I told them I’m unable to help. Is this normal for Koreans? Is this some kind of test?

    Reply
    1. Maria Ewulu Avatar
      Maria Ewulu

      Sound like a scam to me. Recently police caught a man trying to get married to a woman that has some level of disability just to take advantage of her financially. They both were Korean so that’s why they did something about it.

      Reply
  12. Casey Avatar
    Casey

    My advice for anyone going to Korea, DO NOT EXPECT things to be quick unless you spent $5,000 on your flight ticket and you have $15,000 in your bank account. The line to pick up your luggage is always long as hell. Once you get your luggage you still have to get through security. There’s only 2 people working at the window at check in for the 3 planes that just landed. Business and First class go through customs 4, while the rest of us stands in line. The line is so damn long that you might start learning the workers schedule because you’re there for almost 2 shifts.
    They ask A LOT of annoying questions, but they mainly just want to know how much money you have and how you will support yourself while you’re there. Just got to my hotel and my tiredness isn’t even from jet lag, it’s from being in Incheon airport for 6 damn hours, explaining them why I have only $600 in my bank account and why my hair is completely grey!!!!! Don’t get me wrong, Korea has some lovely, kind and helpful people but they’re not at the airport if you’re poor! They don’t treat you bad or nothing like that but the interview is draining.
    Casey

    Reply
    1. De De Tillman Avatar
      De De Tillman

      Are you by any any chance related to famous crew on here; Montae, Juwanna, Chad, ETC…? If so, you have that same funny sense of humor. If not, welcome! 🙂

      – La Tray

      Reply
      1. Casey Avatar
        Casey

        Nah we not related but Montaes my bestfriend. Thank you for the welcome lmao

      2. De De Tillman Avatar
        De De Tillman

        I knew it was some kind of connection there. LOL

        – La Tray

      3. Casey Avatar
        Casey

        Lmaoooo 😂

    2. Maria Ewulu Avatar
      Maria Ewulu

      Your hair grey?

      Reply
      1. Casey Avatar
        Casey

        Yea mf GREY as in you sit yo ass inside the airport for almost 8 damn hours and listening to broken ass English mixed with Korean, yo shit would turn grey too

      2. Maria Ewulu Avatar
        Maria Ewulu

        @casey lmao. Where are you staying?

      3. Casey Avatar
        Casey

        I’m up at Sindaebang. It was the cheapest I could find. I’m paying $464.00 for a 2 bedroom.

      4. Casey Avatar
        Casey

        I had to stay in Eunpyeong-gu for a the first night I got here cause the hotel was only $24 a night, then I met with the landlord and got the key the same day

      5. Juwanna Avatar
        Juwanna

        I’m trying to figure out where he’s at also.

      6. Casey Avatar
        Casey

        @juju I was about to hit you up for the connects but I used Wimdu.com cause I was too damn tired to do anything else after I left the damn airport. You wouldn’t believe the shit I went through.

  13. Ariel Avatar
    Ariel

    I arrived in Korea at 6:19am, it is now 8:36am and I’m still waiting in line to check in. DO NOT TAKE ECONOMY!!!!!! Lesson learned. I wish you all could see this line.

    Reply
  14. Brittney Avatar
    Brittney

    If anyone is traveling to Korea and you have plans, make sure you book your flight to where you’ll arrive at the airport 8 hours before your event. 3-4 hours for the line at check in with the 2 workers at the window and the other 4-5 incase you’re coming from economy and you have to show them your entire life from when you first potty trained to when you had your first bowl of cereal because it’ll lead up to “can you afford to be in their country” they’re doing that because they did help foreign people financially and they were generous about that and some foreigners took advantage of that so they cut it out but damn you’ll spend the entire day at the airport from the line to the interview. I noticed business class riders were out of the airport within 5 minutes.

    Reply
  15. Richa Avatar
    Richa

    just got here. I took business class (it was worth it to avoid headaches) and walked from lot straight up to tsa to show my ID…. literally nobody in line (they have a special line for their business and first class).. this is at checkpoint 4. Felt bad for anyone in economy.

    Reply
  16. Crissy Avatar
    Crissy

    i am moving to Seoul this weekend.

    i heard that the line at Incheon airport is very very long and that getting there 4 hours prior to departure is necessary; is that true?

    Reply
  17. Clara Avatar
    Clara

    I’m looking to apply for the F2-99 visa in the future. As I have family, I know I need 30 million in assets.
    My question is, since I have access to my severance in my name via my banking app, and it is listed as a pension savings, and is modifiable via the app as to how it is saved, would that count as an asset towards the visa?

    Reply
  18. Juwanna Avatar
    Juwanna

    Hey yall sorry I been away. I was busy moving. I’m still in Korea but I’m in a cheaper place. I’m paying $219 a month.
    I’m in a 2 bedroom with 2 of my family but I’m just enjoying paying this cheap rent,
    It’s crazy because I still have over $1200 left after my rent is paid. It feels so damn good to have money. Don’t get me wrong, before I would have $700 left over but no it’s even more. What I miss?

    Reply
  19. Leshawn Avatar
    Leshawn

    Finally moving to Korea in 2 weeks after a long time of saving. Bought my business class seats (I was told from numerous people that you avoid headaches, they’re still giving people a hard time at airport that fly economy) and I’m out. I’m beyond excited. I had a friend look an apartment for me and it’s $475 a month. I’m not going to know how to feel not having to pay $2163 anymore.

    Reply
  20. Saanvi Avatar
    Saanvi

    Hello Everyone,

    I have been living in Korea since 2023(4 years now), and I am currently employed. But I am moving back to my country and I need to ship some stuff back to my country(Delhi, India). I have a 32 inch TV, books, kitchen appliances(blender, coffee maker) that I want to ship. I wanted to send it through cargo. But I am not able to find a service that will be able to help me with packing as well. I have enquired about Korea Post but I wasn’t able to get a good explanation on how to navigate it.

    If anyone can help me with this, let me know the process or send me some links that offer explanation I would be really grateful.

    If you need any other information please let me know I will update it.

    Thank you in advance!

    Reply
  21. Eddie Avatar
    Eddie

    My family is planning a move to Seoul this summer and is interested in learning more about international middle schools. Are there any Seoul Foreign School (SFS) or Yongsan International School of Seoul (YISS) that would be willing to share their school experiences?

    Reply
  22. Cinthia Avatar
    Cinthia

    Hi everyone! I had a question. I recently applied for what should be my final extension of the D-10 visa under the 2-year eligibility period (I started applying before the rule changed to 3 years, so I will now complete my 2 years). I was hoping to receive a 1-year extension and even provided a bank statement showing the required amount. However, I was granted only a 6-month extension. Will I still be eligible for the additional 1-year extension? Kindly let me know.

    Reply
  23. Yara Bilal Avatar
    Yara Bilal

    Hi everyone,

    I’m currently a student and expecting to graduate on February 26. I’m preparing to change my visa from D-2 to D-10, but I’m a bit confused about some of the required documents.

    Regarding the “Proof of Living,” does this mean I need to show the bank closing balance only, or do I need to submit a bank statement showing a specific amount maintained for a full month? Also, how much amount is generally considered sufficient?

    Additionally, I would appreciate some guidance on the “Job-Seeking Plan.” If anyone has a sample plan they could share, it would be really helpful.

    Thank you in advance for your help!

    Reply
  24. Misty Avatar
    Misty

    Does anyone know a good gym in Korea? I been out here for a few months and when I came I weighed 240lbs and now I’m down to 154. But I want to keep it up. I lost it by changing eating habits. Looking to go to a gym at least twice a week.

    Reply
    1. Maria Ewulu Avatar
      Maria Ewulu

      Congrats girl. That’s how it was for me and my sister. My mom wasn’t eating healthy either back in the states and since she’s been here, she’s lost over a 15lbs. She mostly eat seafood. I know a lot of them but it depends on the area you’re in. Let me know and I’ll give you some.

      Reply
  25. Shayla Avatar
    Shayla

    Hi, I received an email about your site passed due and asking to help pay? Is everything ok?

    Reply
    1. De De Tillman Avatar
      De De Tillman

      No, it’s fine.

      Reply
    2. De De Tillman Avatar
      De De Tillman

      It’s fine, just moved.

      Reply
  26. Meg Avatar
    Meg

    We had an entire generation of Koreans that idolized and looked up to the US. Now we will have a generation of Koreans that view the US as an untrustworthy shithole. Before anyone say anything, I understand Koreans are shitty too, and have horrible personalities, including detaining our people for hours but I’ve never heard of an American detained in Korea that had to sleep, eat and drink water off the bare floor.

    Reply
    1. Sharla Avatar
      Sharla

      It’s like the moment Trump is on good terms with Korea, some bs happens all over again. Just an absolute fuck up.

      Reply
    2. Maria Ewulu Avatar
      Maria Ewulu

      Anytime you hear a Trumper say that they’re “only going after the criminals”, show them stories like this. They are going after anyone who is not white.
      By the way, this story is circulating throughout Korea.
      I agree, some Koreans can be rude as hell (definitely not all of them) and yes they have detained Americans at the airport but only after the US did it first back to back to back but they never made anyone sleep or eat off the floor. Koreans never been that heartless. Just rude, that’s a big difference.

      Reply
    3. Christina Avatar
      Christina

      ICE is the fucking gestapo. He’s been in the US since he was 3 months old. The idea that he should be deported to somewhere he has no memories of is insanity. And why do they seemingly target the rule following people who cooperate by showing up to appointments? CHINGA la migra

      Reply
    4. David Kim Avatar
      David Kim

      39 Years old, no criminal record. Fuck everyone who voted for this!!!!

      Reply
  27. Ke Avatar
    Ke

    Hiiiii 👋

    Reply
    1. De De Tillman Avatar
      De De Tillman

      Bonjour! Merci! 🙂 La Tray 🙂

      Reply
  28. Desiree. Avatar
    Desiree.

    I’m a Black American and I flew to Seoul on Korean Airlines this morning and I just wanted to say I was really impressed with everything. First, I was surprised they allowed me in. They’re are literally light years ahead of American companies. The service, the value, the modern entertainment systems on the plane and everything were really impressive. I flew in first class, and I was surprised how much respect I was given. Had to hurry before motor mouth made them deny Americans again (which is coming again).

    Reply
    1. Montae Avatar
      Montae

      I seen this just in time. I just booked mines for Saturday. Shit came up to $11,038 for first class. I had to borrow most of it but I’m out this mfer and they gone treat me like a damn king. Get some respect 🫡 in that mfer.

      Reply
      1. Desiree. Avatar
        Desiree.

        Yup now is the time to book before they close it off again. First class is expensive as hell but they’re not going to harass you knowing that cause they’re trying to figure out who you are. You are smart as hell.

      2. Juwanna Avatar
        Juwanna

        That’s what aunt Shardonae said. Take first class cause they’ll think you’re somebody important and won’t think about harassing the hell out of you before keeping your lil economy money and sending you back to the states

      3. Eileen Avatar
        Eileen

        That’s what my mom was saying also. She said if you want respect you have to go in with respect.

      4. Tee Avatar
        Tee

        My dad helped me buy my ticket. I’m flying economy but I leave on the 24. My dad said Korea won’t say no right now since Trump is coming on the 29th. But the moment Trump comeback, he will ruin things so I’m leaving beforehand.

      5. Montae Avatar
        Montae

        @Tee I wouldn’t recommend economy on no one but you do gotta point they not going to turn Americans away right now with a fool in the White House coming in a week. It’s after the 29th it’ll be a no. I’m flying first class so I know my black ass getting in. They might have a party for me when I land who the hell knows

      6. Meixiang Avatar
        Meixiang

        Friend come to Korea? I in Korea

      7. Kenisha Avatar
        Kenisha

        That’s fantastic. I pay $5,320, I share my apartment of course cause there’s no way in hell I could afford something like that but do you know the shock I would get only having to pay $585. I was looking at some property just now in Korea, some were a bit higher like $630 and $710 but it’s cheap as hell from what I’m paying now. I need to think fast to get out of here. I live Forty55 and it’s expensive as hell.

      8. Montae Avatar
        Montae

        @Kenisha HELL NAHHHHHHH I would never!!!!!! Well I can’t say that cause I paid $4000 for a goddamn hotel!!! I’m about to call my bank and report fraud for the last week I was there and get my damn $1300 back for that and the week I didn’t stay. It’s crazy cause we coulda left to go somewhere else cheap but where tf do you go when you BLACK a not liked? Getting snatched by ICE? El Segundo was the safe most unthought of ass city we found. Leaving there means being ready to leave the states.

      9. De De Tillman Avatar
        De De Tillman

        No Kings Protest in South Korea. 🙂 LT 🙂 https://www.facebook.com/groups/50501movement/posts/1172153147855346/

      10. Kenisha Avatar
        Kenisha

        It’s super expensive but at least here if something happens, it would be taken a little serious because it’s a respected area. When I leave here I want to leave the country not bounce around the US wasting more money. Don’t know you but I’m happy for you.

    2. Montae Avatar
      Montae

      Give yourself some credit. You smart for noticing I’m smart. I called them just now and when they looked up my flight info, the woman changed her attitude and was nice asf lmaoo im feeling like a king already

      Reply
      1. Maria Ewulu Avatar
        Maria Ewulu

        You packing up soon?

      2. Montae Avatar
        Montae

        @maria listen here undergraduate, I’m going to say this only one time. My shit been packed. The same day I click submit I packed my bags. They all sitting by the door begging me to take them on out but I talk to my bags and let them know we out tomorrow. You understand?

    3. Denisee Avatar
      Denisee

      I’m just $1,000 away from business class but I’m going to give it a try. Business class is steps up from economy. Sadly economy is frowned upon.

      Reply
    4. Apryl Avatar
      Apryl

      I booked my tickets also. Wanting to go before Oct 29, that’s when you know who goes to Korea. I booked business so I should be ok. Economy is the least respected.

      Reply
      1. Montae Avatar
        Montae

        That’s exactly why the hell I’m leaving in 2 days. I was originally going to take a damn boat to get the hell out of this 1951 ways of thinking ass country in 2 days. I forgot he goes there Oct 29 so now is the time to go before he run his goddamn mouth having Korea say no and before the country puts up their Black Only and White Only, a teacher already did it then tried to say it was for learning. HELL NAH! If you can’t afford first or business class right now go before Oct 29,
        Cause anything after you already know Trump gone fuck it up the moment his ass land back into the US. He lucky as hell he gets flown cause you know his ass wouldn’t be able to find the US on his own, let alone spell it.

      2. Apryl Avatar
        Apryl

        @Montae That is my biggest fear. Things will definitely get worse before better. Before this all happened, I was preparing myself for Korea. Getting myself in shape and I had to get my teeth fixed at the bottom and now I’m feeling confident to step foot in the country. I feel bad for people trying to come after Trump comes back from his visit. Let’s be honest, how many times has things went smooth and a week later he f**ks it up? Just like how he had the Koreans come here to work and next thing you know they’re being taken by ICE? He’s wishy washy as hell and it also won’t last because he’s busy trying to be the friend of North Korea, not south.

      3. Montae Avatar
        Montae

        My mom wants to go to Korea, I told her she better hurry up! She know what’s up 💯 she said she cooking her ticket tonight

      4. Kenisha Avatar
        Kenisha

        This is for Montae, I’m looking online for cheap flights in case my family come through for me so I can leave out of here. I was just telling another person it’s hard as hell out here. Just lost my job. Can’t go to no “cheap” and “affordable “ areas because that’s how they lure black people in because they know our pockets are limited and we go where we can afford but that’s how we getting victimized

      5. Montae Avatar
        Montae

        @Kenisha at least you got Common sense to know this! I ain’t gone lie if I saw some affordable I would think about going cause well hell it’s cheap but you right, so many black folks getting killed cause it’s easy to murder blacks especially if it’s crime neighborhood, most people won’t think twice about it being a maga member because of the neighborhood, they’ll think it’s black on black crime. If it’s in cheap ass white neighborhood they still not going to give a fuck because MAGA leader will just change the topic cause it’s not Charlie or blonde head Kirk. They still haven’t solved the murders of the black man that was hung recently or the 17 year old black girl who was kidnapped and killed and another black girl that was found a few days ago. A black mom been waiting 8 months for answers on how her daughter came up dead in what was supposed to be a safe cheap “white ass” neighborhood.. I’m in El Segundo but this probably the damn near safest area in LA county besides the homeless you may have to smack tf outta here and there but none dangerous. My sister just moved to China with my niece and nephew cause she was in a messed up situation and I almost had to unalive a cracker for trying her.

      6. Montae Avatar
        Montae

        @Kenisha and I don’t need no more shit on my records, I already got “illegal alien” on my damn record, Nevermind my black ass was born in the city Trump thinks is the most dangerous… so with that being said I’m bout to go to the airport now even though my flight leaves tomorrow, I just want to make sure I’m early, I’m not taken no damn chance, I’m getting on that goddamn flight even if I have to sit on the wings!

      7. Kenisha Avatar
        Kenisha

        To Montae, that’s so damn crazy. If I had a ticket in my hand I would spend the night at the airport also. If you don’t mind me asking, what time do you take off?

      8. Montae Avatar
        Montae

        @Kenisha Nah you good my flight takes off tomorrow night at 11:50pm, like I said I don’t want to be late so I came early, take my shower here, eat and wait to board. I get there 5am like the next day or some shit or however the hell that works all I know is I got a bed on the plane and imma take my ass to sleep and when I wake I’ll be free from bs. My cousin helped me find an apartment in Chinese town and the rent $290 I’ll deal with it. Might have to follow a friend of mines that got their teaching certificate from McDonald’s and teach the little kids until I can find something that I’ll actually be happy doing.

      9. Montae Avatar
        Montae

        @kenisha now mind you I won’t be in that area for long cause the area I want the rent is $585 for a 2 bedroom but shit it’s still cheaper than where tf I was at this morning.

      10. Chad Avatar
        Chad

        -Keisha, I would say contact the airlines and see if they have an any type of deals. See if you can get coupons online, either way hurry up and gtfo the US. My friend sister was just murdered recently out there. US and Korea racism are not on the same level l. I’d take Koreas any day

      11. Kenisha Avatar
        Kenisha

        To Chad, I’m looking at stuff now to try and get out of here. I need to at least get business class. What’s some cheap sites to get the tickets cheaper? I’m trying to be gone by next week?

    5. Montae Avatar
      Montae

      @Juwanna you thinkin of aunt LoLo

      Reply
      1. Juwanna Avatar
        Juwanna

        Aunt Lolo, aunt Shardonnae, aunt Luniesha, Aunt Jumaneesha, who tf cares they all look the same any damn way.. the point was the message mfer

    6. Kim Avatar
      Kim

      I’m trying to leave so bad but I don’t have money like that, not even for economy. I’m in a financial mess at the moment,which is why I’m trying to get out.

      Reply
      1. Duckey Avatar
        Duckey

        Same thing with me. I’m $73,000 in debt, I have to get out of here but not sure where to start, I don’t even have a job to pay it off. Just a financial mess

      2. Kenisha Avatar
        Kenisha

        I think many of us are in a messed up situation. I just lost my job a 3 months ago and I had to use all of my savings just to survive. Now that’s running out and I’m about to lose my apartment. I may have to borrow money from family just to make it our get out of here. Sadly you can’t fall for the “cheap” places anymore in certain areas because it’s becoming a trap to lure black people (especially women) in to kill them, places that used to be safe because Trump is protecting murders now if the victim is Black. I’ll be 50 in 3 years and this ain’t living. I need to find a way out the US

    7. Sandra Pitney Avatar
      Sandra Pitney

      I borrowed money and got approved so I’m trying to book my ticket. A lot of the business and first class seems to be booked. Only economy is available which no one wants to take.

      Reply
  29. Tierra Avatar
    Tierra

    Is there a moving to China? I tried to search.

    Reply
    1. De De Tillman Avatar
      De De Tillman

      Hi Tierra,

      One: Moving to Guangzhou China (Little Africa) https://dedetillman.com/2025/06/28/moving-to-guangzhou-china-little-africa/

      Second: Moving to Hong Kong https://dedetillman.com/2025/01/08/moving-to-hong-kong/

      🙂 LT 🙂

      Reply
  30. Bethany Avatar
    Bethany

    The hagwon owner is trying to remove me and 3 other Americans out. What should I do? Is that even legal?

    Reply
    1. De De Tillman Avatar
      De De Tillman

      Since it’s a private school, they probably can do whatever they want. If you signed an agreement to a specific date then “maybe” you could ask, “can I please finish out my agreement so I can find a new job?” Be extremely polite about it.

      Maybe someone else on here can give you and the others advice on this issue.

      Thanks for replying! 🙂 LT 🙂

      Reply
  31. Lissa Avatar
    Lissa

    Not sure if anyone has heard but Trump has signed where no Indian, Germans, Thai, Singaporeans or Koreans can come to the US.

    Reply
    1. De De Tillman Avatar
      De De Tillman

      Mentally incompetent to be in office! 🙁 LT 🙁

      Reply
    2. Montae Avatar
      Montae

      I heard some bout that

      Reply
  32. Maria Ewulu Avatar
    Maria Ewulu

    Sorry this might be long but this is for people who don’t know what’s going on. My co worker who is Korean sent this to me:

    Beware of rising anti-American sentiment in Korea

    The recent Georgia raid by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement has deeply wounded and angered Koreans, the extent to which may be difficult to gauge solely by looking at the Korean media, especially for the diplomatic and foreign community in Korea. The Korean media’s portrayal still seems very cautious.

    Over 300 Korean engineers and installers were dispatched to construct the Hyundai Motor Group and LG Energy Solution’s joint battery plant in Ellabell, Georgia. It was said to be a symbol of Korea-U.S. cooperation, especially toward improving the dire state of U.S. manufacturing.

    The hardworking Koreans were detained on the morning of Sept. 4 (local time), their wrists, waists and ankles shackled. They were held in substandard conditions for a week. It was an appalling scene of brutality and humiliation and an outright violation of human rights. It was shocking to me. Many Koreans keeping silent may have felt the same.

    The Georgia raid angered the majority of Koreans, except a minority of ultra-rightists. Overall, the shock and anger swept the nation, be they moderate conservatives or leftists, intensifying when the workers finally returned home on Friday.

    Not only the Korean government but also the U.S. administration should understand the magnitude of underlying anger this incident instantly ignited. Koreans are well known for their readiness to voice their views and take action. The world has seen it time and again, and as recently as in former President Yoon Suk Yeol’s unlawful martial law on Dec. 3, which ultimately led to his impeachment.

    If the deeply hurt public sentiment is not well taken care of, it will explode in the form of anti-American sentiment this time round. It will be the newest addition to the list of flashpoints, like beef and rice, which can quickly spread.

    The U.S. administration also has its own domestic audience and constituents who are hungry for political rhetoric and actions that align with their interests and values. Nevertheless, universal standards of common sense and empathy are expected from any individual, community, or nation. Given the circumstances, a sincere apology would ordinarily be expected. Yet, no such action has been taken. A troubling precedent is being set — and it demands immediate correction.

    Yet the U.S. wants the Korean workers to return to complete the construction and train U.S. workers. This might be possible if the Korean workers were robots and machines. But we are dealing with traumatized humans and their emotions. This will likely lead to reluctance and avoidance, which may affect the investment decisions of businesses, both in Korea and in other countries, as well as the health of Korea-U.S. bilateral relations. The United States needs Korea more than ever in its ambition to revive U.S. manufacturing. For instance, it is no secret that Korea is a better partner in shipbuilding and semiconductors than others.

    Moving forward, an enhanced work visa quota for skilled Korean workers is going to be a litmus test for the seriousness of the U.S. plan to revive its manufacturing and create jobs. A work visa for Korean professionals has been on the agenda since the Korea-U.S. Free Trade Agreement, still pending with no progress. This might be an opportune moment for the U.S. to take a proactive approach on the visa quota for skilled workers sent to the U.S. for purposes like in the case of the construction of the Hyundai Motor Group and LG Energy Solution’s joint battery plant in Georgia.

    Without a clear set of work visas to be granted, skilled workers and businesses will likely think twice. Looking at news reports so far, the U.S. stance on the work visa quota remains unclear. A more reasonable and persuasive plan will be appreciated.

    Only a sustained series of serious trust-building efforts can begin to repair the shattered confidence in the U.S. — specifically in its commitment to human rights, reciprocity, respect for sovereign allies and democracy.

    With Korea having become a more advanced, diversified and complex society, it is more important than ever to make efforts to understand public sentiment. The diplomatic and foreign business community in Korea should reach out wider and further to learn the real sentiment of the Korean people, not just a tiny fraction of those Korean English speakers, for they may not be representative of the broader public. Koreans’ English ability should not be regarded as a measure of one’s intelligence or their capacity to understand and interpret issues of importance in Korea.

    Reducing the gap between Korean public sentiment and how it is interpreted by foreign embassies is critical to the development of their countries’ policies toward Korea.

    Reply
    1. De De Tillman Avatar
      De De Tillman

      Thank you Maria for this informative information! 🙂 La Tray 🙂

      Reply
    2. Pat Avatar
      Pat

      As an American, I really hope Korea pushes back and it sticks. Mango man bad. This is the start to unraveling Donnie’s reign of terror.

      Also blanket tariffs are likely illegal and will get rolled back next year.

      Reply
    3. Kathy Avatar
      Kathy

      everyone needs to fully detach from any sort of serious relationship with the US.

      they are lashing out as their empire diminishes.

      Reply
    4. Montae Avatar
      Montae

      WTH I’m not reading all that. Shorten this shit up for me

      Reply
      1. Maria Ewulu Avatar
        Maria Ewulu

        Fuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuucccccccccck
        Youuuuuuuuuuuu
        Lazyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyy assssssss fuckerrrrrrrrrrrrrr

    5. Montae Avatar
      Montae

      Whatever you said don’t look polite so ain’t reading that shit either 🗑️

      Reply
  33. Diace Avatar
    Diace

    Beware of rising anti-American sentiment in Korea If anyone goes. They’re usually kind to business 🧑‍💼investors but not so much of regular Americans. Some aren’t getting in altogether. You’re talking to someone that was denied at the airport.

    Reply
  34. Paula Avatar
    Paula

    Trump is demanding the $900 billion be deposited with the US upfront, and that the USA keeps 95% of the Korean profits.

    The Koreans wanted to pick their investments over time.

    Trump’s demands are crazy. A big portion of the money invested will be done by chaebols.

    Reply
  35. Dani Avatar
    Dani

    Just 1 hour in the news South Korea cannot and will not pay Trump’s US$350 billion trade demand upfront..

    Reply
  36. Montae Avatar
    Montae

    I wake up and see some of yall complaining about trump like he ain’t fucked yall asses over for 5 years! This what some mfs voted for. I’m talking about the ones who voted Putins girlfriend. Black people been saying this shit forever and when he fuck over yall travel, now you upset but Nevermind when he said he wanted to make America great (racist) again. Good glad some of yall can’t travel. See how tf I been feeling and everyone else who ain’t used crayola to vote for that clown.

    Reply
    1. Montae Avatar
      Montae

      Yea you mfs knew not to reply to me huh ;(Not bloggers yall koo as hell, I fuck with yall!!!) I’m talking about the Trump supporting commenters! Notice how it’s quiet? 🤔 lmao

      Reply
      1. De De Tillman Avatar
        De De Tillman

        LMAO! I always enjoy reading your comments because you are hilarious. 🙂 La Tray 🙂

    2. Montae Avatar
      Montae

      lol I appreciate that. I just say what’s on my mind. That’s how you know I woke up on the wrong side cause I don’t even comment on this particular blog post

      Reply
      1. De De Tillman Avatar
        De De Tillman

        You’re welcome! I know you normally reply to your blog friend Hei and her sister Meixiang. All of you are the joy of this site and probably the world haha! 🙂 La Tray 🙂

    3. Maria Ewulu Avatar
      Maria Ewulu

      🥱🙄🥱🙄 <—- that was from Gabby not me 😊

      Reply
      1. Montae Avatar
        Montae

        So in other words I need to clown her ass to? I still on you a roasting of a lifetime. You thought I forget didn’t you? You SHEIN educator?

      2. Montae Avatar
        Montae

        That teaching certificate you got off Craigslist got you feeling smart as hell huh?

      3. Montae Avatar
        Montae

        I see you didn’t come back either, I guess eBay university did teach you something

      4. Ruby Avatar
        Ruby

        He just took his ass to In N Out burger smh

    4. Maria Ewulu Avatar
      Maria Ewulu

      🤣🤣🤣🖕🏽🖕🏽🖕🏽
      Fuck you

      Reply
      1. Montae Avatar
        Montae

        I told yall not to mess with me. I’m the same mf that will get his black ass on a cruise ship and still watch Titanic on that mf

      2. Ruby Avatar
        Ruby

        Girl I just seen this. He went to shower. Hopefully he takes his ass to sleep lol Nutty ass been up all morning. My mind is here but he has my brains in Pakistan.

      3. Maria Ewulu Avatar
        Maria Ewulu

        Yes lawd let that man take his ass to sleep 😂 disturbing everybody peace including his own

    5. Maria Ewulu Avatar
      Maria Ewulu

      Instead of bothering me, are you going to sleep to get some breakfast at your hotel in the morning ? Oops I meant muffins?

      Reply
    6. Sheryl Avatar
      Sheryl

      Same thing I was thinking. Trumptards doesn’t care about anyone unless it hits them personally.

      Reply
  37. Dougie Avatar
    Dougie

    Good ‘ole American hospitality. Way to go diaper boy and also the rest of the cowards in the republican party who are afraid of you.

    Reply
  38. Valeila Avatar
    Valeila

    Trump is such an a** hole that he’s not even allowing US to report it in the news. You have to go to a Korean news and find it. That’s how I did

    Reply
    1. De De Tillman Avatar
      De De Tillman

      In the US, it will be on MSNBC because they report the truth. 🙂 LT 🙂

      Reply
  39. Jimmy Avatar
    Jimmy

    TRUMP CREATED ALL OF THIS FUCKING MESS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! KOREAN ALLOWED AND WELCOMED AMERICAN STUDENTS BUT YOU US CLOSE THE DOOR TO THEIR STUDENTS 😡

    Reply
  40. Gyeongnam Avatar
    Gyeongnam

    Every time i see Trump targeting Korea and Japan and well anyone for no reason it just proves MAGA doesn’t want immigrants at all, not undocumented, not legal, not tourists, not honor students, not even kids. Doesn’t matter if you’re here to learn, spend money, or visit Harvard. If you don’t look white or “American” enough, you’re a target.

    Reply
    1. De De Tillman Avatar
      De De Tillman

      Thank you. You are so right! Everyone is a target and being treated with disrespect if you are not his color. It’s all because of him. 🙂 LT 🙂

      Reply
    2. De De Tillman Avatar
      De De Tillman

      Thank you for saying “his name” not the U.S. to blame! 🙂 LT 🙂

      Reply
  41. Michele Avatar
    Michele

    I’m so sick of the US. Many Korean students were denied coming into the US after flying in. I did an internship with a Korean non profit that did a similar program recently and it makes me feel so bad for the students. I witnessed them get to experience a lot of firsts, and they were all incredibly bright while also being goofy lil kids. What a huge letdown. The US is 🗑️

    Reply
    1. Sheryl Avatar
      Sheryl

      From what I read on Korea news, he’s trying to force them to pay 900 billion in cash. My friend just bought a business in Korea and was able to go there with no issues.

      Reply
      1. Montae Avatar
        Montae

        I like you already! At least someone knows you can’t enter a country that ain’t gettin along with yours with a peace of mind unless you have something to offer. You black huh?

      2. Sheryl Avatar
        Sheryl

        Yes sir. I’m Ghanaian and Haitian.

  42. Jamal R Avatar
    Jamal R

    I’m currently studying abroad in Seoul (arrived just in time) and my friends wonder why I don’t want to go back home (sadly my time will end with Trump still in office unless I land a teaching job which I’ll probably get denied because of Trump)… what an embarrassment. Trump has the US looking like absolute liars, backstabbers and money hungry turds. Second time he’s denied Korean students visiting after making a deal.

    Reply
    1. De De Tillman Avatar
      De De Tillman

      Thank you all for commenting and pointing the finger on that one person in the White House which I refused to say his name who is at fault not the U.S. Everything you wrote is point on. Enjoy studying and living in SK and try to be positive about finding a teaching job even if it’s at a private school. Thank you 🙂 LT 🙂

      Reply
  43. Cici Avatar
    Cici

    Honestly I would wait after this admin leaves before trying to visit any country. He’s is truly ruining it for everyone. I get sick thinking about it because I feel like I’m missing out on so much but what can I do?
    I’m black and I went to Ghana and almost got kidnapped. It’s scary because if I was held hostage, this damn president wouldn’t lift a finger to help me. He will say I’m back home.

    Reply
    1. Rainy Avatar
      Rainy

      This all happened because of Trump lol, I hope those that voted for him and love to travel keep licking his feet

      Reply
  44. Bianca Ashley Avatar
    Bianca Ashley

    This is the second time Trump has denied students from Korea to visit on a planned trip. The first time was in July and literally just now.

    Reply
  45. Junji Avatar
    Junji

    I visit the US every year, but I won’t this year and the next and the next and the next 😅 I’m from Korea.

    Reply
  46. Rome Avatar
    Rome

    Hate to be a doomsayer but Trump is adding fuel to the fire with Korea it’s only going to get worse. Everyday people holding the US together by threads are being fired. I was denied entry to Korea this morning and I figured it might’ve had something to do with the 300 Koreans detained and beaten but I learned later on the 55 honor students that planned their trip since earlier this year to visit and even got approval. The US KNEW they were coming from a 14 hour flight and instead of telling them before they left, you waited until they came after. I heard Korea allowed American students access as promised.

    Reply
  47. Josie Avatar
    Josie

    Brain drain in the USA continues, a bunch of Korean students who had been planning to visit since last year and even got permission was denied after they flown all the way to the US.
    It was an even exchange at that. Some American students were able to go to Korea and Korea let them in without any conflict but Koreans were denied in the US. Trumptard backed out of the deal.

    Reply
  48. Courtney Avatar
    Courtney

    An outrageous incident has emerged in which 59 students and chaperones from Jinju City, South Korea — part of a prestigious “Outstanding Student Overseas Cultural Exploration” program — were forced to cancel their U.S. educational tour after being denied entry by American border agents.

    According to Jinju City officials, 55 high school students and 4 chaperones planned to visit top U.S. institutions including MIT, Harvard, and Yale, as part of a government-sponsored summer program. However, 42 of them were denied entry by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) — with no clear reason provided.

    All students had received prior approval through the ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization), making the mass denial even more shocking. With only a small portion of the group permitted to enter, the trip was deemed infeasible and fully canceled, leaving the students humiliated and disappointed.

    Jinju City and the travel agency are now working to reroute the group to the UK

    Reply
  49. Valerie Avatar
    Valerie

    If you’re American, do NOT go to Korea. You’re safer in the US at least you are aware of the country crashing in English but Americans are getting treated like shit and attacked in Korea. One Korean man is on life support due to ICE.

    Reply
  50. Leila Avatar
    Leila

    Because I have dignity, I cancelled my own trip to Korea.

    Reply
    1. De De Tillman Avatar
      De De Tillman

      Wow! So sad to what happened and all because of one idiot. He’s needs to be removed. 🙁 LT

      Reply
      1. Montae Avatar
        Montae

        I’ll just say this, have plan 1,2 and 3.
        So if anything fails, you’ll have a backup plan. Just know we are on eggshells daily

      2. De De Tillman Avatar
        De De Tillman

        So true about being on eggshells! I don’t want to wait until Dec. with this fool because it could be worse. 🙂 LT

      3. Montae Avatar
        Montae

        My cousin said they’re trying to kick some Americans out of Korea and Japan.

      4. De De Tillman Avatar
        De De Tillman

        So sad! I knew that was going to be next. 🙂 LT

      5. De De Tillman Avatar
        De De Tillman

        Still working on getting this messed up site fixed. I believe other countries are blocked not the U.S. Tell her, Gabby, Maria, and Chad to hang in there. 🙂 LT

      6. Leila Avatar
        Leila

        Yes. We’re not welcomed in other countries.

      7. De De Tillman Avatar
        De De Tillman

        So messed up for us but I understand. 🙁 LT

    2. Montae Avatar
      Montae

      See that’s why I changed my date from Sept to Dec. I need to see how things play out. I’m looking at getting a temporary apartment in little Mexico town in LA until we leave.

      Reply
      1. De De Tillman Avatar
        De De Tillman

        It’s so hard to predict this fool’s big stupid mouth and his actions. Sept. is still for us but not sure at this point. 🙁 LT

      2. Leila Avatar
        Leila

        I’m staying in Long Beach until then. I can only imagine the damages he’d do while I’m on the plane.

    3. Montae Avatar
      Montae

      I definitely wouldn’t fly out of here. HELL NAH that’s one of the worst ways. You have better chance at swimming to Korea

      Reply
    4. keralatravelexotic Avatar
      keralatravelexotic

      Yes very bad time to travel right now.

      Reply
  51. Yanice Avatar
    Yanice

    Now the new American dream is to leave America.

    Reply
    1. De De Tillman Avatar
      De De Tillman

      LOL! I agree. 🙂 LT

      Reply
  52. Juwanna Avatar
    Juwanna

    Mightiest well pack my shit now smh

    Reply
    1. De De Tillman Avatar
      De De Tillman

      He tweeted out nonsense about SK because SK is visiting today.🤦🏻‍♀️ He’s making it bad for everyone who wants to go to SK or for those who already live there. Just stupid! 🤦🏻‍♀️ – LT

      Reply
    2. De De Tillman Avatar
      De De Tillman

      He’s talking right now on CNN about SK. 🤦🏻‍♀️

      Reply
      1. Juwanna Avatar
        Juwanna

        Trust me when I tell you it’s all throughout Korea. I was thinking about going to Japan but him and his idiotic sperm will be their next week.

      2. De De Tillman Avatar
        De De Tillman

        I bet it is. Just rambling now. He’s talking about L.A. now. 🤦🏻‍♀️ Yes, Japan is the next best option but oh my his mouth. 🤦🏻‍♀️ – LT

    3. De De Tillman Avatar
      De De Tillman

      SK has landed, any moment now. 🤦🏻‍♀️ – LT

      Reply
    4. De De Tillman Avatar
      De De Tillman

      Rambling nonsense while SK Pres. is graciously sitting there. So stupid! So ridiculous! – LT

      Reply
  53. Sasha Avatar
    Sasha

    Living in Korea is a no for me but visiting whenever they allow Americans back with open arms again for maybe a day or two is fine.

    Reply
  54. Brinna Avatar
    Brinna

    Well Trump said SK and him were talking about working out a trade deal but just now on the news SK just cut off a trade deal with the US.

    Reply
    1. Mishy Avatar
      Mishy

      Just think I expedited my passport for $748 all to not go anywhere smh

      Reply
    2. Dan Avatar
      Dan

      My roommate was arrested in Korea once we got off the plane. They’re watching airlines like a hawk. I don’t even think airline companies know what’s going on, not that they can do much because the country makes the rules. He was stripped of his phone and his passport. He had to change clothes and was interrogated for 2 days.

      Reply
      1. De De Tillman Avatar
        De De Tillman

        Thanks for commenting! – LT

  55. Delilah Avatar
    Delilah

    This is horrible, my friends are stranded overseas

    Reply
    1. De De Tillman Avatar
      De De Tillman

      Which country? – LT

      Reply
  56. Brooke Avatar
    Brooke

    I hate the United States!

    Reply
  57. Lei Avatar
    Lei

    So for us Americans that aren’t wanted in other countries and is about to be blown up in ours. What’s the plan?

    Reply
    1. De De Tillman Avatar
      De De Tillman

      LOL Take a chance in someone else’s country! LOL 🙂 LT 🙂

      Reply
    2. Justice Avatar
      Justice

      I was denied from Korea, China and Singapore. Not completely denied from Canada, but was searched for a solid 6-8hours after getting off greyhound along with everyone else on the bus. They’re not trying to be loud about it but they don’t want Americans there right now. They’re not mad at us but it’s all President and government shit right now. This is the first time in my life I felt stranded. This all happened this month by the way.

      Reply
      1. De De Tillman Avatar
        De De Tillman

        OMG! Just horrible news! It’s so messed up right now because of one person. Thank you for sharing! 🙂 LT

      2. De De Tillman Avatar
        De De Tillman

        Are you in Canada now? – LT

      3. Susan Avatar
        Susan

        This is during the Trump administration. I had to visit a client and had booked a return ticket. Getting off Greyhound ,I showed them and they still wouldn’t let me in . I’ve been to Canada 20–30 times before then and never had any issues until then.

      4. De De Tillman Avatar
        De De Tillman

        Oh my! Just awful! Thank you for sharing! – LT

  58. Katja Avatar
    Katja

    Did anyone move to Korea for work? Like quit their well paying jobs and take a new job without a Korean spouse or heritage?

    I’m currently in the process of this, and sometimes it feels absolutely terrifying, wanted to ask if others ever made a similar step. Also hearing a lot going on in the airport and warned to stay away

    Reply
    1. De De Tillman Avatar
      De De Tillman

      Hello, there have been a lot of reports on this blog about the airport issues. If you are starting a job in SK then if someone at the workplace can meet you at the airport the moment you step off the plane and before you get your luggages. Make sure you and / or the person have proof that you will be working for them. That’s an option. Not sure if that will work or help but it’s worth a try. Just be prepared if it doesn’t work. 🙂 LT 🙂

      Reply
  59. Nyashabi Avatar
    Nyashabi

    Hi, I’m moving to Korea in August for work. It will be my first time living in Korea. What are some things I should plan for and what are some culture shocks that you’ve experienced? FYI I’m coming from the USA. That’s if they left me in after I get off the plane.

    Reply
    1. Pumpkin Avatar
      Pumpkin

      Get used to chopsticks. (Many places don’t have or allow forks)

      Get used to lack of personal space.

      Some strangers (usually grandmas) might start touching your hair or something.

      Get used to people wiping your skin thinking your skin tone is dirt

      Get used to stares.

      Get used to being called fat if you’re plus size.

      Get used to being damn near ran over trying to cross the streets.

      Beautiful country 🇰🇷

      Reply
    2. Eabb Avatar
      Eabb

      If you’ll be here for a few years, expect that it’ll take 2 years to adjust to the culture. Imo, the biggest hurdle is shaping an identity that fits into Korean culture while still maintaining your American identity. And accepting that your American identity will not be fully accepted in Korea. You will get stared at and bullied on the bus and trains. If you’re black, well good luck with a lot of things.

      Reply
    3. Dana Avatar
      Dana

      Old people are so rude, they will push you doesn’t matter what and act rude. People tends to be so friendly but will disappear as soon fast as they came. For the food, everything is different so i advice you to eat what you enjoy the most. I heard American craving for slush or gas station food.

      Reply
    4. De De Tillman Avatar
      De De Tillman

      Will you be working for a company in Korea? – L

      Reply
    5. Connie Avatar
      Connie

      From my experience, my main takeaway is “Korea is a place to live, but not a place to make a life”, if that makes any sense.

      Korea has some great stuff, and Korea has some terrible stuff. I look back fondly on a lot of it, and I look back on some other things and get this sense of dread. I miss the food, my friends, the vibe of Hongdae on weekend nights. I do not miss the being shoved, fighting for my life at the crosswalk, people spit at, being told to go back to my country. Korea loves new things but also is extremely insular, more than Japan or China

      Reply
    6. Amina Avatar
      Amina

      Korea is an okay place to live.

      Pros

      1.close to other asian countries for travel
      not too chaotic.
      2.cost of living is okay relative to salary

      Cons:

      1.Air quality and the weather: freezing in the winter and hot in summer
      2.Racism
      3.Fat shamed in public
      4.Inappropriate touching by men

      Reply
    7. JooJoo Avatar
      JooJoo

      Very Shallow Culture, unfortunately. It is difficult to have a meaningful conversation other than people constantly talking about status and materialistic things. Other than that, it’s a great safe place to enjoy.

      Reply
    8. Mantha Avatar
      Mantha

      I have asthma, and so does my son. We lived there for the military, and we were sick constantly, especially my son. It is absolutely not safe to live if you have any sort of respiratory condition or allergies. We were there for 2 years and got sicker and sicker.

      Reply
    9. Endeena Avatar
      Endeena

      Materialism is off the charts toxic. It has deeply penetrated peoples psychology too. In most of the world you would view or form a perception of a person based on a large set of traits – their features, their hobbies, their career, wealth, their attitude towards other people, their education, their family, their passions, their behavior or attitudes, their intellect, etc.

      In Korea – nope only how much $$$ you have. You can literally, see peoples faces and attitudes change towards you once they find out you’re rich. They literally and truly “like” you once they find that out; like no other factors matter. Every country has different degrees of this but in Korea is it like someone rammed the materialism dial hard to the right and then some.

      Reply
    10. Gabby Ewulu Avatar
      Gabby Ewulu

      I fucking hate this place but I hate the US 10x more. Lol 😂 But if you can make friends here before you come than great and when you get here.. IF the airport lets you in.
      I will say though that I do feel a lot safer at night as a woman. I don’t have to worry about someone snatching my purse, not that I actually have money in it 🤣 but they don’t snatch the purse I keep my trash in and it means a lot.

      Reply
    11. Tyesha Avatar
      Tyesha

      Korea is a great place to retire but not to work, for most. I hated the work culture, the showing off and not caring about others except for the family members. I hated the summer and most of the winter.

      Reply
    12. Sly Avatar
      Sly

      Just be careful as a woman, they don’t kidnap you and snap your money but they will touch between your legs or grab your breasts without consent.

      Reply
    13. Tammy Avatar
      Tammy

      I have come to ignore a lot of things in Korea minus random men touching my butt as I’m going to work or something. Don’t bother going to the police about sexual assaults, because they side with their own!

      Reply
    14. Juwanna Avatar
      Juwanna

      As long as you’re rich, Koreans will respect you then. Money talks but it TALKS here.

      Reply
    15. Ladizia Avatar
      Ladizia

      I think anything beats the United States right now. I was thinking about going to LA or Saginaw until I can afford to be in Korea.

      Reply
    16. Deaja Avatar
      Deaja

      Korea can’t be as bad as Reno where I was stabbed a few weeks ago after I left work in broad daylight.
      I will say just avoid Korea airport right now unless you have 2k to give them and won’t miss it.

      Reply
      1. De De Tillman Avatar
        De De Tillman

        Sorry to know that happened to you! Are you okay? – L –

      2. Evelynn Avatar
        Evelynn

        Stay the hell away from New Mexico and Washington also. It’s been 3 days and 9 different black men and women were found shot to death. The youngest boy was 14. Sad shit

    17. Yolanda Avatar
      Yolanda

      @evelynn I was just about to say that. People forget New Mexico and Washington and the death toll is growing. Compared to the other states it’s kidnapping and murder but New Mexico is dangerous as hell. Washington it all depends, Spokane is dangerous, unsolved gunshots to black people. Albuquerque and Silver is no better. We’re in a time where the president praises people doing illegal things and killing people. He freed people that stormed the capital and committed murder on some. Why now kkk members are not hiding because their president won’t dare make them take accountability. IF they get arrested, they will be free. Google on how many white men have been freed that murdered a Black person this year only.

      Reply
      1. Evelynn Avatar
        Evelynn

        That Black boy Okwa I forgot his name. He was mysteriously shot and killed and the police said it was suicide. How the hell was it suicide when he was on his way to school? I’m in Seattle which is a safe hazard for black women. I tried to be places that I can afford because things has gone up but if I have to live somewhere cheap and jeopardize my safety, it will never happen. The best option is to get out of the country. Chicago is safe when you’re not gang related because it’s surrounded by black people but the chance of you an innocent person getting hit by a stray bullet because an idiot seen someone he knew and missed his target and hitting you instead is common. California is high as hell but I haven’t heard about white men driving around hunting down black people. I’m sure California has their problems but safety as far as racial hasn’t been an issue from anything I’ve heard. Not sure about Atchison, KS

      2. Evelynn Avatar
        Evelynn

        Don’t come to Seattle or Spokane. Mississippi is still racist as hell. Their minds are still in 1945.

  60. Barkey Avatar
    Barkey

    I am so fed up with all the comparisons and arrogance of koreans- the two very cultural things about them.

    I need a refreshed life. I have already found myself distancing away from Koreans. Last month I started my job as a public officer, so ill have no lack of money for a while.

    It’s weird to do this as a korean but I’ll have to.

    This is why i don’t recommend to come to live in Korea.

    Reply
  61. Paek Avatar
    Paek

    I lived in Ho Chi Minh city, Vietnam. There is a huge close-knit Korean expatriate community. They have taken over half of the third biggest district of the city.

    They have this reputation of being very rude and looking down on local people. They are also known to be proud and arrogant. Not to mention racist, very proud of being “pure blooded” and wanting to keep it that way. And the gossiping culture is unbearable. The work culture is definitely one of the most toxic cultures in the world.

    My ex-gf was Korean. I got to spend time with them. While they were nice to me (I’m Asian from Switzerland), I can see why local Vietnamese perceive them that way.

    Reply
    1. De De Tillman Avatar
      De De Tillman

      Thank you for sharing!

      Reply
  62. Becca M. Avatar
    Becca M.

    Took a work trip to Korea and I tell regret is an understatement. Not only was it a dip show at the airport because I was held up there for 6.5 hours being I was interrogated by Korean idiots that called themselves “Agents” but once I was able to live their hell room and off to Korea I was called fat more than one time. Right to my face in front of many people. Was. shocking and humiliating at the same time.

    Reply
    1. De De Tillman Avatar
      De De Tillman

      Thank you for sharing your heartbreaking story! The more educated word is “Plus Size” or “Full Figured” NOT FAT! So sorry to hear what you experienced! 🙁 L 🙁

      Reply
  63. Alyssa Avatar
    Alyssa

    I see what the other commenters meant. I took a chance and flew to Korea and was held for 2 days in the holding room.
    My phone was stripped from me and the friends I had in Korea weren’t able to help me. I’m a Black dancer from the US and I was on a business trip but the agents could’ve cared less about why I was there and who I knew. It was more about interrogating me. They came off as bullies and intimidating. I was scared.

    Reply
    1. De De Tillman Avatar
      De De Tillman

      Thank you for sharing! 🙁 L 🙁

      Reply
    2. Mynisha Avatar
      Mynisha

      Same thing my mom experienced. She refused to stay. She said she’d rather not because she didn’t have $120 to give.

      Reply
    3. Mikel Avatar
      Mikel

      I suggest no one fly to Korea, Japan, Thailand, France, Switzerland, Ghana, Nigeria at the moment. Safety for some and scam for the others. Trump has ruined it for all.

      Reply
  64. Greeny Avatar
    Greeny

    WASHINGTON, May 22 (Yonhap) — U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration is considering withdrawing thousands of U.S. troops from South Korea and moving them to other locations in the Indo-Pacific, including Guam, a news report said Thursday. We’re fucked.

    Reply
    1. De De Tillman Avatar
      De De Tillman

      It’s all over the news! This is really horrible! – L

      Reply
    2. Justina Avatar
      Justina

      This is what caused South Korea to start developing its own nukes, which was only stopped when Carter reduced the pullout to only like one division instead of the whole force.

      The majority of Koreans are already in favour of developing South Korean nukes as well.

      This also explains why Korea has been giving Americans the cold shoulders more so than ever.

      Reply
    3. Evanna Avatar
      Evanna

      trump, please think twice before withdrawing USFK troops 😢

      Reply
      1. Maria Ewulu Avatar
        Maria Ewulu

        lol you think he actually thought first?

    4. Nadia Avatar
      Nadia

      Massive L for US Army, massive L for SK, and hell, massive W for NK

      Reply
    5. Pollie Avatar
      Pollie

      Can you not? I’m having a really great time here. Also I don’t wanna go back to the us. Ehhh I have a feeling we will get kicked out soon. I finally learned to ignore the rude Koreans.

      Reply
      1. Chad Avatar
        Chad

        I’m not going nowhere. We’ll definitely not back to the states. Only way I’ll go back as if they give me an apartment in Bel Air for $300 a month. That’s it and that’s all and we all know damn well it won’t happen.

      2. De De Tillman Avatar
        De De Tillman

        LOL That’s right! LOL 🙂 🙂 L

    6. Debbie Avatar
      Debbie

      This would happen after South Korea says it fired warning shots after North Korean soldiers crossed demarcation line. Yikes 😬

      Reply
      1. Freda Avatar
        Freda

        Trump wants Trump-Putin-Kim bloc of “strongmen”. Trump thinks Russia and North Korea are better allies in countering China than European and Asia-pacific democracies. He overestimates the power of North Korea and Russia because he equates power with cruelty/brutality. There goes my dreams of living in Korea.
        I already booked my cruise so I’m still going go and hope for the best.

      2. Elaine Avatar
        Elaine

        Aren’t China, Russia, and North Korea in an alliance of some sorts?

    7. Angelica Avatar
      Angelica

      Now it’s all making sense. I knew it was tension because of tariffs and stuff but now it really makes sense.

      Reply
      1. Breonna Avatar
        Breonna

        American are so dumb : they voted for this ! THIS is why other countries hate us but THIS is why I’m leaving America ✌🏻

      2. Chad Avatar
        Chad

        Happened to my old neighbor. She reported it the Korean embassy and US embassy and she was tracked. Now she’s banned from entering Korea and Japan. It happened to me and my girlfriend but we stayed silent.

    8. Kim Avatar
      Kim

      You know why he’s doing that? He wants to reestablish ties with North Korea. He is trying to show Kim Jong Un that he’s on NK side. So removing over 7,000 troops is only the beginning. Everyone is on edge now.

      Reply
      1. Lyka Avatar
        Lyka

        Soon we’ll have a new axis bloc featuring US Russia and NK. His goal is to unite US, Russia and NK.

      2. Jessikah Avatar
        Jessikah

        trump lists his “very good” relationships he has with putin, kim jong un, & xi jinping. trump lies & says putin said to him “I’d hate to see you as an enemy.” trump lied again & said “putin said this very strongly…” trump loves murderous dictators but he attacks & belittles America’s allies. I’m just waiting for Korea to ban Americans until Trump is gone. It’s coming. The only place Americans might be welcomed is Russia and North Korea until big mouth piss them off also. And you can’t just up and move to North Korea smh

      3. Essa Avatar
        Essa

        Trump is a wannabe dictator. Trump is a traitor to the free world, to democracy.

      4. Neena Avatar
        Neena

        Trump is Putins whipping boy. He’s attacking usaid for putin, he’s using tariffs against his allies for putin, he’s Destroying the market for putin. His threats of annexing Greenland and canada so him and putin can hold most of arctic.

    9. Destani Avatar
      Destani

      Speaking as an American, I’m so sorry that many of Americans were too stupid and voted for this human garbage grifter. I didn’t vote for him but here I am SUFFERING. I might go to China, bad mouth Trump and hopefully get accepted. Not staying in the US

      Reply
      1. Chad Avatar
        Chad

        I know that’s right

    10. Gabby Ewulu Avatar
      Gabby Ewulu

      See I work in Korea so many of his foolishness affects me still because I’m still a citizen of America.
      This is why I need to find a husband to marry and stay in Korea. I’ve been trying to find a blind man so I won’t have any issues. Can’t see my skin tone, can’t see my fat. I gain a citizenship and he gets a wife. Everyone wins

      Reply
      1. De De Tillman Avatar
        De De Tillman

        LOL! 🙂 L

      2. Chad Avatar
        Chad

        Lmao just log off at this point

    11. Kel Avatar
      Kel

      I got arrested 3 days for absolutely no reason after I got off the airplane. I got integrated for no fucking reason. I had to pay $85 just to leave.

      Reply
      1. De De Tillman Avatar
        De De Tillman

        If you are a US citizen then that’s why because of one person in the US office. – L

  65. Carissma Avatar
    Carissma

    My schedule flight is from San Francisco to Incheon and then finally to Los Angeles in a couple of days with Asiana Airlines. I was wondering if the people getting interrogated are coming from specific airlines or they’re just randomly picking people?

    Reply
    1. De De Tillman Avatar
      De De Tillman

      As of right now, you might want to reconsider flying in to Incheon. – L

      Reply
    2. Chelsea A Avatar
      Chelsea A

      I advise you not to. I should’ve listened to the other people that commented on here. I was interrogated the other day. It cost me $45 to get out. $45 for what???? I’m not broke or anything but it was an unnecessary fee.

      Reply
    3. Satina Avatar
      Satina

      This happened to me at the Gimpo airport. I think airport is a magnet 🧲 for interrogating people. They separated me from my family even though we’re all women. I was yelled at constantly, questioned over and over again even after answering their questions. They wanted $1500 USD to let me through. I spent over 11 hours in there. Wasn’t able to eat or anything. I don’t expect to be treated like a Queen when being cornered but I expect human decency though. For future travels, please do not fly into Korea. I saw on the news “ He Survived a Knife to the Neck. Now He’ll Lead a Divided South Korea.
      Lee Jae-myung will be one of the most powerful presidents in decades in South Korea, but he is taking over during a perilous political atmosphere.” This is South Korea new president and he’s not taking kindly to Trumps bs!

      Reply
      1. De De Tillman Avatar
        De De Tillman

        Thanks for sharing! 🙁 L 🙁

      2. Marcel Avatar
        Marcel

        I guess I shouldn’t complain about the $450 they robbed me out of. Were you able to pay?

      3. Satina Avatar
        Satina

        Hi, sorry Marcel,
        I hope you see this because I’m not able to reply to you directly.
        Yes I was able to get out. My friend Daniel, who I believe is posted on this blog as I seen his picture helped me out. I used to work with him at Ross in San Francisco. But unfortunately they integrated him as well even after receiving the money on his relationship with me etc. it was horrible and I apologized to him repeatedly because the whole situation was embarrassing. I didn’t come to Korea to become broke nor did I come here to seek help from my friends. Luckily he was able to help but had I known they were going to do that to him also, I would’ve never called because that’s selfish as hell to put another person in that position.

      4. De De Tillman Avatar
        De De Tillman

        Hello Satina, are you talking about MGSTRZ Daniel? 🙂 L 🙂

      5. Satina Avatar
        Satina

        I’m not sure what the first word means but yes he’s posted on your blog. Korean Daniel from Daly City. This happened yesterday. Completely embarrassing. He was interrogated for over an hour. He said never again because he has a temper.

      6. De De Tillman Avatar
        De De Tillman

        Yes, that’s him. He’s in the music group MGTSRZ as a singer with TÂUREANBULL ENTERTAINMENT. Daniel is a sweetheart for helping you and dealing with that. So sorry you had to endure that treatment! Did you have to pay anything? Are you still in Korea? – 🙂 La Tray 🙂

      7. De De Tillman Avatar
        De De Tillman

        You can listen to the sample of “FijiPop” with Daniel so you can hear him sing as well as (KEI and GOHAN) featuring Jermhi. 🙂 L 🙂

  66. Nisha Avatar
    Nisha

    To be fair, it’s been extremely difficult to fly into a lot of places right now. I’m not saying airport agents are giving everyone that comes in a hard time but it’s a good number of people that are being interrogated, I would fly in right now.
    Be safe

    Reply
    1. Chad Avatar
      Chad

      You know shit is real when you’re Black American and book a flight to South Africa and get treated like a damn criminal. Happened to my boy and his girl today.

      Reply
      1. De De Tillman Avatar
        De De Tillman

        In South Africa? – L

    2. Chad Avatar
      Chad

      Yup, Africa! Kunta Kinte folks. Ever since that meeting, now they pissed off too. These red face mf really ruining things for everyone.

      Reply
      1. De De Tillman Avatar
        De De Tillman

        Oh wow! Thanks for this info! 🙂 – L

      2. Chad Avatar
        Chad

        No problem. Just don’t try and go anytime soon. We not welcomed there, Black or not.

      3. Regina Avatar
        Regina

        I’m going to Japan but I’m taking a cruise to get there. I booked my ticket this morning. There’s a lot of people doing the cruise because airlines are being so 💩 to people. I know it has a lot to do with the oversized Ronald McDonald in the White House. It’s a 14 day cruise but I’m ready.

    3. Jujustin Avatar
      Jujustin

      Booked a cruise through Royal Caribbean today. I’m not about to play with Asiana or Korea Air agents. My sister Juwanna lives in Korea and I wanted to move.

      Reply
      1. De De Tillman Avatar
        De De Tillman

        Smart! Welcome! Juwanna is Ms. VIP here! haha 🙂 L

    4. Rijue Avatar
      Rijue

      ICN stands for InCoNsistent. Everything about arriving and departing is very dependent on the time of day, time of year, terminal, etc. They make your life a LIVING HELL!!!!

      Reply
    5. Christine Avatar
      Christine

      Despite what this no brainer is doing in the White House, I’m still getting on my cruise.
      I’m not staying here.

      Reply
  67. Desha Avatar
    Desha

    I had a flight out of terminal 1 at ICN on January 18th 9am. O wow I thought I was in middle of a war zone. Everyone’s scrambling, running everywhere. LONG winding lines and no one knows what the lines are for. It took 1 hour and 30mins to drop off the bags. It probably would have taken another two-three hours to get through security but Luckily for me I was taken my agents against my will and held into a room with my 18 month old for 4 hours, being interrogated. After 4 fucking hours of getting in my business, I was finally let go and also paying an extra $20.

    Reply
    1. De De Tillman Avatar
      De De Tillman

      Thank you for sharing your experience at the airport! 🙁 🙁 🙁 – LT

      Reply
    2. Desha Avatar
      Desha

      My correction May 8. That’s how pissed I am.
      😡

      Reply
      1. De De Tillman Avatar
        De De Tillman

        Ok. I was wondering if this was happening sooner but thanks for the clarification! 🙂 LT

    3. De De Tillman Avatar
      De De Tillman

      Were you able to take care of your baby while you were held? – LT

      Reply
      1. Brooke Avatar
        Brooke

        I’ve been flying in and out of ICN three times a year since 2010. I’ve always thought it ran very smoothly until yesterday. It was the first time in history that I got pulled away and put in a holding to be questioned for hours!!! I was terrified because I didn’t do anything but I was being bullied by agents.

      2. De De Tillman Avatar
        De De Tillman

        If your passport says, “United States” then that’s why. Did you pay any money to be released?

    4. Vanilla Avatar
      Vanilla

      Literally had the same experience. My flight was at 8:50am, we arrived at airport around 5am thinking we’d have loads of time to chill. Was so shocked when we got pulled out of line by 3 Agents. They looked at our passports and got extremely angry. We’re just a US family. Never been in trouble with the law and never been to Korea. This was unlike anything we’ve ever experienced tbh. Never had this issue in other airports before. And then my dad and 2 brothers got separated from me, my mom and sister . We were being interrogated for about 3 hours about why we were coming to Korea. We told them that we were just on vacation and wanted to see the country because we love their culture.
      Is this even normal or is something wrong with Incheon airport’s system?

      Reply
      1. De De Tillman Avatar
        De De Tillman

        Sadly, it’s happened because of the person in the White House. Not just SK, other countries as well. Did your family pay a fee to be released? – L

    5. Thomas Avatar
      Thomas

      I had a flight out of Incheon at 8pm a few weeks ago. Got to the airport 4 hours early in hopes of checking in and getting through security with enough time to do some last minute shopping and get some food before the flight back home.

      1.5h waiting in check in queue even though we’re were one of the first people there. There was a delay with opening check in.

      2.5h waiting in the line for security just to be pulled away by agents. We were there for 2 months only. They kept asking if we were trying to seek asylum? Or if we had intentions on trying to stay in the country illegally but we were like no obviously 🙄 not if we’re at the airport trying to go back to the US. They were rude when we first arrived to Korea and worse when we left. Koreans are very judgmental and racist people.

      Reply
      1. Misty Avatar
        Misty

        I’ll explain to you what’s happening, Korea has an initial fast tracker that uses your face, but while it’s supposed to help you have a faster experience at their airport, it’s also screening you in general.
        That’s how they pick their victims.

    6. Hasley Avatar
      Hasley

      I experienced the same thing as you with Asiana at incheon a few days. It was absolutely chaotic and their rudeness was passed the roof!!

      Reply
    7. Tahami Avatar
      Tahami

      Yup. I was there yesterday.!! Complete and utter Bs!!! Got held up at immigration to be asked dumb ass questions for 6 hours! Now I’m here dealing with racist ass and rude Koreans!! Some trip.

      Reply
    8. Erica Kelley Avatar
      Erica Kelley

      I recently heard that passengers with a US visa going to Korean and Japan Airport from the US are required to be interviewed.

      Reply
  68. Ayana B Avatar
    Ayana B

    I hope someone can lend me some advice. Hi, I’m new here and I was reading all the comments about Korea and I was saving money to go. I had a retirement account with 5,000 in it and I was going to use some in Korea if I had to but today when I signed in to see if it had gone up some, I seen that $4,000 of my money was taken out. I want to be clear, I DO NOT owe for taxes. It was taken out by US government. I’m literally in tears right now because that was all of my retirement. I’m only left with $1,000. What do I do? I have to get out of this country

    Reply
    1. De De Tillman Avatar
      De De Tillman

      Did you call the financial institute where your money is kept? Depending on what kind of retirement account you have, you may get answers from a free legal aid. Call ABC news which is a program called “7 on your side” in your area. Throwing out options, if you are able to work, you can get a temporary job to add to your funds. You can apply for a small personal loan, $5,000. To be comfortable, $10,000. Anyone else can add to this to help! Thanks 🙂 LT

      Reply
    2. De De Tillman Avatar
      De De Tillman

      Welcome to the blog! 🙂 – LT

      Reply
      1. Ayana B Avatar
        Ayana B

        Thank you for the welcome. I had Fidelity. This is beyond infuriating.

      2. De De Tillman Avatar
        De De Tillman

        You can contact the Federal Trade Commission or go in person to a Fidelity office to explain to you what happen to your money. – LT

      3. Desha Avatar
        Desha

        I will give it a try. Thank you very much.

      4. De De Tillman Avatar
        De De Tillman

        You’re welcome! 🙂 La Tray

  69. Markida Avatar
    Markida

    Tried to enter Korea yesterday. As my mother and I were waiting in line to go and get our luggage’s, we were pulled out of line but agents that brought us into a holding. From there we were asked various of questions that made absolutely no sense and felt like we were being interrogated. We explained to them that we would be visiting Korea for a month and returning back to the States. They made us pay $25 for some ridiculous fee to allow us to leave the hole. We spent 4 hours there. Just a bunch of bullshit

    Reply
    1. Shawnna Avatar
      Shawnna

      The reason my family spent hours today trying to cancel our flights. We booked a cruise instead. They’re only being buttholes to flight riders and scamming also.

      Reply
      1. Bristone Avatar
        Bristone

        I tried calling and canceling mines but I couldn’t even get through and I’m trying to hurry because my flight leaves in 2 days. I refuse to board.

      2. De De Tillman Avatar
        De De Tillman

        You can try calling early in the super morning. – LT

    2. Maria Ewulu Avatar
      Maria Ewulu

      My mom is taking a cruise that’s taking her to Japan but it’s worth it she said. And she will transfer to Korea from there.

      Reply
      1. De De Tillman Avatar
        De De Tillman

        Is your mother going to take the ferry from Japan to SK? – LT

      2. Chad Avatar
        Chad

        I told my family to hurry and reserve a spot before they sell out.. cause cruises from the US to Asia is rare as hell. They coming in the country smooth. My grandma excited as hell

      3. Markida Avatar
        Markida

        Which cruise?

      4. Markida Avatar
        Markida

        Actually Nevermind haha I just realized this blog posted Royal Caribbean in the blog. I’ll check it out and see if my family want to take a cruise.

    3. Nickia Avatar
      Nickia

      I’m going to cancel my flight tomorrow. I’ve been hearing too many people getting interrogated at the airport and scammed out of their money to get out of interrogations. I have to find another possible way. Someone mentioned cruise?

      Reply
      1. Eva SoDearest Avatar
        Eva SoDearest

        That’s what my mom and my aunt did. I’m in China right now but they booked a cruise from Los Angeles to Japan and then from there catch another cruise to go into China.

    4. Dori Avatar
      Dori

      I canceled mines with United this morning.
      I’ll find a new way!

      Reply
    5. Martini Avatar
      Martini

      Wow 😲 thanks for letting us know. I had a flight to leave out next month but I will cancel mines. I’m desperate to leave the states but not enough to get harassed for no reasons.

      Reply
      1. De De Tillman Avatar
        De De Tillman

        Take a cruise there! – LT

    6. Reyna Avatar
      Reyna

      I don’t know what to do because I’m in a situation where I can’t afford where I’m at so Korea would’ve been ideal to live to pay cheaper rent. But I’m in a cross fire right now because Korea and other countries are making it hard for Americans to enter their country but also states in the US are becoming the sundown town of Texas to hunt for Black people. What do I do?

      Reply
      1. De De Tillman Avatar
        De De Tillman

        Definitely, it’s not the right time to fly to Korea. However, I haven’t heard any issues with some other countries, for instance, Vietnam, Laos and Cambodia with entering yet. At least not, Laos and Cambodia. Someone I know traveled to Laos and Cambodia for a temporary stay until Korea is fine to enter again. I will be posting a “Moving to” blog. 🙂 L 🙂

  70. Justine Avatar
    Justine

    I got harassed like hell at the airport. Never again. I’ve never felt so bullied and intimidated in my entire life.
    My family has canceled their flights for next month.

    Reply
    1. De De Tillman Avatar
      De De Tillman

      It’s all because of one person in the U.S. government. – LT

      Reply
    2. De De Tillman Avatar
      De De Tillman

      How long were you at the airport? – LT

      Reply
      1. Justine Avatar
        Justine

        For 7 hours

      2. De De Tillman Avatar
        De De Tillman

        OMG! So sorry you went through that! Thanks for sharing! – LT

  71. Semora Avatar
    Semora

    I’ve always wanted to move to korea for a bit because of Kpop but i want to know what the Negatives are about living there. like what do i need to look out for?
    I’ve read some of your comments on here and so far I’m rethinking my move.

    Reply
    1. Amilia Avatar
      Amilia

      Things cost more than they used to. I work in higher ed and my salary has been frozen for days, but real estate and groceries keep going up up up.
      This all happened around Feb. It has never been this bad here.

      Reply
    2. Gina Avatar
      Gina

      1.Other drivers can sometimes be very rude or inconsiderate. Some people that drive really expensive cars use them like a threat to bully their way past traffic that everyone else is patiently waiting in.
      2. People in cars making turns who seem incapable of staying in their own lane during the course of the turn.

      Reply
    3. Dynasty Avatar
      Dynasty

      The cost of most things has certainly gone up; I remember when a taxi ride started at 1600W, it was 500W flat to ride the subway or bus, a bowl of jjajangmyeon was not more than 1500W, delivered.
      Now everything is tripled. This just happened recently. They over charge Americans also.

      Reply
    4. Kadd Avatar
      Kadd

      Right now scamming and cheating Americans are kind of a thing in Korea at the moment. They used to not be like this but started a few months ago they just started being pretty cruel to Americans.
      I don’t think they have a personal issues with us but it’s more about the current president.

      Reply
    5. Micam Avatar
      Micam

      Medical care. Not the quality or anything, because it is great and the wait times are low. But, the language problems. Needing medical care always causes uncertainty, but add in the fact that unless your Korean is native, or the doctors English is native, there is always some lingering doubt that something was misunderstood language wise. It’s a very nerve racking thing:

      Reply
    6. Gwangju guy Avatar
      Gwangju guy

      Driving and parking suck. But I’d be rather drive than take a bus anyway. Taxi and buses and delivery drivers ignore all laws without punishment usually. The health care while cheap is the quality you would expect for “cheap health care”. Hardly anyone will speak your language at any business you use, so you need to learn Korean to live comfortably outside an expat driven social group.
      Also if they know you’re American, you might be last to be seen.

      Reply
    7. Dryer Avatar
      Dryer

      1 – Air pollution
      2 – population density : whatever you want to do, lots of people and waiting
      3 – language. I speak decently Korean but not enough to feel comfortable.
      4 – living on an island means lots of things are expensive to import
      5 – hard to find houses with a garage to do DIY stuff… or in my case building / maintaining drift cars.

      Reply
    8. Lilly Avatar
      Lilly

      Korea dont punish scammers, rapists and attackers if they’re Korean.

      Reply
    9. Juju Avatar
      Juju

      Personally I find Seoul a bit soulless. I prefer Hongdae as a big city!

      As always money, work, age and family make such big differences. 10 million won a month salary, aged 28 in Seoul single – well hello fun time! Your status in society (especially if a single male) is high.

      40 plus on 2 million teaching English as a foreign labguage with a family hello poverty and stress with a very low social status.

      Then there is your personality, attitude towards change etc. Too many variables!

      Reply
    10. Asai Avatar
      Asai

      Your experience will vary extremely based on

      where you live
      what kind of job you take
      the quality of your specific workplace
      your immediate social circles (likely to be your coworkers at first)
      how well you adjust to Korean culture
      your luck towards facing racism (I’ve been here for a few weeks and can count the number of racial attacks I’ve received on one hand, but I’ve also known people who’ve faced some serious incidents like being pushed down subway stairs or in front of cars)
      the quality of your housing arrangements, your neighbors, and your landlord

      Reply
    11. Meg Avatar
      Meg

      I’ve seen some nasty racial incidents in real life, mostly targeted on Southeast Asians.

      I knew a girl who loved Korea so much she literally ditched her law degree to live with her Korean bf. She eventually got ditched(was kinda obvious, but not her fault for pursuing love), went through a lot of financial issues, got stalked twice, and literally in depression every time when some Korean ignores her or say something extremely mean.

      I was like why wouldn’t you move, but she couldn’t go back to her hometown since she had zero skills to get a decent job back home and she was already 40 years old. I wonder how she’s doing now because, depression is a bitch, and she eventually stopped contacting me altogether.

      In contrast, my friend who is a white, half Russian half Deutschland, is having a huge blast of his life in Korea, never had he once fought a racist fuck(besides some of his coworkers who were a bit “traditional”, as Koreans say), and he gets girls like crazy, gets “bonuses” from his company for “being influential”(is the reason why nobody liked him in his workplace), etc. etc…

      I’ve seen two sides of the world here and yeah, being black isn’t fun in Korea unless you’re a known celebrity like Nicki Minaj or Meg Thee Stallion.

      Reply
    12. Dokina Avatar
      Dokina

      I do find Seoul kinda suffocating and stressful, and sometimes really not all that special. But I grew up in a very small city in the US, surrounded by not cities, very close to a large city. So I could choose where to spend my time freely. Living in Seoul for 2 months was just constant annoying city life that I didn’t really love. I don’t have a car and don’t have lots of money so traveling out of Seoul is difficult.
      You NEED a car living in Korea, especially being a foreigner. You can dodge so much bs!

      Reply
    13. Gabby Ewulu Avatar
      Gabby Ewulu

      I’ve lived in Seoul, Seongnam (satellite city of Seoul) and Changwon (industrial city on the other side of the country)for a little.

      The #1 thing you have to know is that where you live is far far less important than if you have a good job and if you have good friends outside of that job. If you have that, you will totally be happy in Korea. I’ve been asked a few stupid questions here and there but never faced incredible racism.
      Having money is VERY important. I would say have at least $10,000 – $15,000 USD before you come here, it will get you a bit more respect.
      Having money, and knowing the language makes a big difference.

      Reply
      1. Semora Avatar
        Semora

        What kind of questions?

    14. Gabby Ewulu Avatar
      Gabby Ewulu

      Well when I first arrived, I was definitely overweight and Korea isn’t the sweetest to overweight people unless you’re Lizzo or Oprah in her overweight days, but I was asked about my damn pregnancy that didn’t exist and my first reaction was wth? But I can be an asshole too 😉 so I responded and said “not yet but soon and we can have a gender reveal party together since you’re going to pop soon too! 😃” just stuff like that

      Reply
      1. De De Tillman Avatar
        De De Tillman

        LOL – 🙂 LT

  72. Ginger Avatar
    Ginger

    Overall I feel sorry for Koreans, they live in an atmosphere where they’re expected to be perfect 24/7 and any mishaps will cause you to get judged, canceled in the country and even disowned by your own family in some cases. That’s where the rudeness comes from a lot of times.

    Reply
  73. Countess Avatar
    Countess

    It is difficult to befriend Koreans. However, if you become good friends they’re ride or die. But that chance is VERY slim. Most Koreans in Korea are very stuck up and stick to their own.

    Reply
  74. Zesty Avatar
    Zesty

    I used to work primarily with U.S. and Latin American nationals and entities. In my ten years of experience, I have dealt with difficult clients, but none to the extent of yelling or harassment until I started working more with Koreans. I am shocked by how comfortable some individuals are at expressing their frustration and hostility in professional settings—instances where people actually yell and make aggressive threats toward each other and me. For context, I usually hold a position of authority and respect, yet I have encountered people who have become so frustrated that they challenge my role directly (like yelling at a judge in a courtroom—it’s simply not…smart). These behaviors would definitely warrant an HR write-up in the U.S. I was surprised by this and brought it up to my organization, only to hear that “that’s Korean culture for you.”

    Reply
    1. Jimmy Avatar
      Jimmy

      I can’t watch most K dramas due to how annoying the constant wailing and screaming is. My gf watches them and plays the audio from her phone, and it drives me nuts. Korean women are always screaming and crying.

      Reply
    2. Van Avatar
      Van

      I drive a Kia Morning, and the number of honks I get for no good reason is amazing! Like, when we are in an intersection and the light literally turned green 2 seconds ago, I would immediately get honked at even if I’m clearly starting my maneuver.. compare to those who drive in Benz, they can take their sweet ass time and people won’t do a thing…

      Reply
    3. Yvonne Avatar
      Yvonne

      I totally agree, the problem in Korea is that bad practice and poor working conditions have become normalized in many areas of the country. I have observed many many instances of Koreans getting highly aggressive and even semi-violent over common workplace occurrences, especially with foreigners. They know the law is on their side and that they will be protected. I once worked in one place with a woman who would get hysterical over every little thing she felt wasn’t up to her standard, l ended up leaving.

      If this was western Europe many of these instances would end up in court. In Korea they just do nothing, again the law is on their side, they don’t need to.

      Reply
    4. Nicole Avatar
      Nicole

      Show this post to the Korea-obsessed foreigners talking about how polite and nice people are lol It’s an absolute fucking joke. Koreans are anything but sweethearts.

      Reply
    5. Gwen Avatar
      Gwen

      I will never work for a Korean boss or manager again

      Reply
  75. Ectasy Avatar
    Ectasy

    South Korea 🇰🇷 has a very perfectionist society. People are tired to meet a certain beauty standards. Or a certain standard of living. Or a way to make yourself look like a representation of a good society in South Korea and then with unrealistic expectations by the older generation. How would you feel if you were a South Korean 🇰🇷 who is mostly a Millenial or Gen Z and the country Economy,birth rate is collapsing and corruption in politics is way too much and the only thing they want to tell you is “work hard”. When that’s not a solution because money wise you can’t own chit like the older generation. I also forgot to mention the constant College and School work for 10+ hours a day and trying to get into the best colleges or you are seen as a failure. It’s overwhelming.

    Reply
  76. Beverly Avatar
    Beverly

    This is probably a concern everywhere, but does any feel this tension or hostility in the atmosphere, almost to the point of being overwhelming or suffocating (답답한 분위기).

    Like, everywhere I go and anything I do, it feels like the person next to me wants to punch someone in the face (and I don’t want to get punched lol). Going to the store and people just run into me or cough in my face. Going for a run and people always expect me to get out the way. People litterally pushing me out (young and old) because I don’t get out of there way, even when I’m standing still. Using public services and people cut the line like I don’t exist or stand 2cm away from me.
    This is all the time in Korea.

    Reply
    1. Veta Avatar
      Veta

      Yes, for a country that to the outside seems to be built on respect and ‘saving face’, it is definitely a shock finding out how rude and disrespectful Koreans truly are. I think that rude interactions where people are speaking in the most annoyed and bitchy way while maintaining 존댓말 adds to it too. There’s this weird passive aggressiveness in Korea that really drives this 답답한 분위기. The cutting in line and not moving out of the way, bumping into you on purpose without any sense of spatial awareness, not saying thank you when being offered help. At the same time these people don’t have the guts to defend their behavior when called out. It creates this mood where everyone is shitty to one another without direct confrontation and bottling things up instead. I had a guy cough in my face also the other day and then he looked at all pissed off because I didn’t move out of his way as if I knew he was going to cough without covering his damn month.

      Reply
    2. Trinity Avatar
      Trinity

      It has been like this from the beginning. It’s not called the hermit kingdom for nothing. Living in Korea is hard as hell,
      and I can’t stress that enough, just look at these boards, Facebook, other online spaces. Kboos and lifers are going to swear otherwise but the reality speaks for itself. A lot of them fetishize Koreans so much that they’re willing to put up with just about any amount of disrespect and pretend that nothing has happened while being fat shamed and more. The culture just grinds you down after a while and even basic things become full of frustrations and micro aggressions. When you get to Korea, you will HATE Kpop and Kdramas. I can promise you that.

      Reply
    3. De De Tillman Avatar
      De De Tillman

      This is all happening because of one person in the US government and some may think that EVERYONE in the US voted for that person but certainly NOT so. – LT

      Reply
    4. Cynn Avatar
      Cynn

      I think you’re hitting your boiling point, it’s always been like that here no matter political power or customs. These instances can really compound and make your day go by very slowly and make it very unbearable at times. From the minute you get off the airplane to wait for your bags at the carousel to walking from the aisles to the grocery counter to pay for your groceries and you get knocked. Or you’re on subway and only still wearing their backpack swinging that around, the only saving grace sometimes is that your a foreigner and they’ll see you to say a kind of “Oh, careful” or give a rats ass less that they hit you.

      Reply
    5. Trina Avatar
      Trina

      Oh wow!!! I can’t believe there is someone else out there that feels exactly the way I have been feeling in Korea for the past almost 7 months now 😭. It a beautiful country and I love so many aspects of it, the nature, the language, the traditional temples, Jeju Island… but it’s that passive aggressive and carelessness of people in public and the (갑질)bullying/ yelling overall that I really hate!! The people make living here unbearable for sure.

      Reply
    6. Yamina Avatar
      Yamina

      Seems like it’s time to go for you. I felt a similar disdain for Korea and Koreans after 2 years in ROK. Loved Korea, but it just wears you down. I left in 2024, but just came back for a weekend. I was shocked how much more expensive everything was. And people did seem even more miserable than previously. And Koreans were always miserable (rightfully so, they have extremely difficult lives). Also forgot to mention how badly I was treated at the airport after arriving.

      Reply
    7. Glaria Avatar
      Glaria

      I lived in s Korea for a short period of time and my observations were that there is a lot of open hostility everywhere you go. Yes it’s a clean country it’s safe blah blah blah but the people are competitive with each other, loads of plastic surgery everywhere, lots of fake people behaving fake to fit into some niche of an image they want to impress people with, and as a foreigner you are watching all of this from the outside. Interesting place to visit but to live in Korea you would have to be bonkers as a foreigner unless you married someone from there and are stuck there. Or you have a celebrity title where you would get a bit of more respect from the citizens.
      Even visiting can be hell.

      Reply
    8. Velma Avatar
      Velma

      I stayed in Korea for 2 months because I could make it the 1 year I planned to stay there. I mostly dealt with ignorance, bad korean people, in my experience, are mean to everyone, and not specifically against foreigners. In Japan I met strongly racist people, smiling at you while making you feel like you are nothing but worthless. Or those treating you like you are a monkey that can’t understand anything.

      Reply
    9. June Avatar
      June

      The price of some foods is just as expensive or more, especially the fruit, than in the US (where I am from). Housing can be extremely expensive as well. This just happened recently because last year Korea was cheap as hell. They just started jacking up their prices in Feb.

      Reply
    10. Melissa Avatar
      Melissa

      I get when I visit Korea and always the reasons why I end up changing my return flight to an earlier date than I planned.

      You have people like the Greek or Italians who are erratic, Chinese that are rude, Japanese that can be quite condescending, but none are ‘hostile’ as much as the Koreans.

      I can’t help but feel so much hate seething through their attitude and behaviour. Just look at the comments even here. So aggressive and defensive at the same time, always ready to verbally attack somebody regardless of what that person’s intention is.

      I have no idea why it is so, but there is some seriously deep cultural error I can never put my finger on that causes them to be so bitter all the time.

      Reply
      1. Kona Avatar
        Kona

        I was in korea for 4 months and I also reached this breaking point. from the rude/snide comments about physical appearance, to getting pushed by people of all ages, I absolutely could not stand being in public anymore. I left and never regretted it.

      2. Candy Avatar
        Candy

        I went to a public bathroom once in Korea, and before going in the stall, I had woman look at me very strangely, I didn’t pay any mind to her and continued to use the restroom. Just then I heard movement in the other stall next to me and before you know it I heard a voice appear from above asking me if my entire skin dark? I nearly had a stroke because she was appearing right about the stall looking down as I’m on the toilet, crazy shit ever

    11. Cara Avatar
      Cara

      I’ve always felt this way when visiting Korea, since my first stay back in 2012

      I tend to romanticize Korea after being away for a while as I just reminisce about the good times/people I’ve met there.

      It takes literally less than 30 minutes upon arriving at ICN before reality sets in again. This is why I can’t do Korea long term. Koreans will make you hate the entire culture.

      Reply
    12. Diamond Avatar
      Diamond

      I don’t think Korea has changed. Coughing on other people’s faces and disrespecting their personal space was always okay there. And if you react, you’re the problem!

      Reply
    13. Hei Avatar
      Hei

      Oh sister I hear you. I just get out of hold.
      Boy Korean airport is such bullshit. I did absolutely nothing to them. I go around airport and hang pictures of Hongin up and for people to give me in his number because I fly in just to see him. I pass out flyer to traveler with Hongin picture because I know they know him. Agent snatch me and call me crazy and hold me for 2 days. Just bullshit. Unfair

      Reply
      1. Juwanna Avatar
        Juwanna

        You don’t sound wrapped to tight up there but I will admit that’s a dumb add reason to hold anyone for 2 days smh Korea is really pissing me off more and more

  77. Nebiet Avatar
    Nebiet

    I wish there was a blog for Vietnam and China. I have stories

    Reply
    1. De De Tillman Avatar
      De De Tillman

      I’m working on it as I’m writing this. 🙂 LT

      Reply
  78. Chillis Avatar
    Chillis

    I always think of the perfect thing to say like 30 minutes after an encounter with a rude ajeoshi/ajumma. My ability to speak Korean breaks down under pressure so I can never think in time.

    One time an old guy pushed me out of the way because he was too lazy to go around while waiting for a subway, I’m kicking myself ever since for not saying anything.

    So any stories of letting someone know how rude they’re being?

    Reply
    1. Lena Avatar
      Lena

      I had a kakao taxi driver a few months ago demand ₩90000 just to get in the taxi before the meter started. I think he was instantly surprised when I started speaking Korean as a foreigner in a fairly countryside place. I argued with him for a few minutes using some choice words in multiple languages then He kicked me out and said piss off Trump lover. I was taken about that he knew that much English.

      Reply
    2. Nunu Avatar
      Nunu

      Yeah, some bunch of girls were talking about me in a restaurant (the downsides of understanding Korean) and then the ahjumma working there joined in so I snapped and told them I understood. Didn’t finish my meal, paid in silence and left a bad review when I left Korea. They even tried to charge me an extra $24.
      Of course I get shoved all the time on public transport but so do Koreans so I wouldn’t risk getting physical over that but if someone’s being blatantly rude specifically because you’re a foreigner I think you should call them out in a nice or they just go through life thinking that shit is ok. They may not change how they think about us but at least they’re humiliated for it. FUCK KOREANS

      Reply
    3. Mack Avatar
      Mack

      A drunk old man didn’t want my dog to pee in the dirt patch across the street. He yelled at me, I told him tough shit. He was quite taken aback! He raised his folded umbrella to hit my dog, I threw my arm out and blocked it, and he dropped his soju. So he picked it up and proceeded to smash me on the head with it causing my head to bleed. Police did absolutely nothing

      Reply
    4. Summer Avatar
      Summer

      Not in Korea, but on beach blvd in La Habra/Buena park in Orange County. Lots of Korean restaurants and stuff. I love the food and culture, it’s why I learned the language.
      It helped me prep for my trip to Korea. For background context, I’m considered overweight in Korea. While dinning out, I ordered chicken and fries and one of the waitresses said to the other in Korean “she should’ve ordered a salad “ assuming I wouldn’t understand. I’m sure many people in the restaurant that spoke Korean understood because some looked over at me. I replied back in Korean and told them they were extremely rude. I paid and left.

      Reply
    5. Laxy Avatar
      Laxy

      i always tell myself to be the better person and let it go when and if that happens. if you argue with them it can get physical in a heartbeat because Koreans are known for choosing violence first.

      Reply
    6. Aya Avatar
      Aya

      fyi self-defense is not a thing in korea. If a random guy slaps your face for no reason, don’t fight back and be a jesus. so you did good job just avoiding him. You will serve a hefty prison time for defending yourself.

      Reply
    7. Linda Avatar
      Linda

      But there was something that impressed me a lot, I was seating inside of one station, and there was a (middle-aged) guy with a cup of coffee, he put his coffee near to me and when he picked it up he dropped coffee on my pants. I was really expecting that he said at least one 죄송합니다, or something like But the mfer said absolutely nothing

      Reply
    8. Mailine Avatar
      Mailine

      I had one Korean couple that saw me walking in and they proceeded to cover their food, and then told their kids to cover their food because I might walk by and eat it all up.

      Reply
    9. Destiny Avatar
      Destiny

      Not sure if this was rude or disrespectful or ignorance but I had a Korean woman tell me that I need to shower more because my skin so dark. FYI I’m just a Black woman.

      Reply
      1. De De Tillman Avatar
        De De Tillman

        Education is the key or travel to the US to see all kinds of people! Luckily, Korean celebrities travel to the US so they see all kinds of people and people in the US absolutely love them! 🙂 – LT

    10. S wing Avatar
      S wing

      Well in my limited experience, people young, old, or like myself, in between, will often cough or clear their throats as a means to ask you to move, step aside, or announce their presence so you dont bump into them or that you are in their path. I got triggered the 1st few times, thinking, Geez person, do you have to advertise the fact you have a cold so boldly? 😆. By the 3rd they cough or clear their throat and you haven’t moved,
      YOU WILL BE SHOVED!!!!!

      Reply
  79. Judy Avatar
    Judy

    Excuse the rant but this is something that I wanted to get off my chest/discuss but has anyone else dealed/endured the “rudeness” from people in Korea? I’m definitely not saying all of the people in this country are biased, closed minded, and lack patience but majority of the people that I’ve encountered has this kind of flaw. It just seems like after a shitty experience at the airport and being detained for hours, when I was finally let into the country, 80% of the people were assholes!

    Reply
    1. De De Tillman Avatar
      De De Tillman

      Sadly, it’s because of one person in the US government. – LT

      Reply
  80. Chance Avatar
    Chance

    Old man Korean man went out of his way to shoulder check me on the sidewalk, I stood my ground because I was against a wall and I thought he would be considerate enough to give me space. WRONG! This mfer leaned in to it and immediately started yelling at me in disbelief that I would not evade his aggression. I was not having it, and responded appropriately by telling him to fuck off. He then followed me as I tried to walk away and proceeded to choke me and hit me. I would never strike an old man but I will not allow old curmudgeons to try and forcefully get me to respect them. I find that many Koreans like to play this game of sidewalk chicken and this was the first time in my 1 year in Korea where this has resulted in a physical altercation. These people are insufferable! To make matters worse, I was the one that got arrested. Also I got fined 983,204 won and can’t leave the country until it’s paid. I’m ready to fucking leave. If you’re not a celebrity here, the respect given to you is very slim as a foreigner.

    Reply
    1. River Avatar
      River

      This has happened to me exactly once, almost 10days ago.

      I was at a McDonald’s in Daegu, waiting in line for my order, when this older guy (probably in his 60s) decides that he needs to bee-line for the napkins right past where I’m standing. Like, this dude was fast-walking and ready to obliterate anything in his way. No “실례”, no sounds whatsoever, he’s just about to bulldoze someone.

      So I politely move out of the way as he rushes past, slightly bumping me in the process. He grabs his napkins and makes the same rush back to his seat. A minute later, he does it again. I move out of the way, still get jostled a little.

      A minute after that, he does it again.

      At this point, I get the sense that this has become a game to him, so I decide that I’m going to ignore him and see what happens.

      Sure as shit, he makes a 4th napkin run in as many minutes. Except this time, I didn’t move and the motherfucker bounced right off of me. I turned my head to see what had hit me. The dude grunted, and shouted “get out of the way” and proceeded to get more napkins. That was the last time he tried it. The rudeness in this country is definitely loud.

      Reply
    2. Tzera Avatar
      Tzera

      I once had an 아저시 barge my 8 year old son off his skateboard on Haeundae Beach in the middle of a crowd. Because he considered it was breaking some rule and wanted to teach my son a lesson? Poor kid was really shook up as I’d always taught him not to be aggressive, apart from the fact of dashing spread long down the pavement.

      We just walked away and I explained it happens, sometimes other people are having a bad day.

      Reply
    3. Bethany Buns Avatar
      Bethany Buns

      Fun fact: in korea, if someone attacks/ punches a Korean in their face while they’re wearing glasses, they can report you for attempted murder.

      (Im currently following a youtube lawyer that talks to korean lawyers due to nuisance streamers trying to get away with committing crimes in korea)

      Im not entirely sure of the logic but i think the glasses shattering in your face would very much be an attempt of murder and Koreans uses that against foreigners when they’re pissed.

      Reply
    4. Wendy Avatar
      Wendy

      Was walking down the street today by Yongsan when I felt a blow to the back of my leg. Turned around and some crazy guy had kicked me. His mother(?) Was trying to calm him down. Then turned to me and asked me to apologize to him for him being upset. Omg this country

      Reply
    5. Hyena Avatar
      Hyena

      Honestly, it’s not even worth reacting to it. You just end up looking like the crazy foreigner in front of others. And if you shoulder check them back and they fall and get hurt, you just end up paying them for their injuries. I got into an argument in Korea for something similar, but I fought back and ended up paying 1.7 in compensation. People like that aren’t worth your time. I got literally broke off that and then got deported.

      Reply
    6. Pur Avatar
      Pur

      They must be getting more and more crazy. A couple days ago I was thrown stones at from the rooftop by an old lady for standing the boardwalk in front of a shop where her home was at the top of it, and leaning at a pole. She told me in Korea to get the hell out of her country.

      Reply
    7. Muffin Avatar
      Muffin

      “I find that many Koreans like to play this game of sidewalk chicken”

      Yep it is so f’ing annoying. I always move out of their way cuz they sure as fk wont move. Maybe it gives their ego a boost.

      Reply
    8. Fatima Avatar
      Fatima

      Got pushed out of the way on an escalator in the Hyundai Dept Store by an old man in a fedora- luckily a friend caught me.

      Reply
    9. Hira Avatar
      Hira

      Old people in Korea deserve much much worse. They have no manners and act as if they own our courtesy and respect. One took her cane and hit me with it because I was squatting somewhere and it seemed “rude”

      Reply
    10. Smart mouth Avatar
      Smart mouth

      they are definitely insufferable, its why i like to stay inside, and never try to make korean friends, or small talk. It sucks because I’m in Korea and want to meet new people but this is too much. I was called me a damn Trump supporter despite I fucking hate him.

      Reply
    11. Berina Avatar
      Berina

      Dude, just walk away. Because your testosterone is going to get you arrested. Use your brain. Who’s the court going to believe, an elderly gent or some tattooed foreign dude? Korea being what it is, the police may well deliberately lose cctv imagery. What then? A few weeks in a Korean jail. Then, there’s the likelihood of deportation for assaulting an old man. JUST WALK THE HELL AWAY

      Reply
    12. Mai Shira Avatar
      Mai Shira

      There is cctv literally everywhere. The court doesn’t need to ‘believe’ anyone, they can just pull nearby cctv footage and see who actually started the altercation. But if it involves their people, that CCTV will be missing a time stamp.

      Reply
    13. Mini Avatar
      Mini

      At the point i feel like we should all agree the biggest issue with living in korea mostly stems from the old people. Old people making decisions out of touch with reality in politics, companies, etc. Old people being inconsiderate rude assholes in public. Boomers do similar sht in other countries too but the factor is multiplied by 2 in korea due to the intense age hierarchy. Old people make peoples lives a living hell here.

      Reply
    14. Germyia Avatar
      Germyia

      I always get targeted by 아줌마. I don’t even look or make eye contact with them and ignore it. They want the reaction. I’ve been chased and hit several of times also. In the states I would’ve knocked the piss out of someone for hitting me but in Korea, YOU will be in trouble for defending yourself.

      Reply
    15. Deanna Avatar
      Deanna

      When I lived in Korea I was holding hands with my Korean friend. This random Korean woman our age hit his in the arm as we walked by her. I always thought it was because I’m a black woman holding hands with a Korean man so she he was upset.

      Reply
    16. Honey Dee Avatar
      Honey Dee

      This happened to yesterday at Daiso.. I was standing in line and some old lady pushed me and wanted to get in front of me, I looked her and she seemed to ignore me… I decided not to engage and went back right in line in front of her as that was where I was… I almost asked her “what the F was wrong with her?”… but I am also black lol so I had to keep my cool. That’s when she shoved me and I fell and told me to “respect my elders, ignorant person “

      Reply
    17. Gypsey Avatar
      Gypsey

      This is a common occurrence. I once had one slap my back (I mean proper bitch slap) after I brushed past him getting off a crowded subway (subway that he rides for free). I think a lot play on the fact they’re exempt from any repercussions of their actions whatsoever. Insufferable human beings at times.

      Reply
    18. Scotty Avatar
      Scotty

      koreans really are the rudest culture ive ever met… in no other culture is this story so common. I’m just glad that you stood up for your self unlike most foreigners but it sucks when you do, you get punished.

      Reply
  81. Mary Amy Avatar
    Mary Amy

    My where do I start?
    A guy was driving up to a crosswalk while I was in the street, I put out my hand to motion him to stop/slow down, and his side mirror hit me. He got out of the car to yell at me and when I walked away he chased after me to hit and kick me.

    I submitted a report to the local police station and they checked for a CCTV in the area but didn’t actually ask me any questions. A few days later, a detective contacted me and I initiated the altercation by me doing the hand motion. They said they checked on the guy and lucky for me that HE IS OK. Forget me and me being assaulted.
    Then yesterday my mom came to visit me and was interrogated for 12 hours time she got off the plane for absolutely no reason at all. I can’t wait to leave this country.

    Reply
  82. Demaya Avatar
    Demaya

    My experience was an absolute nightmare. I’m a Black woman from US citizen for background purposes and I went to Singapore first for a vacation, from there I went to Korea, expecting to have a 2 week vacation as I did last year but this time around I was pulled to the side and brought into a tiny room with 2 agents that integrated me for almost 4 hours. They took all my belongings away and I couldn’t make any phone calls. My aunt is Black and married to a Korean man and he came to pick me up and they told him no. They said US people are trouble and causes trouble for their country! Weird as hell because I’ve always follow their rules each time I visited. After 4 hours, they finally let me go but I tell you it was exhausting as shit especially dealing with agents that barely spoke English.

    Reply
    1. De De Tillman Avatar
      De De Tillman

      For emergencies abroad, listen for the phone number: From the U.S. & Canada – 1-888-407-4747. From Overseas – +1 202-501-4444. LT

      Reply
      1. Chad Avatar
        Chad

        They took Asiana. My mom took a cruise cause she’s scared to fly and her along with many other cruisers didn’t have no problems getting in. Didn’t even look in their direction.

      2. Chad Avatar
        Chad

        Thing is, there Asiana isn’t the problem, it’s the actual Korean agents. They have some sick issue with US and we all know damn well why

      3. De De Tillman Avatar
        De De Tillman

        Yes, we Americans know. 🙂 LT

      4. De De Tillman Avatar
        De De Tillman

        Did your cousins and sister get into South Korea after 4.5 hours? – LT

      5. Chad Avatar
        Chad

        That and after giving them an extra $75 EACH…

      6. De De Tillman Avatar
        De De Tillman

        No! You don’t pay anything, that wasn’t supposed to happen at all. You have 90 days free. This also happened in Thailand. – LT

      7. Chad Avatar
        Chad

        Yea I heard. It’s happening in Asia, some Europe countries France and Switzerland and even happened to a friend of mines in Jamaica. Not sure what the hell that was all about but right now they not feeling the US either.
        We started to call and complain about the money but said forget it cause Korea is good at retaliation so we just let it go to have a smooth life in Korea

      8. De De Tillman Avatar
        De De Tillman

        Exactly! It’s all because of one person in office. Hopefully, your family will enjoy themselves in the country and have a nice life there. 🙂 LT

      9. Chad Avatar
        Chad

        A few more family is coming out here too but they’re taken a cruise because their focus is Americans coming off the airlines. We’re making the best of it

      10. De De Tillman Avatar
        De De Tillman

        Is your family just going there to visit or stay? Good for them for finding a way! 🙂 LT

    2. Chad Avatar
      Chad

      I believe this!!! Happened to my cousins and sister 2 days ago. They got to them before we did. We got there before their plane arrived. My mother took a cruise to Europe then to Japan and over to Korea and she had no problems. Lol but we were at the airport for 4.5 hours.

      Reply
      1. De De Tillman Avatar
        De De Tillman

        Do you know what airlines they took? No travel warning. – LT

      2. De De Tillman Avatar
        De De Tillman

        This is something new that’s going on with a lot of countries. – LT

      3. Maria Ewulu Avatar
        Maria Ewulu

        My parents and brother will take a cruise to come out here. They don’t care about cruise 🚢 riders for some reason but they’re integrating the hell out of airline riders for whatever reasons. The airport is a magnet for bs right now

      4. Chad Avatar
        Chad

        Maria, yea I second that. Airlines are insane right now and it’s a popular place to be targeted for just about anything. They’re not suspecting cruises for the most part. They know they come in but they’re not too fixed on them. Airlines are the busiest and easy prey on Americans and to get some money out of them.

    3. Kenzy Avatar
      Kenzy

      I had a terrible experience as well. Mines is different from yours but I need someone to vent to. Hope you don’t mind. I am a foreign woman who lived in Seoul and was sexually assaulted by a Korean man back in Feb. It took me about three weeks to finally report him because I was afraid of how the police would treat me. My fears were validated through the whole investigation. At first, when I gave my initial statement, they seemed to believe me. I was told to come back to give my detailed statement, which took about 11 hours and was more of an interrogation than anything. I was asked highly in appropriate questions that were retraumatizing. The investigator kept making me repeat over and over again things like how I felt during my assault as if nitpicking to finf anyway that my assault couldn’t have possibly been an assault or as if I was overreacting. Since I am pretty sure the Korean guy had drugged me, many questions all I could say was I didn’t know or remembered, but he asked me to describe things like position in detail.

      The detective eventually got in contact with the Korean guy and called me. I could tell from that point on he did not believe me at all and viewed me as if I was just trying to destroy this poor Korean guy’s reputation and treated me as such. I had to return for another detailed statement to make sure my statement remained the same, which was an 8 hour interrogation where the detective treated me like I was the criminal.

      To make the long story short, I was kicked out of Korea, despite having proof of the assault, they said I was causing trouble and trying to ruin a Koreans man’s reputation.
      I might protest the decision, but I’m pretty beaten down after that whole process. They treat women like we are nuisances who are out here using our free time and energy to ruin men’s lives. I felt like more the criminal than the victim throughout the whole thing and was treated extremely insensitivity.

      Reply
      1. Delilah Avatar
        Delilah

        I’m so sorry that happened to you. Almost same happened to me 2 years ago when I was followed home. I made a report because I was sexually assaulted but the Korean police said it was my fault and that the poor Korean man could’ve done better because “I’m not all that attractive”

        I recently returned 2 days ago for work purses and was interrogated for 7 hours just to be told I can’t get in because I cause trouble for Korean men. Absolute bs

    4. Toya W Avatar
      Toya W

      This happened to me yesterday. Omg 😳 I’m back in the states right now but I was pulled to the site and brought into this tiny room. All of my belongings were taken and I was interrogated for 3 hours. The agent was just so nasty and rude to me. I remained calm but I can tell she was trying to intimidate me.

      Reply
      1. De De Tillman Avatar
        De De Tillman

        So sorry that happened to you! 🙁 – LT

  83. Mauriacha Avatar
    Mauriacha

    Usually I’ve never had any issues with visiting Korea but just yesterday it was so different. I got interrogated for absolutely no reason. My boyfriend and I got separated from each other and they were trying so hard to intimidate me. I was in a hole for almost 6 hours. I have NEVER HAD THIS HAPPEN to me EVER.
    I was so scared. They even tried to charge me extra just to let me in the country. I couldn’t make any phone calls or anything because they took my phone. If anyone plans to travel to Korea, just be ready to be violated and intimidated.

    Reply
    1. De De Tillman Avatar
      De De Tillman

      Unfortunately, it seems to be what’s going on right now with so many countries. It’s because of that person in the US office. – LT

      Reply
    2. De De Tillman Avatar
      De De Tillman

      What airlines did you take? – LT

      Reply
    3. Ku Avatar
      Ku

      I was arrested, they arrested the wrong foreigner..and it was such a strange experience. The cop just kept asking me why foreigners come here and make trouble. While simultaneously I’m watching this guy and girl fight in the police station. It’s like 10,000 Koreans get arrested daily and maybe 800 foreigners and it’s just “stop causing trouble foreigner!” They were handcuffing foreigners left and right 3 days ago.

      Reply
    4. Kimmy Avatar
      Kimmy

      I arrived in Korea yesterday and they were treating all the tourists coming in from the US like crap and I was one of them. I was integrated by a male agent for 2 hours.

      Reply
      1. De De Tillman Avatar
        De De Tillman

        What airlines did you take? – LT

  84. Martisha Avatar
    Martisha

    Well everyone, I called myself trying to vacation in Korea for a few weeks but I found myself catching hell with boarder patrol for absolutely no reason. I’ve never had any issues with them before, and they’re usuallly very welcoming even though Koreans can be rude as hell at times but on this particular day, their rudeness went an extra mile. I was eventually turned away. I tried contacting friends that live in Korea to come down and help me but they wouldn’t even sell me a SIM card to contact them. What in the actual hell?

    Reply
    1. De De Tillman Avatar
      De De Tillman

      Unfortunately, this is happening in numerous of countries because of one person in the US government and with the current events, it’s worse than ever. LT

      Reply
    2. Jessalyn Avatar
      Jessalyn

      You’re not the only one. I’m from the US but recently went to Japan and I had to check out for a day and decided to go to Korea for that one day and boy oh boy did I ever catch hell. I felt like I was being integrated for a crime I never committed. They were trying to intimidate me and even taking their volume up a notch. I have never felt so belittled in my entire life. I was so embarrassed. They had Korean officers there also.

      Reply
      1. De De Tillman Avatar
        De De Tillman

        Sadly, you were treated that way because of one individual in the US office. – LT

    3. Felicia J Avatar
      Felicia J

      Happened to be also but In France the other day. I was being integrated for almost 4 hours. I nearly lost my mind.

      Reply
      1. De De Tillman Avatar
        De De Tillman

        This is really sad that this is happening in so many countries that are the US friends. Only one person in the US government is the reason why all of this happening to innocent Americans. -LT

    4. Rotianna Avatar
      Rotianna

      I experienced this same harsh treatment the other day. I got separated from my dad and brothers and I was in a holding cell with my mom and sister. We were being integrated and disrespected at the same time. We sat there for 8 hours. I’m from New York and we wanted to be in Korea for 90 days. Rude as hell beyond words. My mother was about to start arguing back with the man but I had to tell her to calm down because that’s what they wanted. 8 hours later and it just ruined the hell out of our trip. Not to mention the rest is Korea is rude and ignorant as hell. I’m just done .

      Reply
    5. Gabby Ewulu Avatar
      Gabby Ewulu

      This is exactly why my mom is taking a cruise in September to come here. She’s moving here but she refuses to deal with the airlines and their bs!
      At the moment it isn’t good to fly in because agents are giving people a hard time coming in. Mostly Americans!

      Reply
      1. Montae Avatar
        Montae

        You know what’s crazy? Just today a 16 year old Korean girl in New York was detained. She’s in a place that don’t have showers or nothing. Guess what country is back pissed?

  85. Yodela M Avatar
    Yodela M

    I am aware society works very differently from the west and discrimination is treated very differently. I keep on hearing from expats in Korea and from Koreans that living and working there is horrible. The more I ask and the more I look around, i can never get past the “it’s just horrible to work there”, but what exactly makes it that bad? I know skin color and race play a big part on it, which has made me very curious to want to know what a dark skin black woman maybe up against?

    This has ultimately been the only thing that has kept me hesitant on whether or not I should keep on pursuing my efforts to move there, so your answers are very much appreciated. Thanks

    Reply
  86. Chiyo Avatar
    Chiyo

    I’m a 35 year old girl who has lived in Korea for the past 4 years. Please note I am only typing my observations, and I am not speaking to all of Korea.

    I have been dancing under a company, and I will say that although there are many things I love about this country, I have to say it is extremely sexist, racist, and all around a depressing place to live.

    Girls are still considered objects here. Sure, there is a Female President. She does not reflect on the entirety of Korean society. We are all told to be the exact same. When I first came here, I was 51kg (162cm) I was told I was fat everyday, telling me to get plastic surgery. Girls here are scared to not have boyfriends. I see their boyfriends grab the back of their girlfriend’s neck, pull their hair, and forcefully push them out in public. After getting close to many Korean girls, I would have to say around 1 in 3 girls have been sexually touched by their fathers. And if a girl was raped by her father, the police wouldn’t do anything about it, and if anything the girl would get in trouble for going against her father. When dancing, I am one of those people who they say has “charisma.” However, I am constantly scolded for it everyday, which wouldn’t bother me, but the boys who dance with “charisma” are constantly praised for it. It’s basically that pretty innocent look that seems to be the only acceptable girl image. Playing dumb, using a high voice, etc…

    The people here are depressed. They have a happy face on all the time, but the life is sucked out of them. Living here is like living in a black and white world, if you are sad or depressed nobody will care. When my best friend (who is korean.) was crying all day in the locker rooms people just walk by and don’t care. If you do something that is slightly out of the ordinary you are labeled as strange. So many suicides happen everyday to a point where it’s not even a big deal here. Sure you can find great friends here, but none of them will be the friends that you can really open up to and get close to.

    I have a friend who is an English teacher in Seoul, and the school scolded him for talking about genetics. Why? Because he taught the students that they were all different and unique. According to Korean society, being different is a big “no no.”

    Again, I love Korea, however Korea has advanced faster than the people. (and the buildings, but that’s not a huge deal.) Some Koreans like foreigners, but most of them think they are really loud and annoying. (If you come here, PLEASE don’t yell on the subway.) Girls are very oppressed, people are depressed and have to be the same. To be honest, I could go on forever but these are the only things that come to mind as of now. Please don’t take it offensive. Again, I’m just stating my observations.

    Reply
  87. Amina Avatar
    Amina

    Moving to a new country is very scary and If any one of you can help answer some of the questions I have, that would be much appreciated. Thanks

    Reply
    1. Juwanna Avatar
      Juwanna

      Depends on what you’re asking I might can help.

      Reply
      1. Amina Avatar
        Amina

        Just what I do need basically if I want to pack up tomorrow and leave? Lol

      2. Amina Avatar
        Amina

        Oh yikes 😬 I do have family still in that states but I saved $3500 to move to Korea.

      3. De De Tillman Avatar
        De De Tillman

        There are some job resources on this blog. 🙂 LT

      4. De De Tillman Avatar
        De De Tillman

        Work on getting a job there while you save up just a little more cushion. If 10k is too stressful to save up at least get a job in South Korea.If you already have a job, is it transferable? Busuu.com is free to start learning something in the language. Watch lots of Korean programs. Do as much as you can for free. Even the library for language books. 🙂 LT

      5. Amina Avatar
        Amina

        I really appreciate this because I’ve heard this from others also. They said you need lots of money to live in Korea. I was ready to take off soon but I don’t want to be in another country struggling , especially because I’m black and don’t know what to expect.

      6. De De Tillman Avatar
        De De Tillman

        You can also look into remote jobs on what you like to do. 🙂 LT

      7. Amina Avatar
        Amina

        I’m determined to meet a man like Kim Hyunjoong so I will save and learn the language. I appreciate your honesty. I would’ve definitely lost my mind had I gone there not knowing things. I will aim for September.

    2. Juwanna Avatar
      Juwanna

      Well let me ask. Do you speak Korean or know some basics to hold a conversation? That’s important here. That’s where I messed up. Also do you have a backup plan in case it doesn’t work? That’s also where I messed up. I gave up my apartment before coming here and I struggled like hell for awhile. Luckily my mom was still in the states and almost had to go back there for a while because I was broke when I got here. Being broke in a foreign country is the stupidest thing you can do.

      Reply
    3. Juwanna Avatar
      Juwanna

      I’ll keep it real with you, you went here more than me but to be honest, it’s still not enough. Money disappears here in a blink of an eye. $3500 is enough to have a vacation here but to LIVE here is a bit different. To be able to live here and stress free before getting employment, at least have 10k. I know what I’m talking about. You get treated better when you have that at least.

      Reply
    4. Gabby Ewulu Avatar
      Gabby Ewulu

      I live in a cheap area but it was a struggle for myself and my sister. We came back to our parent’s house for a little because we couldn’t handle it but we returned. I would say have a job lined up before you come here and definitely know the language. I watched a lot of kdrama and self taught and then hung around Koreatown in my free time in the states but I have my moments. Can’t even tell them to stfu and speak English 😂 because I’m in their country because I would in the states so you have moments like that it’s very very frustrating. If you have any medical conditions or anything, definitely learn the language to save your life. You don’t need an emergency and have a language barrier trying to save your life.

      Reply
      1. Amina Avatar
        Amina

        I do have asthma and high blood so that’s super scary for me. I know for the most part how to take care of myself but in an emergency, it’s scary trying to describe what’s wrong with you and not know the language. Unfortunately I don’t know a lot of Korean besides, Hello, Thank you, How are you. Very basic

      2. De De Tillman Avatar
        De De Tillman

        Papago app. Just until you learn the language 🙂 LT

      3. Amina Avatar
        Amina

        I’m just going to aim for September. Save money and learn at least 4 months worth of Korean. I know I can process when I get there but I need a bit better. Plus I need to find a job, I need something before I get there so I won’t burn through money.

    5. Juwanna Avatar
      Juwanna

      Don’t get me wrong, Korea is cheap once you adapt but when you first come in, you NEED money!!!! Let me repeat YOU NEED MONEY!!!!!! I had a friend that I’ve met and know for a few years from a app that lets you make foreign friends and she’s reached out to help me when I first got here but I said no thanks, I appreciate the hell out of her for offering but I’m not leaving a country to another seeming like a charity case. That’s embarrassing. I do recommend to just save a little more before you come. Save at least 10k. It’s not impossible. You will thank me later once you see how smooth, $3500 will be gone in a day and you’ll be struggling.
      It’s not worth it.

      Reply
    6. Gabby Ewulu Avatar
      Gabby Ewulu

      Medical would definitely do the best they can to help you but you don’t want to be in a position where you cant use your fingers to translate and then don’t speak the language. When I say do the best, they’re not going to carry around a translator to make it easy for you lol they will continue to ask a bunch of questions in Korean and expect you to nod or shake your head to answer the same questions that you don’t understand. Holding a conversation here is very important. Locals won’t even bother helping you anywhere you go if you don’t speak korean. They could care less about you visiting. My brother went back home and he’s studying Korean to come back while he also saves more money.

      Reply
    7. Amina Avatar
      Amina

      @De De Tillman
      I don’t have much going for me. I’m into retail lol 😂 so I don’t have a job lined up at the moment.

      Reply
      1. De De Tillman Avatar
        De De Tillman

        If you have any skills or anything. Hair, makeup, nails, or something. Just think of you can do to in South Korea for work. You can create your work, your own business. 🙂 LT

      2. De De Tillman Avatar
        De De Tillman

        Check Asiana Airlines, Air Premia, Cathay, EVA in August for cheap airline tickets. 🙂 LT

    8. Amina Avatar
      Amina

      @De De Tillman I will check it out. Thanks. I’m going to wait until September and try to save money. I don’t want to suffer in a foreign country. I would love to be as comfortable as possible.

      Reply
      1. De De Tillman Avatar
        De De Tillman

        Great! 🙂 This is La Tray.:)

  88. Hungyen Avatar
    Hungyen

    Hi, I’m planning to move to Seoul to study Korean. Like many kdrama fans, I also hope to find a korean “oppa” (I think it’s hyung for guy?). I’ve been having my eyes on Jermhi and Hongin. As a gay Vietnamese, I’ve heard some korean if not all are quite racist towards South East Asian. How true is this? And is it okay being gay in Korea? Thanks! Please be gentle in the comment section :*(

    Reply
    1. Gretchen Avatar
      Gretchen

      You seem like a nice guy so I’m saying this very gently, Hongin and Jermhi sleep with more women than the guy on Maury with 28 kids. 🧒🏻👧🏻👦🏾🧒🏽
      They’re not into men but Itaewon is gay friendly, you will find someone.

      Reply
    2. Lisa Avatar
      Lisa

      Koreans are definitely more closeted about their sexuality, but if you really do want to find a gay man, you can go to Itaewon. There should be plenty of gay bars there (source: one of my friend is gay and met a Korean there).

      As charming a guy can be, please always be careful and pay attention to how they behave. Some might genuinely be looking for relationships, but some might have bad intentions. Korean men is not an exception because they’re people too. You can savor the feel of being in a relationship/meeting someone new, but always use your head and look out for any red flags!

      Most of the gays I know only had short-term relationships. Korea is still conservative so I think it might be difficult to establish a long-term relationships with gay Korean unless they themselves already had a clear stance regarding their sexuality (and have understanding parents, or are willing to rebel against their family).

      Reply
    3. Blanca Avatar
      Blanca

      Southeast Asians are definitely discriminated against especially the darker your skin tone is. But there are also many Koreans who are open and nonjudgmental to SEAs. It’s not just black and white.

      And yes, don’t expect men to be like Kdramas. They are just normal people at the end of the day.

      Reply
    4. Gabe Avatar
      Gabe

      Why do you want to find a Korean guy? Why not Vietnamese or Cambodian or Thai or Nigerian? Just curious

      Reply
    5. Nadia Avatar
      Nadia

      Hate to disappoint you but neither Jermhi or Hongin are into men. Jermhi has a son and with his son’s mother and Hongin dates celebrities.

      Reply
    6. Michelle Avatar
      Michelle

      You will not have a hard time finding love in itaewon but you will not catch Jermhi or Hongin there trying to have that kind of fun.

      Reply
    7. Cindy Avatar
      Cindy

      Hongin and Jermhi are not into men but there’s plently around Itaewon that are.
      Try your luck there.

      Reply
  89. Lillian Avatar
    Lillian

    Hey, I’m kicking in Itaewon for 2 weeks and am wondering what to do? Does anyone have recommendations? I was reading through the discussions and seen many people mentioning Itaewon. Thanks

    Reply
    1. Donna Avatar
      Donna

      I wish Itaewon had its own little section on here lol but I can recommend some things, depends on what you like to do.

      Reply
      1. De De Tillman Avatar
        De De Tillman

        LOL! I could create it. 🙂 L

      2. Lisa Avatar
        Lisa

        Same. I have so much to say lol

    2. Pink Avatar
      Pink

      Antique street.

      Drag brunch events.

      Trivia night events.

      Darts. Billiards.

      Clubbing.

      Brunch and cafes.

      Love sports events on TV with good crowds.

      Swim at Hamilton.

      Bowling at Smashing Bowl.

      Traditional Korean alcohol sampling at various places.

      Etc. Etc. Etc.

      Reply
    3. Alex Avatar
      Alex

      Anywhere in Itaewon tends to welcome expats. Simply find the style of music you’d like. But I always found Hongdae to be slightly better.

      Reply
    4. Gretchen Avatar
      Gretchen

      Jongno (종로) is boppin nowdays. Pretty central location, lots of daytime fun, huge nightlife, both korean and foreign presence, has historical/cultural significance as well as modern entertainment. Pretty close to the areas others mentioned too, at least on the north side of the river. Hongdae is both too chaotic and too sterile nowdays, I probably wont even bother visiting on future trips.

      As for the south side, 영등포 is decent, but yeah there’s not much to do besides the island. SNU/Gwanak-gu is kind of a ghost town nowdays compared to what it used to be. And it used to be kind of a (loveable) slum! Gangnam is gangnam, probably out of budget unless you find a gem. Geumcheon is always kinda lame but it can have some charm.

      Reply
    5. Maria Ewulu Avatar
      Maria Ewulu

      Itaewon is kind of 🥸 but The Hongdae area is happening but has few hotels, thus the ones there can charge high rates. You don’t need to stay there, however, as the Yeongdeungpo area isn’t far from Hongdae. Plus Seoul is accessible thanks to the subway (driving is a lot better because you’re on your own time), and if you want to experience food, Hongdae is among MANY hotspots in Seoul.

      Reply
  90. Aunjenette ward Avatar
    Aunjenette ward

    Now. I’m not trying to negate racism in Korea. It exists. And as a Black woman, I apologize if you had to go through some unpleasant instances where some ahjussi or ajumma stared you down at the stop sign or at a restaurant. But try being black in Mississippi or Texas first and tell me which is worse. I moved to Itaewon area
    3 months ago and I’ve been fine.

    Reply
  91. Deja Avatar
    Deja

    It’s funny to look at as an outsider. Koreans cry the loudest about racism or discrimination targeted against them, but they’re totally fine with discriminating others. However spending time in Itaewon has made me forget about the parts of Korea. Itaewon is very laid back and definitely more welcoming to Black women. I’m in contact with a realtor now to find residency here.

    Reply
    1. Courtney Avatar
      Courtney

      I’ve been here in and out since 2024 and never once experienced racism personally. Sure, I get looks and stares but everyone treats me so very kind – ESPECIALLY since I make the effort to study and speak Korean. People treat me better here than they ever did in New York. Which I where I’m from. Itaewon is the shittttt

      Reply
      1. De De Tillman Avatar
        De De Tillman

        Good you’re having a great experience in Itaewon! 🙂 – L

    2. Britt Avatar
      Britt

      No problems for me in Itaewon Korea’s public places whatsoever with racism in South Korea. Koreans are very kind here.

      Reply
    3. Derrick Avatar
      Derrick

      I’m a black man from the USA, and I moved to Seoul 8 weeks ago (and visited Seoul 3 times in my life before this).

      I’ve never had any open problems with racism focused on me here, either with my half Black-half Korean wife (who’s an American citizen) or by myself. I wander the city by myself sometimes; nobody has ever been mean to me in English, and the 1 time I *maybe* didn’t receive service could have been a misunderstanding on my part. People are understanding that my Korean is non-existent still, and if they do say mean things well…I can’t understand them anyway. 🙂 Itaewon has definitely been good to us. I stay away from other areas.

      Reply
      1. De De Tillman Avatar
        De De Tillman

        Thanks for sharing your Itaewon experience! 🙂 L

    4. Grim Avatar
      Grim

      From personal experience, Itaewon really isn’t bad at all. You’ll probably get looks and stares (especially from younger kids) every so often but not like in Busan or the country side.

      Reply
      1. De De Tillman Avatar
        De De Tillman

        Hopefully, kids will be taught. 🙂 L

    5. Karizzma Avatar
      Karizzma

      TBH i think the older people are much more racist than the younger crowd. But the older crowd avoid Itaewon as much as possible because they don’t like the younger “gay” crowd.

      Reply
    6. Eugen Avatar
      Eugen

      If you are not Chinese or Indian, you don’t have to worry about it. They’re hated no matter what part of Korean they’re in.

      Reply
    7. Saraya Avatar
      Saraya

      I’m a Black woman in Itaewon and my experience has been fine. The racism here isn’t worse than in America. It’s hardly none in the Itaewon area.
      The worst I’ve experienced was a random old women touching my hair and telling me I smelled good.

      Reply
      1. De De Tillman Avatar
        De De Tillman

        LOL. Good you’re having great time in Itaewon! 🙂 – L

  92. Chad Avatar
    Chad

    Hey everyone. Made it to Korea again FINALLY. Me + GF looking to go to Itaewon tonight, dinner at Kyochon Pilbang.

    Any recommendations for a bar or something to go to afterwards, for cheaper(?) (cheaper than the clubs) drinks while waiting for the peak club times?

    Then, looking for a club to hit up. We like techno/hardstyle and accept Top40s, maybe not so much Korean songs as we don’t really listen to them (outside of the REALLY popular songs).

    Also, if there any good events tonight in Itaewon, we wouldn’t mind checking it out.

    How do tables/sofas work here? How much do bottles cost in a club? Do we have to queue in a super long queue?
    We’re both very familiar with nightlife in Vegas and LA , but not at all Itaewon. My cousin JuJu is lame as hell and don’t know itaewon.

    Reply
    1. De De Tillman Avatar
      De De Tillman

      I’m so happy you and your GF made it FINALLY to SK but Itaewon. Hope you both have fun in Itaewon! 🙂 – L

      Reply
      1. Chad Avatar
        Chad

        I’m having fun paying cheap rent again. Lmao first we were at Quality inn Long Beach and then we went to West Hollywood at the Roadway Inn until we left the other day.

      2. De De Tillman Avatar
        De De Tillman

        Oh good for paying cheap rent! 🙂 L

      3. Chad Avatar
        Chad

        Didn’t think I was ever going to pay $189 a month anymore. I was going to check out of the roadway cause it was getting pricey but the hotel was worth it but we checked out a day early after getting a loan. Stayed up for 1 and a half, bought first class tickets and slept on the plane. ✈️

      4. De De Tillman Avatar
        De De Tillman

        What a great price! Don’t leave SK, just stay! 🙂 L

      5. Chad Avatar
        Chad

        We are NEVER returning lmaooo
        We got us a 1 bedroom place but it will due until we can do better. I’m excited for this new journey.
        My mom and dad and both my little brother will be out here in 1 week. They’re waiting for their lease to expire.

      6. De De Tillman Avatar
        De De Tillman

        Good! That’s great news about your family! 🙂 L

    2. Wyman Avatar
      Wyman

      Cakeshop for the club and Blacklist same building for the bar.

      Reply
      1. Chad Avatar
        Chad

        Thanks my man I appreciate that. I’m finding the locals here cool as hell.

      2. Chad Avatar
        Chad

        It’s great when you pay less than $200 a month for rent and no credit check bs!!! I feel refreshed as .

    3. Kē Na Avatar
      Kē Na

      Wow welcome to you and your girlfriend. So happy for you both 🤩
      I recommend Ring and Nyap. 😊

      Reply
      1. Chad Avatar
        Chad

        Thank you so much sweetheart from me and my lady.

    4. Wyman Avatar
      Wyman

      That’s what’s up, I’m glad you’re liking it overall. How is it?

      Reply
      1. Chad Avatar
        Chad

        I had a place before on a different side of town but this is my first time
        In itaewon. Someone told me to come here cause it’s more friendlier to black people so me and my lady checked out our hotel the other day and took first class Asiana and left. No credit check, no bank statements none of that bs

    5. Wyman Avatar
      Wyman

      Oh yea when people come to stay here they think Korea running a scam or pull the what’s the catch but it’s none. Korea don’t stress you out like America.

      Reply
      1. Chad Avatar
        Chad

        My point exactly. We were staying in Inglewood but went to West Hollywood and was running low on money, we were in a nice ass hotel but had to use coupons and Expedia to expand our stay at the hotel to keep it cheap and I don’t have to do that anymore. It’s a great feeling.

    6. Scorpio Avatar
      Scorpio

      in my experience, if you’re over like 25, hongdae can feel a little uncomfortable. not everywhere, but a LOT of places are usually 19-23 yr olds. some even have age caps at 30. i’m 27 and i prefer itaewon for that reason. both have good music and a variety of types of clubs though!

      Reply
      1. Chad Avatar
        Chad

        Oh yea nah lol Hongdae is wild as hell 😂 I want excitement but not that much. Lol just a little something to say we finally made it out of the depressing ass US

    7. Wyman Avatar
      Wyman

      Bank statements, Credit non of that exists here lmao that’s the best way to start over for those struggling financially (not saying you are lol). But I was struggling my ass off in the states and we had enough. My family packed up and moved to Korea which my parents are from. But it’s worth it to leave the bs behind in the US

      Reply
      1. Chad Avatar
        Chad

        Literally saved my ass lol 😂
        I didn’t really have much of anything but it worked. I can’t complain. I was grateful for it. Used it for almost 2 weeks.

      2. Chad Avatar
        Chad

        Priceline too. 💯 used them all

      3. Chad Avatar
        Chad

        Us cheap people know how to save money lol 😂 used them all and did what we had to do.

    8. Wyman Avatar
      Wyman

      Lmaoooo I know all about Expedia, my parents used that ALLLLLLLL the time when we were homeless for a little. I stayed with friends too but my parents has too much pride so we used Expedia and saved a shit load of money.

      Reply
    9. Wyman Avatar
      Wyman

      Good ole Priceline lmao how could my cheap ass forget.

      Reply
    10. Wyman Avatar
      Wyman

      Had no choice.

      Reply
  93. Tyera Avatar
    Tyera

    I went to Itaewon this weekend, seems pretty alive. Not sure how that compares to before, but mostly it seems like it’s bounced back.. I seen the comments about how rude Koreans are to black people, well to everyone but itaewon was so much fun. 🤩 I enjoyed myself. I should’ve stayed in here from day 1.

    Reply
  94. Pressia Avatar
    Pressia

    With the whole kpop company drama, the Shinzo Abe murder issues, and the Daegu COVID cases a few years back, (not mentioning names cause safety reasons)

    How big exactly are the cults here? Like how much power do they even have? Me and a few friends have our own horror stories on meeting/being invited to cults but what scale does this rabbit hole get to?

    Reply
    1. Nuka Avatar
      Nuka

      They are literally everywhere. Hilariously, Nordic countries like Norway and Sweden put out PSA travel advisory warning for all of their travelers and expats couple of years back to watch out for Korean cults and not to engage with any Koreans in regards to religious activity (regardless if they are legit catholics or protestants). I think the Korean embassy in those countries put out complaint, but not sure what the update of that is.

      Reply
    2. Oliver Avatar
      Oliver

      Yeah they’re definitely a thing in Finland too. Not sure if there’s ever been any sorta official warning about them here but most people know that if Korean girls approach you somewhere in the Helsinki region and ask you if you’d like to listen to their presentation, you gotta get out of there lol. The cult members usually tell people they’re high school or college students. The cult also organises a lot of Korea-related classes and events to lure people in. IIRC a bunch of investigative journalists found out that the cult behind all of this is Good News Mission.

      Reply
    3. Gabby Ewulu Avatar
      Gabby Ewulu

      That’s where the overly friendly ass Koreans come in at. 😂

      Reply
      1. Juwanna Avatar
        Juwanna

        Why was I just about to say this ? Lol

    4. Iucidia Avatar
      Iucidia

      I don’t know much. But I can share one experience I had Back in 2015 (? Not sure). my friend and I (both foreigner) were approached by a sweet girl and a guy in Hongdae. They just were super friendly and asked us if we wanted to have dinner and drinks. We thought at a Pocha or smth so we went along. We ended far away from the Center of Seoul in some shady house with honestly like 20 people of ALL ages in there. All Koreans. Then one young guy with lot of charisma started to give us a paper and asked us random question (in English) about religion, our view on the world, Astro sign and such. He then started to say random shit about the end of the world coming by the end of the year. So I believe 2015 or 2016. I don’t remember much of what he said but he asked for donations. we ended up In a ceremony with traditional costume and I remember that a bowl full of food (mostly raw chicken feet) was positioned on a small table. We did a prayer and such. Then we actually had a delicious dinner with everyone on a large table. Grandmas, teenagers, kids, etc. We finally left because we started to feel really uncomfortable with the vibe there. We left and the next few days they were spamming us on Kakao for donations so they can save our souls from the upcoming end of the world. We NEVER went back.

      It was my first trip in Korea and I had no idea that Cults were common. Especially in hongdae with members of cults trying to get clueless foreigners like us. I don’t think we were in any danger but it was creepy when I think about it.

      My next trip to Korea, I got many time approached by cute young girls with the same bait. I didn’t fall for it this time lol. So I guess yeah cults are a big thing there.

      I’m asking my friend if he still has the photos that we took during the ceremony. Will post it if i can find them back.

      Reply
    5. Myang Avatar
      Myang

      Very big, politicians and celebs are tied in with them. There’s a list of politicians and a lot of them are from the two major parties in South Korea. The press is being silenced by the cults. The president made ㄹㅎㄹ 방통위원장, which is a position that has a lot of power over the media. ㄹㅎㄹ is notorious for his relations with a cult and the cult’s victims protested about him in 2021. It’s sickening how no news outlet will speak out.

      Foreigners who don’t know Korean will not be able to grasp how big the current ㄷㅇㄷ ㅎㅇㅂ 스캔들 is. The kpop fans of ㅎㅇㅂ groups that are bashing knetz are the ones contributing to their faves getting brainwashed while bringing money to the cults. There needs to be some real reporters to stand up and Korean people need to look at this cult scandal properly, our country is in real danger rn.

      Reply
    6. Jade K Avatar
      Jade K

      The moonies could be as wealthy in SK as the Mormons are in USA.

      Shinchunji’s founder’s sprititual teacher is the father in law of Psy (of Gang nam style fame).

      The cult master behind Sewol disaster is related to JYP (of K-pop fame).

      How is the Scientology in SK? I wonder I should open a franchise and make money….

      Reply
  95. Clara Avatar
    Clara

    Background; im a bit fat

    So i was ridin’ the bus this mornin’ and it was crowded, i managed to have a seat but it was a bit difficult to get out, because well its CROWDED.

    This middle aged korean man was laughing and said “problem is you very fat, if you lost some weight it would be more room.”

    Reply
    1. Windy Avatar
      Windy

      It’s a cultural thing in many Asian cultures. They don’t see it as rude the way Western society sees a comment like this as rude. They see it as stating a fact. When I was in Korea I was told all sorts of things about my body and face that you’d never say to someone in the West. They really blunt and told me that I was ugly and that some parts of my face was too dark.

      Reply
    2. Marie Avatar
      Marie

      2 weeks after I gave birth, a stranger said right at my face you are still so fat (I was a size 0 and I gained 35 pound for pregnancy). I was annoyed but of course you do not talk back to Asian elderes, EVER. They sort of view it like a way to motivate you without caring if that hurts your feelings.

      Reply
    3. Maria Ewulu Avatar
      Maria Ewulu

      It’s part of the culture and it is shaming. Both things can be true. It’s no different than a sexist culture where people in it are so used to it they don’t think about it as meaning anything in particular. So don’t take it too harshly. There’s a fool in every community. Korea seems to be #1 but you know what I mean.

      Reply
    4. De De Tillman Avatar
      De De Tillman

      So sorry that happened to you this morning! 🙁 – LT

      Reply
    5. Lemi Avatar
      Lemi

      There were two fat people walking one day in a park and a man threw up because he said they disgusted him and he wanted them to leave the country because there might be a food shortage from people like them.

      Reply
      1. Molly Avatar
        Molly

        See me and my boyfriend are two fat ass white people, I would purposely sit my fat ass in a park and wait for one to say something, I would
        Say “you better hurry up and get what you need from the grocery store because that’s my next stop and never know, everything might be all gone and ate up by the time I leave there” to really scare one off. 🤣

    6. Rijue Avatar
      Rijue

      Yes, it is the Korean way. Western “a bit fat” is Korean “very fat”. Western “very fat” is shocking to Koreans. They will not lie. They will not speak gently. There is no HAES in Korea. There is no body acceptance movement. You just have to accept it, ignore it or avoid it.

      Reply
    7. Gabby Ewulu Avatar
      Gabby Ewulu

      I live in Korea, I was chubby when I first csme, and biracial (Nigerian mom and Italian dad)…. I got asked multiple times if I was pregnant, “nope, just fat” was my answer lol

      Don’t take it too hard to too personally, it sucks but that’s just how they do things. The ajummas at the restaurants loved me because I could eat full meals 🤣 but I have since lost the weight. I’m sure you’re beautiful just from your personality. That means volumes.

      Reply
    8. Juwanna Avatar
      Juwanna

      Would agree it is pretty normal for Koreans. If it makes you feel better, this grandpa told me I was single because I looked poor. I was wearing a T-shirt and hoodie. I thought I was going to be dragged in handcuffs before I touched work.

      Reply
    9. Gretchen Avatar
      Gretchen

      I’m Mexican American so nothing a Korean person says can phase me (nor is it anything I haven’t heard before from my own Mexican family/friends/random strangers in Mexico 🤣🤣).
      I always keep a tamale 🫔 in my purse, I would’ve gave him one to join the weight gain club.

      Reply
    10. Bella Avatar
      Bella

      Not all but most Koreans are healthy as hell so that’s why they say rude things.

      Reply
    11. Bianca Avatar
      Bianca

      Lol, yeah Koreans will just blurt out things like “Oh you gained so much weight” or “You look very old now” but it’s just a cultural thing with them. Don’t get upset because they aren’t trying to be mean or disrespectful to you.

      Reply
    12. Cindy Avatar
      Cindy

      Lol, yeah Koreans will just blurt out things like “Oh you gained weight” or “You look older now” but it’s just a cultural thing with them. Don’t get upset because they aren’t trying to be mean or disrespectful to you.

      Reply
    13. Midnight Avatar
      Midnight

      There are actually small stores in Korea that do not allow fat people to enter because they might get stuck.

      Reply
    14. Justine Avatar
      Justine

      Maybe it’s a partial reason why these countries are so healthy. They shame poor diet and lifestyle choices on the societal level, that’s inevitably going to be a motivator to not become obese. Sure I can see how problematic that is, just pointing it out

      Reply
  96. Micka Lim Avatar
    Micka Lim

    I take all travel summaries from white western tourists with a pinch of salt especially when noting how friendly the locals are to them.

    I’m Indonesian and bracing myself for poor service from locals in Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam and mostly, sadly, in Bali.

    I feel like a lot of posts regarding how friendly people are should state their race. It sucks but unfortunately that’s how most of Asia tourism is like.

    Reply
    1. Awa Avatar
      Awa

      I fully agree with this. I’m Thai and have the same experience in various places in Thailand and Bali as well. Everyone in Sumatra was really nice though. I’ve been there twice and want to go again. I never want to return to Bali. I think it’s possible to avoid places where we’d be treated worse and that’s what I do now.

      I don’t think it’s just Asian tourism though. I experienced so much more in Europe, but I guess we at least expect to be treated well in our own region/ country.

      Reply
  97. Ban Avatar
    Ban

    About 1% of taxi drivers are dodgy like ANY AND EVERY COUNTRY. Disregard them they dont represent an entire country nor the culture.

    Some bars or clubs dont let you in this is TRUE. Regardless of your race like half the clubs dont let you in once you are around 28+ years old. Some even cap the age at 24 like aura and some of the big edm clubs in hongdae.

    Yes a WHITE foreigner is going to be favoured due to colourism (pale skin is looked as rich while tan skin is looked as poor aka farmers/outdoor labourers) Its from the old days its slowly phasing out but TINY bits remain. No different to places like vietnam and other countries that also had this upbringing from the post war days. (Both korea and vietnam were just mostly farm land) only the last 20 years korea went from the bottom to the top globally.

    I think you were overly k drama brainwashed into thinking its some fairyland. Seems to be the same kind of people complaining on other travel groups about korea.

    Theres rude people everywhere, there’s racism to different levels everywhere. Korea still being the worse.

    Reply
    1. Sam Avatar
      Sam

      I’m white and have experienced every kind of taxi driver here. The sweetheart with a cross on his dash board. The guy who says nothing. The jerk that takes the longest route possible because he thinks you don’t know the area so you have to pay more. Honestly your driver was probably just having a bad day.

      Reply
    2. Sunny Avatar
      Sunny

      I’m Korean and I experienced both taxi drivers and bus drivers are rude. In fact, experience experience in restaurants, shopping centers.. list goes on. And I speak Korean fluently

      Reply
      1. Hessica Avatar
        Hessica

        I am Korean American born in the states and have visited many times and am actually visiting now. Have always faced issues coming here I’ve had a grown man physically grab me by my hood and have had grandpa age males yell at me for speaking English to my sister. I speak and can read Korean my writing isn’t as developed however my accent isn’t bad from what I’ve been told. I was a foreign exchange student during my childhood and my parents do not speak English so Korean was actually my first language. When put in elementary school I had to test out of ESL.

  98. Key Avatar
    Key

    IF it makes you feel any better, some clubs reject people for being ugly, no matter what race you are. Ugly is ugly them. If your teeth is missing or messed up you’re ugly, if your dark but looks like you have dirty skin (not just from being dark because plenty of dark people have clear and smooth looking skin) you’re ugly, if you’re fat.. your ugly!

    Reply
  99. Blue Avatar
    Blue

    I recently visited South Korea for the first time. I’ve traveled solo to many places — most of Europe, Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia — and I’ve always felt welcomed and respected. I’m from the United States, and we share many values with Korean culture, like respect for elders and family, so I was really looking forward to the trip.

    But I faced some situations that made me feel unwelcome.

    One of the first things that stood out was how a taxi driver acted toward me — very rude and disrespectful. He was saying things he probably assumed I wouldn’t understand, but I’ve picked up enough Korean through movies and series to know what was going on.

    In some bars, I was told “we’re full,” yet I saw Korean locals or other foreigners being let in. I later met a solo traveler from Switzerland staying in the same Airbnb, and he didn’t face any of these issues.

    It made me realize that being a white Westerner can make things smoother here — people are more welcoming, more open. There’s clearly a strong influence of Western beauty standards and culture, and if you don’t fit into that, things can feel a bit harder.

    I’m not saying everyone in Korea is like this — I did meet some nice and respectful people — but it’s something I think other travelers like me should be aware of.

    Reply
    1. Vira Avatar
      Vira

      I didn’t have quite the experience you did. However I’m from America but I’m Puerto Rican. I did experience several issues of not being told the same thing as locals. When I asked for a local noodle place they kept telling me places like McDonald’s and Burger King when it wasn’t even what I asked. I had my Korean boyfriend ask the same thing and he was given actual answers. I was looking for some authentic boba tea and was again directed to Starbucks and McDonald’s where my Korean boyfriend was given legit answers. It was very frustrating.

      Reply
    2. Flora Avatar
      Flora

      I’m ABC (American Born Chinese) and experienced the exact same things during my last trip to Seoul. If it makes you feel any better, local Koreans even treat Koreans who grew up overseas different (even if they speak Korean fluently), it’s unfortunate. I try to focus on my positive experiences but the disrespect to non-Koreans is kinda crazy.

      Reply
  100. Estelle Avatar
    Estelle

    Can anyone tell me if it’s even safe to travel to Korea? You know with Trump?

    Reply
    1. De De Tillman Avatar
      De De Tillman

      Right now SK is denying entry to US citizens because of him. 🙂 LT

      Reply
  101. Mali Avatar
    Mali

    You no longer need a korean phone number or card to use 배달의민족 (food delivery app) it take international cards now hope this helps you out if you don’t feel like going out to eat directly after getting your flight and going to you hotel or Airbnb.

    Reply
  102. Kaden Avatar
    Kaden

    Hi. My girlfriend (21F) and I (21M) went to Hongdae last night to check out the clubbing scene. We were with a (white) swedish girl and an American-Chinese girl who both stood in line in front of us. It’s notable to mention that we are both African American, and when entering the club, we were the ONLY people that got charged. Our friends in front of us got in for free, as did the other people in line. Clearly i was upset at this but didn’t want to cause a scene so I just paid the fee and entered the club. Is that a normal thing here?

    Reply
    1. Erin Wong Avatar
      Erin Wong

      Korea is still very homogeneous and it will take a while (or maybe never) to shake off. I remember watching a KBS thing with my mom in the 00s about how different colored kids were ostracized and bullied because of the color of their skin.

      Reply
  103. Bubba Avatar
    Bubba

    I met a black skinned tourist last week. He said Korea is the worst place he’d visited. I’m an Asian, so I didn’t receive any racism here. Not sure did I interpret his message wrongly. How does racism work in Korea? How do I know the local is racist towards someone when the outsiders can’t even understand the language?

    Reply
    1. Tessa Avatar
      Tessa

      If you’re not full-blooded korean and also raised in korea. I assure you, there’s a racist in Korea for you, just give it time.

      Reply
    2. Ming Avatar
      Ming

      The bad part about Korea is already racist but if you come to the country looking a disaster, you’ll just make things worse for yourself. It doesn’t matter what Asian you are, they don’t like you unless you’re Korean.

      Reply
      1. Vela Avatar
        Vela

        I’m in Indonesian and in our small Korean town here there were restaurants and mini marts that only allowed Koreans in. Not much these days but maybe 7-8 years ago you’d see signs outside some of these establishments.

        But yeah back to OPs issues. It’s pretty annoying. I had issues with taxi drivers also. Not sure if racist or just generally rude. I book the cab via the app and it arrives with the NGV tank in the boot and they get mad at me because my stroller doesn’t fit. Also the Airbnb I stayed at had quite a shitty narrow road leading to it, got scolded once why I picked this place to stay and another time the driver refused to go all the way and made me walk the last 300 meters.

      2. Antwonette Avatar
        Antwonette

        You think its more racist than the middle east? Ive never travelled in the middle east but i would think middle eastern countries would be much more discriminatory based on race and what country someone is from. My assumption is entirely based on media portryals and not first hand knowledge.

        Also i find travelling in europe as a black woman to be rather unpleasant. Ive had many experiences with people that are openly racist and demeaning.

        I find the racism in korea to be very superficial and largely of a very harmless variety (in comparison to most other places). Not being able to get into clubs, im not going to get too worked up about (as clubs are notoriously discriminatory for all kinds of terrible reasons).

        I think a lot of the people who are offended by the racism in korea may have the expectation of special treatment from koreans (ala what you may get in thailand/philipines, countries more dependant on tourism). That is just not the current situation in korea. Most people are not that impressed by or particularly welcoming of foreigners.

    3. Jade K Avatar
      Jade K

      I don’t speak for all black people or women, but I certainly get treated better here than when I lived in the US (and it’s not because I suffered from racism back home, I dealt w/ colourism, so not having to deal w/ that or racism here is pretty great). Can’t speak for southeast Asians. Idk if people stare, but on occasion (it’s pretty rare, though it depends on the location) I hear people talk about foreigners in a positive or neutral way in Korean when I’m around. I know it bothers others, but I like it tbh, it’s nice to know that it’s not negative. If anything, all of my white friends have been treated much worse than me (except for two, they aren’t sensitive ppl). I have been told by many Korean men that I should’ve been a model 🤷🏽‍♀️

      Reply
      1. De De Tillman Avatar
        De De Tillman

        Thanks for sharing! 🙂 LT

    4. Dan Avatar
      Dan

      Lots of Koreans (including my wife) are stupidly proud of their own country and will get offended when you joke about it or compare it negatively to other Asian countries. Meaning they think Korea is better than other Asian countries in every regard and don’t look at it objectively. So yes, Koreans definitely are racist with a false sense of superiority towards other Asians. Haven’t noticed any racism towards Caucasians or black people though.

      Reply
    5. November Avatar
      November

      This is why I’m not interested in living in South Korea. I had a friend, also a black woman, who lived in South Korea for two years teaching, and she mentioned her experiences, which weren’t great. At the time, I was living in Central Asia and had issues beyond the usual staring or laughing and pointing (in an area of the world where people usually don’t smile, on average). I was followed (on foot, into rooms, through bazaars, by cars, by police, etc.), I was yelled at, I was groped, I was having pictures and videos taken of me everytime I left my apartment or would be in a public space and I hate pictures and videos. I had things thrown at me or people just terrified of me. I’ll never forget the pregnant lady who walked past me in fear holding her pregnant belly like I would hurt her or something.

      There was a black face performance at the national theater in the country I was in at the time that caused a whole thing for me because I was invited to the event by another person from the US (she was white) and dealt with a whole thing with the theater director, some of the actors, security, etc. The only person who came to help me was the Russian guy I was seeing at the time. He noticed how I was treated and did not like it. He wanted asked me, “December, why do so many people look at you with so much hate?” It was obvious to him how I was treated, but many other white people were oblivious. Honestly, props to the Russian and Ukrainian men I met; mamy of them batted for me when others didn’t and in their own languages, too.

      Reply
      1. Arc Avatar
        Arc

        If you are dark and from a developing/poor country definitely you’ll experience this in Korea.
        One of the most classist, racist, colorist societies in the world today. Lookism is also a huge problem where you will get discriminated if they deem you are not pretty enough.

        There are other racist societies too but those countries have laws and it can get you in trouble. In Korea, there are no such anti-racism laws.

        I’ve met a lot of Koreans in South East Asia, most are assholes and disrespectful to the poor locals. They keep to themselves because they are “RICH” and not want to assimilate to the dark poor locals as they see them as “servants”

        But if you found a Nice Korean without those traits, they are definitely the loveliest people. Rare gems though. But if you’re super dark with bad skin on top or overweight and dark, don’t go to Korea and think you’ll be treated kindly..

    6. Johnissa Avatar
      Johnissa

      To me, it depends. It’s more of a generational thing. I’ve noticed that if they are second – or third generation American, there is a little less racism. Japanese people, in Japan, on the other hand, absolutely LOVE black people. Japanese women, in Japan, especially love black men. It really depends on the Asian country or the family itself. I’ve visited Taiwan a few times and they were very welcoming of Black people in the country.

      Reply
  104. Cella Avatar
    Cella

    Why most of the Korean fall for white skin? They’re so racist that they don’t want to talk with people with brown skin. Am I only one feeling this in Korea? It has been more than two years I live in Korea.

    Reply
  105. Taevon Avatar
    Taevon

    So I’m a black man and wanting to move out of America, likely to Korea due to learning the language and just wanting to go somewhere else honestly. But I’ve seen a lot of posts on this subreddit and other media about how moving to Korea isn’t a great idea as a non-native/non-east Asian and even worse for black people but I feel like this outlets could just be misleading and pandering.

    So I want to know from any foreigners who are actually there and also any black people in Korea, I would like to mostly be reassured either way, I’m currently in my 20s and would like to decide where to live my life and would hate to move to a different country when I’m 40-50 so I would love to figure things out sooner then later.

    PS I am reading other comments.

    Reply
    1. De De Tillman Avatar
      De De Tillman

      Thank you for replying! I’m sure someone will comment to you to give advise. 🙂 LT

      Reply
      1. Taevon Avatar
        Taevon

        Thank you. Have you been to Korea? What’s your experience if so?

      2. De De Tillman Avatar
        De De Tillman

        You’re welcome! Not yet. 🙂 – LT

    2. Diana Avatar
      Diana

      Go for a year and see how you like it. Racism here is different than Europe and USA, so it will either bother you or you will be able to ignore it. Some of my non-white foreigner friends hated it and left Korea, some never really have big issues (aka they don’t really hang around people who would be a problem, their bosses are fine, so all they have to deal with is stares and off-hand comments sometimes), and some fall somewhere in the middle, where they are bothered by it, but Korea offers way more good things than bad for them, so dealing with that nonsense is worth it.

      Reply
    3. Jordan Avatar
      Jordan

      Based on personal experience having lived in both countries as a Black man: I’ve experienced WAY MORE racism in Korea than during my time living in London, Zurich, and Amsterdam and Taiwan combined.

      I do agree that Korean racism is less physically violent, but it doesn’t mean the damage is any less severe. Social isolation, inability to find an apartment, and overt stares and gestures are equally damaging to my psyche… it will mess with your mental health.

      Reply
      1. Taevon Avatar
        Taevon

        Damn see this is what I was afraid of. I mean in America I’m not safe either so I would choose Korea for that reason but I don’t think I’m ready for it. I have heard nice things about Taiwan. I want a place I can move my mother to and allow her to enjoy life.

      2. Micka Lim Avatar
        Micka Lim

        Ayana, 😳 really?

    4. Kel Avatar
      Kel

      Black American guy in Korea here. I hate to break it to ya man but there’s racism all around, even in a place as great as Korea. We’re just not fully liked anywhere lol. Being barred from clubs, to being stereotyped, and even the mean glares from the older generation on the train. It gets annoying but even with those things I love Korea. Not everyone is racist and you can still have a great time going places to travel. I definitely feel safer here than I do back in the states. But the thing is, they treat darker skin black people so bad compared to lighter skin black people. Dark skin black people here are looked as as nasty, stinky, and dirty. But they’re kind to light skin blacks.

      Reply
    5. Kevin Avatar
      Kevin

      There’s always at least some racism anywhere, for anyone. Black people probably have the highest chance of seeing some globally, but that doesn’t mean everyone will be racist against you or that white people are immune from racism, either. Koreans will face racism anywhere outside of Korea. That said, Korea isn’t a violently racist country, even for black people but they’re racist with their mouth which still can feel violent. As long as you’re not a dark skin black person, you will be fine. They think dark skin black people are poor and smell bad. They will embarrass you for that reason.

      Reply
      1. Taevon Avatar
        Taevon

        I guess I’m considered light because my mom is Black and my dad is half
        Black and half white. But I definitely look more black than not 75%.

    6. E Avatar
      E

      Nobody will be violent toward you but also they probably won’t be violent toward you bc of the racism they hold. They are more afraid of you haha. Just don’t be too sensitive to stares and other indirect actions.

      I will say racism is alive and well here and even when I was applying to schools a director told me one of my coworkers would be from South Africa, but not black South African, the white South African. Extremely bizarre interaction.

      I do recommend when finding an apartment or buying a business, photoshop your picture a little to make
      Yourself look lighter. It’s a better chance at getting what you want. Try to avoid in person. I learned the hard way.

      Reply
      1. Maria Ewulu Avatar
        Maria Ewulu

        My cousin who’s Nigerian did the same with the photoshop. She looked 30x lighter and got her place. In person the realtor was shocked but oh well, she got her place.

      2. Kimi Avatar
        Kimi

        You are very on point with that last part. I got ignored/rejected when I showed my face but when I brightened my picture, I was getting replies. I said screw it and now I live in Taiwan. I’m from west Africa.

      3. Ayana Avatar
        Ayana

        Racism is for sure alive, even the little kids are comfortable saying “you’re too black, you need to leave my country” of course they’re learning from their parents.

      4. Taevon Avatar
        Taevon

        See I shouldn’t have to do that. I should be able show all of my documents and be honest and get an honest realtor renter. I would do it if I’m guaranteed a place to stay but their way of thinking is so messed up.

    7. Cam Avatar
      Cam

      think the best way to describe racism in Korea is that it’s cold not hot. You’re very unlikely to suffer physical violence (which is definitely something huge compared to the more virulent forms of racism in the US or Europe) but you might be straight up refused service at a business, get lots of stares, be immediately ruled out for many jobs just based on your race/nationality, and may not be helped or assisted as willingly if you were a local or perhaps white/European. Those items I listed just now are all things POC friends of mine who live in Korea experienced. I’ve seen some of these things happen as well. I was asked once to recruit a new native English teacher for my school and though I based my recommendations to my Korean supervisor solely on how highly qualified the candidate was (didn’t factor in race at all) I was blatantly told not to look at non-white candidates even if they were from native English speaking countries. I disregarded this and nominated the best teachers regardless of color but they went with a white person anyway.

      Regardless of skin color a non-Korean person will always have to contend with a certain amount of xenophobia and being the “other”. In multicultural places like the US or Canada for instance, you can be seen as a local depending on where you are regardless of race. In Korea, that’s never going to happen.

      Reply
    8. Candace Avatar
      Candace

      If you don’t look like Beyoncé, Halle Berry, Dorothy Dandrige, or Beyonces mother then don’t come here as a woman.
      If you don’t look like Shemar Moore, Terrence Howard or Lenny Kravitz then don’t come here as a man.

      If you look like Cedric the entertainer or a plus size black woman with physical problems, DO NOT COME TO KOREA!!!!!!

      Reply
    9. Cheryl Avatar
      Cheryl

      Korea is regularly ranked as more racist than Europe. Hope this helps.

      Reply
    10. Mike B Avatar
      Mike B

      I’m a white guy who lived in southern South Korea for a few years while working as an English teacher in public schools and hagwons. I avoided big-city clubs and spent a lot of my free time visiting historical sites and museums, or hiking and climbing at parks and crags all over the peninsula. I know I’m not Black, and I can’t imagine what Black men go through but as a white guy, I can tell anybody, not to come to Korea unless you look like Brad Pitt or Boris Kodjoe.

      Reply
    11. Tiffany J Avatar
      Tiffany J

      Caramel complexion American girl here with curly hair. This matters. It doesn’t necessarily matter that you’re black(I’m full black by the way). Two things matter: 1. If you’re Western or global South 2. Complexion and hair. I have been here almost 15 years and have had a great experience. My dark skinned friend had a horrible time. They can look past skin sometimes but she also had weight and dental problems which they made sure she was reminded to get her teeth fixed and to go to the gym. They don’t care whatsoever, they WILL hurt your feelings and they ARE successful at it. My friend cried for so long and eventually left because it was more incident than one. Now there are exceptions on both sides of course. But I find Koreans to be more elitist and colorist. Regardless of anyone’s anecdotes though, if you have a sunny disposition and respect for the people around you, you’ll have a much higher chance of having a good experience. The lighter you are, the more respect you will get.

      Reply
      1. Carger Avatar
        Carger

        I did some work for KIA Motors here in Canada during the summers while I was in university and we had guys who worked for head office in Korea in our head office as liaisons and they treated Korean-Canadians as outsiders. It was pretty subtle but it was part of the office gossip. They’d go out drinking after work and wouldn’t invite certain people.

    12. Emily Avatar
      Emily

      To be honest they hate everyone that doesn’t look like koreans

      Reply
  106. Deidrea Avatar
    Deidrea

    I will never in my life go to Korea again. The way they embarrass you for your appearance is insane. They have a beautiful culture, talented people but the people there are ignorant as shit.
    Unless you have a body like Tyra banks and a face like Halle Berry, do NOT go!

    Reply
    1. Aaron Chong Avatar
      Aaron Chong

      Korea definitely has a problem with racism/nationalism. I’m full blooded Korean, was born in Korea, and I’ve even gotten rejected from a club for being a “gyopo”

      sorry to hear about your experience, most of the country are kind and welcoming but a few can really ruin it for everyone else.

      Reply
    2. Karin Avatar
      Karin

      Wow I experienced a different kind of a Korea. I was walking down the street while it was raining and a little Korean older lady grabbed me by my hand and walked with me all the way to my destination with an umbrella so I can keep dry. All the taxi drivers have been kind and tried to talk to me as much as they could with their minimal English, they kept saying I look like Nicki Minaj 😂 . Im a visible person of color too… granted I didn’t go out clubbing or anything like that. I’m sorry you had to experience that. I believe most places with a homogenous group of people will have issues like racism so I believe you for sure but try not to take it too personal and just enjoy the scenery around you.

      Reply
  107. Mindless Carl Avatar
    Mindless Carl

    South Korea, spending two in Seoul and one each in Daejeon, Daegu and Busan. I live my life thinking the best of people, not wanting to feel different based on my skin colour and for the most part I’ve been wrong: From Canada to America, France to Greece and all over South East Asia I’ve never been overtly discriminated against until I visited Korea.
    When I booked my trip to Korea I’d be lying if I said my skin colour wasn’t a cause for concern while there. Canada, especially Toronto where I’m from, has a big Korean population. It’s a community that keeps to itself, one I didn’t have much experience with despite growing up in a diverse neighborhood in Toronto. Koreans, and many East and South East Asians I’ve met, want and try to have white or whiter skin. And most interracial couples I see are White and Asian. So going to Korea I had all this in mind. I will say this, Koreans hate White people, Black people and anything that isn’t Korean. I don’t mind the stares but I do mind when my personal space is violated because they feel the need to wipe my skin off because apparently my skin was dirty. I would say get used to that if you plan on living there.

    Reply
    1. Star Avatar
      Star

      Thanks for sharing! I’m also a brown girl from Toronto in South Korea for the first time doing a solo trip. Didn’t have much interaction with the community in Canada despite growing up in Scarborough and I had some anxiety about racism when booking. But my first day here has been so so! Some stares on streets but there was an older man who helped me out on the subway when he saw I was lost. One lady asked me why was I so black… that’s about it.
      Haven’t gone into any restaurants yet but excited to try.

      Reply
    2. Naimya Avatar
      Naimya

      Thank you so much for this post! Also a brown Canadian, and I have a solo trip coming up in a month for South Korea. I have the exact same attitude as you: I approach people and life with the best intentions first. A smile and positive attitude goes a long way.

      On top of the language barrier, the racism/xenophobia posts about SK had definitely raised my anxiety a bit, especially because I’m black.

      Reply
    3. Deanna Avatar
      Deanna

      I went into a shop recently and was trying on a Black coat, and the worker said,
      I was already black enough, and suggested I try on something brighter to hopefully brighten my skin.

      Reply
      1. Koots Avatar
        Koots

        Sometimes people get so overwhelmed by having a foreign customer that they almost go into a type of shock and come off as rude or turn the customer away – anxiety in a way.

        I also studied the language part time at Seoul National University and fulltime for two semesters at Sogang University. I always found that a lot of people with a little bit of Korean seem to think everything is about them and of course misunderstand a lot. Op – you have been learning from dramas, I doubt you know what the taxi driver was actuslly saying.

    4. Janet Symone Avatar
      Janet Symone

      I spent 2 weeks in Korea and had to cut my trip short unfortunately because if I didn’t, I would’ve been in a Korean jail. I went with my 62 year old mother who is Black (I’m half Black and half white) but my mom has been experiencing some health isssues along with physical appearance. My mom is a plus size woman and does need dental work but she’s the most kind hearted person I’ve ever known. Well while sitting in a restaurant, a Korean man suggested that my mom eats something light because her weight, she is already large and just a cheeseburger away from a heart attack and also suggesting that she eats something soft because she’s missing teeth. I mean how fucking rude can you be?? I was so close to getting up and socking this man in his mouth for saying that to my mother. How would you feel if it was yours? I was mixed with embarrassment and anger combined. I would never go there again.

      Reply
      1. Sora Avatar
        Sora

        what assholes. As an emigrant Korean I am very sorry.

        these type of people of course will complain about racisms from white ppl.

    5. Jag Avatar
      Jag

      Hong Dae and Daegu was the mistake. Foreigner friendly is only in Itaewon.

      Reply
  108. Rachel K Avatar
    Rachel K

    I lived in Korea for 1 year. They were, at times, very blunt to me which used to take me aback and often times too blunt. If you have anything wrong with you, that even you’re trying to hide, they would deliberately ask you questions about it. Like if your tooth is missing, they want to know why you have no teeth and why haven’t you been to a dentist. Or if you have a scar or bump, what is it and is it contagious etc

    Reply
  109. Asia Avatar
    Asia

    It’s the most judgmental country I’ve ever been to out of 70+, and it’s not even close, probably more judgmental than the next top four combined. It was probably the biggest factor in me deciding not to put down roots there/get really serious about the language. It single-handedly makes the place unlivable for me.

    Great to visit for food and culture but definitely wouldn’t recommend to leave unless you’re ok with being embarrassed.

    Reply
    1. Lea Avatar
      Lea

      45+ countries for me and l agree, Korea is the worst for this kind of thing. l have come to the conclusion that that’s just how they are, we’re not going to change it. l have doted on this for a long time, do they make judgemental (and also negative) comments as a means of feeling good about themselves because they are, at heart, deeply insecure so they feel the need to do this, is it inherited or taught etc. To be fair though, they are like that with each other as well, the culture gets suffocating and after a while you just can’t be bothered to deal with this day in day out, it just leaves one feeling emotionally drained.

      Only exception for me would be Koreans who have lived overseas but that’s about it. Being around Koreans will drain the hell out of you.

      Reply
      1. Juwanna Avatar
        Juwanna

        You ain’t never lied. I definitely photoshopped mines for my other place because getting my first place was hell. If they see you in person, chances are they won’t rent to you or show you some place that’s expensive that Koreans won’t take because they know they can do better.

      2. Juwanna Avatar
        Juwanna

        Sorry I replied to you by mistake.

  110. Holly Cupcakez Avatar
    Holly Cupcakez

    My friend warned me about this before I moved over here about a month ago. Koreans have no filter. They could care less about your feelings being hurt.

    Reply
  111. Shante Avatar
    Shante

    I thought I would like living here; it’s probably the most convenient place I’ve ever been besides Taiwan and Singapore, but sometimes a few minor toxic traits you encounter in everyday life in Korea give me the wake-up call that this place might not be the best place to live long-term. Like Koreans act nice and friendly, making you feel like they’re the best friends you’ve ever had, and then the next day they give you judgmental comments with a straight face. It comes out of the blue and catches you off guard. It makes you wonder if this is what they thought of you all along. They can be very toxic and rude and racist also.

    Reply
    1. Mariah Greene Avatar
      Mariah Greene

      Have you tried short/long-term housings near SNU station. Rents are cheap and you can go to most heavily concentrated commercial districts using Line 2.

      Reply
  112. Myra Avatar
    Myra

    I’ve seen that negative perceptions about black foreigners have changed, but it’s happening s l o w l y.

    I’m a Black American who has been living in Gwangju for about 11 years. There’s definitely some bias against dark skinned people (of all races) here. In general, Koreans have actually become quite ashamed of their reputation for racism, particularly against black people. We still hear stories about discrimination happening, but I think it’s less frequent. I think they’re quieter about it, they’re learning more, or both. The young students that I’ve taught have all been very welcoming and open-minded, but they’ve mentioned to me some racist things their parents or grandparents have said.
    But they tend to people of dark skin is poor and dirty.

    Reply
  113. Heaven Marianna Avatar
    Heaven Marianna

    Hi,

    As someone that is planning a future trip to South Korea. How can a foreigner identify the slurs ? Im learning some korean for my future trip but im sure is going to be very basic.

    Are they doing it in english? Were they approaching you ? Im not a party person and not planning on going to bars so that isn’t going to be a problem for me probably, but even then i guess you can research before going into bars, right?

    Thanks in advance.

    Reply
  114. Chara Avatar
    Chara

    Nothing in korea worth visiting If you have to deal with racism.

    Reply
  115. Jazmine Avatar
    Jazmine

    I have travelled to Japan China Thailand Philippines HK and Taiwan I have always treated people with respect and friendliness and received it in return. However in Korea my mood dropped drastically due to how many times someone shouted some racist slurs at me or how many times I’ve been denied to bars and clubs for No foreigner rule yet when they notice my friend who’s with me is Taiwanese and not Korean the rule immediately changes to Asian only. Won’t be having a second trip there and it’s the first time I’ve never made any local friends while travelling only met some Taiwanese international phd students. For background, I’m Haitian and Female and I am slightly plus sized. Well white walking one day to a 7-11, and lady comes besides me and starts gesturing me jog. Even giving a sample of her jogging next to me, basically saying I need to jog because I’m overweight.

    Reply
    1. Mike Cobbs Avatar
      Mike Cobbs

      I was surprised to experience racism, in spite the fact I dated a Korean.

      They do that in Japan too. Some places have a “no foreigner” rule.

      Taiwan and Vietnam was the best for me.

      Reply
    2. Allen Avatar
      Allen

      I’m a middle aged white man with a Korean wife. We lived in Korea for 6 years and have been traveling back and forth for the past 10 years. I can’t explain to you the amount of racism we’ve received, especially me.

      Reply
    3. Rania Avatar
      Rania

      Korean people are extremely casually racist.

      Just last night, I was walking my dog near a gym. There were like 5-6 of the people talking and relaxing at the park there and I didn’t really pay them any attention.

      Then all of a sudden, one of the guys starts speaking in broken English to his friend. The friend doesn’t reply in English…

      But the kicker…another girl goes “How long do you sit in the sun for or did you tan for too long?“

      All because I’m a dark skin Malaysian and I walked by with my dog LOL.

      It’s that kind of stupid casual racism shit

      Reply
  116. Ashley Avatar
    Ashley

    Living in Asia and going on expat forums and interacting with white foreigners has really opened my eyes on what other people go through, and as a result has also given me new perspectives on what my lived experiences had been. Also I use the term white/westerner very interchageably.

    I’m a second-gen and I grew up pretty much westernized all my life and I was quite oblivious to a lot of the struggles my parents and other immigrants went through. Firstly, the biggest thing is expectation of language and assimilation. It’s been interesting to see that westerners struggling to assimilate and pretty much do not face any pressure to do so. It’s kind of sad because I was “white-washed” and one of those Asians who judged fobs, but now I see a plethora of those in Asia, except they are white. Expat communities that just stick with each other and failing to integrate at all. However, because I’m obviously an English speaker and in some ways an expat, I can clearly see what they have no real interest or need to assimilate. They are just happy being English teachers (99% of long term expats I met are ESL teachers, no kidding) who hang out with other English teachers, and there is 0 effort done to progress their career or move into a more lucrative field. The unfortunate part is that they will simutaneously judge Asian society from being to closed off and even call them racist. This is particularly a very interesting phenomenon to me. I think socially, white people can actually benefit from being perceived to be a higher social status, yet they are playing the victims of racism. I often see a white person speak a few sentence in Chinese and they are praised while anr immigrant from another Asian country who fully speaks the language and had to learn it doesn’t get the same level of praise. I don’t know if they are oblivious to this, but it definitely plays a huge part in the “entitlement” stigma that we assign to white folks.

    Secondly, I’ve also noticed a lot of them are in Asia and feel like they need to compare everything from a western-centric point of view. I think this is an extension of normalized racism Asians face in the US, where it feels OK to judge or make comments and generalizing Asians as a whole. There’s still the sentiment that Asians are just seen as a collective bunch, while white expats are all unique individuals. It’s ironic in a way because they are all ESL teachers but that’s besides the point. If you check expat groups, you’ll often see comments like “yep, welcome to XYZ country” and it’s just as if they are playing the role of judge and jury for a country they decide to visit and live in.

    Anyways, juts wanted to share my thoughts. It’s given me a new perspective of immigrants, from any countries moving to the US. I actually used to ignore the term “white privilege” but it is a bit sad how this is still a rampant thing in Asia. Obviously, I’m talking about all of this on a systemic level, I’ve met normal white people and Asians who are guilty of doing what I just described.

    Reply
  117. Jenny Kim Avatar
    Jenny Kim

    This is a long rant, I’m (26F) a korean immigrant, my family moved to America when I was 11. I’m happy about the rise of kpop and kdramas but I swear it’s attracting the worst people to my country. Suddenly non koreans think they know everything about Korea, koreans and korean culture. They go to my country thinking everything is all sunshine and roses and then get dissapointed when they go and see that Korea is just a regular country, just like every country. The worst part is that they turn to shit on the whole country and EVERYONE in it. They generalize all of us based off of a few idiots. They complain about ALL korean guys being misogynistic pedophiles that fetishize foreigners and ALL korean women are superficial plastic surgery aegyo babies. They act like they know everything and they know NOTHING. Expats that live there and don’t even try to learn the language complain about not being accepted and all koreans being the most racist people on the planet. I’m sorry, did koreans ever MURDER people for the color of their skin? No. But suddenly we’re the biggest raging racists on this planet because some old person gave them a dirty look. They give dirty looks to all of us!!! Your foreign ass isn’t special! Or they complain about clubs having a “no foreigners” sign. Well if the stupid US soldiers didn’t start fights and repeatedly rape the women in the clubs then MAYBE we’d actually trust foreigners. I’m noticing that other Asian countries are experiencing the same thing. They generalize all of us. I wish they would leave us alone and stay tf out of our business. I wish all Asian countries could just unite and build together and live without the west.

    Reply
    1. Raquel Avatar
      Raquel

      Latasha Harlins… now shut tf up

      Reply
      1. Misuk Avatar
        Misuk

        We don’t hate blacks as much as other people in the world. I think since we don’t live with them, we don’t even know who they are. I know black people because I used to live in the United States. There are good and bad black people as like there are good and bad Asian and white. But most Koreans don’t even have a chance to live with blacks. Koreans tend to unwelcome other races, specifically races in developing countries. You know a rich person from poor background hates poor people because he knows them well. Just like that, Korea was a very poor country. We know what poor is and think it’s shameful to be, and dislike to be with. However, Koreans won’t oppress blacks. They just feel unwelcome to live with blacks.

    2. Sunny Avatar
      Sunny

      Don’t take it too much to heart, the average person isn’t all that aware or intelligent on these things unfortunately.

      There obviously is anti-foreign sentiments and racism in Asia but tbh that’s just a given in any society, the Western societies id argue are less “racist” on societal acceptance of say mixed race couples or legal equality for all but still are heavily embedded with the violent legacy of racism.

      It’s a bit funny and sad how people idolize East Asia, whether it be seeing japan as anime land where everything is kawaii, korea as kpop or kdrama land with beautiful people or China as an invincible challenger to America. At their core they’re just like any other country, filled with a lot of good people and some shitty ones.

      What does suck tho is that Asian Americans are at the receiving end of foreigners coming back complaining of how “let down” they are with Asia. Like tbh people living in Asia don’t really give that much of a shit cause they don’t deal with it, for us it’s 24/7.

      Just try not to take it to heart or you’ll go crazy with resentment

      Reply
    3. Sok Avatar
      Sok

      Gosh this cringes me too. Im Korean american too and was visiting a female non-korean friend there when she took a teaching job there. She hugged me hard because she kept telling me how much she hated the country. She thought everywhere is like Seoul/Busan but she was living in Gangneung and had no choice. She was afraid to take public transportation and for some reason she thought she was good enough to understand Korean but was so itimidated that she didnt bother to learn a damn thing. Her confidence level was so high prior for some reason but only went downhill and was living with full out anxiety for the year until she moved back.

      Reply
    4. Clutch Avatar
      Clutch

      So You “wish the West could just be wiped off the planet 🌎 and just let all the Asian countries Unite and build together…without the west.”

      OK — u lost me there. Clearly you’re so enraged you can’t see that basically you invalidated half your complaint by what you just said.

      If we wiped off the West from the face of the earth— what does that have to do with Asian counties uniting???

      The West doesn’t give a sh*t about Japan, China, and Korea being “friendly nations” to each other YET they still culturally all hate each other.

      Being from one of those countries, I can tell u for sure if we wiped the West off the earth — the first thing that would happen next is a World War Asia till one of the 3 (Modern day China) wiped out the other 2 (likely Korea and Japan) and then took over whatever was left of the wasteland West we deleted.

      Also Look up WW2 — one of 3 Asian countries already tried to do this to the other one lool

      What does that have to do with the West LOL

      We have so many of our own problems Western misconceptions are the least of our worries.

      Wake up man, the West being YEETED doesn’t bring together Far East Asia and we all sing 🎤 Asian Kumbaya together

      We’ve been at war for thousands of years WAY before the West even EXISTED.

      Reply
    5. Lei Lei Avatar
      Lei Lei

      Late to the party but the Republic of Korea has advocated and used soft cultural power for many years now to get strong cultural influence. This is an overall success for Korea and its fantastic that more songs and culture is being studied and more travel to Korea is happening then ever before.

      Regarding the racism in Korea, unfortunately it simply exists. Racism is a nasty thing, but everyone from every culture has seen or dealt with it at one point. In Korea, not even their neighbors or regarded positively (Japanese or Koreans), and yes the American military have done a terrible job and ruined their perspectives but lets me real, those signs are for foreigners and their skin color!!!!!!

      That being said, we can acknowledge your frustrations that people over generalize without understanding the issues or societal challenges, while at the same time condemning racism that you would see in Korea. These two values can certainly go hand in hand. Be Black, Chinese or Indian for a day and then tell me how well you were treated in your marvelous country.

      Reply
    6. Bali Avatar
      Bali

      I feel for you but unfortunately even in today’s age of information, ignorance still rules. I would understand someone growing up in a poor isolated area of any country reacting strangely towards people they never saw before but everyone has cell phones and internet access now and to remain ignorant in spite of this is a special kind of stupid.
      I get being curious and even the stares but what do you have to say about people violating others personal space because they need to be wiped off from their dirt (that happens to be their skin color) off of them??

      Reply
    7. Maria Ewulu Avatar
      Maria Ewulu

      21? Ok you’re in the beginning stages of your idiot years, I won’t even waste my energy on you.

      Reply
    8. Dayna Avatar
      Dayna

      Dress like a chulo or paint your face black and still see how well you will be treated.

      Reply
    9. Precious Avatar
      Precious

      It’s still time to edit or delete this.

      Reply
    10. Jelly D Avatar
      Jelly D

      I’m Korean-American and and just recently moved to Korea and felt like an outsider more than ever. Of course it isn’t the entire country but you can’t erase someone’s experience that has ran into racism or plan rudeness from a Korean person.

      Reply
    11. Megane Avatar
      Megane

      I’m white, have a mole on my face that I’ve been pulled for my entire life, plus I’m a bit overweight and have been called racial stuff in Korea. I don’t hate the entire country or all Korean people but it’s hurtful when you experience this kind of stuff. I was only on vacation with my family and I never wanted to go back.

      Reply
      1. King Avatar
        King

        Yes, Korea is pretty racist, especially the older generation. But, you may also want to think about whether their negative view of white people may have any basis in their recent history. Yes, it’s wrong and prejudicial to treat you poorly solely based on your race, but maybe that reflects how the older Koreans feel like they were treated by other groups of people in the past. What I mean to say is—Korea is a fast changing country. Give them a chance.

    12. Chanel Avatar
      Chanel

      Maybe I just had too unrealistic expectations as in my mind Taiwan was always hostile to west and pretty closed to outside yet I’ve found how wrong I was and how welcoming they were and quite literally had the best time of my Asia trip. Meanwhile Korea was always more westernised and open to western world so i thought it would also provide me with good times but boy I was wrong. Your aunties and uncles are racist as fuck.

      Reply
    13. Oma Avatar
      Oma

      Im going to be frank with you and say that every country has older folks and even young folks that are racist. Some countries just hide it better and grin and bear it and say the things when you are not around. I have found myself facing more racism than anywhere else in Asia. You say it like “oh it’s not big deal” but of course you will feel that way because it’s your people!! You can highlight the positives about Korea without giving the “oh well suck it up” bs that you’re giving.

      Reply
    14. Malika R Avatar
      Malika R

      People wanna deny it, but racism definitely and very much exists in Korea just like many parts of the world. But they’ll weirdly defend it instead of taking a stand against it. Personally I tune out a lot of my environment (as a woman and as a brown person) so I can live and not notice people’s looks and just be in my own world. But understandably, that’s not easy for everyone.

      Reply
    15. Racky Avatar
      Racky

      FYI Koreans still segreagte using race.

      So, trying to act like it’s a civilized country is hilarious.

      Reply
  118. Matt Avatar
    Matt

    I’ve been to various cities in South Korea and it’s mostly the same. The people love our culture but are very hesitant to embrace us. The Women are always curious but would rarely think of marrying BM. It’s insulting to see advertisements depicting Black People in a negative way. I say visit but don’t live there and don’t marry any of them. Your children will be treated horribly.

    Reply
  119. Antonia Avatar
    Antonia

    I put it like this, if I wanted to be discriminated against, I would’ve stayed in the states. No it isn’t as bad but Korea Isn’t the exciting fun place that Kdramas may you think it is.

    Reply
  120. Kourtney Avatar
    Kourtney

    It has gotten better over the years, but there is still a racist mindset among older generation Koreans so do not be surprised if you encounter some stares or some get out of my country when you go to Korea. South Korea has gotten better over the years but damn they have so much more to go.

    Reply
    1. Clarissa Avatar
      Clarissa

      You gotta realize that Koreans look down at other Koreans pretty harshly, it’s in the culture. So adding in a person who doesn’t look like they’re from a first world country is only going to amplify it.

      Koreas are not the “everyone is different but equal” mindset. If you’re a tourist, you’ll be OK as you’re spending money and adding to the economy.

      Reply
  121. Astacia Avatar
    Astacia

    My mother is half black and half Korean and my father is white. When they gave birth to me and had essentially no Korean features. I have my dad’s wavy hair and his green eyes.

    I’m (21f) and was born in Korea and when I was a few months old my family went to England. I believe I was 1 year old when we moved back to Korea and from then on I’ve lived here.

    I fucking hate it. No matter what I will never be part Korean, I will never be welcome. I used to get bullied for my wavy red hair and skin complexion. Kids would bully me and their bullying has stuck with me my entire life. Their relentless harassment of me and their terrible remarks. I thought the torture would end once I left school but in college I was bullied by my own friends, and I stuck with them for so long because they were the only people who let me hang out with them.

    When I started working I had trouble getting a job. Though being fluent in Korean and being able to speak English and write fairly well, they were skeptical of hiring an outsider or foreigner. When I finally managed to get a job my co workers would discriminate against me on a regular basis, they would never let me give any input to anything, I would have an idea and they would tell me to shut up and that I had nothing good to say. They attributed it to being a foreigner and said I wouldn’t understand the Korea demographic though I’ve lived here for years.

    Reply
    1. Lady Shylock Avatar
      Lady Shylock

      I have friends that have lived there for 10 plus years and they admit to having issues with discrimination due to not being Korean. Korean people are also biased against being even the slightest bit overweight if you are not korean, as well as ageism.

      Reply
    2. Breunna Avatar
      Breunna

      There is a common stereotype in the West that is the idea that Korean people are humble and polite. In reality, they are arrogant, racist and sexist. They discriminate against fat people, and foreigners such as Westerners and the Chinese. These people are not worth your time and respect, and you should avoid them and surround yourself with better people who truly love and care about you if you don’t want to face discrimination in Korea, and wish to be treated in a better manner.

      Reply
    3. De De Tillman Avatar
      De De Tillman

      So sorry you have endured so much and thank you for sharing your story! 🙂 LT

      Reply
    4. Melanie Avatar
      Melanie

      There are things I really miss about Korea but, yeah, the discrimination over there is fucking wild. I had a friend growing up whose parents were Korean, and she was born in Korea. Her Dad got a job in America when she was like 2 and they all moved here. This was someone who was by all means 100x Korean. Whenever she went to visit family in Korea people treated her like a foreigner. When she moved there her fellows at work and school said she “wasnt really Korean” since she spent most of her childhood in America.

      I get not wanting to lose your culture and everything, but by god its insane how far they go about it. Korea is terrible

      Reply
    5. Riah Avatar
      Riah

      Seems like recently Korea has been thought of has this wonderful place by westerners but in reality its incredibly fucking racist, homophobic, and sexist. Like its way worse then even the US or Europe. I think it’s because of K pop and Kdrama there but you got to understand that those people are really fucking rich so they would be welcome anywhere. Korea is the worst fucking place to be.

      Reply
    6. Rozzy Avatar
      Rozzy

      It’s mainly because of the spike in popularity of Kpop, only showing the good and creative side of Korea for their domestic people.

      I’m British. I wanted to live in Japan for a time after I got into Kpop, but I found out about how badly I would be treated (white, British, lesbian), along with the work ethic of big companies like SM. Switched my opinion very quickly.

      Reply
      1. Misty Avatar
        Misty

        Kpop was one of the main reason why I visited Korea and was highly thinking of moving there until one day I was waiting at the bus stop with my umbrella because it was raining hard, I had my earphones in and just completely minding my own business and this Korean couple came up to me and said something about my umbrella, not really understanding I thought they were asking to see my umbrella because my umbrella did stand out but when I passed it to them, the woman took out a napkin from her purse and begin wiping my hands as if she was wiping off something on my hands but there was nothing on there but my skin. I kept it respectful and told her, my skin isn’t coming off because I’m a dark skin black woman. Don’t even think they understood but I was deeply hurt by this and for that reason I decided not to move there. I know it’s not all of Korea but an experience like this will do it to you.

    7. Cheyenne Jackson Avatar
      Cheyenne Jackson

      I visited earlier this year and I honestly did not enjoy much of it. I dealt with incredibly rude people pretty much every single day there. I learned about their customs and as much Korean as I could to get by. Luckily, it was a week after I had spent a month in Taiwan (which was entirely way more friendly) so I saved a bit on the flight. Now that I’m back in the US, I’ve been getting annoyed by the idolization of Korea. Anytime I bring it up, I get told I was probably being rude or was a stereotypical American tourist, but I swear they didn’t even give me a chance.

      Reply
    8. Stifton Avatar
      Stifton

      I saw a white American guy talking about his experience going over there to study, just straight constant harassment. Harassment in class, harassment in the gym, they even were harassing him at home, I’m sure they put glue in his lock/door. He wanted to leave after his first semester I felt so bad for him.

      Reply
      1. Joe Avatar
        Joe

        This is the only way a white person could ever walk in the shoes of experiencing racism. Otherwise, it’s an experience beyond comprehension to most westerners.

    9. Shinee Fan Avatar
      Shinee Fan

      Obvious by my user name I love a lot of Korean culture and media but over the years and doing deep dives into some of that I really became shocked and behind Korea really is on alot of social issues including how they treat mixed race and people with disabilities and especially darker skin people and overweight people. I went from wanting to visit there to not really caring to. Good luck OP.

      Reply
    10. Lizzie Avatar
      Lizzie

      I admit I did not know, that this was an issue in Korea- at least to this extent. I think many Europeans (and those from the British colonies too, fantasize about japan with no knowledge that this discrimination goes on) So though this was not meant to be a learning experience, it was for me. Are you still in touch with your dad? Perhaps he might help you get acquainted with the UK (assuming that is where he came from). Let this be a fresh start with you.

      If the UK is anything like the US , you are going to be bombarded with Korea fans, (if they know your story) and it will aggravate you I am sure – the only consolation I can offer is that you may have a good part-time job or even small business being a Korean teacher. That is not to say anything about whether you are emotionally willing to do that or not and I understand either way, but if you can sort that out you can find ways to profit from your background. It does not make up for the years of suffering no – but you can still use what you have.

      Do you look forward to integrating In Britain, does Britain feel like your ‘mother country’ to you?

      Reply
    11. Immie Avatar
      Immie

      racist is the word youre looking for

      Reply
    12. Franzy Avatar
      Franzy

      My nephew has lived in Korea for many years now, and hates it. He’s black, he stands out like a sore thumb, but refuses to leave the life he has made there. However he wants to move to Taiwan because he’s tired of the stares. His wife is black also and dark skinned and gets treated piss poor. She has been offered makeup remover because they thought her skin was dirty. Still want to go?

      Reply
    13. Simone Avatar
      Simone

      I’m sorry to hear about your experience. I’ve felt discrimination too when I’ve visited Korea as a Black American woman (they really are hostile to non-Korean), the more Korean I understand the more I understand the discrimination. From my understanding of their culture and from what others have told me, Korean is basically like an island of natives (advanced technology, but island mentality) who, due to its limited resources, will attack anything that sticks out Even Serena Williams, an all-time tennis great, almost never went back to Indian Wells where she felt discrimination ONCE, much less nearly their entire lives. You’re brave. You don’t need to prove that to anyone, especially people whose majority will never accept you. The West has a lot of their own problems but they’re generally accepting and won’t wear you down with their incessant pressure.

      Reply
    14. Samai Avatar
      Samai

      Korean people are so xenophobic it’s unreal. I’m sorry you went through that in basically your homeland where you actually have ancestry. England will be much better since it’s so much more diverse in some parts. Taiwan is also a nice place and welcomes Black people more than other Asian countries. They have their problems too but not even as bad as Korea.

      Reply
    15. Rudy Avatar
      Rudy

      Similar thing happened to my cousin…he lived there for years, spoke the language etc but was always talked about (it was assumed he didn’t know Korean) and was never welcomed fully, if he’d have stayed he’d have always been an outsider along with any children he had. It’s such a shame but it is a very racist country.

      Reply
    16. Yalinda Avatar
      Yalinda

      I am so sorry you’ve experienced all this and I have to say I’m not surprised in the least. I have a friend who’s Ghanaian and her husband is Korean. When their daughter was born, they decided to move to Taiwan because they knew she’d experience terrible racism if they would’ve stayed in Korea.

      Reply
    17. Dasha Avatar
      Dasha

      Korean people are largely “Asian supremacists”.

      Korean culture is inherently discriminatory and racist. What’s more, Korean people are by and large ok with that.

      Your best bet is to cut ties with that shithole country and move to an actual, civilized, Western nation. Korea is the worst.

      Reply
    18. Ivana Avatar
      Ivana

      Yeah, Korea is very shitty overall for foreigners and Korean people are terrible, they like to torture people and don’t ever admit. That is why almost every other Asian country dislikes them.

      Reply
    19. Maya Avatar
      Maya

      Korea is full of assholes. The Koreans are even bigger assholes than Americans, who aren’t nice guys either. They are not worthy of my respect.

      Reply
    20. Megan Avatar
      Megan

      I’m black and I’ve lived in the Korean countryside for 2 years. I’ve had bad experiences with discrimination, for instance, I had a Korean woman give me the number to a dermatologist because apparently my skin was too dark. She was under the impression that I didn’t bathe because I’m dark skinned. I will honestly say this really hurt the hell out of my feelings. I was so stunned, speechless and embarrassed. The racist people in Korea do not represent the country or culture as a whole, just like anywhere else but some things just sticks with you.

      Reply
  122. Uni Avatar
    Uni

    Rule 1. DO NOT GO TO KOREA UNPREPARED. I did and had many regrets.
    Some Koreans were very friendly and helpful but it was extremely embarrassing for me not to have it together and that’s my own fault. Do not step off the plane unless you have $10,000 at least.

    Reply
  123. Janelle Avatar
    Janelle

    This is my first time travelling to Korea, and I am 20 years old (female). Are there things I must be careful about? (Communication, crimes, etc.)
    What about cheap housing too? I read some of the comments and sillim dong kept being mentioned.

    Reply
    1. Baegoa Avatar
      Baegoa

      Be careful of the scooters on the sidewalks. They are everywhere and They’ll run you over.

      Reply
    2. Gabby Ewulu Avatar
      Gabby Ewulu

      Cars DO NOT stop for pedestrians. It takes some getting used to, especially if you’re from a country that has strict laws regarding who has right of way. Where I used to live, if you just as much as hint that you intend to use the crosswalk, most cars will look at you like you’ve lost your damn mind. In Korea, you need to watch out even if you have the green light. It’s do or die at the damn crosswalk even when it’s your turn to cross. I’m surprised it’s no more death tolls from hit and runs here.

      Reply
      1. Rokia Avatar
        Rokia

        I’ve heard about this so many times. That Korea has some very reckless drivers that doesn’t believe in the red light, so it’s true huh?

      2. Gabby Ewulu Avatar
        Gabby Ewulu

        /Rokia, put it this way, when you’re at the crosswalk and the light turns green for YOU to walk, don’t go off that 🚫, you get permission from the speeding ass car coming down the street if it’s ok for you to cross. If you have their permission you’re safe. Don’t depend on the light.

      3. De De Tillman Avatar
        De De Tillman

        Please check your email. Thanks 🙂 – LT

    3. Yao Avatar
      Yao

      Air quality, especially in Spring. Wear a mask, use eye drops and maybe a nasal spray.

      Reply
    4. Maria Ewulu Avatar
      Maria Ewulu

      Avoid Yeongdeungpo in general and seoul station underground area at nigh

      Reply
  124. Harper S. Avatar
    Harper S.

    Those living in Korea: what are some tips or advice you could give someone moving to Korea that you wish you could have known before you got there? Are there any useful apps that you use? Areas you like to explore?

    I watched a few videos on YouTube, and one person said not to use regular taxi off the street, but use Kakao taxi instead. Another said street vendors only use cash or a cash app (?). I think I also read that the only way you could order delivery food or order packages is to have a Korean number.

    It doesn’t have to be along these lines, but any/all advice welcomed!

    Thank you!

    Reply
    1. Mariam Avatar
      Mariam

      You got some generally good tips. You can def get a cab off the street, just ignore the black cabs. Kakao Taxi and T-money Onda are good for late night or no-taxi areas. Street food is all cash or bank transfers. Every other place is cash or card (but mostly card).

      If you want Korean friends, join a local class, whether it’s swimming, calligraphy, dance, etc. If you know any Korean, that is the ticket. Don’t let all your friends be foreign. You will end up very lonely when they eventually move away.

      Learn Korean and use it as much as you can. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes. Try to do things by yourself whenever possible. It will be frustrating and annoying, but it will get easier.

      Lastly, have an open heart and mind. Korea is different. Different than Japan, different than the US, different than most places. There are a lot of similarities too. Don’t always compare countries, you’ll only be miserable. Accept Korea for the sloppy mess that she can be and the greatest adventure of your life that she can also be. This place is a permanent home to many of us, so treat her well.

      Reply
    2. Maria Ewulu Avatar
      Maria Ewulu

      Clean the floor drains in your kitchen and bathroom regularly. Get used to the idea of putting food waste in the freezer, its weird at first, but useful. And definitely learn Korean as much as you can. It will do more than just make life easier socially, it will help you save money.

      Reply
    3. Juwanna Avatar
      Juwanna

      One thing that took me a while to acclimate to was restaurant culture.

      At restaurants, you need to signal to the serving staff when you’d like to order or when you need something. If there is no bell to press, you have to call them over yourself.

      When I first came here, I once sat for nearly 20 minutes just waiting, hoping a staff member would come by and take my order, not being accustomed to screaming across a restaurant for service and damn near cussing them out thinking they were rude asf and having to breathe and calm down because I forgot I was in a foreign country and they will throw my black ass in jail in a heartbeat.

      Also, with the exception of very few instances of a handful of hotel restaurants or very posh places (that want to mimic American dining culture), you almost always settle your tab, rather pay your restaurant bill at the counter/register near the entrance. Was always used to settling the bill at my table where either the serving staff would take your cash/card or bring around a terminal/chip reader to your table and you complete the transaction there.

      Reply
    4. Janny Avatar
      Janny

      General advice. Learn how to read Hangul and the basic phrases before arriving. Put some effort into learning the language while here, makes life so much easier.

      When I first arrived, I tried to avoid the safety and comfort of a foreigner “bubble” and I have never regretted this.

      Reply
    5. Efalaysia Kimi Avatar
      Efalaysia Kimi

      I lived in Korea for a year while teaching English. The most useful apps to have are NAVER and KakaoTalk. In my experience you do need to have a Korean phone number for most food and package delivery. It may be best to get a pay as you go SIM card. It was difficult to navigate the different phone plans as a foreigner. You also won’t encounter extra fees when you leave the country if you pay as you go. Both Naver and KakaoMap are great for getting around. The public transportation in Korea is amazing and those apps are super useful for bus and subway schedules. Living in Korea is amazing and fun. Be polite, ask questions if you aren’t sure about something. Papago is a great translation app to use while you are there. I was told that talking on the buses is generally not done. I think mostly because it is a time for people to rest before or after work or school. I may be wrong about that so if anyone else wants to clarify please do. I hope that you have a great time there. Korea is a beautiful country. I learned a great deal while I was there and look forward to returning in the future.

      Reply
    6. Arsenia Avatar
      Arsenia

      Don’t come. This isn’t Korea any more. They have destroyed their society. It is now like some alien planet.

      Reply
    7. Gabby Ewulu Avatar
      Gabby Ewulu

      If you end up wanting to go clubbing just like in any other country there will be guys that try to take advantage of you so you need to watch your drinks and honestly it’s better if you’re with a group of friends. The few times I went with others there were definitely guys (foreign and Korean) that were pretty aggressive with us in the group and trying to guide some of us away from the entire group.

      I would try to find some place that’s walkable from your accommodations if you go clubbing; getting taxis late at night can be hard to impossible when people start heading home.

      Some Korean guys specifically try to meet foreign girls because they see them as “easy”. If a tinder date wants to go driving late at night or wants to meet at your place or their place (probably a motel) they’re wanting a singular thing. If you’re also wanting the same thing that’s fine too; take normal precautions like bringing condoms and such. For whatever reason, a lot of guys here will insist on not using them or will make up some excuse.

      Physical safety out in public you 99% don’t have to worry about being mugged. There are lots of CCTV cameras in most areas. Violent crimes are big outliers but when it happens, it ends up in the news for several weeks and months. North Korea you don’t really have to worry about. If something happens there’s not much you can prepare for and most locals (foreigners and Koreans) don’t give it any thought.

      In Seoul around the tourist areas there will be some locals that can speak English and at least be able to understand enough to help. 1330 is the official Korea Travel Hotline run by the government and they can help with interpretation services and travel information. You can even access it with the VisitKorea app if you’re just relying on internet.

      Reply
      1. De De Tillman Avatar
        De De Tillman

        What is the approx. total move in for the shady area? (wolse)

      2. De De Tillman Avatar
        De De Tillman

        🙂 -LT

      3. Gabby Ewulu Avatar
        Gabby Ewulu

        @LT see that will all depend on the slum 😆 of a place you try to get. I paid $3500 total. Some can be lower and some can be higher but you won’t pay more than $7,000 for the area I’m talking about. I can give you some example addresses later on to present to a realtor, and let them know that’s the area you want.

      4. Whitty Avatar
        Whitty

        Second this, I (a non-Korean but Korean looking Chinese American woman) was out clubbing with a group of people in Hongdae and was sitting outside getting some fresh air. Ended up helping some other foreigner girls who were VERY obviously foreign who asked me to help them escape from an aggressive Korean drunk man who wouldn’t leave them alone. I took them under my wing, told the guy to f*ck off, low key picked a fight and sent the girls on their way. They got home safe luckily.

        Definitely go with a group of people if you can.

  125. Mang Avatar
    Mang

    I’m (23f, Chinese American) finally making the move to Korea in September! My friend’s partner who has been living in Korea is coincidentally looking for housing around the same time as well, so we made tentative plans to live together. Although I still have some time to look, I haven’t found many 2 bedroom apartments listed anywhere. Mostly just officetels or 3 bedroom apartments meant for families.

    Are 2 bedroom apartments common in Seoul? How should I look for them? If not, would it be better to just cut my losses and live alone in an officetel? I’d honestly like to have a roommate, but I think finding an officetel would be easier and have cheaper rent than a 2 bdrm.

    Reply
    1. Silvia Avatar
      Silvia

      There are countless 2 bedroom apartments in Korea. If you are good at Korean, go to https://www.zigbang.com/home/officetel/map and filter by 3+ rooms. Also I hope you are aware of the very high deposit that might be needed for a nice two bedroom apartment in Seoul.

      Reply
      1. Mang Avatar
        Mang

        Got it. So in general, should I be searching for 3+ rooms on websites when looking for two bedrooms?

        I had already planned on paying more than the key money for an officetel to hopefully lower rent, but hearing from u/mikesaidyes that the deposit could go up to 50 million won is a little unnerving

    2. Gabby Ewulu Avatar
      Gabby Ewulu

      The deposit is the biggest factor here. You will need at least 30-50 million won aka 30-50,000 USD for a proper two bedroom apartment. Rent will be around 1 mil. My friends just moved into one in Seongsu. This is what they pay. You’re better off going to the reject areas that no one wants to live in because of Chinese people
      Or whatever answer they have and get a place there. The places most don’t want to live in, your rent would start at $240 minimum. My sister and I live in a shady area but I’m cool with everyone because I mind my own business, I don’t speak Chinese anyway so we’re all good. Lol

      Reply
      1. Mang Avatar
        Mang

        Wow you’re so knowledgeable. Thank you so much

      2. Daisha Avatar
        Daisha

        Yeesh, so just to clarify, that key money amount is split between both people, and the rent is what each person pays?

      3. Gabby Ewulu Avatar
        Gabby Ewulu

        @daisha The key money is paid in full as a type of deposit. You get it all back when you move. It’s not officially divided up for contracts – they don’t really care about charging each roommate. Same for rent. You just rent the whole apartment.

        And 30-50 million is absolutely a standard amount for even one bedroom studios in Seoul, not even in “fancy” areas. There’s a new tv show where they shop and compare for homes and you’d be surprised at some of the pure crap that’s out there for that much money.

      4. De De Tillman Avatar
        De De Tillman

        What is the deposit for the “shady areas” in SK? For 1,2,3 bed. in USD. LOL 🙂 – LT

      5. Gabby Ewulu Avatar
        Gabby Ewulu

        @LT it all depends on how shady you want lol some can be 500,000won which is $340 USD. Some realtors will make a deal with you, before you change your mind. They look at us like idiots for living in these areas but we’re saving money 🤷🏽‍♀️

      6. De De Tillman Avatar
        De De Tillman

        LOL What is the total move in if it’s wolse?

    3. Silvia Avatar
      Silvia

      Depends on the deposit and rent. How much are you going to put for a deposit?

      Reply
  126. Zacra Avatar
    Zacra

    Hey all!

    I will finally be looking for my own place soon and was wondering what apps people have found the most useful. I’ve tried out 직방 and just in stalled 피터멘 but if there’s anything else people use, please let me know! Also, if you think just going to the real-estate office is better, that would work too.

    Thank you! ^^

    Reply
    1. Samantha Avatar
      Samantha

      Honestly, in my experience it’s best to look around the area you want for real estate agents and find one with good reviews or get a recommendation from someone you know. Those apps usually have lots of fake listings to bait people.

      However, if you do wanna look online first I would recommend the Naver app because its considered to be more reliable (search for 네이버 부동산).

      Good luck on your search 🙂

      Reply
    2. Jugy Avatar
      Jugy

      Don’t use an app. Go to a realtor in the area you want to move.

      Apps use scam photos or are bait and switch or manipulated to look absolutely amazing until you get there. You can find great realtors through websites before you even get Korea.

      Reply
    3. Yeon Avatar
      Yeon

      as a Korean native, to be honest, They have barely differences either using 직방 or going to the real-estate in my experience.

      just check some options on 직방 and contact the agent then , they will show you what you had in your mind.

      after than, all you have to do is just check the condition of house and chose where you want to move in.

      I should’ve let you know more detail but my English is bad. please bear with me.

      I hope you will find a good house!

      Reply
    4. Harper Avatar
      Harper

      I check Naver 부동산 and get in touch with an agent in the area.

      Reply
    5. Mabel Avatar
      Mabel

      you can go through Facebook group also there are a lot of people posting house here

      Reply
    6. Maria Ewulu Avatar
      Maria Ewulu

      I moved 4 times and I used 직방 , 피터팬, and 당근 부동산.

      With karrot, I got the place directly with the landlord, no issues. With the other 2 apps, I found the place I wanted and showed the ad to the local realtor to see it in person. If it was good, I took it. If the realtor showed me better though, I took the better place.

      Reply
    7. Floris Avatar
      Floris

      I used zigbang, I am aware that most listings are fake but what it does is it connects you to realtors and through that they can help you find more of what you are looking for. That’s how I found my house and I’m happy with it.

      Reply
    8. Jaynu Avatar
      Jaynu

      As far as I know:

      주택청약종합저축 account offers simple interest in accordance with proposed rates. First year goes without interest, but the rate increase annually from 0% to 4.5% over 2 years.
      if you win the lottery, you get the right to purchase the house. You should pay the money for one. The lottery system was introduced when the housing market was so active and competitive that housing price was likely to go through the roof.
      Yes. you can close the account if you want to or buy a new house.
      The account offers certain amount of tax deduction. (quite huge as I remember)
      the housing includes any house, the size of which decides how much money you should deposit in your account.
      주택청약종합저축 account is popular among Koreans. With a little bit of exaggeration, every working Korean has it.

      Reply
    9. Gabby Ewulu Avatar
      Gabby Ewulu

      Sorry this might be long but… I’ve been doing my research and
      So I got curious actually went into Korean Statistical Information Service to look up (kosis.kr) – this is info from 2010.

      There are 17,339,422 households in Korea. 8,169,349 households (47%) live in those “Apartments” (Higher than 5 stories, >20 units)

      A bit of analysis…

      4,655,181 Apartment units (57% of total Apartments) are 4-room.
      1,543,799 Apartment units (19% of total apartments) have more than 5 rooms.
      3,383,084 households(41% of total Apartment households) are comprised of 3-4 people living in 3-4 room Apartments. Which is what you call typical Korean “family.”
      2,199,110 households (27% of total Apartment households) are comprised of 1-2 people living in 3-4 room Apartments. I guess they are either rich or empty-nesters.
      Something about SFH….

      There are a lot of single family homes: 6,859,694 households live in SFH (40% of total households)
      However, you will see a larger concentration of 1-2 people households in SFH (4,404,765 households, or 64% of total SFH households) than Apartments (2,777,887 households, or 34% of total Apartment households). I think this is attributable to old folks in the countryside.
      I don’t think these statistics include unoccupied houses.

      I did a quick math since they provide information by # of people in family too. Nearly 25 million people live in the Apartments, which is ~51%+ of total population.

      Reply
      1. Mang Avatar
        Mang

        Wow you’re good

      2. Gretchen Avatar
        Gretchen

        Girl lol I need to start coming to you more often lol

      3. Noemi Avatar
        Noemi

        I love when you comment on here because you be knowing your stuff. I followed some of the apps you referred and a realtor is helping now get a place. I’ll keep you updated.

  127. Prima Avatar
    Prima

    Woman here. I just came back from my solo trip in South Korea. I was taken aback when I realized it’s hard to find places where I could eat alone. I came to this sub and searched solo dining options. That was very helpful. I looked up “Gimbap” places.

    Ps. I never felt “unsafe” but I did get followed after I was leaving McDonalds and I will admit I was scared as hell. Besides that It was such a wonderful trip. I would go back in a heartbeat. And Naver is super useful.

    Reply
  128. Ellen Avatar
    Ellen

    I’m female, American in my 30s and solo here now on a two week trip. First time to Seoul and I don’t speak Korean. Agree with the comments especially around how safe it is and then having some parts that are a bit shady. Also agree, get a SIM so you can access data. I reserved mine ahead of arrival at ICN via Chinggu mobile and it’s working out well. Just make sure your phone is unlocked. Download Navar maps since Google maps doesn’t work well.

    Reply
  129. Daria Avatar
    Daria

    What areas should I avoid in Korea? Moving there in September because I’m taking a cruise out of Los Angeles. It’ll give me enough time to prepare myself anyway.

    Reply
    1. Daehan Avatar
      Daehan

      Itaewon.

      Reply
    2. Japskillet Avatar
      Japskillet

      Ansan, Sillim-Dong, both have a bad reputation among Korean and Chinese people. Chinatown there is often the setting for gangster related themes in movies for things like sex trafficking, money laundering, drugs, etc. I think this is obviously exaggerated in the movies though.

      Reply
    3. Rasslyn Avatar
      Rasslyn

      Guro district in Seoul and Ansan City near Seoul.

      Reply
    4. Sharmela Avatar
      Sharmela

      Itaewon because, well… We all know why.

      Reply
    5. Davina Avatar
      Davina

      Korea doesn’t have bad neighborhoods unless you count the red-light districts. 🚦

      Reply
    6. Kehlani Avatar
      Kehlani

      Gangnam for sure!!!

      Reply
    7. Yolanda Avatar
      Yolanda

      Korea is too small and too dense of a place to have any ghettos or slums. We are talking about an entire country that can be reached by a 6 hour drive from Seoul to Busan.

      Sure rural is the poorest of the areas but I feel like with interest to relocate to Seoul or any populated city that the farmers are fine. I mean they aren’t wealthy but they live, breath and have shelter. Also some Korean CHOOSE to live that way, many older Koreans have the dream to retire to those areas to live out their lives in peace, the simple Korea they once knew. A lot of city dwellers do this once they become at least 55 or 65, they move to the rural areas to live

      The poorest are those you see on the street. Those that are hidden away scrounging about.

      Reply
    8. Violet Avatar
      Violet

      I live in the worst “slum” I have seen in 2 years of traveling Korea. It’s a little neighborhood called 곡반정동 and it’s much nicer than where I lived in the USA but still it is a poor area with lots of trash and stuff…

      I have been to a lot of rural areas on camping and hiking excursions and I haven’t seen a lot of poor people in the country. Mostly, they have houses and backyards so I think my students would consider that a step up.

      Reply
    9. Robbie Avatar
      Robbie

      The poorest province is Gyeongsangnam-do, but there aren’t really ‘slums’ anywhere.

      Reply
    10. Calvina Avatar
      Calvina

      용산 is being renovated. They’ve knocked down a lot of that. There were even some protests not to long ago with the prostitutes about where they were going to go since they were being kicked out

      Reply
    11. Senta Avatar
      Senta

      I’ve been yelled at by the pimps before, seriously go anywhere around the red light area in youngsan with a camera. They pop out of no where yelling to high heaven. (I’m not a random perv, I was showing my sister around Korea and she wanted her picture taken as we passed the alley)

      Reply
    12. Waegeuk Avatar
      Waegeuk

      There are some neighborhoods considered more dangerous at night but there’s no reason why you would be there outside of the train station. Gangs don’t hang out around common foot traffic or tourist areas.

      Reply
    13. Ashley Kwan Avatar
      Ashley Kwan

      If someone owns an apartment in Jamsil, they are super duper rich. Depends on your budget. Avoid by all means. But it’s good to make friends with people that live there.

      Reply
    14. Minae Avatar
      Minae

      IDK how much drink spiking in clubs actually happen but yeah, that’s one thing worth looking out for. Cults are a huge issue tho, when I moved to my new room near my university one women tried to convince me to join a cult by banging on my front door until I told her that I’ll call the police…

      Reply
    15. Maria Ewulu Avatar
      Maria Ewulu

      Wongok-dong, is known for high crime rates

      Reply
    16. Jayla Avatar
      Jayla

      https://www.koreaboo.com/lists/10-dangerous-cities-south-korea/
      This might answer your question

      Reply
  130. Blanche Avatar
    Blanche

    I am Black and Korean American, and 18F in American age. I am in Korea for around 2-3 more weeks. Currently I’m staying with my dads family in Gwangju.

    I want to goto convenience stores and places like cafes sometimes and/or just exercise in general late at night (like 8 PM or 9 PM). Is this unsafe?

    My dad who is Korean person (52) is worried about my safety. I can speak Korean fluently and I’m pretty sure Korea is much safer than say, a ghetto neighborhood in America like Oakland (or just in general America).

    Am I wrong? Is it really that dangerous to go by myself? My dad is worried that I’ll get mugged, stabbed, or something similar..

    I really want to go shopping and see things myself as well (not just in the night) but my dad in general thinks Korea is really unsafe;; Is he right?? I thought Korea is supposed to be one of the safest countries in the world, no?

    Reply
    1. De De Tillman Avatar
      De De Tillman

      South Korea is definitely much safer than Oakland. 🙂 – LT

      Reply
    2. Kamzi Avatar
      Kamzi

      I’m living in an extremely lower class neighborhood. Children are still playing in the park unsupervised at 9 – 10 pm. My wife has no problem walking alone to the store, park, or around for exercise at that time. We are not Korean and stand out of foreigners, well that’s what happens when you’re black. Exercise normal care about dark isolated places and you should be good.

      Reply
      1. De De Tillman Avatar
        De De Tillman

        Thanks for sharing! 🙂 – LT

    3. Dolbra Avatar
      Dolbra

      It’s possible your father just worry about you go wild in Korea when he is not watching 🙂 I can understand it quite well.

      Korea is safer than almost every countries I traveled or worked, except Japan, Japan is the safest of them all but even Japan has rough neighbors so just practice normal caution and you will be fine.

      Reply
    4. Calvina Avatar
      Calvina

      Daerim/Namguro/Suyu at night are the only creepy places (that dont involve clubs at night) but a tourist probably will have 0 business around that area so it should be fine.

      Reply
    5. Carol Avatar
      Carol

      No need swiss knife Seoul is extremely safe. when you put your cellphone on table and left, your cell phone wait you the whole day that site.

      Reply
  131. Mele Avatar
    Mele

    Hello im a solo traveler and I’m coming to seoul in Sept to stay 2 months. I know korea is extremely safe but i just wanna be cautious and avoid the places that might be dangerous for a female. Where should i stay away from? Also do you know if i can bring my pepper spray and Swiss knife to korea?

    Reply
    1. Blue Avatar
      Blue

      just be on guard anywhere there’s clubs/bars at night. don’t give randoms that come up to you any attention any time of day. you’ll be fine if you follow the same precautions you follow at home.

      Reply
    2. Cheree Avatar
      Cheree

      Just an FYI, pepper spray is technically legal there, but you will need a permit from the police to carry it and if you’re a foreigner, might not be granted.
      Self defense laws here are incredibly fucked up, and you absolutely can be arrested and charged with assault for defending yourself in a physical situation if the assailant is harmed in any way deemed ‘excessive’ to the situation. Having/using a weapon will almost certainly escalate you as the aggressor in the eyes of the police.

      As long as you keep your wits about you and don’t hangout with some sketchy fboys that thirst for foreigners you won’t need weapons.

      Reply
  132. Mia Avatar
    Mia

    Yes, I recommend it. I was in the Seoul Univ. Venture Town stop (it’s 2 stops after Sillim on the Sillim line, it’s the terminus). It’s super safe, never had any issue whatsoever. The rent was cheap (410,000 KRW, 2 millions deposit) for a one room, and there’s a lot of options to eat alone.

    I have another friend who lived there too, and she also didn’t have any issue.

    Gangnam is about 25 minutes away, Sadang 15 minutes, Hongdae 40 minutes, these are really decent commute times for central points.

    As a bonus, you’re just near Gwanak-san, which is one of the best mountains of Seoul. Seriously, check these pics: https://www.koreatodo.com/gwanaksan-mountain

    I didn’t have any flooding issue, but avoid renting a half-basement apartment just in case.

    Reply
    1. Justice Avatar
      Justice

      Beaksa village in Northeastern Seoul. Many of the residents were relocated here in the early ’60s from other postwar shanty towns across Seoul. The government only provided 200 bricks to each resident to build their own home. The rest they had to find themselves. This once massive neighborhood is now mostly abandoned. Many residents were bought out or were forced to move. However, some old-timers still remain. Very cheap area.

      Reply
    2. Gabby Ewulu Avatar
      Gabby Ewulu

      There’s abandoned and unfinished housing complex by the sea. Jeju Island, South Korea. Like when I say a BUNCH, there’s at least 40 homes empty and they’re nice actually.

      Reply
      1. Lenya Avatar
        Lenya

        In Seoul, there are 10,000 homes that were abandoned. But those are mostly homes where redevelopment is stopped due to economic problems. Most of the empty abandoned homes, over a million of them, are found in rural areas all over the country. The owners of these homes have either died, or moved to the cities having forced to abandon their homes because they could not sell them. The number of empty homes especially the detached homes in rural areas are rapidly rising as the population ages and declines. People are trying to figure out a way to make use of those abandoned homes, like remodeling them into tourist guest houses or turning them into rental units. I think the government needs to step in and give incentives for people to remodel the old homes and encourage people to stay in rural areas. Another way is to encourage reverse migration of ethnic Koreans from Russia/China/Japan, to take up these homes (thus take up farming) in return for citizenships. The ethnic Koreans from Russia and China are some of the most hardest working expert farmers who can revitalize the South Korean rural communities.

        Not to mention there is a Korean guy that lives in Korea, so I’ve heard that guys property, finds something wrong with it and just walks away from it and on to the next one just to turn around and do the same.

    3. Gabby Ewulu Avatar
      Gabby Ewulu

      Also I can’t tell you for sure why they’re abandoned, I just happened to come across it while walking down a quiet road. Looked like no one even explored it yet as I had to literally pry open a part of the metal fence to squeeze in.

      Reply
      1. Maria Ewulu Avatar
        Maria Ewulu

        Don’t forget about the abandoned neighborhood near Sangock metro stop.

    4. Lenya Avatar
      Lenya

      Seoul’s population has been steadily declining, as population moves out into the new suburban areas surrounding Seoul. The other Korean cities like Gwangju, Busan, Daegu, etc. which are well developed and not too different from Seoul in terms of development, have all seen declines in population still. It’s just that people go where the jobs are, and many of the best paying jobs are located in Seoul.

      Reply
  133. Aunjenette Avatar
    Aunjenette

    Hi, since I’m on a tight budget for my first year in Korea. It looks like places like Sillim Dong would be very easily affordable for me on my budget. However I know it has quite the reputation and some of my friends don’t recommend it. However being a songwriter, taking risks on things like “housing” or any other large recurring bills aren’t possible for me. I wonder is Sillim really as bad as they say? How bad does the flooding get there during monsoon season? Etc. I’m tempted to go more nearby Seoul Uni Venture Town since it seems slightly better than the other parts of Sillim. Curious to know what you guys think though.

    Reply
    1. Jina Avatar
      Jina

      I hated it there and at the end I was so glad to move away. I didnt enjoy it at all. My house and the ones surrounding it (the whole neighborhood) was old, bad quality, mold develops extremely quickly, the vibe (due to being a very poor area still) was also obviously not the best and it takes you forever to get anywhere in Seoul. I also started to feel unsafe. I would never go back there personally.

      Reply
    2. Nanyamka Avatar
      Nanyamka

      Honestly, Sillim is fine. The worst part about it is that the ground is dirty due to people throwing trash carelessly, smoking, etc. etc. It looks older than some other parts of Seoul, but I’ve never really been worried for my safety or anything like that. If you compare it to nicer parts of Seoul, it’s definitely grungier, but compared to most cities in North America, it’s not bad by any means. You will see some things that attract younger crowds, like lots of bars and motels, but that’s about it. As for the flooding, after what happened 2020, the government installed more storm drains (esp. by Sillim station), so the area doesn’t flood at all anymore.

      Reply
    3. Tacomma Avatar
      Tacomma

      I lived in Sillim about three years ago and it was fine. A bit older than some other parts of Seoul but otherwise it’s good. Compared to living in any western city it’s still much safer. I’d often see people working out in the parks late night who’d leave their wallets and phones completely unattended and stuff doesn’t get stolen. So go for it, I had a good time there.

      Reply
    4. Adeya Choi Avatar
      Adeya Choi

      Sillim-dong is quite a vast neighborhood and it’s quite hard to determine it as a good or bad area.

      I move to our new 3 bedroom home in less than three weeks from Nigeria (my husband is Korean) and our area is quite clean and well lit during the night. The options for food and etc within a 5 minute walk is nothing to scoff at either. I’d say it’s quite the opposite of the rumors I have heard and read about.

      Reply
    5. Astasis Avatar
      Astasis

      i know few people who live there and they like it. rent is cheap 300-400 per month vs similiar quality propetiies in other areass going for 600-700, along major subway line 2 with short distance to hongdae or gamgnam etc.

      Reply
    6. Juwanna Avatar
      Juwanna

      That’s where I’m going next month. I found a place there cheaper than the one I’m in now lol I keep moving until I get price reductions 🤣🤣
      The place I found has 2 bedrooms for $260

      Reply
      1. De De Tillman Avatar
        De De Tillman

        LOL 🙂 – LT

    7. Denisha Avatar
      Denisha

      I live here and it’s fine. Yeah there have been some cases of assault here. But crime is not concentrated here. News comes from everywhere. From what I hear, this place has a bad name because of its history with being a “Chinese neighborhood.” And such neighborhoods have gotten a bad image (I don’t believe this stereotype but this is a reason many Koreans have told me to stay safe when living here). Same story with Yeongdeungpo and Daerim. But apart from this, there isn’t actually any reason to hate these places. But yeah, it isn’t the prettiest neighborhood. Still works as a good neighborhood for a broke student like me

      Reply
    8. Ducky Avatar
      Ducky

      the area where I visited was poorly lighted at night on top of a bunch of drunk students just yelling and kicking stuff, old buildings and feelings of being followed by said drunk students. again, this was in 2019 and it was kinda of an old neighborhood so not sure if it has changed much since.

      Reply
    9. Pepper Avatar
      Pepper

      It’s safe, but it’s dirty, smelly, and depressing. You’ll pay low rent, though, so maybe those negatives are acceptable to you.

      Reply
    10. Ava Avatar
      Ava

      The one near venture town is fine, it’s not as sketchy as the sillim station. However it also depends on which exit you choose near the sillim station one. I used to live in sillim station area near the Time Square and Hospital, and it was fine during rainy season. Pretty far from the crowded drunk people and red light district cos it was mostly old people in the neighborhood.

      Reply
    11. Amandaa Avatar
      Amandaa

      Compared to Daerim it’s safe. Yes it’s safer than anywhere in the states but tbh as a woman i didn’t feel great there. It’s only place where I have been followed MULTIPLE TIMES, to the point where I gave up on running at night. It can also be quite loud depending on which part you live in. You mentioned Seoul Venture town but imo it’s inconvenient to use the Sillim line subway. If I could recommend areas on the cheaper side, Sindaebang, Guro digital, Bongcheon are all okay although just a but away from Sillim or Daerim.

      Reply
    12. Niyee Avatar
      Niyee

      I‘m Korean. I’m using a translator, so I might not be able to read well Sillim-dong is close to Seoul National University The atmosphere in the neighborhood is similar and the house price is okay You don‘t have to worry about flooding unless you live in the semi-basement

      Reply
      1. De De Tillman Avatar
        De De Tillman

        Thank you! 🙂 – LT

    13. Maria Ewulu Avatar
      Maria Ewulu

      Sillim is a favoured place for students and young people. It has narrow streets, low buildings, it’s crowded, and somehow seems more dirty than it should be (trash collection issues). But it’s a great place nevertheless 🙂 I never ever felt it was dangerous. I just moved here.

      Reply
    14. Clarra Avatar
      Clarra

      Its a known area for lots of 조선족 (Korean-Chinese but they are in fact just Chinese that even Chinese dont like them). not every 조선족 is criminal but voice phishing, hitman, fraud, and many organized crimes are often done by them)

      Reply
    15. Angela Wu Avatar
      Angela Wu

      A friend used to live in Sillim. He’s since moved years ago, but when he was there, he said there were rapes reported in the area a few times. He never told me that, and one day on my way back to his place I got locked out because he gave me the wrong door code to his place AND my phone died on me. (Now there are free chargers everywhere, but back in 2013 there wasn’t so I had no way to contact him.) Thankfully he gave me the correct code for the building door because I was followed by a guy on my walk back to his place. It was 1AM and I was trying to hold my pee in, but I could not and needed to use so badly so I left the building. On my way back, a truck drove towards me, but then I noticed he made a U-turn (because who wouldn’t in that darkness). He made the u-turn started slowly driving. Like very slowly. He would stop, go, stop, go and then he slowly drove past me and parked across the CU and got out when I turned the corner to the street my friend’s building was on. I had never fastwalked 2 blocks so fast before in my life. Thankfully my friend’s building was on a corner, and the door was on the other side, so I turned the corner again and glanced down the street and saw a guy fastwalking towards me. I rushed into that building so fast and hid in the hallway. My heart was pounding. If dude was not slowly creeping in his car I never would have noticed. I told my friend this and that’s when he told me about the rapes. Because of this, I stay away from Sillim. To me, it’s a seedy area. It’s a Chinese neighborhood and I’m Chinese so i dont know.

      Reply
      1. Alija Avatar
        Alija

        Apparently Ansan has a bad reputation among Koreans. Chinatown there is often the setting for gangster related themes in movies for things like sex trafficking, money laundering, drugs, etc. I think this is obviously exaggerated in the movies though. Just avoid this area. It might be cheap as hell, studio for $20 a month but not worth it.

      2. Pink Avatar
        Pink

        The north side of the Imjin river is pretty dodgy, imo.

      3. Rasheeda Avatar
        Rasheeda

        Jayangdong gets a bad rep cuz of the Chinese population.

      4. Fortuna Avatar
        Fortuna

        Any heavy Chinese/migrant worker areas are considered unsafe for women and children.

        Itaewon doesn’t even come close to these areas. Over the years, Itaewon’s reputation has improved with the revitalization and improvement projects.

    16. Fancessa Avatar
      Fancessa

      Considering someone was just murdered there a few days ago, yeah the low rent makes sense. No one wants to be there right now. Especially around a bunch of
      Chinese people 🤢

      Reply
    17. Horikoshi Avatar
      Horikoshi

      It’s unsanitary, old, and dangerous depending on what part of 신림 you’re in. If you’re closer to 가리봉동 it’s extremely dangerous. Other parts are more tolerable.

      There’s also a considerable Chinese population there, a non-trivial proportion of whom are illegal migrants who don’t speak Korean. It’s usually not recommended for women to live alone there and doubly so if you’re a foreigner.

      If you’re looking for a place to stay, send me a DM – I can probably help. Our real estate market isn’t very accommodating for non-Korean speakers.

      Reply
    18. Soy Avatar
      Soy

      There are other places cheaper and better (Doksan, Geumcheong-Gu…), but further from the downtown.

      Reply
    19. Cam Avatar
      Cam

      It had a bad reputation from years ago because there was a red light district but it’s fine safety wise like if you are used to any western low rent district like Brooklyn or downtown LA it’s just average people no fancy stores except for a new mall opened with a shake shack etc. yeah the rents are 50 percent lower in gwankakgu than Gangnam it’s crazy

      Reply
    20. Farla Avatar
      Farla

      신림동 has been old and crappy for the 2 or so decades I’ve known it. I haven’t checked the history, but I’d guess it was one of the earlier-developed areas in Seoul. It’s known for its many many many old, small, cheap rooms catering to poor students and 고시생 (“students” devoting years to national exams). Due to that demographic (poor, stressed people, plenty of young guys), cheap eating and drinking places shot up around there. Later, poor foreigners took advantage of the environment and decided to put their roots down there as well. It’s not TERRIBLE, it’s just you don’t live there if you can afford normal rent, usually.

      Reply
    21. Sugo Avatar
      Sugo

      There’s a homeplus in sadang station, not far away, if you want to normal grocery store. (Not open the 2nd/4th Sunday of a month).

      This isn’t south east Asia, people don’t scam you when selling cucumbers. Only time you will feel scammed is at a department store. But that’s because they scam everyone into thinking a single apple is worth $2

      On kakao maps, search for 전통시장 and you can find a local market.

      Reply
    22. Kpop fan Avatar
      Kpop fan

      Sillim is a very big neighbourhood that has like 5-6 subway stations, so it is difficult to give the best local place to get groceries for cheap.

      However, in general usually there are big supermarkets and malls.

      Hanaro Mart run by Nonghyup (the Korean Agriculture Cooperative) has a lot of food items.
      Emart is by far the most popular supermarket-mall in Korea, and has a lot of things you can buy (groceries, electronics, clothing, etc.) There is one nearby Guro Digital Complex.
      other stores like Homeplus is also pretty budget, and GS The Fresh is a bit more premium.

      Reply
    23. Dooyoou Avatar
      Dooyoou

      I had a look around 신림 last week, went to three different 부동산. You’re right in thinking it’s one of the cheapest areas but the prices have gone up a lot in a year. I ended up extending my contract in 신대방 bc I couldn’t find anything decent for 500/50. Even went up to 1000/60 and was still looking at rooms 15 mins from the station that weren’t great.

      Reply
    24. Tax20 Avatar
      Tax20

      SNU venture town, Noryangjin. Look into those areas

      Reply
    25. Rae Avatar
      Rae

      Guro-gu also has cheap places.

      Reply
    26. Marchelle Avatar
      Marchelle

      With a car, you can’t go wrong in Daejeon. 1 hour to Seoul via KTX. A corridor to almost the entire country by car. 1-2 hours to almost anywhere. Plus, great schools, not too crowded, but big enough to have most amenities.

      It’s just missing some big cultural attractions and museums, but the stuff just outside and around the city will make up for it.

      Reply
    27. Zelda Avatar
      Zelda

      갱상도 아이가? After living in Busan metro for almost 4 years, I would pick it over any other place in Korea.

      Yangsan is great, I lived there for 2 years. The Busan Line 2 subway goes all the way through central Yangsan. By car or bus you can be almost anywhere in Busan, Ulsan, or Gyeongsang-do in less than an hour. The east coast between Busan and Ulsan is one of the most scenic areas of Korea–sure, Haeundae beach and the Yonggungsa “sea temple”, but there’s a solid 50 km of gorgeous coastline between the urban areas. Daewangam is one of my favorite places.

      Gimhae is a little more industrial, but it has the international airport and is connected to Busan subway by light rail.

      Changwon might be even nicer–historic Jinhae (the Korean Naval Academy is located there), provincial capital, modern downtown area, lots of coastline, no subway but great bus service and a KTX station. And the KBO champion baseball team!

      A little more in keeping with the places you mentioned–small cities rather than suburbs–I like Gumi (which is only like 35km from central Daegu, and right on the Seoul-Busan expressway), Jinju–which has Gyeongsang National University, and Pohang (which obviously has the advantage of being on the East Sea coast.)

      Reply
    28. Chimi Avatar
      Chimi

      I live in Chuncheon and I think it is kind of what you’re looking for. It is a medium sized city and on the Seoul metro. You can also take the ITX to Seoul in about an hour. Most housing I have seen is quite reasonable. Next to my school there is a fancy new building and 3 or 4 bedroom apartments are around 250 to 350 USD. It is an easy city to get around and is a government town so I’d say there are good schools and facilities.

      Reply
    29. Kem Avatar
      Kem

      I enjoyed living in Sejong, close to Daejeon, has a KTX, and a good bus system.

      Reply
    30. Janie Avatar
      Janie

      Pyeongtaek Is a good look

      Reply
    31. Patricia Avatar
      Patricia

      From looking at Jeju Island’s population over the last 15 years, it seems like it is one of the more popular places to move to. There are lots of international schools there now, so lots of families are moving there. A lot of tech and AI companies also moved or built an office there to attract tech people.

      Reply
    32. Becca Avatar
      Becca

      It’s fine. Scary for Korean locals Because of high Chinese population. Enjoy

      Reply
    33. Nicka Avatar
      Nicka

      Exit 5 of Sillim Station finally opened 9 months after 4+ years of construction.

      Reply
    34. Chloe Avatar
      Chloe

      Would be such a great place If they get rid of the damn Chinese. They’re everywhere.

      Reply
    35. Latesha Avatar
      Latesha

      I can’t wait to move. This area makes me feel like I’m in Beijing or some shit. I had to check my passport a few times to make sure i was really in Korea.

      Reply
    36. Bluu Avatar
      Bluu

      Doksan Is even cheaper. Look into it.

      Reply
    37. Roselyn Avatar
      Roselyn

      People hold onto abandoned properties as investments in hopes of hitting real-estate jackpot. That is having a large construction company buy them out above market to build a new set of high-rise apartments.

      That said, there are still relatively cheap homes to be found far away from large cities in Korea.

      There’s a guy in Korea that literally abandons homes every month.

      Reply
    38. Gabby Ewulu Avatar
      Gabby Ewulu

      Within the city, not presently. You’re probably best off just wandering around Mullae-dong. You’re looking for abandoned industrial properties, they’re everywhere and you can turn it into a home if you want.

      Reply
      1. De De Tillman Avatar
        De De Tillman

        Thanks for info Gabby! 🙂 – LT

  134. Shontelle Avatar
    Shontelle

    Hello,

    I’m going to move korea in 1st september for long time, and looking for rent on Zigbang, dabang, even craiglist.

    And I found so many rent around Sillim at like 100/200만 deposit, and 30/40 rent.
    I wonder why is it so cheap, and if it was contract scam maybe ?

    I heard that Sillim is a bit “dangerous” but, I can’t believe the price are so low just because of this.

    I’m in a hurry to make sure I have everything secured before I get there. As a Haitian, I don’t feel safe anymore in the USA.
    Thank for your answers.

    Reply
    1. Drea Avatar
      Drea

      I live in Sillim-dong. I feel super safe even late at night. I personally do not think you would have anything to worry about. Lots of good food around here too! It’s definitely cheap as hell here.

      Reply
    2. De De Tillman Avatar
      De De Tillman

      Hello Shontelle, the best thing to do is to travel to South Korea and book an Airbnb then either visit or call to book an appointment with a real estate agent and let them know what your budget is to pay per month (wolse) and the deposit. La meilleure chose à faire est de voyager en Corée du Sud et de réserver un Airbnb, puis de visiter ou d’appeler pour prendre rendez-vous avec un agent immobilier. J’espère cela aide! Merci! 🙂 – LT

      Reply
    3. De De Tillman Avatar
      De De Tillman

      Also, there is a French school in South Korea that may need teachers. 🙂 – LT https://lfseoul.org/en/

      Reply
  135. Levi Avatar
    Levi

    I’ll be moving to Seoul at around the end of August and I’ve been looking for a place over the past month or so. I’ve found a few apartments/one-rooms that I like on Dabang and Zigbang and each time I contacted the 부동산 I was told it’s way too early and I need to start looking 6, 7, or 10 days (time given by different 부동산’s) prior to my move-in date.

    I’ve heard that those sites can be sketchy but after getting similar responses from different 부동산’s I just accepted the fact that I’d probably have to go up the weekend prior to moving in and find a place on the fly–as crazy and hectic as that seems. I told my (Korean) gf and she’s convinced that I shouldn’t have to wait until the last minute but she doesn’t actually have experience with one-year leases so I’m not sure who is right.

    So for anyone with experience in this situation, when were you able to look at apartments and lock down your housing for a 1-year lease? Is it really a last minute thing or am I just getting bad information from sketchy 부동산’s? Any tips for finding housing early?

    Reply
    1. De De Tillman Avatar
      De De Tillman

      Hello, it’s best to follow the agent’s advice in South Korea. They are usually the experts when it comes to housing. 🙂 – LT

      Reply
  136. Snow Avatar
    Snow

    Use Naver 부동산 online – everything else was scammy. Just find a place on there you like and try contact the agent for that place directly for an inspection. Feel free to decline them if they want to show other places (was generally a waste of time for me unless they knew exactly what I was after)

    Reply
  137. Pam Avatar
    Pam

    Hello Kdrama fans,

    Canadian here. I have recently been learning about the horrible history between Japan and Korea ( Mr. Sunshine was sort of my shocking awakening) and did a little further reading up on some history to fill in some gaps.

    I’m curious what the average Korean thinks of Japan. I find it really strange in a kdrama when people want to have a really special dinner the will go out for Japanese food. I am so offended by Japan’s actions I seriously struggle with eating sushi now (my absolute favourite indulgence) so I can’t understand it when Koreans eat Japanese food.

    It’s appears that Japanese food is considered fancy and dignified because it’s in business lunches, meetings or celebrations in a kdrama.

    Reply
  138. Amiyah Avatar
    Amiyah

    I met a girl once through mutual friends who was a Koreaboo. She fetishized Korean men heavily. I remember the first time I met her we discussed K-Pop and when she said she stopped listening to Western music because it wasn’t as deep as K-pop, I saw a red flag appear above her head.

    There’s this Korean-style karaoke bar where I live and, of course, the Korean population we have frequents this bar so she practically begged us to go there one night when we were all having drinks. We went, we’re having a good time and she meets this guy there who she acts a plum fool over. Like, one moment she was sober and the next she was suddenly “sO drUnK” she couldn’t walk properly so the guy had to help her to our car and she kept randomly speaking the few Korean words she knew. It was SO weird. And then, on the way home, she said something like, “I was an idiot who dated a black guy once but now I know better, so I stick to Korean guys.” And yes, she was black herself, we both are.

    It was a mess. I haven’t seen or hung out with her since but last I heard, she finally got her Korean guy, so good for her, I guess, lmao.

    Sorry if this wasn’t the appropriate place to put this, I just needed to share somewhere. But I apologize if I crossed the line, my cousin is on here a lot. Her name is Juwanna.

    Reply
    1. De De Tillman Avatar
      De De Tillman

      Thanks and welcome aboard! Amiyah! Juwanna is VIP on here! 🙂 – LT

      Reply
  139. Shaundra Avatar
    Shaundra

    Eventually I want to travel to Sk in the future, I mainly watch videos of black women in Korea since I could get a better understanding. From the vlogs I’ve watched, I’ve seen women walking by themselves even at night, I find that interesting yet crazy because you’d never be able to do that in the states. Is Korea that safe??

    Reply
  140. X Avatar
    X

    Been in Korea since 2020, leaving next month. I highly recommend it but I think how long you stay ultimately depends on your home life in your home country and your personal happiness. Some of my friends have better a quality of life and opportunities here than their home country, some aren’t as close to their family as others so I think that also plays a big part on staying here forever or not.

    For me, I graduated in Business Management so I wanted a job in that industry in the UK. I loved being a teacher here and I worked so hard but, it wasn’t my dream. I am also very close with my family so being so far from my family over 4 years has been hard. My grandma sadly passed away this month too, lucky I got so much support from my employer that I could go back for the funeral and take as much time off as i’d like but that really isn’t common in Korea so I was really lucky.

    Reply
  141. Beautifully loved Avatar
    Beautifully loved

    Staying longer would honestly require that I get married and work part-time to truly enjoy life. However, I don’t think I’d enjoy being called a foreigner for the rest of my life. I also can’t see myself raising kids here, especially considering the high cost of living.

    I would love to buy a house with a big yard rather than live in an apartment. Raising children in a diverse environment where they aren’t bullied for not being fully Korean is important to me. That’s not a struggle I want for my life.

    Additionally, the lack of career development is frustrating. Investing in Korean classes just for career advancement, only to end up stuck in a job from 9 AM to 7 PM, doesn’t feel like a fulfilling life. It’s not rewarding—it’s just predictable.

    Reply
  142. Gwendelynn Avatar
    Gwendelynn

    It’s been over six years since I came here—studied, learned Korean (Topik 6), and now work here—but I’m not happy anymore. The first two years were fulfilling, and I was so motivated that I dreamed of settling down, maybe even pursuing citizenship and raising a family here. But now, I can’t pinpoint one specific reason for this complete shift in my outlook. It feels like a mix of frustrations and experiences as a foreigner over the years that made me realize something: even after learning the language, I just can’t fully assimilate into the culture. And it’s not just the culture—the system, like government visa policies and rules, hasn’t made it any easier.

    To truly settle here, you can’t just embrace the positives—convenience, safety, great public transport—while rejecting the less appealing aspects, like the materialism or the intensely competitive nature of society. These things inevitably seep into your life, whether at school, work, or elsewhere, the longer you stay. During my time in school, most of my foreign friends were on antidepressants, and even those who weren’t constantly voiced negativity about their experiences. I knew it wasn’t just me. Some, like me, would passionately defend Korea in the early years, one even considered joining the Korean military, now we just joke about it cz he ended up leaving immediately after graduation.

    The negative side of society doesn’t spare you just because you’re a foreigner. If you stay here long enough, you’re competing for the same things Koreans your age are fighting for, facing the same challenges—on top of dealing with the added struggles of being a foreigner. This doesn’t stop at school; it transitions to work, just with different issues. Now, I find myself constantly planning my next move away from here.

    Reply
  143. Amilee Avatar
    Amilee

    just curious to hear from those that have been living in korea for at least a years time, do you plan to make it your long term home if possible?

    i recently had the opportunity to study abroad there, but opted for a different location, though it brings me a lot of joy to see those that did make that move.

    not necessarily only interested in hearing perspective from students, but everyone that has been in the country for a year or even two!

    Reply
    1. Da Ju Avatar
      Da Ju

      Probably not relevant to your questions, but I’ve lived in Korea for 26 years, moved to the US for 10 and then moved back to Korea 2 years ago. I am a native Korean.

      When I made the first move away, the country wasn’t doing very well, arguably it still isn’t doing very well, but society seems to have “grown up” more than it was when I lived there. And when I lived there, I had been living in a gosiwon for 6 years, was conscripted and subsequently hazed in the military and struggled to find a job.

      I moved to the US on an educational visa, got multiple degrees in STEM and a well-paying job, but during the last 5 years certain things happened and I left the US at the end of 2022 to return to Korea. I am not planning on leaving again and in hindsight, I probably shouldn’t have left to begin with since my degrees could’ve been gotten in Korea without putting me into debt and forcing me to adapt to a different country’s cultural norms.

      Reply
      1. De De Tillman Avatar
        De De Tillman

        Thank you for sharing! 🙂 – LT

  144. India Avatar
    India

    Whatever you do, do not come to Korea and speak bad about BTS. Even if you don’t like their music, it’s unacceptable here and believe me you will REGRET it.

    Reply
  145. Uucha Avatar
    Uucha

    Korea is extreme. Extremely great and extremely awful.

    Like if something is going well here, it’s amazing. If you have a friend, they are a fucking awesome friend who will stick by you whatever happens and help you out and be super fun.

    On the other hand, if someone dislikes you, they will go out of their way to fuck with you, bother you, and be a twat towards you.

    The cities can be ugly as hell – no variety, literal concrete jungle, too crowded, too much road congestion. But on the other hand, they are extremely convenient, easy to get around, every amenity you could hope for, restaurants and shops everywhere.

    I feel like the west is more balanced and just like everything is more on an “ok” level. Like it’s fine.

    Korea is either blowing my mind or making me want to jump off a cliff.

    Reply
  146. Melanie Avatar
    Melanie

    So, growing up in Black in Britain I understand I grew up in a fairly unexpressive society and understand Korea tends to be a lot more expressive vocally and physically than Britain.

    However, does anyone find Koreans, particularly Ahjummas, to often be kind of jarringly over dramatic.

    I’ve had a few experiences now, mostly with Ahjummas and our apartment lift.

    Where they wait in front of lift doors for them to open then practically scream as if a demon stepped out of a portal to hell when, shock horror, a human being gets off a lift and will be in front of you if you stand right in front of the doors.
    This has happened several times. I am in the lift with my medium sized dogs, sat politely and quietly in the corner of the lift behind my legs, and an ahjumma gets on the lift, looks down and sees them a good 3 feet away from them, not moving, and THROW THEMSELVES AGAINST THE WALL and let out yells of fear and cower away and scream as my dogs continue to… not move and look at me confused. I’m sympathetic to having phobias or fears, but this always feels very odd to me
    Has anyone else experienced or noticed this?

    Reply
  147. Ashy Avatar
    Ashy

    Just visited Seoul for a week to visit a relative. The first 3 days I experienced all the negatives which made it unwelcoming for me. No respect to personal space; lining up and women/men/elderly – there’s always somebody breathing on my neck! The rushing, impatience and pushing without acknowledging/saying sorry.

    It totally ticked me off but like any other country, there are a-h0les and kind ones exist. My airbnb host helped me carry my 20kg luggage from ground to level 4 STAIRS. Some taxi drivers may be reckless and could possibly contribute to getting you killed but most of them were happy to share some gossips and we talked throughout the ride and they were friendly. Some sales people don’t smile at you – and some do. It’s all balanced. I got used to it. But it will make you feel some type of way at the begging.

    Reply
  148. Loveth Tambou Avatar
    Loveth Tambou

    My friends warned me about how unfriendly people in Korea can be. My friends and I used to live in Tokyo, some have heritage/tie in Korea. So they told me not to compare Korea and Japan, otherwise we would be in a big disappointment.

    I think they are somewhat right and somewhat wrong. Some locals have treated us very well, taught us their custom, language, and even fed us. A local mum would give my daughter a hand warmer pouch every morning. But this is where my rant and questions begin. I don’t understand certain behavior of Koreans and hope some of you can shed some light here:

    I already heard about locals don’t hold the door for you. This is true in most cases I encountered, but why?
    Despite ladies or kids are in front of a lift, some people would squeeze themselves to the front of an elevator to get our first. This happened in hotels, malls, etc.
    People are so impatient, countless time while I walked into an elevator, they were pressing the close button non-stop.
    I found myself encountering snobs in affluent areas. The small kids would run to come and play with us at a hotel lobby but the parents would just ignore us and treat us as invisible. Happened twice, but to be fair, some acted like what a normal parents would and said hi or said sorry that their kid bothered us.
    There was a guy making a “cek” frustrating sound because I was on his way in a department store. A normal or civilized human would say “excuse me” / 실례합니다, so I am confused why so hostile.
    Why do people walk straight into your path way? It’s like they expect you to make way or a contest of who gives in first? I experimented once at Banpo Hangang Park by not giving in and the guy just bumped my shoulder. As expected, no apologies. I guess the concept of personal space is not a thing here. People would also sometimes cut in front of me very close while I walk.
    The people driving here is worse than some 3rd world countries! I thought Korea is better than that.
    I think that’s enough for today.

    Reply
  149. Sui Avatar
    Sui

    Korea is not the friendliest country, the system is not out to help foreign people, the people are not interested in helping others, especially foreign residents and it is generally a fruitless venture. Especially if you’re from a country which the Koreans don’t see as being on their level.

    Reply
  150. Loving G-Dragon Avatar
    Loving G-Dragon

    Yea , Ive been living here for a year now. Korean SKT service provider just cut my internet connection month in advance due to my visa expiration, so when I actually go to extend it in a few days Im supposed to go without any internet connection , because they treat you like a dog. Like they are saying remember that you are a piece of shit, when you are an alien in South Korea. If you do work in South Korea even officially , they can throw you away whenever they want to , if you did a simple mistake at work or just wasn’t polite enough with them or they just don’t like you , they will fire you right in place in the matter of seconds. Being somebody from third world country in South Korea is even worse, visa systems saying under context that you are bullshit by your visa status here. F1,2,3,4,5,6 you are good , but you are not one of us. EVERYTHING lower means that you’re worky dog , that you just supposed to do all the dirty work and stuff for Koreans so they can live good and you piece of shit have no rights here. They remind you all the time about that. In bank they say that 6 months is not enough to open a bank account or to receive a debit card, because they don’t trust you. The bank stuff would stare at you for a minute just by looking on your ID card and saying , bruh stop coming here bro , we don’t like you. They are not tolerant to anything , they won’t sit aside you in public transport as well in most of the cases because they don’t like you. They suppose you speak korean if you do live in South Korea and if you don’t, oh buddy they gonna talk shit about you right behind your back

    Reply
  151. Matilda Avatar
    Matilda

    Sorry not sure if I left my comment on the wrong blog. I was looking at the super hot Korean guy Jermhi 🤭

    Reply
  152. Davontae Avatar
    Davontae

    I’m American and have worked in Korea for more than five and a half years in a large company. I don’t speak Korean and haven’t learned it because I thought I would have gone after a couple of years. The company provides a full time translator for me so I don’t have big problems at work, but still feel a little inconvenient at times. It’s just less incentive for me to learn another language. Anyway I can get by on my personal life on my own without speaking Korean. Not sure how many more years to stay as my work contract is renewed on a yearly basis as a company executive. I have E-7 visa.

    Reply
  153. Roxie Avatar
    Roxie

    I’m from Canada, but moved here on a working holiday visa in February. I found getting a job here to be tough which is expected on a visa that limits working hours to 25. Instead I started a youtube channel and have been doing that as my job.

    Language I had known a decent amount before coming here, and I’d say if u are coming alone and don’t know Korean you will hate it here. I’m glad I studied in advance because it’s tough to do even the basics sometimes. I honestly didn’t pick up anything here because I spend most of my time online on my own.

    If you really are interested make sure you have a plan in advance. I’d recommend you try a working holiday visa if you’re under the age of 30 to give it a try.

    Reply
  154. Seret Avatar
    Seret

    My advice for anyone. If you want to live in Korea you have to speak Korean language. There are plenty of people who speak English perfectly, but they prefer to pretend they don’t and you will become extremely frustrated. You will need to find somebody to help you to make a bank account, rent apartment, etc. Basically you can not do any paperwork by yourself.

    Also do some research about Korean culture. There are some things I still can not get used to.

    Reply
    1. Jiablee Avatar
      Jiablee

      And also you options there. I lived in Korea for three years. If it had been possible for me to do something beyond teaching English in a hagwon, I think I would’ve stayed a year or two longer. But they make it impossible. I did not want to leave but I could not handle another year of teaching, so I left. I was happy there.

      Reply
  155. Cierra Avatar
    Cierra

    Just my experience from four years living in Seoul — Almost everyone was either a teacher or in the military or started out as one or the other before doing something else. Some worked for corporations, but they were a minority and almost all were Korean-Americans who were fluent in Korean. The ones who worked for corporations who didn’t speak great Korean were often very highly qualified in their field and usually a bit older than the teachers and military folks (think late 30s-early 50s). I would also add that very few Americans stay more than a few years.

    And the vast, vast, vast majority of foreigners in the country are people from other Asian countries working in three-D jobs like in factories or on farms.

    Korean is not a language you can just “pick up” as an English-speaking adult imho. It is one of the hardest languages to learn for an English speaker. It will take hours and hours of studying to get even conversational, and probably years to get to a point where you could function in an office environment.

    Reply
  156. Wei Zhou Avatar
    Wei Zhou

    Without the company I work for helping and my wife (who is S. Korean, I’m chinese), I don’t know how I’d have settled here. I admire everyone who has just moved here without knowing the language and minimal support already here. It’s super impressive considering the language barrier.

    If you aren’t up for a challenge / life adventure, don’t come until you can at least kind of speak the language.

    Reply
  157. Brooky Avatar
    Brooky

    Why is stalking so normal in Korea? Like I’ve heard pure HORROR stories.

    Reply
    1. Jenni Avatar
      Jenni

      The real question is: why are there so many creepy losers in Korea?

      Reply
    2. Fang Avatar
      Fang

      I’m gonna say because a lot of Korean men have a hard time taking no for an answer.

      Reply
  158. Janae Avatar
    Janae

    The only positive thing I can say about Korea is l not one Korean person I came across stink. It’s like bad Oder doesn’t exist in the culture. They either smell good as hell or smell like nothing at all. But they are odor free.

    Reply
  159. Mani Avatar
    Mani

    I’m ignorant as duck. Also. I thought I had a generous budget (10mil deposit/700,000monthly). Apparently 4 years of rural Korea has ruined me.

    DaBang… is a lie. Don’t even download the app. Wow. Wow wow wow. I mean. I knew. But I didn’t REALLY know. Until I hit up the real estate agent and was presented with utter shit. As a result, every single agency that has a DaBang presence is crossed off my list. It’s outright dishonesty.
    Zigbang… occasional yay, occasional oy vey. I saw some actual real live places that were listed on the app. Which was great for comparisons.
    호갱노노… gave me a headache because I have no idea how to use it. Uhm. Apparently my conversational Korean doesn’t work here.
    Peterpanz… didn’t really use it because the database seemed smaller. Used it mainly for references to find real estate agent offices.
    Verdict: Apps are ONLY references to find a 부동산. Get the scope and expect the worse. Probably.

    I parked near the school and walked around to 부동산’s. Found some nice real estate agents, not so nice apartments though. They were kind so it wasn’t that bad. It also gave me an idea of what’s in the area.

    My New Now-I-Have-Somewhat-Learned-Although-Who-Knows Plan is to look through ZigBang and PeterPan. Make a list of the agents. Go to the physical offices. Say: Can you seeeeee? And if they don’t have the listing or feed me on “I have a different room, I’ll give a special price to you” politely decline over and over and over (because “no” is any language can’t be understood) and simply move on to the next name on the list.

    I actually cried in my car at the end of the day because of frustration, anger and general despair at being jerked around. I freely admit I’m stupid. Doesn’t mean I particularly like being treated like a total idiot (one agent was already talking about fees and I immediately said nope).

    Reply
  160. Riyah Avatar
    Riyah

    Korean men are absolute trash. To make the long story short I have a son with a Korean man. One night in the middle of the night, our son was crying and then I heard movement, I was under the impression that he was going to check on our son and I was in the “seek of it… until I heard the front door open and close. He left and went to his parents house because the crying of our child got on his nerves.

    Reply
  161. Aniyah Avatar
    Aniyah

    I booked an airbnb for 2 months and it seemed appropriate. Getting my ARC took a bit of time, but I found a real estate agent who works with foreigners and that process was quite fast. I was also there for work so I couldn’t dedicate all my time in looking for a new place.

    I had no budget and ended up finding a brand new officetel for 675 USD excluding management/utility fees. In retrospect it was a fairly easy process.

    Reply
  162. Mikey Avatar
    Mikey

    it can move very, very fast if you have the money. Generally Korean landlords don’t like having any vacancies and housing in Seoul is a hot commodity. You could be in an apartment with all the paperwork signed within a week if you needed to. Apartment hunting and finding a place you really want to live in long term is the part that can take as long as it needs to, but the act of paying the retainer fee, signing the paperwork, and sending all the money can happen within the same day. But remember it all starts with you HAVING THE MONEY! Believe it or not, some parts of Korea is extremely affordable and you will see your money more but you have to first have the money coming in.

    Reply
    1. Sallie Avatar
      Sallie

      Yea, unfortunately some peoples budgets might be off.

      I live in Seoul, but am about an hour away from the center core. For reference, when I lived alone I had an older office-tel in the same area and I paid 10m down and 700/month. I now have a newer 2 bedroom that cost me 20m down and 850/month.

      For a family of two the living conditions are actually very reasonable and cheap, though we both put up with hour+ commute times.

      It is hard for single people though, especially foreigners.

      You might want to check out the area around Nambu Bus Terminal. There’s lots of officetells there and when last I looked (as in spoke to a real estate agent about a specific unit) it was 3m down and around 900/month or cheaper with a bigger deposit.

      Reply
  163. Licia Avatar
    Licia

    A lot of people play the “trade-up” game. Buy something years ago, it goes up in value, sell and move to slightly nicer / bigger. Keep doing this. I know a number of Koreans who move every 3-5 yrs because of this.

    Reply
  164. Kamley Avatar
    Kamley

    Visited Seoul again earlier this year, got a better sense of what homes in Seoul, Gwacheon, etc. cost. Who can afford these? Are they all the family of corrupt officials and chaebol heads? If the average salary in Korea is so much less than US, I truly don’t get who can afford to live in Seoul amongst the locals.

    Reply
  165. Athena Avatar
    Athena

    Unless you have enough money to buy the house outright, you won’t be able to buy it. Banks don’t give loans on countryside houses, they give loans based on the liquidation value (not even the actual sale price) of the land only. So the house might be selling for 40, but the bank will only give you a loan on 70% of the 9 they value the land at.

    It sucks.

    We found a great house in the countryside. Brick, we’ll built, government sponsored neighborhood, couldn’t get a mortgage on it anywhere. Ended up buying an apartment for the same price. Broke my heart.

    Reply
    1. Stacyy Avatar
      Stacyy

      I know the whole process 🙂 someone recommended us a real estate agent who shows apartments and houses around Paju. We ended up purchasing an apartment with a big terrace and a yard. I remember that the agency went against buying a house since the bank would not approve the loan.

      Reply
      1. Deana Avatar
        Deana

        What made you choose Paju over other choices in or around Seoul? Idk how much time you’ve been living there, but are you happy with your decision? What are the pros and cons?

      2. Stacyy Avatar
        Stacyy

        @Deana for starters the price haha apartments are much cheaper and bigger than in Seoul. Also, Paju is well connected to Seoul. There is a new line that goes from Paju to Seoul Station in 21 minutes. Also, the city is well administrated, just to give an example, they built parking lots right outside the subway lines and it’s extremely cheap, like the whole day for only 3000 won and free on the weekends, so it’s a great option. Food is much tastier, I think that is something we noticed right away after 4 years living in Seoul. Cons? maybe it’s a bit colder than Seoul, and of course, the current subway (Gyeogui-Jungang line) schedule sucks a bit because sometimes you have to wait almost 20 minutes for the next train. Also the local buses routes are not that good, so I just drive if I have to move around Paju. Honestly, I don’t go to Seoul anymore unless I’m meeting someone or going to a specific place in there.

    2. Amylynn Avatar
      Amylynn

      I bought my apartment in Busan.

      I tried to win an apartment via lottery but it never happened.

      I chose a new apartment complex and paid a premium in order to get one in the best building in the complex (easier to resell)

      Cost about ₩380,000,000. I put down about ₩150,000,000 and my wife contributed about ₩100,000,000. We took out a loan for the rest which has been paid off already.

      Its funny because I’m just a lowly esl teacher, but with the right mindset and work attitude, it’s not too hard to save up that kind of money.

      I’ve owned it for a few years now. Initially, the prices went down but I noticed recently the price is about the same as I paid for it.

      My next goal is to buy land in the countryside for a hobby farm and if business continues as projected, I’ll be able to do that in 5-7 years.

      Also don’t let my white ass name fool you. I’m half black (mom) and white (dad) but my mom gave me this stupid ass name.

      Reply
      1. Cassidy Avatar
        Cassidy

        Yeah, Banpo is one of the most expensive areas. That average figure is meant for ~34 pyeong or 100 square meter apartments, which is considered a standard sized place for a family.

        Ilsan, or rather Goyang-si, doesn’t have any apartment complexes where said apartments reach $1M (that would be 14억), let alone that being the average. In fact, there are only a handful of apartment complexes where their price exceeds 10억. The same goes for Incheon, for example.

    3. Gwen Avatar
      Gwen

      My aunt have a jeonse loan 2.4% (married <7 years ago) for 150mil on a 250mil place it is worth around 320mil. When jeonse approaches over 90% or lower than 40% maemae price, be extra careful with research.

      When my aunt place expires she has option to buy. After living 2 years….she will have a good idea if buying is a smart plan.

      Reply
    4. Cherelle Avatar
      Cherelle

      There is a lot of news stating that Seoul property market is super unaffordable. However, the news doesn’t mention cities such as Gwangju, Busan, Daegu etc. Are these cities affordable (especially for young people) (Numbeo says they are not so expensive but dunno if it is true)? If so, why don’t people move out of Seoul to these cities? Is there more job opportunities in Seoul or is it the social prestige of staying in Seoul? I know it is a bit hypocritical of me to suggest moving out of Seoul since I live in London and have never been to cities such as Manchester, Birmingham, Liverpool but I have been to Busan and Daegu and in my opinion they are much more modern and developed than London (never been to Seoul tho).

      Reply
      1. Alyssa B Avatar
        Alyssa B

        You can probably find places that cheap in HBC, where they’re more used to foreigners who don’t have a lot of key money saved up

  166. Layla J Avatar
    Layla J

    My advice as a Black woman to any other black women coming to Korea to live, DO NOT come here without having your stuff together. Especially if you’re from the United States. I know many people are determined to leave the USA for the right reasons but coming to a foreign country and not having it together isn’t the brightest.

    If you’re a student, you might not have much money. You may need to get an officetel or similar accommodation. Your school might provide room and board or some assistance.

    If you’re an English teacher, your housing will likely be arranged by your school or employer. You probably won’t earn enough to choose your own place.

    If you’re planning to fly here without a job, proper visa, or anything lined up, or at least invest in the country, DO NOT come here.

    Reply
    1. Tee Avatar
      Tee

      Hi, actually in my experience, I have deposited 2 million won when signing the rent contract, and i always have to pay the rent fee in advance for the month. I study and live in Incheon which is near Seoul, so rent fees and deposit money changes in Seoul, but I think system works same.

      Your best bet is to at least have $15,000 USD if you already have a job in waiting for you but if not come with at least $30,000 or just not at all until you can afford. It’s not that it’s expensive here but you will catch hell if you don’t have money and a foreigner.

      Reply
      1. Maria Ewulu Avatar
        Maria Ewulu

        Naver app or dabang app.

        Also there are some YouTube channels of foreigners purchasing property and the process.

    2. Juwanna Avatar
      Juwanna

      Look at court auction sites to reference prices. Both the appraisal report and the winning bix can be used.

      http://www.act3.co.kr

      And others have this information.

      Reply
      1. Lychi Avatar
        Lychi

        There’s townhouses (called villas), older low rise apartments, single story houses and even goshiwons for the truly down on their luck (or students). Although I understand Koreans don’t desire older type housing and sometimes they can be hard to sell. They’re just sitting there abandoned and affordable.

      2. Ski Avatar
        Ski

        This explains why Koreans are so seemingly obssessed with buying an apartment as opposed to buying a single family house or a villa.

        If you take out a huge loan and buy an apartment, historically that house was worth a lot more in just 10 or so years.

        On the otherhand, you are lucky if the villa you bought hold the same value.

    3. Maria Ewulu Avatar
      Maria Ewulu

      Also want to mention, Always check with an international lawyer to make sure you cross your Ts and dot your Is before making any transactions in/with a country you are not a citizen of. Your money your loss is how it works for any mistakes. Even when legal by your (wife) it’s your/y’all money if you don’t have representation anyone can sell you anything and make it look good but could be a huge scam. I’ve bought in Philippines, Thailand and Korea and still own hiring lawyers on all fronts to make sure I was legal to purchase and what I needed to protect my money transaction and the property to make sure the title/deed was clean and due diligence was ran.

      Reply
  167. Taeviah Avatar
    Taeviah

    I’ve read a number of questions and answers about finding a place to live in Korea especially if you’re renting and looking for some English speaking realtors.

    Here are some of the tips I can give you and I hope this can be a well-written guidebook when renting a house in Korea.

    when renting a home in Korea, choosing based only on price or appearance can lead to regret later on. It’s not just about financial losses—you could face significant difficulties in your daily life as well.

    To help you find a safe and satisfactory place, here are 5 essential tips for renting in Korea.

    1. Check Your Budget and Extra Costs

    “Why am I spending so much money when the rent seemed fine?” To avoid situations like this, carefully calculate your total budget, including deposit, monthly rent, maintenance fees, and utility bills.

    📌 Key Points:

    Check if you can adjust the deposit-to-rent ratio (e.g., increase the deposit to reduce the monthly rent).
    Review what’s included in maintenance fees (e.g., shared electricity, security, cleaning fees).
    Confirm if gas, water, and electricity are billed separately.
    2. Evaluate Location and Surroundings

    Even if a home is pretty and cheap, it’s not worth it if the location is inconvenient or unsafe.

    📌 Key Points:

    Check transportation access for your workplace or school.
    Ensure essential facilities like grocery stores, hospitals, and convenience stores are nearby.
    Assess safety by walking around the area during both daytime and nighttime.
    3. Inspect the Interior Carefully

    Once you sign the lease, resolving any issues with the landlord can be a challenge. It’s crucial to inspect the home thoroughly before committing.

    📌 Key Points:

    Look for leaks, mold, and the condition of wallpaper.
    Test water, gas, and electricity to ensure everything works.
    Check soundproofing (e.g., tap on walls).
    If you find issues, request repairs through the real estate agent before signing.
    4. Always Check the Real Estate Register (등기부등본)

    The real estate register provides vital information like property ownership and any risks of the property being auctioned.

    If the landlord has significant debts, your deposit could be at risk, so reviewing this document is essential.

    📌 Key Points:

    Verify that the property owner matches the person you’re signing with.
    Check for potential auction risks (e.g., heavy debt).
    Look for any liens or seizures on the property.
    Tip: A foreigner-friendly version of the document can be accessed through Government24.
    5. Review the Contract and Secure the Lease Registration

    The lease contract protects your rights, so read everything carefully before signing.

    📌 Key Points:

    Confirm the contract includes details like the lease term, monthly rent, and deposit amount.
    Check for penalties in case of early termination.
    Look for additional terms (e.g., repair responsibilities, renewal conditions).
    Secure a lease registration certificate (확정일자) by visiting a local community center or registry office. This ensures your deposit is protected.
    Final Thoughts:

    Navigating the rental process in Korea can be tricky, especially if you’re not fluent in Korean. While some real estate agents speak English, finding a trustworthy one isn’t always easy.

    For peace of mind, I recommend working with a reputable real estate agency, particularly those catering to foreigners. They often provide services like:

    1:1 consultation in English or Chinese.
    Listings in your preferred language.
    Transparent policies like full refunds for unsatisfactory service.
    Extra safety measures, such as fraud-prevention checklists and bi-monthly property updates.
    Flexible payment methods (Samsung Pay or Apple Pay).
    Additional options like moving, cleaning, internet setup, and appliance rentals, often bundled at competitive rates.
    Ultimately, safety and reliability are the most important factors in any rental transaction.

    Reply
  168. Oh min Avatar
    Oh min

    Hello, i am Korean in Korea.
    I want to warn people to please come to Korea prepared. Do not come unprepared or almost prepared. Everyone has different luck. Many say how stressful Korea is because they come unprepared. If you come here to teach than ok but if no teaching then it will be hard for you.

    Reply
  169. Genna Avatar
    Genna

    Need advice on how to get holding deposit back, reverse a transfer or what to do when being scammed in rental estate space. I learned my lesson the hard way so I want to know better for next time.

    I came across a TikTok today showcasing a place I put holding deposit on saying that the whole thing is a scam targeting foreigners and that the place is actually not the persons apartment but a rented dummy flat.

    I found an ad on Facebook group for rentals in Seoul and contacted the person who posted it for a viewing. She said that they’re away from Korea at the moment and won’t be back until October (the partner is the person who is supposedly the landlords son) and are looking to rent the flat ASAP as someone pulled out last minute hence the cheap price.

    As they weren’t planning for this to happen, they couldn’t show me the house registration paper but I had one of my Korean friends check it for me and get the landlords name as well as check if the house is in debt which it wasn’t.

    The lady sent me the address as well as the door code in order for me to see the flat which I’ve done and it was exactly like the pictures shown. There wasn’t much stuff in the house, but then it made sense as her partner was already living with her before their holiday.

    I said I want to go ahead with the flat, but because they’re away she mentioned to get the contract signed online instead. After my push for a in person contract (as I said I need to see the house documents and their documents too) she agreed to do it when they’re back (early October) if I pay holding deposit that came up to 40만원.

    I never got a receipt for it but the account holders surname was different than on the paperwork which now makes sense.

    Unsure how to proceed now. I want to get my money back, if possible or at least report it somewhere but it’s hard to do that without their ARC numbers I guess. I am at loss if to believe what the TikTok says or not as it’s literally the same flat and by the sounds of it the same person.

    I feel like an idiot but then it all looked fine until now, had friends check it too.. so yeah, guess realtors are really the only way ahead here.

    Reply
  170. Tina Avatar
    Tina

    I received a letter at my apartment and I cant read it. My korean friend says the apartment was not meant to be sold/rented. Now what? I payed the deposit and 3 months rent in advance. Does anyone have advice?

    Reply
  171. Mesha Avatar
    Mesha

    The Korean thing to do would be to search on https://land.naver.com/, find a place that looks good, and then contact the real estate agency listed. Either that or just walk into a real estate agency around and ask them to show you places.

    Unfortunately almost certainly everything, from searching for the house, to contacting the real estate agent, to viewings, to signing the contract, etc, needs to be done in Korean. I try to encourage to find this before you go to Korea so that you can guarantee a place to stay before you get there. Worst thing you can do is go to Korea homeless. You could probably try to painfully get this done with conversational Korean, but really in order to ensure no misunderstandings, a Korean person should probably be involved on your end somehow

    Also you’ll have to set up internet/gas/utilities all in Korean after you get the house sorted

    Reply
    1. Gaylestan Avatar
      Gaylestan

      Some good advice has been given here but I would like to add some important details:

      As mentioned, short-term rentals of 1 to 6 months will probably just cost you monthly rent upfront for each month. The cheapest options include share-houses and goshiwons. Goshiwons are typically not very comfortable, just a very small room with a single bed and small desk… probably a shared bathroom among 5 to 15 men/women…basically like a dorm.

      Someone mentioned getting a loan as a deposit to cancel out the monthly rent. That’s not an option for most foreigners on a visa, unfortunately. The amount you need to do this is roughly 100k-200k usd or more depending on size and location of the property.

      The most popular option, as mentioned, is a ‘smaller’ deposit + monthly rent. The amount you have to pay for both the rent and deposit is gonna differ from location to location. In my neighborhood, it’s typically 10k usd deposit and 700 to 800 usd rent per month, and this will be for a small one room with a 1 – 2 year lease agreement…other less modern or fancy areas could be around the 5k usd deposit for 400-600 usd rent per month.

      Other costs to keep in mind:

      The realtor fee is about 3% of your deposit

      Maintenance fees can be around 50 to 100 dollars a month, and that’s excluding your utilities (overall, I would expect to pay 100 to 150 for maintenance and utilities per month).

      If you’re thinking of long-term renting, you will have to pay 10% of the deposit to “hold” the apartment for you. You pay the remaining 90% of the deposit when you move in.

      Of course, it’s all based on the location and type of accommodation, etc.

      Reply
    2. Tamia Avatar
      Tamia

      You find apartments through apps like zigbang and then contact their real estate agent for viewings and other options if you need them. As for renting, you have 3 options:

      normal monthly rent, like you know it with no deposit (very common for short term stays between 1-6months, mostly students and business people for example in gangnam)
      deposit + monthly rent, which lowers your monthly rent
      large deposit, that often requires you to take out a loan. You pay no rent, but have to pay interest to the bank (only interest, you’re not actually paying the loan back) The 3rd option is called Jeonse and is the most common form of long term renting in Seoul(1-2 years per contract). But you have to properly check your landlord or else you risk being stuck in the apartment until he finds a new tenant. Another major difference is that the rental market is moving very fast, so from viewing an apartment to moving in usually takes at most 1-2 weeks, so you need to have the money ready or someone else will take the apartment from you.

      Reply
  172. Nancy Avatar
    Nancy

    My advice is to start by fiddling around at home with the various apps: dabang, naver budongsan, zigbang, ziptoss, peterpanz etc.

    You might need to figure out how to use each website. For example, how to toggle between jeonse and weolse to find the listings or how to use their search function to narrow down to your price range.

    What you will find is that each of these apps is based upon networks of local budongsan so one app might have a lot of listings for a particular neighborhood and no listings for other neighborhoods while another app will have none for the former and lots of listings for the latter. That’s why you can’t depend on a single app (though naver budongsan is the most dependable if you were to pick one).

    Also you will discover that the listings on the app might be a lie. In other words, when you actually visit the local budongsan the listings may not reflect the reality of what is available. The bottom line in Korea is that the local budongsan remains king.

    So why bother with the apps then?? Well, they are useful for a couple reasons.

    First, they will show the neighborhoods in the city where your type of housing exists. Because some neighborhoods will be all family apartments and some neighborhoods will be all commercial stuff. So by setting the parameters to your needs, you can find which neighborhoods you should be looking at. Some of them you would have never thought of as possibilities before looking at the app, especially ones you would need to commute from to work.

    Second, they will list the address of the budongsan that put up the listing, so you can save time by visiting the budongsan with a lot of listings similar to what you want and in the area you want. Find the budongsan through the apps.

    Third, they will give you an idea of what the prices are like and maybe highlight where better deals exist.

    When searching for places there are a couple things to be aware of:

    If you see a really good deal, then check to see if it is a half basement or an oktap (roof apartment). If you move into a half basement, then you will suffer from lots of bugs and an endless fight against mold and mildew. And even flooding if you get really unlucky. If you move into a roof apartment, then it will be impossible to heat in winter or cool in the summer. Avoid both.
    Realize that the statistics for officetels are often listed differently than the statistics for one or two room villas. An officetel will count the hallway, entrance etc in its size of the apartment. The apps will list the real number of pyeong for the room itself, but you may have to look for it. Also factor in the size of required gwalibi or maintenance fees for officetel and some other places. That affects the final cost to live there.
    Some things to look for in older one rooms are whether the bathroom shower head is going to be high up or if you are supposed to bathe squatted down. Also look to see if there is an aircon or not. Does the aircon compressor have good ventilation to cool in the summer. These things may be fixable later, but not always.
    The apps will list whether pets are allowed as I recall.
    In general it is better not to be on the first floor because more crimes happen through first floor windows and more bugs can come in to a place.
    Beware of the loft officetels that have a ladder to a sleeping area. Often they are bad deals because of high maintenance fees and a tendency to overheat in summer if their large windows and high ceilings are facing the sun. Google it and read about it if you are tempted by one of these places.
    When you have found the neighborhoods and few places, then you can visit a budongsan in those neighborhoods. You are going to get exhausted and settle for something at the point of exhaustion, but I think it is good to try to look at a couple neighborhoods on different weekends before settling for one place.

    Once you are in the budongsan you just need to tell them what your key money is and your monthly rent parameters. They are going to push for you to see more and more places even if they aren’t what you are looking for. They are going to push for you to decide right away once they have found you one place that meets your needs. Their goal is just to conclude the sale and get their fee (300-500,000won perhaps, factor that into your budget) not to walk around in the sun or let you go somewhere else. So you need to be the one who says you are going to keep looking and might come back in the future. Force yourself to look at a couple neighborhoods. Usually the key money and the rent are adjustable within limits. For example, if a place is 2000/700, they might accept 1000/750 or 1000/800. Higher monthly rent for a lower key money. Some of the app listings will give you a range of what the owner is willing to do on the listing. But the budongsan can ask the owner for you when you look at the place. So it is a good idea to search for places a notch higher than what you can afford in terms of key money because sometimes you will find good deals that way where a little more rent can get you what you want.

    For me the neighborhood is almost as important as the place. You can live close to work or close to a big supermarket or close to the bars so you don’t need a taxi home or close to a subway or bike path. There are always trade offs to consider, and you will only learn about the neighborhoods by walking around. Before making a decision look for restaurants, coffee shops, shopping close to your home. These aren’t essential, but they can make a difference. Decide if you are willing to trade a commute to work for being closer to Seoul or away from the hustle and bustle.

    I think it is good to pick a couple options. A place near my work. A place with more space but in an older area. A place more comfortable/modern/hip but in an expensive area. Talk to more than one budongsan in each area, and then weigh up those options and settle on something when you have reached the point of being done with the whole process.

    Reply
  173. Efaisha Avatar
    Efaisha

    Hello! So I recently changed jobs and have come up to east Suwon. The apartment my new hagwon supplied for me is incredibly tiny. Significantly smaller than my previous place further South. I, of course, am a fool for not asking to see it before I agreed to move in. I have lived in Korea for four years now and have accumulated a number of items along with a cat who simply should not be forced to live in such a small space. So I have decided to embark on the task of finding my own place.

    For some background info,I’m Black and I came to Korea at 30 basically straight out of university late as hell. I am a mere an English teacher. Yes, I am that foreigner. Anyhoo this means beyond finding a shared apartment during university through Craigslist, I have never found my own living accommodations. I am a complete newbie to all things renting. I need all the help I can get. My Korean skills are conversational but I have unfortunately failed to make any serious Korean friends who could help me out.

    Any advice you have to offer or links to previous reddit posts would be greatly appreciated. I really enjoy my life in Korea and would like to stay for several more years. I don’t want to be stuck putting up with Hagwon scraps because I don’t know how to advocate for myself nor do I want to run home because figuring stuff out is hard. So thanks for taking the time to help!

    Reply
  174. Ooji Avatar
    Ooji

    Be aware of scams. You’re not likely to get physically robbed but lots of people are going to try to cheat you of your money. I recently went looking for an apartment and was all set to sign for an apartment (literally was sitting in the realtor’s office with paperwork in front of me) and my Korean friend who had accompanied me asked for the document that shows how much money is left on the mortgage and essentially protects your deposit, which in my case was 10 million won – and the landlady and realtor got super hostile and acted like she was crazy for wanting this important document and then we found out the woman I was about to sign with wasn’t actually the owner of the building! Her daughter owned it. We ended up walking out and I found another apartment. I could have potentially been frauded out of my 10 million won. So be mindful 🙃

    Also apartment searching in Seoul in general was absolutely depressing to get shown tiny moldy one room after one room. I found something eventually but I felt like my soul was crushed along the way.

    Reply
    1. Beonca Avatar
      Beonca

      Ugh the apartment struggle is awful here. I just don’t get why it’s acceptable to have mold growing everywhere and no storage for anything in any of the rooms. And then you still gotta put down so much money in deposits on those nasty moldy places! My bf and I are gonna get married next year hopefully (depending on corona), and we’ve been looking at the newlywed apartment lottery. But our combined income is apparently gonna be too high so we’re gonna loose points. Even if we had the full points the lottery is so competitive 😔

      Reply
  175. Klaviyo Avatar
    Klaviyo

    Korea has a lot of potential, but there are some things holding it back from being a really nice place to live. These things could easily be amended if the police did a better job of enforcing traffic laws and actually fining people for littering and smoking in non-designated smoking areas. Also taking rape and stalking seriously. Unfortunately, I don’t think it will happen anytime soon as the offenders are never confronted despite the fact that many Korean people are also annoyed by these same issues. Korean men have all the power in the country.

    Reply
  176. Allie Breadlee Avatar
    Allie Breadlee

    I have been living in Korea for a very long time and would enjoy it a lot more, but for the reasons you’ve mentioned, certain things can get really frustrating. There are so many smokers who don’t care about anyone else around them and so many people spitting anywhere and everywhere. Seriously, it’s f**king gross. Having a dog means that I have to be on extra high alert as the ground is a minefield of trash, spit, and cigarette butts.

    Also I almost got ran over by a law abiding Korean citizen that ran the red light and had nerve to honk and curse me out walking when the light was green for me. He looked at me like how f**king dare you?

    Reply
  177. Mesa Avatar
    Mesa

    Red lights mean nothing. Always wait and look before crossing the street. Had a few cars run a red light that would have ran me over if I didn’t look.

    Also being a teacher is tough. It’s sad to hear about what kids go through. It’s not required by law to feed your kids 3 times a day and I have a 6 year old student who tells me everyday that she’s hungry. Also my older students go to 2-3 hagwons so they get home very late and don’t sleep until 1am. Breaks my heart everytime I hear it.

    Reply
  178. Terri Avatar
    Terri

    The cost of most things has certainly gone up; I remember when a taxi ride started at 1600W, it was 500W flat to ride the subway or bus, a bowl of jjajangmyeon was not more than 2500W, delivered.

    I find the food side of my groceries cost almost exactly what they did 20 years ago though, it’s remarkable actually.

    Reply
  179. Shikeasha Avatar
    Shikeasha

    I’m supposed to be moving to Korea in a month and then go to Japan . Well this inexperienced moron that I NEVER voted for is putting a ban on these places.
    Besides looking at the words and colors of the map, does he actually know what the words say??

    Reply
  180. Justina Avatar
    Justina

    Lol I am literally screwed. I have two options, to be in a country where the president is racist and his klans in the WHITE house or a different country where’s it’s still racist but maybe safer but don’t have a voice.

    Reply
  181. Bre Avatar
    Bre

    You definitely want to make sure you don’t have Korean neighbors.
    Nothing is more uncomfortable than having a hallway full of Koreans as your neighbor while being Haitian.

    Reply
    1. Calisa Avatar
      Calisa

      You ain’t never lied. Almost went to jail a few times.

      Reply
  182. Makayla Avatar
    Makayla

    I stayed in Korea for a couple months and if you don’t enter their country with money, they make it no easy for you to stay. They want you to enter and proof to them that you don’t need their systems that they have for their citizens, because it’s not designed for foreigners.

    Reply
  183. Juwanna Avatar
    Juwanna

    Just be ready to beat up white people

    Reply
  184. Makena Avatar
    Makena

    I’m a big K pop fan but I’m a bit scared to move here because I hear so much. Are they nice to Tanzanian people? I don’t expect the whole country to be nice but I hope it’s not scary haha

    Reply
    1. De De Tillman Avatar
      De De Tillman

      I say give it try. 🙂 -LT

      Reply
  185. Railene Avatar
    Railene

    I understand how everyone in the comment section feel regarding racism but at the moment, the United States has it also and it’s becoming worse. Korea might not be your thing but find somewhere to go in order to safe your life and sanity.

    Reply
  186. Sammi Avatar
    Sammi

    I’m not a fan of Korea but I want to meet Hongin and Oh-young.

    Reply
  187. Mynesha Avatar
    Mynesha

    I don’t care about any negative comments about Korea at this moment.. did yall not watch this fucking speech?

    Reply
  188. Sally Avatar
    Sally

    I’m not thrilled about Korea but I would take it or just about anything to get the hell away from the United States? Did anybody watch this dumb asses speech?

    Reply
  189. Shayla Avatar
    Shayla

    I wouldn’t mind visiting there but not quite sure about living there. I’ve heard too many horror stories about the rudeness there. No thanks. I am interested however in Japan. Is there a blog for that?

    Reply
    1. De De Tillman Avatar
      De De Tillman

      Yes, type in Moving to Japan. – LT

      Reply
  190. Dazzling Designer Erika Avatar
    Dazzling Designer Erika

    I’m a Canadian traveler with Japanese-Chinese heritage, and I’m light-skinned but obese. I’m planning a trip to South Korea and am excitedly preparing for my visit. However, during my research, I’ve come across quite a few negative comments about experiences of discrimination in the country, and it’s making me a bit anxious.

    To give you a clearer picture, I described my background so you can better understand my concern. I would greatly appreciate it if you could share your honest experiences and insights on this matter. How prevalent is discrimination in South Korea, especially towards someone with my background? Are there particular places or situations where I should be more cautious? Additionally, any tips on how to navigate potential challenges or any positive experiences would be very helpful.

    I understand that this is a sensitive topic, and I hope for objective and kind responses. My intention is not to generalize or offend but to better prepare myself for the trip. Thank you in advance for your understanding and assistance.

    Reply
  191. Kennedy Avatar
    Kennedy

    Korean people are some of the rudest people I’ve ever encountered. The girl in the video was lucky in many ways that she had caused her own problems, that she didn’t have time to really deal with Koreans in the sense. For the record I’m white and I have a slight rare skin condition, but to make the long story short, a Korean woman set next to me inside of restaurant looking very concerned, as I spoke, in broken English she proceeded to point at my face,
    And I said yes!? And she said what’s wrong with your face? Why so red here? Before I could even answer, she picks up a napkin and proceeds to try and white my skin condition away. First off I aren’t Koreans the Kings and Queens of not touching someone unless they know you? Well she totally broke that law because I never seen this woman a day in my life. I was shocked with our insensitive she was. Some people looked over and I can tell you, I was very humiliated because she asked so loudly. For the record, yes Koreans are loud.

    Reply
  192. Piper Avatar
    Piper

    Just updating everyone moving to Korea that You no longer need a korean phone number or card to use 배달의민족 (food delivery app) it take international cards now hope this helps you out if you don’t feel like going out to eat directly after getting your flight and going to you hotel or airbnb.

    Reply
  193. Freya Avatar
    Freya

    I would stay so far away from Korea. There population of ignorance is overpopulated. Been there before because of Kpop and Kdrama, but the people are the complete opposite. I was so disrespected that it’s hard to enjoy Korean culture these days. I’m traumatized

    Reply
  194. Ella Avatar
    Ella

    My first trip to Korea. A friend and I had both received the gammoglob and it was a really uncomfortable to sit during the flight so we drank as much of the free booze (booze was free on flights back then) we could and played cards across the aisle while practicing our Korean with the flight attendants. We arrived to Gimpo (way before Incheon was an airport town) drunk. We got a ride and did some paperwork. By the time we were done with that, we were both hungover and looking forward to some sleep. Our employer put us up at the Hamilton. I was woken by some pounding on the door. Our friends had found out where we were staying. They dragged us to Itaewon where we drank soju kettles and caught up with each other (before social media) lives. Itaewon had a midnight curfew in those days. The bars would push everyone who was broke or cheap out the front doors and closed them. turn off the lights in the front and move the paying customers to the back rooms. We ended up in a noraebang. I got about 2 hours sleep before my friends got us and about 2 hours after the noraebang. I was tired, hungover again but all in all pretty happy about my first 24 hours in South Korea.

    Reply
  195. Tasha Avatar
    Tasha

    Asiana terrible customer service. I called just to make sure if there’s going to be in-flight wifi available for my 15hour45min flight. Given the time and flight number of the specific flight that I am interested in. Somehow that’s not a piece of information that can be freely given without verifying the ticket number, full name, phone number, and flight details including all the flights on the same ticket number (to and back, cities and times of every single flight). Fine, I’ll play along, then the agent proceeded to ask me to verify the legal names (first, middle, and last names) of every person that I am traveling with (since my manager bought all of our tickets together, we’re all on the same ticket number). How am I supposed to have the authorities to verify other people’s information??? Also, no wifi on a 15hour45min international flight is a pain.

    Reply
    1. Nichelle Avatar
      Nichelle

      I’d take Korean Air over Asiana. Asiana is okay, but Korean Air was 100x better from the food, service, seats.

      Reply
    2. Katie Avatar
      Katie

      Korean Air is much better than US and Asiana airlines. Check out Tours By Locals or a similar service to get a tour from a local “guide” once you get there. You will get a much better feel for the city and people than you would just reading about an area. Do it early in your trip in case they recommend other things you might want to explore so you have time.

      Reply
    3. Citne Avatar
      Citne

      I have flown Korean Air several times and I am convinced that their hiring practice for flight attendants is to round up the most attractive women in Korea and offer them a job on the spot.

      Reply
  196. Eshaa Avatar
    Eshaa

    Hey everyone, I stumbled on this blog as I like to stalk Hongins instagram from time to time but I googled his name in case I missed something and this blog came up. I wanted to offer my opinion on Korea if that’s alright…

    S. Koreans are very professional, if they say they’ll meet you someplace at a particular time, be rest assured they will be there on the dot, not a minute early and definitely never late.
    S. Koreans are very helpful, unlike people from a certain big neighboring country. If you ask for directions or help, even if they don’t speak English, they will go out of their way, call a friend who speaks English and try and help you out.
    I have never had a taxi driver or anyone take advantage of me, as a lone female foreigner, I’ve never once felt unsafe on my own.
    They really do care about perception. I remembered going on a factory visit to the south and a long rail ride ensued, since I came with an all male team and the Korean counterparts were also male, they took along a female colleague to give me company!
    They drink an insane amount of coffee for an Asian country! Normally the stereotype is that Asians drink tea.
    Fooooood! I have eaten some of the best quality food in SK. There is always so much variety and so many cuisines to choose from.
    The energy never dies. I’ve literally gone shopping at midnight in Namdaemun market. Same for restaurants, bars and cafes. So much hustle bustle, absolutely loved it.
    They have an amazing rail network, you can get from Seoul to Busan in a matter of hours, conduct a meeting and get back in time for an evening drink.
    How incredibly clean everything is. Public spaces, parks and railways are spotless.
    People are so well groomed. The women could literally be plucked off a street and put on a runway, I really admire their style and attention to detail.
    Same with the men! I used to work with some large factories in SK and all the guys I dealt with would be immaculately dressed in suits and ties.
    Two words: Korean Beauty – simply the best.
    They know how to enjoy life, they travel, make conversation and are curious to know more about you and your culture. They do their best to include you in everything.
    Lastly they have an insane capacity for alcohol, I’ve seen them throw back beers and whiskey and walk out of a bar ramrod straight.

    Reply
    1. De De Tillman Avatar
      De De Tillman

      Thank you for finding this blog and your comment! 🙂 -LT

      Reply
  197. Tamela Avatar
    Tamela

    1. A city that never sleeps (or stops drinking). Seoul is alive 24/7. You are never more than 5 minutes away from a 24hr convenience store and can find a good array of food (and good food) any time day or night. Koreans can also be seen eating and drinking round the clock. Bars close when the last person leaves (could be 1am or 7am). I have often been going to work and come across business people stumbling out of bars or restaurants or just kicking back drinking outside a convenience store with beer or soju at 9am… any day of the week.
    2. Public transport is awesome. It is fast, reliable, generally easy to use, cheap, and networks the whole country. Compared to the UK or US Korea is living in the future. And it’s really easy for foreigners to use.
    3. Hierarchy pervades all. Despite being an ultra-modern city, the remnants od Confucianism are alive and well in Seoul. This affects business, family and friend relationships. There is even a different way of talking to a friend a year older/younger than you.
    4. China, Korea and Japan are not the same. I’ve lived in Asia for 6 years and they just aren’t.
    5. Korea is more technologically advanced than the west. 4G on the subways. New tech adoption by the whole population. Tech pervades your Korean life all the time, mostly making life easier and more efficient.
    6. 1st world economy. 2nd world society. Korea has the world’s 13th biggest economy (for a country of 50M that had nothing 40 years ago that’s mega). But socially there’s lots of catching up. Old people are among the worst off in the OECD, for example.
    7. Korean education is incredibly competitive. From elementary school through highschool it’s a battle to get into a top university. Achieving this assures a successful career (kind of). To achieve this, kids work exceptionally hard, often working in private accademies more than normal school.
    8. Koreans speak English. Much more so than in Japan and China.
    9. Korean ladies are the most beautiful in the world. I should know, I married one.
    10. Korea is a land of opportunity and contradiction – experience it for yourself.

    Reply
  198. Melanie Avatar
    Melanie

    I lived in Korea for a year and this is what I have to say. I’ll keep it short
    K-dramas are often thought to make girls raise their boyfriend standard. In reality, most of South Korean teenage boys act in accordance to the actions in K-dramas, as most of the girls in South Korea have exposed to the expectations.
    Manners (except in subways where there are seldom people who let elders sit). They turn their head to the right and hold the glass with 2 hands when drinking with older party. They pour the other person’s glass. They are willing to help you picking your luggages at Yongsan Station if the wave at the station’s not busy. They’ll show the way to the lost strangers. (Because most Koreans have the “lousy and unhelpful” image. I tell you, as a Chinese-Indonesian, I am fascinated with South Koreans)
    Relationship is taken seriously in Korea. Lots of couple activities, and of course, lots of special days invented for the couple.
    K-pops are one of the economy driver in South Korea. They are the most impactful influencer to market most of products sold in South Korea. Once your product’s being worn by a top-class artist, get ready to put “sold out” sign the next day.
    Teenage boys wearing BB cream is not weird. It’s kind of common in South Korea. Korean boys tend to take care of their body and face (and their faces are better than mine. I’m kinda jealous)
    Eating convenience store is very common (and once you do it, there’s no way to escape from the addiction)
    Plastic surgeons draw their patient’s face before they conduct the surgery. And most of people still go out after their faces were drawn.
    University students busk (by singing and dancing) around the university’s alley (the university’s alley is BIG, Hongdae area is one of them). They do it for the fun, money is a plus. And they’re famous in their university by doing this. Once you graduate with the reputation, you’ll be treated like an idol when you’re back at the alley.
    Americano + hazelnut syrup is good. I learned the recipe from my stay in South Korea and Indonesian Starbucks baristas still think my taste is kinda weird.
    Idols, even famous trainees don’t have their free spaces. Fans wait in front of their respected entertainment building and will chase them once they’re emerged from the building (just to grab a coffee at a cafe next to their entertainment building). The fans WILL leave their things (this includes phone, wallet and others) behind and chase their beloved idols. For girl idols, they mostly shouted and waved “hi”, and they can walk quite leisurely.
    In reality, most of South Korean teenagers dream to be an idol. Probably 60% of them. I might say 40–60% of Korean teenagers are trainee under an entertainment company. Big or small, there are hundreds of entertainments in South Korea.
    Street casting is real. However, this is also a form of scamming.
    South Koreans are mostly religious. You’ll occasionally get a pack of wet tissue from random people on the street. That means the people invited you to visit the church.
    In Korea, age matters. They use Chinese year style to measure your age (means you’re 1 when you’re born, and the year is counted by the chinese year. The chinese new year is the borderline. Easier way, chinese zodiac sign’s hierarchy matters). You must address the person who has the elder chinese zodiac sign with honorifics, even if you are born on the same year
    South Korean girls looks pretty everyday because make ups are cheap. They even brush their teeth immediately after they eat.
    There are a lot of duty free stalls with chaebol (riches family. e.g. Samsung and Hyundai group) names on it. Easier way, there are a lot of VAT refund provider, provided by these chaebols.
    Did not bring wipe tissue? Don’t worry. There are tissue vending machines in front of public places’ toilets in Seoul.
    If you use to live with heat every summer (or you live in tropical country), South Korea’s summer is not hot at all. However, all prefectures in South Korea, even Seoul have extreme degrees and climates during winter.
    People might think that Gangnam is the only “heart” in Seoul. Matter of fact, foreigners in South Korea usually hang out in Itaewon area. I also consider Itaewon as one of the “hearts” in Seoul.
    Entering Seoul National University? Great! Means you’re not entering Seoul’s university system with Kpop on mind (as there’s only a little percent of artists graduating from this #1 uni). You’ll be treated like a god(dess) of knowledge (as the acceptance rate is only less than 5%) and your future’s will be bright like a diamond.
    That might be enought for now. I don’t know if it’s common in other country, as those 20 are what most people ask to me about Korea.

    Reply
    1. Danielle Avatar
      Danielle

      Religious in a very loud way, and I’m originally from Detroit. Ajummas strapped with speakers and signs about the apocalypse knocking pushing people aside to get down the escalator and onto the subway train and SAVE these people religious.

      Reply
  199. Tessa Avatar
    Tessa

    I’m between Korea and Japan. I feel so homeless because I don’t want to be in the US anymore but unfortunately it is my country.

    Reply
    1. De De Tillman Avatar
      De De Tillman

      Korea and Japan. Good! 🙂 – LT

      Reply
  200. Levina Avatar
    Levina

    I lived in South Korea for over a year now, here is what I’ve observed so far.

    Seoul, not New York, is the city that never sleeps. People that call NYC the city that never sleeps,have clearly never been to Seoul. In New York many bars and clubs close around 2 or 3 am. In Korea, many bars and clubs seem to stay open until the last customer leaves, some are even open 24/7. Whenever I party with my Korean friends we usually end up staying out until 4 or 5 am.
    Hierarchy is hugely important in Korea. This can be good and bad. When you visit Korea one of the first questions people will ask you is how old you are. They are not being rude, they are asking you this because sadly someone’s age is very important in Korea. If a Korean has an older friend, he doesn’t call him the Korean word for friend, 친구, He must call him, 형, or older brother. A twin must call the older twin brotherm 형, even if he his is just 1 minute younger. Even while drinking in Korea they still observe hierarchy. At a formal dinner the younger person is supposed to turn away from the older person when they drink alcohol.
    Koreans drink more than any other people in the world. Koreans work hard, and they play hard too. Because Koreans work so hard, and all other drugs are illegal in Korea, many Koreans turn to alcohol to help cope with all the stress. Soju, 소주, is usually the drink of choice, it is a rice liquor that is incredibly cheap. Koreans drink more hard liquor, most likely Soju, than anyone else. Supposedly the average Korean drinks 13 shots a week! Soju doesn’t taste great, but at $1 a bottle…you learn to tolerate its taste.
    Koreans LOVE hiking. I consider myself an avid hiker, and when I went hiking in Korea I was shocked to see so many older people hiking. Korea is not known for having big mountains, however the country is 70% mountains, so hiking is quite popular here. Many cities have public buses that will drop off at the mountain. In Seoul you can even take the subway to hiking trails! Koreans also love to look fashionable while hiking, you’ll see many older women dressed as if they are about to conquer Mt. Everest with the newest hiking gear. My favorite part about hiking here is the kindness of strangers, many Koreans bring food and have a picnic on the mountain. Many times I’ve been offered free food and alcohol by random Koreans while hiking!
    Korean fried chicken is BETTER than American fried chicken! When most people think of fried chicken they think of American restaurants like KFC, Popeyes, or Chick-fil-A. I like those places, especially Chick-fil-A, but none of them come close to being as delicious as Korean fried chicken. Korean fried chicken is often double fried, and consumed alongside cold beer. 치맥 in Korean means fried chicken and beer, and it is one of my favorite meals in Korea along with Korean BBQ.
    They love singing and Karoake. Koreans love singing, many Koreans go to a 노래방, which means singing room in Korea. Noraebang is basically a private room that you and your friends use to sing and party. Usually you don’t have to pay for the room, you just have to order food and drinks. You can sing both Korean and American songs. You haven’t really partied in Korea if you haven’t been to a Noraebang!

    Reply
    1. De De Tillman Avatar
      De De Tillman

      Thanks for all this info! 🙂 – LT

      Reply
  201. Aly Avatar
    Aly

    Love Korea culture, food, music and dramas but the people? Absolutely the hell not. I sometimes wonder if Korean people swiped their brains with coyotes? They don’t use it at all.

    Reply
  202. Sarah Anne Avatar
    Sarah Anne

    If you stick to the well-populated areas, it’s pretty non-existent

    In general, South Korea is an extremely safe country. Crime rates are low and even petty crime is rare.

    The only thing I’d say you need to be slightly careful of is nightlife, particularly areas with a lot of love motels. You’re more likely to get scammed there, or to run into drunks ready to fight. In South Korea there are no self-defense laws, so if you end up getting into a fight, you will be held responsible and charged even if you didn’t initiate it.

    But as long as you aren’t getting too wild, you’re gonna be fine.

    Reply
  203. Ha Yoon Avatar
    Ha Yoon

    I’ve been living in Korea for years. Today Seoul is full of narcissistic inflated egos, chasing down image so much that it has made them robotic. Even wearing the same colorless, lifeless clothes. Look around in Seoul. People look lifeless, joyless, and running frantically, or just staring at themselves in a mirror and applying makeup on their faces. But they’re wearing a Nike shirt and have the same Gucci bag and drinking Starbucks so they must be happy, right? Going to school from 9am until 9pm, having plastic surgery at age 13, shaving their jaw bone (how is this even a real surgery!?), pollution (but it’s ALL China’s fault!), extreme weather which brings moldy apartments (gotta have that Tesla though)…lack of basic spatial awareness and basic manners (how many young people in Seoul do not get up fro their seat on the bus to give their seat to the elderly? A LOT.) Lack of awareness, lack of open minds, racism, xenophobia (search on google or Tiktok or youtube for endless stories about expats/foreigners in Korea being denied hotels/Airbnbs, or not being allowed into restaurants, bars and clubs)…add all of this to their excessive alcohol consumption and all around lack of common sense, it’s not a surprise why Korea has such a high suicide rate and low birth rate.

    Reply
    1. Kasley Avatar
      Kasley

      Finally found someone who said the truth. All that appears to everyone is beautiful idols, kdramas & actors, delicious food and scenic places. I, myself wanted to leave my country and settle in south korea after seeing all those beautiful kdramas, vlogs, and reviews on seoul life. But as I dig deeper about the country, I have second thoughts about even visiting South Korea.

      The Racism, they do this not only to other country people but to their own. They bully their own people based on their appearance. Actually, in my opinion, they bully their ownselves. And the result of this-

      Insane Plastic Surgeries. Omg, is it that hard to accept people/yourself for who they/you are. That too your own people who are born in the same land as you and breath the same air as you. On social media, I’ve seen people say it’s their choice, they become confident coz of it etc. What’s the point in that confidence when you don’t respect your own features, what’s the point in decorating your body with luxury goods when you bully it.

      When I searched about great persons of South Korea all I could find was Actors and Idols. Like seriously!!! Is life all about looks, fame and money!? Don’t they think for one second how much this affects young kids. They create generations of people to grow this mindset.

      Loneliness, suicides, discrimination based on class, color, appearance, Inequality, decline in birth rate, bullying, assaults…… and no proper laws to stop these (as of my knowledge).

      I know this kind of things happen in many countries but for a country that’s smaller than a state in many other countries and with even lesser population comparatively, but a developed country with high GDP, technology & successful conglomerates, they could be a lot better.

      With people studying for 20 hours a day and working more than 12 hours a day, they(not everyone) could at least behave like educated people with good manners. All those skincare, makeup, plastic surgery, Ideal body, Gucci, Chanel etc will never makeup to bad behaviour and shitty mindset.

      Of course, this doesn’t apply to everyone in the country. I’ve seen and heard of many good, well behaved and educated people(in the sense of manners not degrees). I hope other people learn from them and that South Korea becomes a happy country with less suicides. Idol deaths are the only suicudes we foreigners get to know about, we don’t how many common people are committing suicides. I hope they develop into a better nation with a higher ratio of happy people in it who could embrace their natural beauty🤍🤞

      Reply
  204. Felicia Avatar
    Felicia

    First of all, all the panels on either buildings or billboards are in Korean, so it might be hard to read. Also, Koreans aren’t that used to foreigners, so they might stare at you or talk about you. Korean traffic is very hard to bare, especially when you are the one who is driving because Koreans tend to hurry and might drive aggressively. They often block people when they try to change lanes, don’t yield, don’t stop at stop signs, and honk for no reason. Since South Korea is a small country, parking lots and other large services are usually crowded and overloaded with cars and people.

    Reply
  205. Lisa Dawson Avatar
    Lisa Dawson

    One “dark side” of tourism in South Korea surrounds the simple fact that the South Korean ministry of tourism doesn’t seem knowledgable about what foreign tourists actually want to do and see in South Korea. As such, a lot of the recommendations you are going to get are going to be very superficial in terms of actual culture.

    In my opinion, there are different levels of cultural experience in South Korea. For me, the least interesting variety consists of experiences one can get anywhere or which are not overly culturally Korea, if they’re Korean culturally at all. There’s a teddybear museum in Jeju-do that fits this description perfectly, so be on the lookout for itinerary points that sound less than interesting, if you’re having someone else plan your trip for you.

    Next would be hyper-new Korean cultural experiences, like Kpop concerts or popular musical performances like Nanta (kind of like Stomp, but with food). I saw Nanta and, aside from being disgusted by the amount of food they were throwing away, I tired of it quickly and ended up falling asleep. If you like popular Korean culture, by all means go to these places and have these experiences. But if you’re turned off by superficiality, avoid them in the extreme.

    Reply
  206. Julian and Sydney Avatar
    Julian and Sydney

    Glad I found this blog. I can use a place to rant.
    I booked the tour with Viator – I have chosen the half day – 6hrs – tour (for about 35£) called DMZ Past and Present: Korean Demilitarized Zone Tour from Seoul. I wanted to see mainly Panmunjom. The problem was, I didn’t know this was the name and I relied on the picture which was on the main page of the Viator web as a part of my tour – it was a picture of the Nort Korea building and Join Security Area (which I learnt, biterlly, later that day). Anyway, as much annoying as it is, I can probably blame just myself – I should have checked.
    Unfortunatelly, this was just the beginning. The tour started about 90 mins later than announced and it reminded me more than anything else of the school trips I used to do. we stopped about 5 times, always got 15 – 20 minutes (except the 3rd tunnel, we had an hour there) to run around and NO EXPLANATION. You could see people running from A to B and to C, taking photos of “stuff” and rushing back to the bus to be on time (skipping toilets as there was no time). The guide got as none information and no wonder one co-traveller asked (after coming back to the bus) “What was it, what have we just seen?” … well, that was teh Freedom Bridge which is actually pretty important but they just didnt tell us … the same was at every other stop. At the end of the tour, we were herded into the ginseng shop where we had to listen to the sales speech of the lady, not able to leave the room (not even for the toilet, I tried) … if you read the program at the Viator, it sounds like a good tour – sadly, it was not.

    Reply
  207. Muhammad Avatar
    Muhammad

    My wife and I recently did a few days in Seoul, 1 night in Busan, ferry to Japan and about 8-9 days in Japan. We’re brown skin Muslims so I have a beard and she wears a scarf. We stick out like a sore thumb. The people in Korea a bit rude to us and very far from helpful. Also I did notice people looking at us in trains etc. I don’t blame them, we probably look very exotic to them. In Japan similar story but Japan were much more friendlier, but a highlight for me personally, an old lady saw my beard and could not hold herself back from talking to us in broken English-Japanese telling me my beard was so curly and my wife looked so beautiful in the scarf lol. All in all, I don’t think you need to worry !

    Reply
    1. De De Tillman Avatar
      De De Tillman

      Thanks for commenting on your experience! 😉 – LT

      Reply
  208. Diamonique Wallace Avatar
    Diamonique Wallace

    I was just in Seoul for a month! I am a black woman and I’d say maybe a size medium in SK?

    I’ll start with your size concern. I don’t think you need to worry about your size at all. Despite what the media shows you, there are a lot of mid-sized and larger women in SK. The “you won’t be able to find clothes that fit!” and “you’ll stick out!” narratives are absolute rubbish, lol. Lots of my Korean friends over there are curvy women and they all find clothes just fine and go about their lives without issue. The diet culture and pressure to be skinny however IS totally real – all of my girl friends there no matter their size would talk about needing to lose weight or were actively trying to lose weight. Also, for what it’s worth, foreigners are not expected to fit the Korean beauty standards and you can feel that.

    The race thing also is greatly exaggerated in my experience. Was my experience different to my white friends? Yes. Was my experience negative? No. All, and I mean ALL of my white girl friends (all early/mid 20s) were approached while alone on the street within their first 24-48hours of being in Seoul by random men asking them to hang out/go on dates. No one approached me! But I did get close to a thousand likes on Bumble in a week, waaaay more than my white pals sooo…interpret that however you’d like. (I did not meet/talk to any of these men lol I was just curious).

    Generally though, I definitely didn’t feel like I got treated any differently to my other foreign friends when we were together (for context: I was always the only black person with either white people, Asians or Koreans).

    At the national museum a group of kids ran over and fist bumped me which was cute. One old man at a crossing did stop me and ask if I was from Africa (I’m from England) and another older guy YELLED across the road at me to say hi, lol. I also had one old man (always old men with me lol) make up a little song for me as I was walking by with my white friend. Unfortunately the only lyric was the n word so that was fun and my only undeniably racist experience while there.

    Generally I felt people would look at me and then look away. Kids and older people stared the most. Teens and adults didn’t give a fuuuuck. They’d notice me and then go on about their business. Obviously some people would properly stare for a while and that was uncomfortable but those people were a minority. Where I lived was a tourist-y area (Jongno-gu) so there were foreigners all over the place – mainly white or Asian tourists to be fair, and when I’d see another black person (I saw maybe <10 others in passing in a month) we’d always look at each other like ayyyy we out here! So I definitely stood out as a dark-skinned black woman but it wasn’t a big deal.

    Wheewww, that was long. Hope it helped! Have fun in Korea it’s bloody amazing. I’ve literally been back home for less than two weeks and I’m already planning to go back for another month later this year. So, hopefully that’s testimony enough!

    Reply
    1. De De Tillman Avatar
      De De Tillman

      Thank you sharing your experience! 🙂 – LT

      Reply
    2. De De Tillman Avatar
      De De Tillman

      Thank you so much for commenting! 🙂 – LT

      Reply
  209. Elsa Avatar
    Elsa

    Trust me, they don’t give a shit about tourists, if you’re in their way, you will be pushed without consent and starred at in disgust for having the audacity to be in their way even if they’re the ones walking the wrong way. Other than that yea totally visit Korea.

    Reply
  210. Violetta Avatar
    Violetta

    I just came back from SK two days ago. The situation is a lil bit different from you because it was during the spring festival when I was there. But I hope this can be helpful for you. I stayed Seoul for 3 days and Busan for 2 days. On the first day we arrived in Incheon airport T1 at almost 11pm so we can just took the night bus heading to Seoul Station, and then took a Uber taxi to the hotel in Myeongdong. But if you arrive at day time I guess you can take the subway( it’s faster than bus) And from Seoul to Busan we booked the KTX in advance on Korail ( we have to book in advance because the tickets are in great demand during spring festival)and it took 2 hours. You can take the KTX in Seoul station, it’s really close to Myeongdong. The bus will take almost 5 hrs as far as I know. Also, we buy the bus back to Incheon Airport on the spot. So I guess you don’t have to book bus ticket in advance but for KTX you can book in advance. Hope all this makes sense to you, I’m not a English native speaker btw:)

    Reply
    1. De De Tillman Avatar
      De De Tillman

      Thanks you for the helpful information! 🙂 – LT

      Reply
  211. Alba Avatar
    Alba

    I was in S Korea with family in Dec 2024-Jan 2025 and we experienced a lot of rudeness. We still had a lot of fun but nonetheless, it definitely impacted our view of the people.

    Obviously, I’m not trying to generalise the entire population lol but that’s what we’ve unfortunately experienced.

    For instance, we were at a restaurant (y**gane chicken at Myeongdong) and were already seated and looking through the menu. Now, we’ve been to the other outlet before so we thought we knew how to order but the waitress insisted that each person HAS to order a portion (I get that they want to make money but these are adult portions and we had kids with us – and she insisted that each kid get an entire adult portion as well. Which is pretty wasteful when you know they can’t finish that amount of food).

    The waitress then stood there with an annoyed look on her face the entire time (it was peak lunch period and the restaurant was busy so I’m not sure what she was trying to achieve by waiting at our table, looking very annoyed, frowning, and speaking very rudely while we were looking through the menu and clearly not yet ready to order. We left for a different restaurant instead because her attitude was really pissing off our appetites hahaha.

    In another incident, we were at one of the Hangang Parks for their sledding event. My mum, my brother, and myself were in the food tent and we had a corner of a long table to ourselves. We had food and drinks on the table. My brother and I got up to order more food and when we finally got back to the table, we saw a big group of Koreans had basically bullied our mum off the table. They literally shoved our plates and cups to the side, sat on our chairs, and spoke over my mum when she tried to explain that two of the chairs were taken. We moved to the next row of tables, which were completely empty (I have no idea why they didn’t take the seats there instead).

    These are just a couple terrible experiences that we had that put a little damper on our trip :’) we still had a lot of fun though!

    Reply
  212. Guinevere Avatar
    Guinevere

    Just leaving seoul myself and experienced a ton of racism. they spit on you, push you, cancel their cabs when they see you, super rude. Like super rude. Stare at you in disgust.

    I typically smile back and try to be kind. I learned some basic Korean and start in Korean to show respect.

    Say a table is full but then check in a Korean that was in line after you for the table. We had that happen countless times.

    Been pushed, and kicked.

    Omg. I could go on.

    Reply
  213. Stacia Avatar
    Stacia

    I was feeling really tired while on a subway. And i felt really dehydrated so I just sat on the floor bc there were no seats available. These old Korean women came up to me, laid out a bunch of newspapers and sat down and signaled me to sit down with them. Then the proceeded to feed me snacks and some drink.

    I have so many other stories where Korean people were nothing but kind and sweet to me.

    I’m a Black woman for extra content.

    Anyway, people were great there. I’m not gonna deny other people’s bad experiences but I don’t want to stereotype the entire nation of South Korea.

    Anyway, take what you will from this comment

    Reply
    1. De De Tillman Avatar
      De De Tillman

      Thank you for your comment and if you have any more experiences, please share! 🙂 – LT

      Reply
  214. Dolly Avatar
    Dolly

    Moving to Seoul next month to work at a hagwon and although I love the big city life, it’ll be my first time living abroad so I’m curious about what people’s thoughts are on the pros/cons or quirks of living there as well as expectations I should or shouldn’t have. I’m not fluent in Korean but I can read/write in 한글 and I’m familiar with basic phrases and grammar as I’m trying to study as much I can rn. Thanks in advance!

    Reply
  215. Helga Avatar
    Helga

    If you’re not the most attractive then stay away from Korea. I can tell you I’m far from gorgeous but wow I never questioned about being hideous until a Korean guy asked me “what’s wrong with your face?” and I said “Huh?” And he then replied “Why do you look like that? Why so ugly?” I tell you everyone, I didn’t know what to even say to that. These people are so damn rude.

    Reply
  216. ju-Ae Avatar
    ju-Ae

    Korean here. I’ve lived in many different countries and travelled to over 50, and have met people from all over the world and from all walks of life. I’ve met so many people who told they really want to move to Korea because they love the culture – which is fine in itself, but most of them also told me they are crazy about K-pop or K-dramas, which got them into Korean culture in the first place. This makes me concerned for them, because the people you see in K-pop or K-dramas aren’t representative of the average Korean.

    Yet there seems to be a ever increasing number of foreigners coming here after watching too many K-dramas or listening to K-pop, and many of them seem to have an idealized view of Korea as some kind of wonderful perfect place to meet their Korean prince. I’ve personally met a few such foreigners who came, lived, then left disappointed, because they had arrived with such high expectations.

    Korea is a great country in many ways, such as safety, its technological advancements and its food. But it’s not a perfect country, nowhere is. Living in Korea isn’t like a romantic K-drama with a happy ending. Like any country, Korea has some nice people and some not-so-nice people. Dating can be tough and limited if you’re not Korean, most Koreans only get into serious relationships other Koreans, you might be able to date with Koreans who are ‘foreigner curious’, but the few Koreans who date foreigners are often interested in something casual, instead of anything serious. Not saying it’s impossible of course, there are of course people who have found love with Koreans, maybe some will reply to me on here to say so. But generally speaking, Korea’s homogenous demographics and conservative social norms makes it less likely for Koreans to get into serious relationships with foreigners.

    We have a lot of problems with agism, sexism, racism – many older people will think they can walk all over you and that your opinion isn’t valid because you’re younger, men still hold most positions of power (even more than in most developed western countries), and foreigners will never be considered truly Korean no matter how good their Korean is or how long they’ve lived in Korea for. Racism rarely manifests itself here in violent forms, but it’s more institutional – Koreans will get priority over you for jobs, apartment rental applications, many nightclubs only allow Koreans entry, sometimes you might not get served as quick in restaurants if you’re foreign, etc etc. We’re also a highly materialistic country where social status and wealth matters far too much. People will judge others for being from a lower social class. And don’t even get me started on our unhealthy (over)work culture.

    Not saying this to crap on anyone’s excitement, but it’s more to manage your expectations and to stop the unhealthy idealization of Korea that has been happening more and more with the increasing popularity of K-pop and K-dramas. If you really want to live here, I suggest initially visiting first for a few weeks or months, see what it’s like, try to speak to foreigners who have lived here, before making the jump over here. If after that you still want to live here, welcome, at least you’ll be coming with more realistic expectations.

    Reply
  217. Leila Avatar
    Leila

    I just need somewhere to rant, so here’s my little post:

    I’m 25 years old, and I moved from Norway to Korea to finish my master’s degree while also attending language school. I’ll admit that when I came to Korea, it was mainly to get away from Oslo—I was going through a tough breakup after a 3.5-year relationship (cheating), I had just lost my aunt to brain cancer, and I was feeling completely overwhelmed. So when I got accepted for an exchange program in Korea, I jumped at the opportunity and left as quickly as I could.

    In the beginning, everything was new and exciting. I started opening myself up to dating again and met a guy whom I dated for a few months before calling it quits (mostly due to a large age difference). He showed me around Seoul, introduced me to different foods and aspects of the culture, which made the experience so much more meaningful and exciting for me.

    But now, as I’m hitting my 6th month, the rose-tinted glasses are wearing off. Don’t get me wrong—I’m still having fun, it’s still exciting, and I truly enjoy learning more about the culture, language, meeting new people, and dating. But the medical expenses are really starting to get to me. I wasn’t prepared for the 150k KRW health insurance bill, so I had to scramble to pull money from next month’s budget just to cover it. Then, I recently went to the gynecologist for an issue with a never-ending yeast infection and agreed to do a Pap smear, thinking it would be covered by my health insurance. But when I went to pay, I was hit with a 200k KRW bill—though at least the meds were only 5k KRW (which was nice).

    Banking has also been a headache.

    I know we all prefer what we’re used to, and I do truly appreciate how fast and efficient the system here is. If you have an issue, you go to a specialist, and you’re usually in and out within 20 minutes. However, I can’t help but feel that certain things are just better in Norway. My prescriptions are online, I can go to any pharmacy and pick up my medicine just by showing my ID card, and I can get three months’ worth of birth control in one box, whereas here, it’s one per box. Banking is also much easier in Norway—I can handle everything online using my social security number, whereas here, the process is much more complicated.

    I know people always say healthcare in Korea is cheap, but for me, it really isn’t. I’ve never had to pay for health insurance before—only housing and travel insurance. Now, I’m paying 75k KRW a month for the chance that I might go to the doctor, and when I do, it’s not even that cheap, especially when you need to see a specialist.

    It also frustrates me that there are no job opportunities for me here. I can’t work because I don’t speak the language (yet), and I can’t tutor because that would risk getting my visa canceled. I don’t understand how students who don’t get financial help from their parents manage to earn money without having to survive on rice and ramen.

    Anyway, thanks for reading my frustration rant

    Reply
    1. Ja Dun Avatar
      Ja Dun

      I’m actually mixed with Chinese and Korean and Korean people used to be fund white and white skin (still is in some aspects) but lately Koreans have been getting tired of white people. Not saying that you did anything wrong but it’s something I’ve noticed. Koreans are also not fund of Chinese and Indian people.

      Reply
  218. Georgia Avatar
    Georgia

    I’ve been in Korea for a few years now but only recently started visiting this sub. I’m a foreigner from the US and my job relocated me to Korea to one of their subsidiaries on a E7 visa sponsorship. I’ve made quite a bit of expat friends, more than locals for sure. I’ve noticed there’s this sense of bitterness among a lot of foreigners that I meet in real life, that I see a lot in this subreddit too.

    My experience has been quite fine in Korea and really not that much different than what I experienced in the US. People can be rude, just as much as they can be nice. There’s more competition here, but not that different from big cities that I’ve worked in (NYC & Chicago).

    However, I notice there’s a common trend with those who like to complain about Korea, they all seem to be ESL teachers who’ve been here for quite a few years with no “real plan.” I just can’t really figure out what they’re trying to achieve by moving to Korea, as they don’t even seem to enjoy teaching English, nor the local culture. I thought being a ESL teacher was just a temporary way to travel while working, but a lot of these folks I meet have been here for many years and they seem quite behind on integrating into the culture or advancing their career. I understand homogenous countries are a little difficult to mix in, I have difficulty too. But I’ve met many ESL teachers who still barely understand Korean, and for lack of better words, they have this extremely outdated view of Asian culture (from an American pov) that makes them prone to generalize negative things based off a anecdotal interactions

    Recently. I met this guy who has his own podcast about Korea and all he could really talk about was how much Koreans like drinking, and how weird k-pop and k-dramas are. I had to tell him k-dramas is just TV and k-pop is just pop music, but this concept seemed super alien to him, and this guys has been here for 8 years. If you’ve lived in the US before, you understand how 20 years ago, kpop would just be seen as a niche thing but a lot of people seen to still view Asian culture in this way.

    Sometimes I theorize that because of how popoular Korea is positively viewed in the media, a lot of ESL teachers expect to find success in Korea and when they realize they can’t do so, they project their own shortcomings onto Korean people. I had a friend recently moved back to the US as he didn’t like his finance job here. It was an experience for him to get a sponsorship and live here for 2 years. Ultimately, he didn’t like it because he made more money in the in the US and he wasn’t a fan of the work culture so he went back. I see a lot of ESL teachers have a lot of trouble leaving Korea, despite hating it as you commonly see here.. They decide not to go back to the country where they actually speak the language and is a citizen of.

    Can someone help me understand this behaviour? For what it’s worth, I’ve had good experiences here, but maybe it’s not for me long term. Sure you can say Koreans are materialistic, competitive, cold, but that’s really just surface level. I’ve lived in NYC for so long, even those from small cities will say the same thing about NYC. But when you get the chance to connect with individuals, you can’t apply the same generalizations to eveyrone.

    Reply
  219. Caylee Avatar
    Caylee

    I was coming out of a local bakery shop early this week and they have the (seems like) mandatory three smooth stone steps down to the main sidewalk. Well someone had spilt something on the bottom step and I didn’t see it and slipped. Lucky I didn’t hit the steps just landed on my well padded butt lol. Bakery goods went everywhere and I laid there a bit taking inventory of any broken bones. Lucky nothing was broken. I got up and noticed the two workers at the bakery looking out the window at me and tried to hurry and change their expression to concerned after clearly laughing and mocking. Neither opened the door to ask if I was ok or needed help. I just left the spilled bakery goods there and limped home. Even though I have shopped at that bakery many times before they couldn’t ask if I needed help? But it seems to me no matter if you are a foreigner or Korean you get hurt out in public you are on your own. Sorry for the long rant just wanted to say Korea is not all positive experiences, but I still love it here.

    Reply
    1. De De Tillman Avatar
      De De Tillman

      Thanks for sharing and I’m glad that you were not seriously injured. 🙂 – LT

      Reply
  220. Myeong Avatar
    Myeong

    I have no idea why our conservative are all crazy brain dead retarded fucks. They cry for ‘free korea’, but only thing they know is dictatorship. Ahh well. I feel like I should find a way to get the fuck out of this deevolving land.

    Reply
  221. Danni Avatar
    Danni

    This is a post I’m making to know if I’m the only one feeling like this. I have been living in Korea for 4 years and planning to move to another country in a year or so for multiple reasons including this one: as the title mentioned, living here makes me feel disconnected from the rest of the world in a way. By that, I mean that I feel like Korea is a bubble that barely interacts with the outside. I understand it may be because of its geographical location which basically makes it like an island but I sometimes feel like Korea in itself is very self-centered. This is so trivial and stupid but for example Sephora closed which makes it impossible for me to try products that are not Korean and that I really want to try. I wanted to buy a game that launched “globally” today and that all my friends immediately downloaded and of course it didn’t launch in Korea. Whenever I try to talk politics or other topics w people and especially Korean people it’s usually always related to Korea in a way but as soon as it is about another topic, people are not interested or don’t know about it at all. This is a just a few examples among a way bigger list. All of these are details which are pretty much not essential but this is a feeling I have started to developed since coming here. I’m wondering if others feel this way sometimes ?

    Reply
  222. Pika Avatar
    Pika

    i spent not even 20mins at club aura before leaving because multiple men kept touching me, putting their face centimeters from mine, talking about
    _🚶🏽‍♀️_.

    NO. i’m here with my little sister trying to enjoy a night out. GTFO with the “bs?” (i was wearing long baggy pants, a tank top, and a cardigan btw)

    i’m never going out here again.

    Reply
  223. Kareema Avatar
    Kareema

    Korea needs more mental institutions because Koreans are psychopaths. Absolutely psychologically unbalanced ass people I ever seen.

    Reply
  224. Jq young Avatar
    Jq young

    I am a Filipino-Korean by ethnicity. However, I am 24 years old as of the time of writing and is currently a Filipino citizen.

    I initially chose to be a Filipino (sadly) citizen because I was taken out of the military service due to possibly bullying and powertripping against me who obviously has a Southeast Asian background, which is often a target for crazy Koreans to pick on.

    But now, I think I want to change it. My mom however hasn’t registered my birth in Korea. I wanna switch to being a Korean citizen but are there restrictions now for me that I’m 24? Or is there no limit on age?

    Do I still have to go to the military regardless?

    Hoping to clarify my situation!

    Reply
    1. De De Tillman Avatar
      De De Tillman

      Try contacting a South Korean immigration attorney. Link to read: https://www.immigration.go.kr/immigration_eng/index.do

      Reply
  225. Meaghan Avatar
    Meaghan

    This weekend a (a White American)friend was drugged and assaulted in Hongdae. She last remembers being at a popular divey dance bar, next thing she remembers is waking up in an alley in Gyeongbokgung. The hospital has confirmed she was both drugged and assaulted. No charges will be pursued.

    Please be careful out there. There are terrible people everywhere and Korea is no exception.

    Reply
  226. Bristol Avatar
    Bristol

    I (Female 21) was partying with some friends in Gangnam and we went to a EDM type of club. I payed 20k won entry and we danced on the bottom. Everything was fine until 20min later security came and escorted me out pushing me with one in front of me and two behind. I dont speak korean fluently as i am european (and look european) but papago basically said that i was on a rampage and therefore got kicked out. I was just dancing like everyone else and didnt disturb anyone (as far as i know). I asked for details and the text was in summary that a customer paying 2 million won wanted me out. No need to say im pissed and of course did not get a refund.

    Sorry for venting, just needed to share this.

    P.s.: my friends (2 Asian, 1 Nigerian Females) were fine, apparently i was the only problem

    Reply
  227. Jade Avatar
    Jade

    I took an ancestry DNA test and found I had 0.02% Korean. Is it possible I can become a citizen with that? I’m mostly African.

    Reply
    1. De De Tillman Avatar
      De De Tillman

      Blog: https://www.korvia.com/f4-korean-heritage/

      Reply
  228. Ting Avatar
    Ting

    It’s my day 2 in Seoul and the overall experience is very bad.

    This morning, my bf and I went to our hotel receptionist (a Korean guy, K) and wanted to ask if they have an AC adapter for wall. In the beginning, I asked if K speaks English or Chinese, he denied. And while my bf trying to use Google Translate, I heard K kept murmuring in Korean, and I heard some cursed words like “ssibal”(f*ck in Korean) “pichoso”(crazy). My bf didn’t recognize these words so he resumed the conversation. K was cursing in Korean all these time, I couldn’t stand it anymore and said “You thought we don’t know what Ssibal ? Ssibal!”

    It is the worst experience I’ve ever had during travel. I posted on socials and 2 of my friends replied me, they have experienced bad attitude in Korea and will never go again. On Chinese social media XiaoHongShu, I read many posts of similar encounters. I know some Korean hates Chinese, and that’s why we’re getting this type of discrimination and mean attitudes.

    I was wondering if it only happens to non-Korean Asians who don’t speak Korean, since most posts in this sub have good experiences, which leads me to think if the discrimination doesn’t apply to westerners.

    TDLR: We don’t speak Korean. A Korean hotel receptionist cursed at us in Korean and thought we don’t understand those filthy words. My Asian friends also had bad experiences in South Korea too. Wonder if Koreans are kinder to westerners? I’m really rethinking moving here.

    Reply
    1. Ja Dun Avatar
      Ja Dun

      I’m mixed Chinese/Korean but grew up predominately Chinese and have been travelling to Korea at least twice a year since 2011. I would take posts from Xiao Hong Shu with a grain of salt, Chinese people absolutely love to complain, even about the smallest things. I hate to generalise but Mainland Chinese/Hong Konger tourists are sometimes honestly the worst and have personally had some bad experiences with Mainland Chinese/Hong Konger travellers in Korea to the point where I had to yell at a group of them in Chinese because they were being so obnoxious and rude.

      I also know a few Chinese exchange students who are currently studying in Seoul and from what they have mentioned, there has never been much discrimination against them by Korean people, people know they’re trying their best to learn and speak Korean.

      Reply
  229. Pudding Avatar
    Pudding

    Hi,

    So my friend and I just recently arrived in Seoul and we are currently staying in an Airbnb in an officetel. We just had a very uncomfortable experience with one of the tenants living in the building. When we arrived at the building, our taxi driver had gone up to the doorman to ask for directions to our apartment. As they were conversing, a man saw our luggages and seemed quite agitated. I don’t know Korean, but I know enough to understand the gist of what was being said. He was repeating words like “Hotel..” and I think he was saying something along the lines of “Is this a hotel?” while pointing at our bags and raising his voice to the doorman, and looking at us. I have also been reading previous posts about some Airbnb’s being illegal in Korea or Airbnb’s in officetels aren’t recommended, so I’m feeling a little bit uncomfortable and thinking whether I should change my accommodation. I mean, I understand the man’s frustration if he feels unsafe or uncomfortable with different guests coming into the building.. I guess my main purpose of this post is just to vent, and perhaps if others had similar experiences – what did you do?

    Reply
  230. Sunny Avatar
    Sunny

    I was in Seoul/Incheon area for a quick 3 days visit recently and my experience was just horrible. I wanted to visit before moving to Korea. I’ve never been to a country where I was constantly yelled at or berated for no reasons. Especially when getting into any taxi or walking around town. I’m not Korean but it seems I looked Korean so whenever someone spoke to me, I explained I don’t know Korean only to get dirty looks, scoffs, and annoyed tone in return. The only redeeming part of my trip were the kind older ladies who didn’t yell at me for being slow and was kind enough to help me count money as I paid for my things.

    Reply
    1. Ja Dun Avatar
      Ja Dun

      I’m really sorry that you experienced this.

      Reply
  231. Kathy Lopez Avatar
    Kathy Lopez

    If you’re moving to Korea, stay far far far away from Hongdae. Full of Korean perverts and you’re guaranteed to get into a fight with a Korean girl that looks at you disrespectful or say something disrespectful. I got arrested of course even though the girl started the fight. I always tell people to stand up for themselves but when you’re in a foreign country, some things you have to take a deeeeeep breath and walk away.

    Reply
  232. Shaniqua Avatar
    Shaniqua

    Not having a spare credit card if I want to rent a car in Jeju. I wasn’t able to do mine but we had my sister’s, so it should be fine… Until it wasn’t. We needed to rent a car in Jeju but the bank’s card would block the payment everytime. We spent 30€ on a roaming call just to understand that, basically, her bank requires a PIN before signing so that the payment is completed, however, korean payment terminals don’t have that system and go straight for the signature (no pin allowed), which makes the bank system automatically blocking it. That bank frustrates me with their 163772 security levels lol

    We spent 40 mins there trying to figure it out but they didn’t have any other terminals or options to overcome the problem. So we went to Lotte instead. It also didn’t work – but the man there took pity on us, also flirting with us and after a while just requested our debit card for the reservation. We only paid the reservation, nothing else, and he saved our trip to Jeju.

    Reply
  233. Andy Gomez Avatar
    Andy Gomez

    One of my biggest mistake visiting Seoul last week was:

    not buying AREX ticket online and booking it right away. I didn’t book it since I was not sure what time we were going to pass through immigration and all that.
    not bringing KRW hoping that the train station and AREX accepts credit card.
    This mistake cost us 88,000 KRW for uber from airport to our Airbnb.

    If we took the airport limousine bus would’ve cost us just 34k KRW for both of us. Oh well.

    Oh yeah we landed in Korea by 10PM and somehow got out of the immigration 11ish. By the time we went to the AREX station it was already fully booked.

    Reply
  234. Sparkle Avatar
    Sparkle

    Asking “How do I get to Busan directly from Incheon Airport”

    when A) there are already direct flights to Busan Gimhae Airport from their home country and both are red-eye anyway; or

    B) flying into ICN on Korean Air or other Skyteam, or American Airlines, or Hawaiian, or Etihad and not looking up for a direct connection to PUS.

    Researching the option first and dismissing it on the basis of cost or the layover being too long is perfectly legitimate. But the vast majority don’t even realize the alternative exists until it’s pointed out to them.

    Reply
  235. Justice Avatar
    Justice

    The biggest mistake I made in Korea was coming here plus size. I’m in better shape now but damn you will feel some type of way being fat here.

    Reply
  236. Minjii Avatar
    Minjii

    South Korea is full of brainwashed idiots and I’m Korean.

    Reply
  237. Jaaeu Avatar
    Jaaeu

    I’m a native korean and am 16 yrs old.

    Pessimistic and insecure people, individualistic, depressed, and closed-minded attitudes, dirty streets, horrible and toxic education system and work culture, terrible environment (air pollution, trash on the streets that no one cleans, etc.), superiority complex and so on. I hate this country with all my heart.

    You think it’s not that bad? Oh yes. Yes, it is. One of the main reasons Koreans struggle with depression is the toxic education system and the overall environment here.

    Let me give you a little simulation of what your life would be like if you were Korean to help you understand.

    You always have to worry/ be scared about what others think of you and make sure you don’t act even a little differently or unique from others, or they’ll gossip. And always look your best when you’re outside. Oh and even raising your hand to ask a question in class can draw gazes so be careful. And some people (usually kids) might even make fun of your skin, using slurs like the N-word if your skin is darker than theirs. And as a student, You spend your middle and high school years studying, constantly stressed from all the pressure and competition. But you push through and finally graduate. Are you happy now? No. Because now you have to get a job which is extremely difficult and stressful all over again. Will you be happy once you secure a job? Oh no, of course not. Sure, it depends, but if you can’t tolerate the work culture here, then good luck.

    So what’s the conclusion? You just spent your entire youth stressed out for nothing. Congratulations.

    Reply
  238. Courtnee Avatar
    Courtnee

    Yea , Ive been living here for a year now. Korean SKT service provider just cut my internet connection month in advance due to my visa expiration, so when I actually go to extend it in a few days Im supposed to go without any internet connection , because they treat you like a dog. Like they are saying remember that you are a piece of shit, when you are an alien in South Korea. If you do work in South Korea even officially , they can throw you away whenever they want to , if you did a simple mistake at work or just wasn’t polite enough with them or they just don’t like you , they will fire you right in place in the matter of seconds. Being somebody from third world country in South Korea is even worse, visa systems saying under context that you are bullshit by your visa status here. F1,2,3,4,5,6 you are good , but you are not one of us. EVERYTHING lower means that you’re worky dog , that you just supposed to do all the dirty work and stuff for Koreans so they can live good and you piece of shit have no rights here. They remind you all the time about that. In bank they say that 6 months is not enough to open a bank account or to receive a debit card, because they don’t trust you. The bank stuff would stare at you for a minute just by looking on your ID card and saying , bruh stop coming here bro , we don’t like you. They are not tolerant to anything , they won’t sit aside you in public transport as well in most of the cases because they don’t like you. They suppose you speak korean if you do live in South Korea and if you don’t, oh buddy they gonna talk shit about you right behind your back.

    Reply
  239. Kimmy Avatar
    Kimmy

    I have so many horror stories based in Korea. Where do I start?

    Reply
  240. Vanny Avatar
    Vanny

    If you like to fight, DO NOT go to Korea. So many Koreans are long overdue for an ass whooping. You can’t do it though in their country.

    Reply
    1. Juwanna Avatar
      Juwanna

      See my issues is the white people here. I can’t stand them entitled culture mosquitos. Straight Koreaboos and fetishizers at their finest. Can’t stand them mfs out here. I don’t have no issues with Korean people at all.
      That’s what’s crazy

      Reply
  241. Myrical Avatar
    Myrical

    I live in New York City, I went home again to recharge or reboot and the way I was ready to come back to Korea made no sense. Everything was dirty the trains the streets the stores everything was dirty. Then the infinite amount of cat calling was not helping. The continuous anxiety of when the train will come on time whether there’s going to be somebody pushing me off the rails if I’m going to get attacked because simply I say no to certain people… It was a lot. Now I’m back in Korea I don’t feel it that much however I am getting tired of people testing my patience. For instance, the secret competition that they have with you when walking or when they bump into you and not say anything or intentionally move away from you, on their mask when they see you, avoiding to sit next to you or intentionally get in your space when you’re at the gym for no reason, yeah the list goes on. But at least say Korea I can feel safe here.

    Reply
    1. De De Tillman Avatar
      De De Tillman

      Thanks for sharing. 🙂 -LT

      Reply
    2. Amaya Avatar
      Amaya

      I had a smilier experience with the bumping. I had a women bump into me hard as hell and she had the got damn nerves to turn around and look at me like I was the problem. She didn’t say excuse me, are you ok? Nothing just looked at me like she was waiting for me to apologize or something but get used to getting bumped.

      Reply
  242. Kris Avatar
    Kris

    Korea is extreme. Extremely great and extremely awful.

    Like if something is going well here, it’s amazing. If you have a friend, they are a fucking awesome friend who will stick by you whatever happens and help you out and be super fun.

    On the other hand, if someone dislikes you, they will go out of their way to fuck with you, bother you, and be a twat towards you.

    The cities can be ugly as hell – no variety, literal concrete jungle, too crowded, too much road congestion. But on the other hand, they are extremely convenient, easy to get around, every amenity you could hope for, restaurants and shops everywhere.

    Reply
  243. Maja Avatar
    Maja

    Hi, my sister and I (we are from the U.S.) are traveling this week to Seoul. We are really excited about our trip but recently I have seen a lot of posts about people who have visited South Korea and have faced racist encounters. Are such cases common? We are of Pakistani ethnicity. Additionally, the protests regarding Yoon’s impeachment are occurring near the places that we wanna visit like near Hanok Village. I guess I’m just a bit nervous getting caught up in those crowd lol. How would I know which areas to avoid? What are yall suggestions ? Thank you!

    Reply
    1. Juwanna Avatar
      Juwanna

      Avoid the whole damn country.
      Thank me later

      Reply
    2. Davina Avatar
      Davina

      I’ve never had any bad experience but but I’ve seen how they treat Indian and Pakistani people. To be fair they can’t tell the two apart so they were being treated pissed poor. Incheon is pretty cool but Itaewon and Hongdae I would avoid,

      Reply
    3. Terrah Avatar
      Terrah

      The discrimination will be more likely based on superficial things. If you are attractive or look rich or look positive, probably not. If you’re ugly or fat then you will feel it trust me.

      Reply
  244. Licia Avatar
    Licia

    There’s a very popular Mexican YouTuber with over 20 million subscribers that went to South Korea and documented how racist South Korea is when it comes to the nightlife and a lot of people were attacking him because they said he was making shit up, when everything he was doing was being filmed. Like he caught their racism very clear and loud on camera and they still said he’s an illegal liar. Accused him of hopping the border into their country. Just ignorant fuckers.

    Reply
  245. Beth Avatar
    Beth

    Had a bad in Incheon, Korea for business trip.
    The Koreans are known for their Karaoke bars and we were filming at one of them. The host was happy to give us a tour and show us the private rooms and how extravagant the place was. We then asked about the clientele and how much it would cost to reserve a booth in the general area. immediately, but kindly they said it was “a Korean karaoke club.” My coworker, who happened to be Japanese, immediately told me it was a polite way of saying, “no whites.”

    Reply
    1. Celestine Avatar
      Celestine

      I came here before the Korea wave really went nuts (pre-BTS basically) so I didn’t have much of a preconceived notion which probably helped. My first year I loved it, the second year I hated it and every year after that it is like months or weeks where I adore it and months or weeks where I can’t wait to leave.

      I think anyone who comes here cos they think it’s gonna be like a kdrama is gonna be disappointed. It’s more like Squid Game or The Glory than anything romantic. (It’s has its moments there too though). For the record I’m Black and my husband is Korean. We have two kids and I want them to be close to Korean culture.

      Reply
      1. De De Tillman Avatar
        De De Tillman

        Thanks for sharing! 🙂 – LT

  246. Emma Avatar
    Emma

    A man I know married a woman in Korea. Brought her to Ca. She took her half white son with her to visit her family in Korea. He was treated so badly that when they were on the way home he said he would never go back. They tried to make him eat out of a cat bowl since they said the white in him wouldn’t mind sharing food with the cat.
    Unfortunately the mom had to leave the kid with the dad because her family started to disown her.

    Reply
    1. Mia Avatar
      Mia

      Can confirm. Good amount of Koreans do not accept Korean Americans either and it’s blatant in most places in Seoul except Itaewon. They’re racist to North Koreans also. South Koreans are very fucked in the head.

      Reply
    2. Marilyn Avatar
      Marilyn

      Yes, Korea is pretty racist, especially the older generation. But, you may also want to think about whether their negative view of white people may have any basis in their recent history. Yes, it’s wrong and prejudicial to treat you poorly solely based on your race, but maybe that reflects how the older Koreans feel like they were treated by other groups of people in the past. What I mean to say is—Korea is a fast changing country. Give them a chance.

      Reply
  247. Harper Avatar
    Harper

    I have travelled to Japan China Thailand Philippines HK and Taiwan I have always treated people with respect and friendliness and received it in return. However in Korea my mood dropped drastically due to how many times an old guy shouted some racist slurs at me or how many times I’ve been denied to bars and clubs for No foreigner rule yet when they notice my friend who’s with me is Chinese and not Korean the rule immediately changes to Asian only. Won’t be having a second trip there and it’s the first time I’ve never made any local friends while travelling only met some Chinese international phd students

    Just for the record, I’m White and so is my boyfriend and we travel a lot to different counties because we have a vlog. The moment my boyfriend and I tried to go to a restaurant to keep, the worker immediately hand written “no foreigners allowed” and showed us and then hung on the window.
    One lady even started singing to me and my boyfriend “why are you here, get out, get out of my country”

    Just unbelievable

    Reply
  248. Malinda Korea Avatar
    Malinda Korea

    I’m a Black woman in Seoul and my experience has been fine. The racism here isn’t worse than in America. The worst I’ve experienced is being rejected from bars, random old women touching my hair, and no one sitting next to me on the subway/bus.

    Also, the men here don’t take foreign women seriously so don’t expect that. They will not introduce you their mothers. They think all foreign women are “easy” and “open minded,” especially Black women. The men who are willing to date foreign women usually only want to date white women. Otherwise they avoid you or they just want to hook up (if that).

    Reply
  249. Joanna Avatar
    Joanna

    I’ve been doing a lot of research lately on Korea and I keep hearing some of the worst horror stories I’ve heard in ESL, albeit I thought Korea was a really popular location to teach. For those of you who have taught in Korea I’m curious as to how accurate this is?

    For starters, holiday and vacation time.: Is it accurate that there’s maybe only a month in public schools and 11 days at Hagwons? I don’t understand how anyone could accept this
    The salary: It seems that it hasn’t gone up and there’s been inflation recently. Also I’m hearing that the starting salary was actually higher in the past.
    Breaks during the day: I’m hearing that some schools don’t let you go back home to eat lunch even though it’s your lunch break, or some schools don’t even have a lunch break
    Foreigners never win legal disputes: It seems similar to China in that once you sign a contract the school kinda owns you, but in China at least some of the time you can get your letter. From all of the stuff I’ve been watching and hearing it seems like foreigners simply won’t win
    Defamation laws: My understanding is that even if something bad happens to you, you can’t publicly talk about it, or you can be sued and even go to jail. This sounds absolutely horrific
    It’s difficult for foreigners to rent an apartment: I’ve also heard the utility bills like heating / gas can be extremely high
    I don’t want to give up on Korea completely, I’m hoping with an actual teachers license I can find a good job and at least for one year of my life, have the opportunity to live in Korea, but if all of this is true I’m not sure why anyone would ever consider going to Korea when your physical safety and basic rights aren’t protected

    Reply
  250. Dianna Avatar
    Dianna

    I have always dreamed of traveling to South Korea one day. Everything looks so beautiful, and the only Asian country I have been to so far is China (where I visit my family sometimes).

    As a Chinese-American, I fear of racism in South Korea. I have heard that Koreans are very deeply racist towards the Chinese and especially Indian people, and I do not wish to be discriminated against. I have heard many stories of Koreans being rude toward Chinese visitors.

    How racist, generally, are Koreans toward Chinese visitors? I would rather know what to expect than plan a trip without knowing anything.

    Reply
    1. Lena Patel Avatar
      Lena Patel

      They’re extremely rude and extremely racist. I’m Indian but I’m from the United States. When I went there I had a Korean man ask me about cooking Indian food and accused me of being unhygienic because of something he saw on TikTok. I’ve been referred to as a “very sticky Indian” and someone threw deodorant at me. Let me explain, I’m very serious about my hygiene. That’s something that my mother never took lightly about me or my sisters. They’re very ignorant people that just want to judge people from the way they look. Never again. Stupid, ignorant and rude as hell.

      Reply
    2. Julie Wu Avatar
      Julie Wu

      Unfortunately it’s true. They’re very little minded people. I haven’t been but my sister did. She had a very bad experience when she was there. One day she was walking to go to a coffee cafe and she said a lady was walking her dog, my sister loves dogs by herself because we own 3. My sister was looking and admiring the dog from a distance but the lady starred at her with a look of anger and disgust she said before picking up her dog and yelling at my sister saying “no not food, my dog, not food” like that was the most embarrassing and racist stuff anyone can say and do in public. My sister couldn’t even react properly because she was so shocked.

      Reply
    3. Daliah Avatar
      Daliah

      Lived in Korea for two years (not Seoul) and can 100% confirm it’s the same there. Even in apartment listenings, Air BNB, hotels, will put right in the listing “no Shi-bal”. Shi-bal is a not so nice word for foreigner. It’s not on par with the N word, but it definitely isn’t a polite thing to call someone. Not just night clubs. I have been told that I couldn’t park in a parking lot at 3 in the afternoon because I was a foreigner. On that occasion I wanted to park there to buy my 3 year old a Lego set at the mall for his birthday. He and his mother were with me. The whole point was to let him pick it out, have a geri geri popsicle, and then ramen for supper. Ended up with me almost getting into a fistfight. We have also been denied entry to restaurants for lunch, and to participate in a motorcycle safety course with my own company. Korea is so shitty but yet they want you to spend money in their country.

      Reply
  251. Krystal Avatar
    Krystal

    Do NOT buy tickets directly from the Korean Air website for someone else. A family member used their card to purchase tickets for me, but Korean Air requires that the person flying have not only the exact same card they bought the ticket with, but also that it must be in their name. The only alternative is to have the purchaser of the ticket go to a Korean Air office and sign a form.

    The bullshit is, my local airport does not have a Korean Air office, and my first flight is with Delta to Dallas ft. Worth, which happens to be the nearest Korean air office. Their customer support people were acting like a bunch of asshats, and it seems the only option is for my family member and I to drive all the way to Dallas to get this sorted out, which is about a 6 hour drive.

    They said they could refund the ticket, but the new one would have to be purchased at today’s prices, if even available. I will never use Korean Air again if I can avoid it, because that policy is absolutely insane. Is there anything I can do, or will we have to just eat the gas money and time and drive all the fucking way to Dallas and back?

    Reply
    1. De De Tillman Avatar
      De De Tillman

      If you get your refund, you could try Asiana Airlines which is cheaper than Korean Air. 🙂 – LT

      Reply
  252. Marla Gorr Avatar
    Marla Gorr

    I wanted to move to korea desperately because I love their culture from home but when you look more into, it sounds like a nightmare. I know it isn’t all of Koreans but I’ve heard horror stories about dating in Korea.

    Reply
  253. Blaze Avatar
    Blaze

    Korea sucks now. I visited a week ago and they’re very rude to Filipina girls. I got bumped a lot walking down and no one says excuse me or I’m sorry or nothing

    Reply
  254. Evanna Avatar
    Evanna

    I think we all at one point wanted to move to Korea but it’s not worth it. Japan, Taiwan and Thailand is what I’m looking at. Kpop and Kdrama made me want to move to Korea but there’s been too many times I almost went to jail dealing with Korean women and the rudeness.

    Reply
    1. Evanna Avatar
      Evanna

      Wise decision. The women in Korea go two directions and that’s being a super b***h and the cry a lot. Just annoying.

      Reply
    2. Kia Avatar
      Kia

      Damn that sucks. I stayed in Korea for 3
      Months and the people are so beautiful. I never had a bad experience. The women were very friendly and found them to be helpful in many options.

      Reply
      1. De De Tillman Avatar
        De De Tillman

        That’s good you had a good experience. 🙂 – LT

    3. Daija Avatar
      Daija

      One thing about Koreans, they don’t bite their tongue. If you’re fat, they will remind you, if you’re ugly, they will make sure you don’t forget, if anything about you annoys,
      They won’t hesitate. If you want to find your flaws, ask a Korean.

      Reply
  255. Alexi Avatar
    Alexi

    Does anyone have info on becoming a permanent resident without that 90 day stuff. I don’t feel like moving every 90 days. That’s insane.

    Reply
  256. Chong ji Avatar
    Chong ji

    U go come n to Korea yay

    Reply
  257. Kalisha Avatar
    Kalisha

    Hey everyone,
    I’m new here and I love the site for the most part. I would love to move to Korea or Hong Kong.
    I have a question for the blogger or anyone for that matter.
    Lately with all these plane crashes, I’m not feeling flying. I’m scared out of my mind.
    Are there any cruises going to Korea?

    Reply
    1. De De Tillman Avatar
      De De Tillman

      First of all, welcome to this blog site! I’ve added a cruise that will be leaving from Los Angeles to Japan in September but from Japan, maybe the ferry. I will research for anything else. – LT

      Reply
      1. Kalisha Avatar
        Kalisha

        Thank you so much.

  258. Chriselda Avatar
    Chriselda

    Blogger,
    Are there any boats going to Korea? Lol

    Reply
    1. De De Tillman Avatar
      De De Tillman

      Royal Caribbean is going from Los Angeles to Japan in September. From Japan, a ferry may be an option to Busan then train to other parts of SK.

      Reply
  259. Elaine Avatar
    Elaine

    I really hate that I’m scared to fly.
    Especially with all that’s going on lately.
    Do you have any other recommendation for getting to Korea?

    Reply
    1. De De Tillman Avatar
      De De Tillman

      Cruises are added.

      Reply
  260. James Avatar
    James

    What about moving to Uganda?

    Reply
  261. James Avatar
    James

    To anyone reading this, yes I’m a very busy person. However it is ok to approach me and ask me for my autograph. ✍️

    Reply
  262. Adalynn K Avatar
    Adalynn K

    Did anyone hear about the plane that crashed in Korea? Super sad and also super scary. I want to leave to go to Korea in January but might have to take another way there that doesn’t involve airplanes. I read that Asiana had 9 crashes before.
    Not sure what to these pilots or the Boeing but I don’t want to deal with either.

    Reply
    1. De De Tillman Avatar
      De De Tillman

      I will research. – LT

      Reply
  263. Rylee Avatar
    Rylee

    Hello,
    Can you post ways for non flyers like myself to go to Korea. After seeing the video this morning of a plane catching on fire in Korea, I really don’t want fly at the moment but I am determined to leave the United States.

    Reply
    1. De De Tillman Avatar
      De De Tillman

      I will do my best. – LT

      Reply
  264. Amby Avatar
    Amby

    My dream is to move to Korea before January and I’m sure we all know why lol

    Reply
  265. Yenesei Avatar
    Yenesei

    Kind of funny how my parents dropped everything they had and left Japan to come to this country and now they dropped everything they had to go to Korea. Lol

    Reply
  266. Suzanne Avatar
    Suzanne

    This blog has encouraged me to want
    To move. I never expected Korea to have places affordable for people with a budget. I’ve been in the US for so long that seeing this you would have to be on SSI or something.

    Reply
    1. De De Tillman Avatar
      De De Tillman

      True! -LT

      Reply
  267. Sera Avatar
    Sera

    I don’t make enough money at work and I’m in a lot of debt but do want to move to Korea soon. I have no choice but to take out a loan that can pay off my credit card and still have enough to move with.
    I’m not worried about any debt outside my credit card.

    Reply
  268. Sue Avatar
    Sue

    Is it just easier to get an Airbnb before an apartment? Are there any realtors I should
    Contact specifically?

    Reply
    1. De De Tillman Avatar
      De De Tillman

      I believe so because it gives you time to find what you’re looking for in price and explore the country. -LT

      Reply
    2. De De Tillman Avatar
      De De Tillman

      I will add some realtors in this blog.

      Reply
  269. Ruby Avatar
    Ruby

    What are the chances of me running into Jermhi or Hongin if I move to Korea?

    Reply
  270. Brenda Avatar
    Brenda

    Sadly I’m in $173,000 worth of debt.
    My debt is seriously all over the place that even I can’t keep up. Mostly credit card debt. Thinking about borrowing $200,000 to get out of debt so I can just focus on working on that one bill. Then again everyone else said borrow and leave.

    Reply
  271. Shannon Avatar
    Shannon

    I made my moves smart. I booked my ticket last night, then my Airbnb and then I work up this morning and called this place I go to that gives me money to be there 8 hours a day but not enough of it to quit 🫢. My plane leaves Saturday night. Perfect time for me to pick up my last pay check from prison.

    Reply
  272. Azami Avatar
    Azami

    I literally have only 9 days left in San Francisco and then it’s off to Korea for me. I’m half Black and half Japanese and I will visit Japan to see my dads side of the family but living there is out of the question for me right now lol

    Reply
  273. Nicole Avatar
    Nicole

    Does anyone have an idea how much it cost to live next door to Hongin or Hyunju?

    Reply
  274. Carmen Avatar
    Carmen

    I assume this blog was created first as to it has more resources on survival than the Japan blog? I can’t wait to go through everything.

    Reply
  275. Vivi Bong Bong Avatar
    Vivi Bong Bong

    Same situation I’m in. I left my apartment last night but I’m staying at my parents house where I’m still being treated as if I’m still 3. This is clearly not going to work. I’m going to take out a loan for 2,000 at least and use it to move to Japan or Korea.

    Reply
    1. De De Tillman Avatar
      De De Tillman

      Read the resources on this blog for help. 🙂 LT

      Reply
  276. Paula Avatar
    Paula

    That’s a great idea. Don’t get me wrong I love Korea and the men there but some of them are kind cringe and crazy lol
    Japan is definitely idea for me. I would love to know more about an easy transition to Japan before Jan 20.

    Reply
  277. Annmarie Avatar
    Annmarie

    Had to make the hardest decision of my life. It was either pay my rent or my storage unit. I called my landlord and told her she could have the damn place and called my storage company and told them they could have the damn stuff. I don’t care anymore. Tired of stressing. Saw the guy from Japan and thinking about moving there. Can someone make a post for people wanting to move to Japan?

    Reply
    1. De De Tillman Avatar
      De De Tillman

      Sure!

      Reply
  278. Reah Avatar
    Reah

    Today I finally said fuck both jobs. I work two jobs (both retail) and both equally don’t pay great. I get paid $400 weekly and I know it might sound like a lot but by the time you actually get it and realize you’re in a financial hole, that money is gone within a blink of an eye. I’ve been living like this for years. Rent was due 9 days ago but I don’t even have enough to pay it. I’m going to miss eating In and Out burger when I could afford to but I have to make better plans and leave the country. I’m sitting in a white mans country that was purposely not designed for me. The way of living right now was only created to pacify people that look like me to say they have something but all in all, we don’t have nothing. Not even a pot to piss in. Had to throw my pots and pans away because I couldn’t afford dish soap. I’m out

    Reply
    1. De De Tillman Avatar
      De De Tillman

      Good for you! Where do you plan on moving to?

      Reply
  279. Alana Avatar
    Alana

    I live in Daly City at the Serramonte Ridge, I pay $2,599 for a shitty small studio.
    They’re trying to raise my rent by $350. I’m working inside of Serramonte where the pay really sucks ass and I can barely afford to even pay my rent and let alone my phones bill and other expenses. I’m considering not paying rent after this month after reading some of the other commenters who seems to be having a much better life after saying screw it. $2,599 can go a long way in Asia. I probably won’t make the same amount of money I make now but it isn’t really shit when you can’t afford to treat yourself to a nice lunch on payday as a reward. My entire check goes to my rent and then I’m still searching for the other 400 that I didn’t make.

    Reply
    1. De De Tillman Avatar
      De De Tillman

      Just move because it’s not worth the struggle!

      Reply
    2. Paula Avatar
      Paula

      I understand completely what you’re going through. I live in Pacifica and I have a 2 bedroom apartment and my rent is $5,502. After seeing this blog, I realized what a waste of money it is. I’ve been here for a year and I didn’t realize I paid over $66,000 for a place that I don’t even own. Some of the other people that commented were saying they’re paying $400 for a 1 bedroom so I can guess maybe a 2 is $600 and even then that’s over $7,000 a year and way less than what I’m paying. My sister was saying we need to just get up and walk out of this place. My lease is up in August but I don’t think we’d make it that long to be honest. It’s just us and our cousin. It’s so expensive. My part is $1834 and I’m going crazy. I definitely want to move to Japan.

      Reply
  280. Sandra W Avatar
    Sandra W

    I had a moment early this morning around 2am. I decided to go to burger and as I was sitting in the parking lot, it hit me that I was on my last $70 for the month and this isn’t living. Didn’t pay rent for Nov and Dec isn’t looking good either. I went ahead and took out a loan and booked a ticket to Japan. I wish I would’ve known how cheap Korea flights were. Didn’t see this blog until now.

    Reply
  281. Emmie Avatar
    Emmie

    I much rather deal with Japanese and Korean crazy than the out of shape red neck pervert taking office. At least Japanese and Korean men are sweet and attractive.

    Reply
  282. Farrah Avatar
    Farrah

    I said the same thing when I took my dog to the vet and got charged $4,000 to tell me that he’s depressed. 😠
    Ambulance rides in Korea are free.

    Reply
    1. De De Tillman Avatar
      De De Tillman

      Oh my! LT

      Reply
  283. Essa Avatar
    Essa

    I’m leaving my entire Identity in the US, trust me no one can do anything with the shit anyway. Starting over as a new person.

    Reply
  284. Essa Avatar
    Essa

    My employment status= I’m fucked
    My rent= I’m fucked
    My weight = I’m fucked
    My health-= I’m fucked
    Trump in office= I’m triple fucked
    I’m moving

    Reply
    1. De De Tillman Avatar
      De De Tillman

      Love this comment! Good for you for moving! – LT

      Reply
  285. Juwanna Avatar
    Juwanna

    I haven’t heard anything about a student debt here.

    Reply
  286. Kay Avatar
    Kay

    Took me awhile to comment on here but finally getting in. How rare is it for people to be in debt in Korea? I took out a student loan that still hasn’t been forgiven and it’s making my credit to the point if I borrow again, I’ll need a co-signer and difficult to rent an apartment. I’m tired of living like this.

    Reply
  287. Tessa Avatar
    Tessa

    Same with us. We were paying $2,840 for rent and then they went up another $400. We packed up and moved in with my grandparents. We are moving to Korea in February and my grandparents are coming but they will have their own place again as well as us.

    Reply
  288. Tessa Avatar
    Tessa

    One of the main reasons why we’re moving. They went up on our rent and got to the point we couldn’t afford to live in our apartment anymore and had to move in with my grandparents and now it’s 7 of
    us in a 1 bedroom. It’s so cramped in here and don’t get me started on when taking turns trying to use the bathroom.

    Reply
    1. Juwanna Avatar
      Juwanna

      Luckily you had your grandparents to turn to. Glad I left when I did. The state is out of control and they’re scamming citizens out of their money. They raising rent like people are making $60 an hour. And still even then, depending on your living circumstances, $60 won’t do anything

      Reply
  289. Tessa Avatar
    Tessa

    Moving to Korea in February. I wanted to go sooner but it is a slight hassle when you have family moving also. My parents, siblings, grandparents and my aunt and her family.

    Reply
  290. Shayla Avatar
    Shayla

    Also to note my mom was skeptical about leaving because she has high blood pressure and didn’t want to risk coming here and not having medication but many people I’ve met has had high blood, diabetes and more and when they came here their bad health revered itself.
    Yes you have full access to pharmacies but as time goes on, you won’t even need the pills anymore.

    Reply
  291. Shayla Avatar
    Shayla

    It will traumatize you for awhile especially if you’re from the US. Credit is all you know. So to go to a place where it’s not heard of the first think you’re thinking is “what’s the catch?”

    Reply
  292. Juwanna Avatar
    Juwanna

    Yes please keep me updated as I am here to help with any questions or concerns or you can also reach out to the blogger for any questions:

    Reply
  293. Lindsey Avatar
    Lindsey

    This site is very detailed and providing very much needed and useful recourses. Definitely helps as a first time traveler. It’s always scaring moving to a new environment but even scarier having a dictator taking office in a month.

    Reply
  294. Bethany Avatar
    Bethany

    I am sick and tired of the electricity where I live going out. Every single little thing knocks it out. The weather, the wind, if you sneeze cook everything. How is the electricity ⚡️ in Korea?

    Reply
  295. Ava Avatar
    Ava

    Thank you for sharing this. I’m checking out Busan on Airbnb now. I will let you know what I find and get your feedback

    Reply
  296. Juwanna Avatar
    Juwanna

    You would do fine in Busan then. I will suggest getting an Airbnb first for a month because places are cheap to give you time to find something long term. It’s easier to book until you can find the right realtor. Make sure to get a place that you can also cook in.

    Reply
  297. Juwanna Avatar
    Juwanna

    It depends on where you’re trying to move to and what you are looking for. Overall if you stay out of Seoul, you will see your money for sure. Seoul is the capitol of Korea and in some cases can be pricey but places like Busan is very affordable. You can get a 1 bedroom for $490 a month. There’s no such thing as credit here. Only place that punishes you for that is the United States. What exactly are you searching for and I can try to help out.

    Reply
    1. Ava Avatar
      Ava

      Im not looking for a lot. Just a simple 1 bedroom or just a room for now. I can always get more later on but to get out of his faster, I will settle for whatever. Thank you for replying

      Reply
    2. Tessa Avatar
      Tessa

      That isn’t bad at all. We found a 4 bedroom house. Because it’s me, my sister, brother and my parents. Although I’m 24, I’ll still be living at home until I can fully be out on my own in Korea which won’t be long looking at rental prices.

      Reply
  298. Ava Avatar
    Ava

    Does anyone know what the average rent is in Korea or the process of getting a place? I’m sure it’s easier than where I am. My credit is poor as hell and I’m just unsure what to do now.

    Reply
    1. Tessa Avatar
      Tessa

      Looking at some prices online, a 1 bedroom isn’t anything higher than $550. But as another commenter added, it all depends on where you go. If you’re in Seoul, it would probably be around $700. Still cheaper than property in the United States for sure. You will make it in Korea or Thailand.

      Reply
  299. Akoi Avatar
    Akoi

    Definitely planning on moving to Korea. See my mother is Korean and my dad is black and the moment she met my dad and my dad’s side of the family, she completely forgot about Korea and Korean culture. Sadly I forget sometimes I’m half the way my mother acts. I’m deciding it’s time for me to educate myself on Korean culture more.

    Reply
  300. Mariah Greene Avatar
    Mariah Greene

    Currently sleeping in a tent in SF and crazy thing is I’m employed. Says a lot of
    about our beloved country right? I make $700 every 2 weeks and believe me,
    You can’t live off of that, especially trying to rent a place. It sucks being a black woman trying to just make it. I work at h&m so I do get discounts on clothes but I don’t buy anything because again I live in a tent a chances of my stuff being stolen. I do go to friends houses to shower and freshen myself up but this is exhausting. I will be giving Korea a try because I’m already on the streets and unsafe.

    Reply
    1. De De Tillman Avatar
      De De Tillman

      Look at the resources on this blog for help. Korea is a much better choice and safer.

      Reply
  301. Bernadette Avatar
    Bernadette

    I have to options, continue to live in Fremont where I’m broke and speak English and continue to struggle or move to Korea where I don’t know the language but I will pay cheap rent and see my money.

    Reply
  302. Candance Avatar
    Candance

    I wanted to wait until I lost weight because I weigh over 200 lbs but honestly, I’m not succeeding in my weight loss staying here. The most healthy food is the most expensive. I already can’t afford to live here, and eating is another story. I have to eat burgers and fries just so I won’t be hungry.

    Reply
    1. De De Tillman Avatar
      De De Tillman

      The food is very expensive. I’ve been there with weight but just take it one day at a time.

      Reply
  303. Ann Lee Avatar
    Ann Lee

    Honestly worst experience of my life and I wasn’t even the patient. My friend got seriously injured and had to get X-rays done. We were sitting IN THE HALL WAY infront of the main desk for 2 hours, they couldn’t even give there patient a room. I had to advocate for my friend for about 2 minutes before she got any type of pain medication or even vital checking, there was one RN who seemed to be nice but clearly didn’t know what to do. I had to advocate for her to be checked and her to be given a new ice pack because the one they gave her had went warm and for her to be giving pain meds. I AM 20 YEAR OLD TELLING HEALTH CARE SPECIALIST WHAT TO DO. Truly an embarrassing team of health care “professionals” and incredibly understaff.

    Reply
  304. Taylor Avatar
    Taylor

    I can’t wait to leave the US. Sick of it here. Credit, bills, rent, credit, bills, rent. That’s all I hear and know. I’m sicccccck of it. I’m sick of being broke. I’m sick of catering to my jobs.
    I’m overweight, had skin, bedbugs in my clothes. I can’t take it anymore. I want to get myself together and leave for Korea as soon as possible.

    Reply
  305. Alicia Avatar
    Alicia

    Yes!! You know that place? Only
    Go there when you’re ready to die not to be treated.

    Reply
    1. De De Tillman Avatar
      De De Tillman

      Sadly, Yes

      Reply
  306. Alicia Avatar
    Alicia

    I left the moment the hospital told me I had pneumonia when it was actually a bacterial infection. Korea treated me and the hospital in Daly City tried to misdiagnosis me. Been living in Korea for 4 months.

    Reply
    1. De De Tillman Avatar
      De De Tillman

      Was it Seton? LT

      Reply
  307. Scarlett Avatar
    Scarlett

    My mother is Black and my dad is Swedish. How is Korea towards mixed people?

    Reply
  308. Victoria Avatar
    Victoria

    I lived in New York for years and then moved to San Francisco where I would become a victim of sexual assault as I was passing in the tenderloin area because I had an apartment in the neighborhood. Definitely wasn’t the best and wasn’t worth the money but that was all I could afford. I was getting off of work late night and was approached by a man, I didn’t say anything to him and kept walking and that’s what pissed him off more. I won’t go into details but I’m scarred for life. I don’t trust men anymore and I want to leave this country. The women’s only room in Korea is where I need to be.

    Reply
    1. De De Tillman Avatar
      De De Tillman

      Thank you for sharing story!

      Reply
  309. Brittany Dye Avatar
    Brittany Dye

    Wow I truly appreciate the sources on this site. Many of us need to make a fast move but unsure what to do exactly.

    Reply
    1. De De Tillman Avatar
      De De Tillman

      You’re welcome! More resources will be added.

      Reply
  310. Amber Avatar
    Amber

    I live in a house with other people. The rent is $5,300. My part is $1,766. I only get
    Paid $16 an hour at work and I do work 32 hours a week. But my check is only $900 so I did tutoring on the side to make the rest of my rent. It’s overall exhausting. This month I wasn’t able to have enough for rent so I borrowed from my parents. They’re not pressuring me but I need to pay them back. Still don’t even have enough for food. On top of that I’ve been into it with my roommates because one of them had company that hit my car and then tried to lie about it besides being on camera. I think a Christmas gift to myself is buying a one way plane ticket to Korea where I can actually see my money and possibly some respect.

    Reply
    1. De De Tillman Avatar
      De De Tillman

      Thank you for sharing!

      Reply
  311. Shay Avatar
    Shay

    It was my pleasure. The update is my mom struggling to pay rent and other bills. Now is asking me if I have extra space in my apartment for her. I’m like “what about your credit” lol I’m just kidding, of course my mom is welcomed that’s not even a question. But she see how good I’m living. There’s no such thing as a “credit” here in Korea. You either have some money or you don’t but If you don’t, there’s help out there.

    Reply
    1. De De Tillman Avatar
      De De Tillman

      Funny! Excellent! Exactly, no credit! LT

      Reply
  312. Shayla Avatar
    Shayla

    My mom tried to talk me into staying here and cleaning up my credit. I couldn’t stop laughing. I left my whole apartment full of my stuff and walked out with the clothes on my back. I went from paying $2160 a month to $470 a month in Korea. For the record I’m a Black woman and I love Korea. The men and even the older aunties were so loving and welcoming.

    Reply
    1. De De Tillman Avatar
      De De Tillman

      Thanks for sharing this amazing story!

      Reply
  313. Alaina D Avatar
    Alaina D

    The women’s housing above is so needed right now. Being around a toxic man at the moment, I need to get far far away.

    Reply
  314. Hayley Avatar
    Hayley

    I went to Korea for 6 months but came back because I missed my family so much but man oh man biggest mistake ever. I should’ve never left. I’m definitely going back. I’m white and my boyfriend is Australian but we lived better in Korea. My family is now homeless and so are we.

    Reply
    1. De De Tillman Avatar
      De De Tillman

      Thanks for sharing your story!

      Reply
  315. Ellie Avatar
    Ellie

    Thank you for putting Korea in my mind. Tired of getting beat up by my boyfriend when he’s mad at other people. I lay in bed every night scared for my life. I’ve been trying to make the perfect escape with my daughter but it has to be a safe one for her safety. I will plan all of this out. I will be in Korea, I probably won’t stay because my dream is to live in Singapore but I love Korean culture or at least when my boyfriend allows me. Got beat for starring at V from bts too long on screen.

    Reply
    1. De De Tillman Avatar
      De De Tillman

      Does he work?

      Reply
    2. De De Tillman Avatar
      De De Tillman

      If he works then that’s the best time to leave. Depending on your daughter’s age, is she school age?

      Reply
  316. Lea Nadera Avatar
    Lea Nadera

    I’m enjoying reading these comments. Mind if I share a little of my back story?
    Worked a full time job and had a tiny studio but my rent was raised by $400 and I could no longer afford it. I had to let my studio go to avoid eviction but I bought a Van and I’m currently still living in it. It’s cozy but safety is a concern and I’m just tired of being here. I take my shower outside and even cook and then I come in my van to relax but again it’s exhausting. Looking at the recourses now on this page for better.

    Reply
    1. De De Tillman Avatar
      De De Tillman

      Thanks for sharing your story and hopefully, the resources can help. LT

      Reply
  317. Shirley Avatar
    Shirley

    Doing my research now. It’s so hard reading in Korea lol

    Reply
    1. De De Tillman Avatar
      De De Tillman

      Resources are on the blog.

      Reply
  318. Olivia C Avatar
    Olivia C

    I left everything in my apartment. I just took my social security (which I don’t care much for either) and other important documents but I left everything else behind. I live with my aunt and her boyfriend but feeling pretty unwelcome. I think it was meant for me to run into this blog as I was sitting here crying to myself on what am i going to do? I can’t be here other week and I only have $800 to my name. Someone on here said they rented an Airbnb when they went to Korea. It’s giving me social ideas on a new journey. I really appreciate this.

    Reply
    1. De De Tillman Avatar
      De De Tillman

      Please look at the resources on this blog because one of the commenters provide on a nice and clean shelter in Korea ans Asiana has cheap fares. Job resources as well. LT

      Reply
  319. Nessa Avatar
    Nessa

    I said the same thing when I saw the president results. I knew I was heading out either way if it was him or her.

    Reply
  320. Nala Avatar
    Nala

    Just recently moved in an RV because I was fed up with paying extremely high rent to a property that I don’t even own.
    I’m still looking at the blog but these researches and comments are so helpful. I know what I need to do.

    Reply
  321. Hazel Avatar
    Hazel

    Everything around me is just so expensive. And I paid it just to say I live in San Francisco or just the United States. I can never understand why so people fight to come to the US thinking they’re going to have a better life when we’re fighting to leave for a better life. I live in my car right now but I will be going to China. wish I would’ve seen this blog first about Korea.

    Reply
  322. Fang Lee Avatar
    Fang Lee

    I worked 3 jobs just to pay rent and I just quit every last one of them. I’m tired of burning myself to pay for something that I don’t even live in. I only came home to sleep. But never could enjoy myself. My rent was $3,732. I left at the beginning of this month. My lease is up in April but I can’t last that long. Yes I broke my contract. I’m living in a hotel right now because it was 30% cheaper than my apartment but I don’t want to be here either. Looking at the resources on this blog is helping me make a move to korea.

    Reply
    1. De De Tillman Avatar
      De De Tillman

      I’m happy that this blog has been helpful to you and other commenters! LT More resources will be added!

      Reply
  323. Yolie Avatar
    Yolie

    Attention to everyone in the United States, RUN. Get out. It’s way better countries out there then to sit around suffer.

    Reply
  324. Salazar Melinda Avatar
    Salazar Melinda

    I ran into this blog and saw the comments and felt I needed to vent about Westlake. If you’re heading to Korea or any parts of Asia,
    You are smart as hell…
    DO NOT RENT FROM THIS PLACE….especially if you want to move within 1 yr after signing the lease. This place has a turn around after a year lease more than any apt complex I’ve lived in. They raise the rent up too 500$ more a month after 1 yr lease is up. And the office is so unorganized with communication. They sent a maintenance man into my unit to fix a sink that wasn’t broken and the maintenance man WOULDN’T leave until I allowed him access into the apt to see the picture of the sink in question wasn’t my sink that was in the picture for repairs. And when questioned about this MAN unexpectedly wanting to come in instead of going back to the office to ask if the information was correct, all they would do is apologize. This place has roaches and mice in the units as well. Upon moving in the unit , within the first 3 months of moving into this 2400$ plus insurance and water , I’ve had to put in numerous calls for exterminator to check the unit out. THEY CHARGE FOR PARKING IN THIS PLACE OR RISK GETTING YOUR CAR TOWED IF YOU PARK IN THE LOT. This place is corrupt, money hungry, and greedy.
    WHATEVER YOU DO….BEWARE OF THIS PLACE AND DO NOT RENT IF UNLESS IT’s YOUR ONLY OPTION YOU HAVE. BEWARE…they have been SCAMMING TENANTS FOR YEARS …!!!!

    This TOW company and security company they use to contract to monitor the parking lot DRRRRRRAGGED my brand new 2024 AWD Honda Pilot out of a spot for parking it on the lot.

    DO NOT RENT HERE !!!!!!!

    Reply
    1. Essa Avatar
      Essa

      I live in Westlake 😳😳😳
      My rent is $3182
      I haven’t even paid my rent this month. I ordered McDonald’s last night and said to hell with it.
      I feel like it’s a sign for me to move. I’ve been hating it here for so long.

      Reply
      1. De De Tillman Avatar
        De De Tillman

        Now you have $3182 to move to Korea! LT

  325. Aracely Avatar
    Aracely

    Me and my partner were to scared and traumatized to sleep at our house where we decided to sleep in our car because we didn’t want the rat to join us again on our bed. The next day October 13, 2024 Sunday we came back to our place around 6:30 am and hear the rat crying because he was trapped on our rat trap under the kitchen counter. Once we took it out we have to kill it since it was still alive. I had contacted maintenance on Saturday October 12,2024 and put in a request for them to come and cover some cracks that are behind our kitchen and I have never heard from them. Sunday October 13,2024 I kept calling the office but couldn’t get a hold of anyone and maintenance never came. Monday October 14, 2024 I called around 9:30am and finally got a hold of maintenance and had asked if anyone was going to come look at my unit in order to help stop pervent the rats from coming and they had told me that they would have to make an appointment on Tuesday October 15, 2024 for them to come check out my unit and from there they would have to make ANOTHER appointment for them to finally cover up the cracks. I have been waiting for them to come look at my unit and cover up the cracks but they have been very unprofessional and not helpful at all. I had to put a poster in between my stove and kitchen counter in order to cover up the whole as well as put more sticky traps to catch the rats.
    We have also notice that some rats have gotten in on our fruits because they ate some of my banana that was on the counter on a top shelf. It’s very unsanitary to have rats come in from the house and no having maintenance do anything about it. My lease doesn’t end till July 2025 and if I choose to buy out of it the cost is nearly almost $4,000. I already pay about 2,000 a month for rent and they can’t even come and cover up some cracks in order to prevent the rats from coming in. It’s very upsetting and disappointing knowing that our management team won’t do anything to help. If you are looking for a place to rent PLEASE PLEASE do not consider Westlake apartment!!!! I can’t believe I pay for this shit. My partner and I are heading to Korea next month.

    Reply
    1. De De Tillman Avatar
      De De Tillman

      The news would love to get a hold of this. Film it and report them.

      Reply
    2. Ciella Avatar
      Ciella

      I don’t live to far from there I live at La Terrazza Apartments the Lived there 1 years and long story short stay away unless you have money to throw away!

      Pros:

      – Next to BART
      – Fairly quiet area as it’s surrounded with graveyards. Maybe a pro idk

      Cons:
      – Renewal system is broken. San Mateo County allows up to 10% rent increase, they try to max it out every year regardless of the market prices. You need to deal with their corp office for renewal and they are pretty arrogant, they don’t even let you speak, cut you off all the time. I had to interact with someone called Grace multiple times and she is pretty mean, acts as if she is your high school teacher. They offer $300-$400 off to new tenants and try to give you 25$ discount from maxed out offer. They don’t follow up counter offers either. If you signed the contract during low season they make sure next renewal date is high season by adding a couple of months at the end of the new contract. If your rent is low, they increase parking fee to go around the laws. They doubled mine without notice!!!

      – Pipes, washer/dryers are extremely old. You don’t have enough water pressure in the shower most of the times. It sometimes takes 2+ weeks to respond to some of the repair tickets, zero consistency.

      – Fire alarm goes off constantly, making it hard to sleep or do work. Some of the tenants are loud, it wasn’t used to be that way but close to my move out one neighbour was constantly listening to extremely loud music with no action from the lease office.

      – They started doing facility repairs without notice, you can see someone cleaning your window and watching your house all of a sudden accompanied by an annoying crane noise.

      – They sometimes don’t fix stuff – an elevator next to my apartment went out of order 4-5 times in a year. At the time of my move out it wasn’t working for over 2 months.

      – The $500 deposit they take at the time of move-in is not deposit, it’s the money they take to renew the house for the next tenant. They tried to charge me $650 even though I left the house extremely clean, I didn’t even hang a single thing on the walls. They charge you for cleaning, painting, even for blind replacement which I didn’t use for once!!! They take the picture of the lamp on the balcony and say it’s dirty. The stupidest thing I have ever seen in my life, which justifies they are trying to find ways not to give back your deposit. They did the same for entrance door, window seals. They are literally going in with microscopes to find defects. You pay thousands of dollars during the time of tenancy but they don’t own any of the repairs. They try to put every dime on you.

      Reply
  326. Aracely Avatar
    Aracely

    I freaking hate Westlake. I moved into Westlake apartment in April of 2024. When I first moved in everything was nice the apartment, neighborhood and even neighbors. Up until I found out my upstairs neighbor would constantly have the cops called on them. One time me and my partner came home to our unit smelling like gas we found out it was our upstairs neighbor who was doing this. Then it would progressively get worse where our upstairs neighbor would throw out trash from their window and cops would come and the security would come and not doing anything they would just talk among them selves and wouldn’t resolve the problem. Then there was one time where the person upstairs threw out a bucket of poop where the bucket cracked and splashed everywhere, my apartment quickly got the strong order and we had to keep our windows close for 2 days.
    We also had a problem with not only roaches but with rats. We would constantly find roaches in our bathroom sink and on the floor where it would end up on our kitchen counter as well. Over time the roaches stopped but then the rats started we once saw a rat at our apartment at night and started putting out traps. On Saturday October 12, 2024 I woke up at 6:30 am to a rat being on top of my ankle/feet. I quickly woke up my partner and told them about the rat and we didn’t go back to sleep. That same day around 7 pm we were getting ready to do laundry and we hear a rat under our stove and turns out it got stuck on our rat trap where we have to take it out from under our kitchen counter and kill it since it was still alive. Under our kitchen counter they failed to cover up a corner where it was full of trash from previous tenants. Later that day on October 12, 2024 around 11pm we saw another rat fall from inside our heater that is installed in the apartment it rat under our couch where it eventually went under our stove. I’m ready to get the F**K out

    Reply
  327. Zenaida Avatar
    Zenaida

    I lived in westlake for a year. An absolute 💩 hole. They definitely make you sign a waiver for your health so if you get sick because of their failure to do proper things in the building, you can’t sue them.

    Reply
    1. Ae-ri Avatar
      Ae-ri

      I moved out after they raised my rent up to $1,000 after being there for a year. I live in Korea now. I am Korean so it all works.

      Reply
  328. Daniela Avatar
    Daniela

    You pay how much?? 😳

    Reply
  329. Tyla Avatar
    Tyla

    Way cheaper. I could save 3100 if I leave this place.
    Don’t ever move to Westlake Village. The worst decision you will ever make. The current rental rates are in line with the market, but the units are outdated with energy inefficient appliances and poor heating. You have to sign a waiver for all of the health issues you may get from lead paint, mold, pests, & asbestos. The utilities are unfairly billed to tenants. For a 1 bdrm single unit with no heat usage, the average monthly utility bill is $300. That’s in addition to rent. There are no accommodations made for older residents or people with disabilities. Don’t expect management to go above and beyond.
    Korea here I come.

    Reply
  330. Yonna Avatar
    Yonna

    Unfortunately I paid rent for this month but I refuse to pay for next month. I pay over 2400 for where I am and it isn’t worth it. I’m leaving next month. Leaving everything behind.

    Reply
    1. De De Tillman Avatar
      De De Tillman

      Good for you also! LT

      Reply
    2. Daniela Avatar
      Daniela

      I didn’t even rent for this month. I’m in a really bad situation. I’m looking up countries in Asia now for myself and my son. I’m half Tanzania and half Chinese. My mom is in Tanzania and wants me out there but I said no.

      Reply
  331. Slyvia Avatar
    Slyvia

    Where I live, maintenance or property manager hasn’t been in my place for at least 2 years and that’s when I moved in. My entire apartment is falling apart and when I put in a request to get things fixed, the owner wanted to charge me. It’s bad enough I pay $2200 for nothing, and I do mean nothing but to add on $200 to fix each thing wrong in the apartment when they never bothered to come out and do an inspection is absurd. I’m packing and leaving. I can save so much money in Korea.

    Reply
    1. De De Tillman Avatar
      De De Tillman

      Good for you! LT

      Reply
    2. Zenaida Avatar
      Zenaida

      I thought it was westlake for a moment until you said 2200 because it’s almost 3000 for a 2bedroom.

      Reply
      1. Aracely Avatar
        Aracely

        So surprised to see so many Daly City folks on here but so happy to see people I can relate to and hoping to move to Korea soon. I’ve never been more miserable since living in Daly City. I moved from San Francisco where I was also miserable.

  332. Julianna Oaks Avatar
    Julianna Oaks

    I live in Colma and the rent here is sadder than the city alone. My apartment is $3,450. It’s just a 2 bedroom and I’m reading some people saying they have a 2bedroom for $750 in Korea? Haven’t seen that price in almost never.

    Reply
    1. Zenaida Avatar
      Zenaida

      I live in parkmerced right now and the living conditions and the rent I pay, I’m very close to walking in front of a bus. I almost got attacked last week by a homeless man that snuck in. I told management and the only thing was said was “well you’re ok now, what’s the problem?” This month is it for me being here.

      Reply
      1. De De Tillman Avatar
        De De Tillman

        Good decision! LT

  333. Catherine Benson Avatar
    Catherine Benson

    Learning that a dictator and a criminal won for President, has taught me everything I needed to know about the United States. I’m out of here. This place is an absolute joke.

    Reply
  334. Meiling Avatar
    Meiling

    I agree. The men on this page is breathtaking.

    Reply
  335. Meiling Avatar
    Meiling

    Desperately trying to get out of here.
    I’m currently being stalked by an ex boyfriend and Alameda police are an absolute joke. I want to start over in Korea. It looks so peaceful and just full of life and fun. I’m scared to leave my apartment because I know he’s out there waiting on me.

    Reply
    1. De De Tillman Avatar
      De De Tillman

      You can be escorted out to the airport, book with Asiana Airlines.

      Reply
    2. De De Tillman Avatar
      De De Tillman

      Get to safety to South Korea! -LT

      Reply
    3. De De Tillman Avatar
      De De Tillman

      If you know his work schedule, you still leave your apartment with the police to escort you to the airport, make sure take you to Asiana Airlines so you can check your luggage if you take any go through customs. Change your phone number in case he has a tracker on it.

      Reply
  336. Jenny Corpuz Avatar
    Jenny Corpuz

    I have to get the hell out of the United States, not only am I losing my damn mind here but also losing my money. I never see it. It’s either between Korea or Thailand but Thailands weather is ass kicker and I have asthma.

    Reply
  337. Maddie Harvey Avatar
    Maddie Harvey

    This is fantastic to hear.

    Reply
  338. Maddie Harvey Avatar
    Maddie Harvey

    I’m looking foward to moving to Korea. I don’t make enough money where I am and I’m a bit tired of struggling.

    Reply
  339. Alina Sha Avatar
    Alina Sha

    Where are some places to get a rather affordable apartment in Korea? Right now I’m paying $2790 on my rent and I’m completely stressed out. I’m paying my rent by myself and I just recently lost my job. I don’t know what else to do but I can’t continue to be in this apartment. I have be gone by at least next month with the little money I do have.

    Reply
    1. De De Tillman Avatar
      De De Tillman

      Read the resources on this blog

      Reply
    2. Nessa Avatar
      Nessa

      Mines was $2,590. Then I moved in with a friend but didn’t want to overstay my welcome then moved to a shelter, then to a tent and now I’m in an abandoned building but I’m trying to go somewhere safer. You never know If another squatter will try and come in while you’re sleeping. All of my family is in Cambodia. I would go there but nothing is happening so I want to try Korea. Korea will be better than being in an abandoned building.

      Reply
      1. De De Tillman Avatar
        De De Tillman

        Please look at the resources on the blog.

  340. Brina Avatar
    Brina

    Maybe catch a cruise?

    Reply
  341. Regan Avatar
    Regan

    I’ve been wanting to move to Korea for the past 3 years and now I’m finally able to do it. I didn’t realize how cheap Korea was. I thought it would be expensive because of K-pop.

    Reply
  342. Sada Avatar
    Sada

    Scared to fly but desperate to move. Are there any ways to get to Korea that isn’t an airplane? Lol

    Reply
  343. Heather Avatar
    Heather

    Booked my ticket for Korea. I was debating from Japan, Korea and Taiwan. But Korea airline ticket was the cheapest lol

    Reply
  344. Natasha Avatar
    Natasha

    I’m moving to incheon. The vibe is so much better than Busan and all the other cities that isn’t Seoul.

    Reply
    1. Meiling Avatar
      Meiling

      I’m going to look into Incheon. I always said Seoul or Busan. I’m in a very bad situation dealing with my ex who has been stalking my place of residence and even my job to where I was forced to quit, cops won’t even do anything. I’m ready to leave.

      Reply
      1. De De Tillman Avatar
        De De Tillman

        If that police department is not servicing you then take an Uber to San Francisco Police Station on 850 Bryant Street to escort you to the airport so you can safely catch a plane out. Just start packing what’s important. Please keep everyone updated.

  345. Natasha Avatar
    Natasha

    I can’t wait to move to Korea.
    The rent is cheaper, food is cheaper and the men are sexier.

    Reply
  346. Mimi Avatar
    Mimi

    I’m curious about living in Korea? How’s it over there? I want to be out of here before Trump takes office.

    Reply
  347. Vee Avatar
    Vee

    Hello everyone. I will be moving to Korea January 19. Does anybody have any suggestions or feedback? This will be my first time ever out of the country

    Reply
    1. De De Tillman Avatar
      De De Tillman

      https://dedetillman.com/2024/11/02/moving-to-south-korea-club-supportive-community/

      Reply
  348. Brina Avatar
    Brina

    I think this is an awesome idea to have this. Many people are just now moving to Korea or in the process and need all the resources and connections they can find.

    Reply
  349. Annmarie Avatar
    Annmarie

    I’m moving to Korea in January. I’m leaving before January 20.

    Reply
    1. De De Tillman Avatar
      De De Tillman

      Good for you!

      Reply
  350. Nikki Avatar
    Nikki

    Are there any good spots for Black women in Korea? I want to go there and just meet people and have a great time and learn more about their culture. I’m tempted to book a flight right now since the seats are very cheap. I have a thing now for Korean men and I want to meet Hongin. Does he like Black women?

    Reply
    1. De De Tillman Avatar
      De De Tillman

      He’s very kind to women.

      Reply
    2. Rachel Baccay Avatar
      Rachel Baccay

      There should be a club for Hongin. 😊

      Reply
  351. Eliza Avatar
    Eliza

    I wonder how much a ticket is from China to Korea. I just left in a hurry because I couldn’t handle the stress anymore when I lived in San Francisco. 🤢
    Everyone is mentioning cheap flight so I don’t think it should be that much

    Reply
    1. Tyla Avatar
      Tyla

      I live in Daly City, if you know where westlake is, they promise you 1 month of free rent which is why we got here but for a 3 bedroom is $3,882 which we have. I can’t afford this. I eventually got roommates to help with the rent but now I have no privacy. I’m looking into Korea now.

      Reply
      1. De De Tillman Avatar
        De De Tillman

        Resources are on this blog.

  352. Terri Avatar
    Terri

    I’m booking my ticket for me and my family. This is all we have left to our name. Doesn’t make sense to pay rent here and be broke. Wish us the best

    Reply
    1. De De Tillman Avatar
      De De Tillman

      Let us know how you’re doing in Korea when you get settled. Thanks

      Reply
    2. Heather Avatar
      Heather

      Oh my. Wishing the best to you and your family. I’m doing the same

      Reply
    3. Alina Sha Avatar
      Alina Sha

      I’m going through the same thing. Reading some of these comments, some people are inspiring me to just drop everything I have and just leave. I’m broke, I’m jobless and I can’t afford where I’m living now. I’m thinking 2 luggages and I should be good. Start over fresh

      Reply
      1. De De Tillman Avatar
        De De Tillman

        Read the resources on this blog.

  353. Molly Avatar
    Molly

    I really appreciate this post as I’m moving to Korea in a week. I would love to make friends with people in Korea and also people that moved out of the US to Korea. I see a lot of people are leaving for the same reasons I am.

    Reply
    1. De De Tillman Avatar
      De De Tillman

      There’s a lot of friendly people on this blog and I’m sure someone will reach out to you.

      Reply
  354. Amy Avatar
    Amy

    This is what I needed to see. I can’t wait to get out of this damn country. It’s not even a country.

    Reply
    1. De De Tillman Avatar
      De De Tillman

      Spread the word about this blog and post! I’m happy this is helpful.

      Reply
  355. Jiy Avatar
    Jiy

    맙소사 나 Jermhi, Hongin, Jia와 같은 비행기를 탄 것 같아. 다가가고 싶지만 겁이 나

    Reply
    1. De De Tillman Avatar
      De De Tillman

      Yes, that’s them. Tattoo tour.

      Reply
    2. Min Song Avatar
      Min Song

      나는 매우 화가 났어요. 공항에서 봤다고 맹세할 수도 있었어. 나는 거의 확신했다. 그들은 좋아 보였고 천국의 냄새가났습니다. 나는 울고 싶다

      Reply
      1. Rebecca D Avatar
        Rebecca D

        I also want to add that all 3 were signing autographs and taking pics with the women that practically through themselves at them. One woman took off her thong and tried to offer it to Hongin and Jermhi. That’s when it was weird. I would say about 30 women were crowding themselves around them.

    3. Min Song Avatar
      Min Song

      홍인이 지아에게 계속 뽀뽀하고 포옹하는 걸 눈치챘어요.

      Reply
    4. Rebecca D Avatar
      Rebecca D

      Sorry I had to translate this but yes that was them at the airport. There were so many women running up to them when I looked over that I didn’t have the chance to even say hello. There were some guys trying to touch Jia also.

      Reply
  356. Zoe Avatar
    Zoe

    Someone please help me. Is there a place I can go to once I book a flight? EVERYTIME I see trump or Harris on tv I start pulling my hair and then my breathing decreases and I feel like I’m having an attack because she doesn’t know what she’s talking about and he talks like an dictator and my anxiety gets worse because America has gotten so bad that these are our two options for running a country. I have got to go

    Reply
    1. De De Tillman Avatar
      De De Tillman

      Good for you for making that decision!

      Reply
    2. De De Tillman Avatar
      De De Tillman

      Resources is on this post

      Reply
  357. Nat Avatar
    Nat

    Does anyone know about the Gangnam area? Where BTS lives? Is it expensive?

    Reply
    1. De De Tillman Avatar
      De De Tillman

      Beyond expensive.

      Reply
  358. Janessa Avatar
    Janessa

    I can’t wait until I can go to Korea. I’m definitely trying to be there before January. Not that I’m a fan of Biden but I’m terrified with an orange Cheeto and a woman who doesn’t know her identity taking over.

    Reply
  359. Lola Ewulu Avatar
    Lola Ewulu

    My cousins told me about this blog and decided I come over and check it out. I’m going to go to Korea with the $400 flight sale and see how I like it. I might just do a one way incase I do like, I won’t return.

    Reply
  360. Olayinka Avatar
    Olayinka

    Do you have connects on where Hongin and Jermhi leave? I want to live near them if possible. I think I should get my plane tickets now before they go higher.

    Reply
    1. Heather Avatar
      Heather

      I would love to live near Hongin, Ji-Won and Jermhi. Throw Hyunju in there too. Gosh these men are gorgeous

      Reply
  361. Layla Avatar
    Layla

    I’m ripping Hongin clothes off,
    Thanks to the blooper for the cheap flight hook up. I can finally be a pervert.

    Reply
    1. Rachel Baccay Avatar
      Rachel Baccay

      Nooo 🫢 lol he’s all mine 😃

      Reply
    2. Rachel Baccay Avatar
      Rachel Baccay

      I think we all have the same goal

      Reply
  362. Maria Ewulu Avatar
    Maria Ewulu

    My sister Gabby just booked her flight and she told me about this blog and the company Asiana. I’m looking up flights to try and match hers. I’ve scrolled through the blog and my attention is definitely on the guy Hongin. I’m after him the moment my plane touch down.

    Reply
    1. De De Tillman Avatar
      De De Tillman

      Thanks and Lol!

      Reply
  363. Sharon Lamonte Avatar
    Sharon Lamonte

    That’s crazy that Asiana is way cheaper than KoreanAir. I’m booking a flight for in the morning. I said let me hurry up before they jack up the price.

    Reply
    1. De De Tillman Avatar
      De De Tillman

      Good!

      Reply
  364. Gabby Ewulu Avatar
    Gabby Ewulu

    I’m not even worried about an apartment because there’s Anna shelter for women. It’s nice as hell. Better than the USA. Thank you very much for the Asians connect.

    Reply
    1. De De Tillman Avatar
      De De Tillman

      Great! I will add it to the resources.

      Reply
  365. Gina Avatar
    Gina

    I didn’t know I could get a flight for only $400 🤩. Hongin, hold on your baby is coming to you even faster ❤️❤️❤️

    Reply
    1. De De Tillman Avatar
      De De Tillman

      Lol

      Reply
  366. Evangeline W Avatar
    Evangeline W

    I can’t thank you enough. I was frustrated with the price of United. It was way too much and I’m in a desperate situation to move. See I didn’t pay rent for November and I want to be out by the 5th. Not that I care about eviction but I don’t want that on my record in case of emergency. I just want to walk to the leasing office and turn in my key before the 5th. I’m booking now with Asiana

    Reply
    1. De De Tillman Avatar
      De De Tillman

      Good for you!

      Reply
    2. Jelena Avatar
      Jelena

      I’m booking mines as I type this. I didn’t even know about the other one. I just know United and southwest and southwest doesn’t go to Korea. I will be 💃🕺🏻🕺 with Hongin and Jermhi very soon. This is the cheapest I’ve ever seen a price. Gonnnnnnnnnnnne

      Reply
      1. De De Tillman Avatar
        De De Tillman

        Lol

  367. Essa Avatar
    Essa

    Luckily I had enough money in my bank account to book a flight. Thank you to whoever blogged this

    Reply
    1. De De Tillman Avatar
      De De Tillman

      You are so welcome!

      Reply
  368. Viola Avatar
    Viola

    I already left my apartment on Halloween so that I wouldn’t have to pay rent. I quit my job 5 minutes ago and booked a flight to Korea. Stress will be no longer apart of my life.

    Reply
    1. De De Tillman Avatar
      De De Tillman

      This comment should be pinned. lol Good for you!

      Reply
  369. Felicia Avatar
    Felicia

    I just recently moved outside the airport in my city. I booked a flight for 5 days away. That’s ok, as long as I’m out of my apartment. I refused to pay another month of rent that I couldn’t even afford to pay.

    Reply
  370. Sidney Avatar
    Sidney

    I’m extremely correct
    and damn proud of it
    I hate my country
    and I’m scared to death of its government
    Kamala and Donald don’t make it no better so I came on this blog to resource for greater.
    Booking my flight now to Korea

    Reply
    1. De De Tillman Avatar
      De De Tillman

      Happy flying to Korea!

      Reply
  371. Tierra Avatar
    Tierra

    I could’ve been got out of here if I knew the flights were this cheap. No worries Tierra you can book now 😀

    Reply
    1. De De Tillman Avatar
      De De Tillman

      Good!

      Reply
  372. Susa Avatar
    Susa

    Never heard of Asiana. Thank you. I’m getting heck out of here. These flights are so cheap.

    Reply
    1. De De Tillman Avatar
      De De Tillman

      Good for getting that cheap ticket and getting out of the United States.

      Reply
  373. Miranda Avatar
    Miranda

    Thank you for providing the resources. I just booked a flight ✈️. Gone ✌🏼. It’s going to be so weird in a country that don’t have needles on the ground or human poop in between cars.

    Reply
    1. De De Tillman Avatar
      De De Tillman

      You are most welcome and I’m so glad the resources are helpful.

      Reply
  374. Alyana Davis Avatar
    Alyana Davis

    I’m looking for apartments right now. I’m still in the US but I’m hoping to be out of here by next week. I didn’t pay rent for this month 😊. Now I have an extra $1974 in my pockets.

    Reply
    1. De De Tillman Avatar
      De De Tillman

      That’s going to go a long way in Korea!

      Reply
    2. Evolyn Avatar
      Evolyn

      I don’t think anyone is paying rent in November lmao it’s election time and most of us wants to be out. I’m leaving soon for Korea too.

      Reply
      1. De De Tillman Avatar
        De De Tillman

        I think you’re right about November. lol

      2. Nicole Avatar
        Nicole

        I paid 😢 and this month but doubt I will for next month. Visiting Korea.

    3. Catherine Benson Avatar
      Catherine Benson

      That’s a lot. If I’m lucky, I will have at least $50 to my name. Enough to treat myself to a McRib and McDonalds.

      Reply
    4. Carmen Avatar
      Carmen

      That just gave me an idea. I’m currently living in an SRO l (not by choice) I was forced to live here to avoid being homeless because I couldn’t afford my apartment anymore and I had to dodge
      eviction on my record. Now I currently live with rats and they’ve been inviting the other neighborhood rats into my place and the ones here don’t even pay rent. Plus roaches that are in my food and drinks and the ones that crawls on my pillow when I sleep. Luckily I don’t have bedbugs but my neighbors do and it can be any moment I can also. I’ve never lived in such filth in my entire life but if you live in San Francisco and you turn to the city for help, this is the best they can do for you if you don’t have kids which i don’t. I’m paying $1430 to live in the nasty germ collecting 4 wall place and I’m tired of wasting my money. Next check I gets i am most likely heading to Japan.

      Reply
      1. De De Tillman Avatar
        De De Tillman

        Yes, get out of there. $1430 will go a long way somewhere else out of the this country. LT

  375. Ambre Avatar
    Ambre

    Can someone please help me find a flight leaving New York to Korea? I looked on the Asiana site but it said 0 seats for the day I’m trying to leave which is preferably now but I can settle for tomorrow. I’m not seeing anything.

    Reply
    1. De De Tillman Avatar
      De De Tillman

      United Airlines is around $852

      Reply
      1. Amby Avatar
        Amby

        Wow that’s cheap compared to what I just saw. I’m on Asiana now because the blog posted it

    2. De De Tillman Avatar
      De De Tillman

      Ask for standby for Asiana airlines

      Reply
      1. Amby Avatar
        Amby

        What’s a standby? Like last minute?

    3. De De Tillman Avatar
      De De Tillman

      I will look for more airlines.

      Reply
    4. Patricia Reed Avatar
      Patricia Reed

      I’m trying to leave by the 5th. I want to be in a foreign country when I hear who will be sworn in. So that it won’t be my problem for sure

      Reply
      1. De De Tillman Avatar
        De De Tillman

        lol.

      2. Catherine Benson Avatar
        Catherine Benson

        I have to be gone by the 20th because the person will be in.

    5. Shannon Avatar
      Shannon

      Try Asians. It’s the less expensive airline on top of that.

      Reply
    6. Amby Avatar
      Amby

      I live in Daly City. This city sucks chicken goats but it’s easy to get a flight out. Surprised New York is hard.

      Reply
  376. Nia Avatar
    Nia

    My only purpose for moving to Korea was to get my health under control, pay cheap rent and marry Hongin. I have successfully done 2 out of 3. At least I have enough money now to take care of myself physically so that I can look good for Hongin. He would’ve never looked in my direction if he seen me in the United States.

    Reply
    1. De De Tillman Avatar
      De De Tillman

      Congratulations! I agree you don’t see your money in United States and I will keep my fingers crossed that you will meet Hongin.

      Reply
    2. Marianne Avatar
      Marianne

      I did the same thing. I had pretty bad anxiety living in San Jose. I had anxiety attacks so bad. I moved to Korea and I slowly started seeing my anxiety decreasing and now it’s actually gone completely.
      I have a crush on Hongin myself and I’ve been walking up and down the streets daily to find him. I’ll keep you updated

      Reply
      1. De De Tillman Avatar
        De De Tillman

        I’m so happy that you have gotten rid of your anxiety since moving to Korea.

  377. Kellz Avatar
    Kellz

    I moved to Korea. Can someone point me to Hongin and Jermhis houses?

    Reply
    1. De De Tillman Avatar
      De De Tillman

      At the moment, they are on their tattoo tour.

      Reply
    2. De De Tillman Avatar
      De De Tillman

      Good for moving to SK.

      Reply
    3. Rachel Baccay Avatar
      Rachel Baccay

      Haha and me too.

      Reply
    4. Nicole Avatar
      Nicole

      I asked the same question on a different post 😆

      Reply
    5. Shannon Avatar
      Shannon

      That is on my agenda once I find my Airbnb and settle in for a bit. Wish I knew the neighborhood they lived in. That makes things so much easier.

      Reply
    6. Rylee Avatar
      Rylee

      That was my next question lol

      Reply
  378. Jalisa Avatar
    Jalisa

    I live in Incheon right now. On average I spend $70 USD dollars a month for groceries and it last me until the next month. My refrigerator is always full. My rent is $490. I’m a teacher and I get paid $1790 a month. By the time I pay rent and buy food, I still have $1200 left over. I never had this happen to be in California. My rent was $3145 and my bi weekly money was $1200. I had to get a roommate to help with the rent.

    Reply
    1. De De Tillman Avatar
      De De Tillman

      Thank you for sharing all of this and your experience living in California versus living in South Korea.

      Reply
    2. Alina Sha Avatar
      Alina Sha

      Omg is it really that affordable? My rent is $2790 and I spend $150 on food but I can’t really even afford to get that much at times because it’s only my income that was coming through but I’m unemployed as of right now and I’m truly stressing on what to do but I can’t live in my apartment after this month. I really need to pack up and just leave now because I didn’t pay rent for this month. It’s too expensive. I’m $700 short on my rent. I’m wondering if I should take the $2,000 I do have a chance it with Korea?

      Reply
      1. Julianna Oaks Avatar
        Julianna Oaks

        My rent is over $3000 so I know what you mean.

      2. Nicole Avatar
        Nicole

        What’s sad is that I pay just $191 more than you do for rent so I truly understand your frustration. I tried looking for a cheaper apartment but I’m having no luck. Some places are the exact same of e what I pay now and others are 2x more. I glanced at Airbnb like someone mentioned in the comments and was mind blown with how cheap it is in Korea even with that. I thought something was wrong because I haven’t seen $500-$600 a month in almost forever. I booed a round trip ticket to Korea to test the waters and see how I like it and if I do, I will make arrangements to possibly have my stuff shipped. Even though it is round trip, no sense in returning if I like somewhere.

      3. Kalisha Avatar
        Kalisha

        That’s super expensive. I live in Oakland and the money isn’t worth it.
        I feel like I’m paying to have front row seats in a crime theater or something. I heard many people living in Korea are doing great. I want to go but I’m scared of flying with so many plane crash stories. Trying to figure out how to get over there.

      4. De De Tillman Avatar
        De De Tillman

        The cruise information is on this blog post.

    3. Maddie Harvey Avatar
      Maddie Harvey

      That is amazing. You couldn’t do that in the United States unless you’re in a very remote area where there’s no transportation or stores or anything like that. Even then the rent would still push $1800 for a 2 bedroom. It’s always a catch if it’s more than 1 bedroom. I live in a city called Daly City, it’s about 15 minutes from San Francisco and my 1 bedroom is $2,415 and that doesn’t include utilities or anything. It’s a robbery here. It’s no one else’s fault but my own because I allowed myself to stay here for a year but I can’t do this anymore. I’m stressing myself out trying to pay things that I know I can’t afford.

      Reply
      1. De De Tillman Avatar
        De De Tillman

        Read the resources on this blog. LT

      2. Rylee Avatar
        Rylee

        I live in San Francisco. I pay a lot for my rent and I don’t even have much.
        I am interested in going to Korea but I would like to find a different route to go that doesn’t involve an airplane.

      3. De De Tillman Avatar
        De De Tillman

        I will see what I can find. – LT

    4. Julianna Oaks Avatar
      Julianna Oaks

      Now that’s my kind of prices.

      Reply
    5. Nicole Avatar
      Nicole

      See these are my kind of numbers. Lol
      I spend $240 for groceries and by 2 weeks, the food is all gone. I remember as a kid and my parents shopped, $240 could last you almost 2 months.

      Reply
      1. Ruby Avatar
        Ruby

        I spend about $150 and my refrigerator still looks empty with the groceries I just bought in them.

    6. Ruby Avatar
      Ruby

      The first thing I would’ve thought was something is wrong with this place lol where’s the catch? Forgetting other counties aren’t as jacked up as the states.

      Reply
  379. Darlene Avatar
    Darlene

    Thank you for providing airline info. I was wondering which airlines I can fly cheap to get out of this 💩 country

    Reply
    1. De De Tillman Avatar
      De De Tillman

      You are more than welcome! Book it while it’s cheap.

      Reply
    2. Maddie Harvey Avatar
      Maddie Harvey

      I didn’t know about this either. I looked at Korea Air and it was much more pricier.

      Reply
      1. De De Tillman Avatar
        De De Tillman

        Look at the resources on this blog.

    3. Amby Avatar
      Amby

      I was looking at United but too pricey so now I look at Asiana.

      Reply
  380. Juwanna Avatar
    Juwanna

    Left and never looking back. I’m staying in an Airbnb right now but I am looking for an apartment. There’s two places to narrow down to and it’s right in my budget

    Reply
    1. De De Tillman Avatar
      De De Tillman

      Yes, stay within your budget even if it means getting studio. Your essentials, place to sleep, kitchen area, and bathroom.

      Reply
    2. Rachel Baccay Avatar
      Rachel Baccay

      Lucky. I wish I could move to Korea. So expensive for me right now. Maybe one day.

      Reply
    3. Azami Avatar
      Azami

      Were you able to get an apartment yet? I know some people that are doing month to month on Airbnb.

      Reply
  381. Bianca Avatar
    Bianca

    Moving or MOVED? 🤣 because I already left lol
    I am no longer a US citizen

    Reply
    1. De De Tillman Avatar
      De De Tillman

      Good for you! Please share your wonderful experience there! Thanks

      Reply
    2. Maddie Harvey Avatar
      Maddie Harvey

      Lucky you lol

      Reply
    3. Shannon Avatar
      Shannon

      You’re so lucky but I will be out there in 3 days.

      Reply
    4. Amby Avatar
      Amby

      Hi Bianca,
      What was your experience like?

      Reply

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