Americans tell what it’s like living in South Korea as expats

Moving abroad is always a challenge, and a specially difficult one when the country you happen to go to is oh-so completely different from what you’ve known your entire life. This is certainly the reality of most American expats who have settled in South Korea.

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Don’t flaunt your feet
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There are lots of cultural standards that you will need to learn if you move to South Korea. While you’ll eventually get the hang of them just through practice, you may as well avoid dirty looks when you first get there by learning them ahead of time. One issue that may be unexpected is that of feet.
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In general, feet are considered pretty gross in South Korea (and honestly, we get it). So don’t point with them, don’t draw attention to them, don’t take your shoes off. Just avoid flaunting your feet.
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Don’t flaunt your feet . There are lots of cultural standards that you will need to learn if you move to South Korea. While you’ll eventually get the hang of them just through practice, you may as well avoid dirty looks when you first get there by learning them ahead of time. One issue that may be unexpected is that of feet. . In general, feet are considered pretty gross in South Korea (and honestly, we get it). So don’t point with them, don’t draw attention to them, don’t take your shoes off. Just avoid flaunting your feet. .

Groceries aren’t too expensive
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Whenever you move or travel somewhere, you’re bound to be stressed out about whether you will have enough money for all of your expenses. While living costs can get pretty expensive in major cities, you won’t need to worry about the cost of groceries all that much.
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Sure, street food is a big deal and you can always just eat that, but that doesn’t run up the price of eggs at the store. On average, a dozen eggs will be about $3.50 and two pounds of potatoes will be $3.40.
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Groceries aren’t too expensive . Whenever you move or travel somewhere, you’re bound to be stressed out about whether you will have enough money for all of your expenses. While living costs can get pretty expensive in major cities, you won’t need to worry about the cost of groceries all that much. . Sure, street food is a big deal and you can always just eat that, but that doesn’t run up the price of eggs at the store. On average, a dozen eggs will be about $3.50 and two pounds of potatoes will be $3.40. .

You’ll be looking for trash cans
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This is the case in some other Asian countries as well, but it’s definitely true in South Korea: there aren’t a ton of trash cans laying around, especially in comparison to America. Instead, you will sometimes come across piles of trash that just seem like the remnants of bitter people on litter rampages.
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Quite the contrary: these piles will actually be collected later. The best advice that expats give to people traveling to South Korea in regards to trash? Bring a reusable water bottle for when you can’t find trash cans.
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You’ll be looking for trash cans . This is the case in some other Asian countries as well, but it’s definitely true in South Korea: there aren’t a ton of trash cans laying around, especially in comparison to America. Instead, you will sometimes come across piles of trash that just seem like the remnants of bitter people on litter rampages. . Quite the contrary: these piles will actually be collected later. The best advice that expats give to people traveling to South Korea in regards to trash? Bring a reusable water bottle for when you can’t find trash cans. .

South Korea is diverse
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While it’s not the type of cultural melting pot that places like America are, that doesn’t mean that South Korea is a place full of thousands of people who are exactly the same. There are tons of common stereotypes about South Koreans that you will sometimes find are true.
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That’s because everyone there is different, so there’s bound to be people that fit the stereotypes! Expats advise anyone travelling here to approach the nation with an open mind and understand that not everyone is easily categorized here. It’s a country full of unique people!
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South Korea is diverse . While it’s not the type of cultural melting pot that places like America are, that doesn’t mean that South Korea is a place full of thousands of people who are exactly the same. There are tons of common stereotypes about South Koreans that you will sometimes find are true. . That’s because everyone there is different, so there’s bound to be people that fit the stereotypes! Expats advise anyone travelling here to approach the nation with an open mind and understand that not everyone is easily categorized here. It’s a country full of unique people! .

Get used to food that is new to you
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Getting adjusted to food wherever you move to can sometimes be a struggle. It’s made easy in countries like South Korea where the food is, admittedly, delicious. However, that doesn’t mean that there won’t be common food items that might surprise you at first.
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The biggest hurdle for most westerners is the amount of live seafood that is sold, particularly on the street. You’ll often encounter live octopus being sold by street vendors. It’s good food, and there’s nothing to be worried about. But you probably will be taken aback at first.
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Get used to food that is new to you . Getting adjusted to food wherever you move to can sometimes be a struggle. It’s made easy in countries like South Korea where the food is, admittedly, delicious. However, that doesn’t mean that there won’t be common food items that might surprise you at first. . The biggest hurdle for most westerners is the amount of live seafood that is sold, particularly on the street. You’ll often encounter live octopus being sold by street vendors. It’s good food, and there’s nothing to be worried about. But you probably will be taken aback at first. .

Koreans love English
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It’s true! Just like you’ll see people in English-speaking countries with tattoos of random Japanese words or Chinese characters, you’ll see plenty of South Koreans rocking clothes with English phrases or pop culture icons on them. One thing expats report, though, is that it won’t often be a talking point.
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Most of the time South Koreans won’t know what the English says or means, they will just think that it looks cool. It’s pretty much exactly the same as what goes on in the west, but just reversed.
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Koreans love English . It’s true! Just like you’ll see people in English-speaking countries with tattoos of random Japanese words or Chinese characters, you’ll see plenty of South Koreans rocking clothes with English phrases or pop culture icons on them. One thing expats report, though, is that it won’t often be a talking point. . Most of the time South Koreans won’t know what the English says or means, they will just think that it looks cool. It’s pretty much exactly the same as what goes on in the west, but just reversed. .

You’ll be greeted with new smells all the time
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While this is pretty much a given no matter where you travel to, it is particularly true in South Korea. Expats report being really shocked and just how many different smells there are when you walk around South Korean streets.
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While many of them are definitely pleasant (think delicious street food that will have your mouth watering when you’re two blocks away), this isn’t always the case. Hey, you can’t expect every city to always smell amazing, right? It’s a thing you slowly get used to as you live here longer.
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You’ll be greeted with new smells all the time . While this is pretty much a given no matter where you travel to, it is particularly true in South Korea. Expats report being really shocked and just how many different smells there are when you walk around South Korean streets. . While many of them are definitely pleasant (think delicious street food that will have your mouth watering when you’re two blocks away), this isn’t always the case. Hey, you can’t expect every city to always smell amazing, right? It’s a thing you slowly get used to as you live here longer. .

Forget New Year’s as you know it
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New Year’s is a favorite holiday for many Americans, but those who have moved to South Korea report that the same is not true for most locals. While it is celebrated there, it’s not in any way as popular as the Lunar New Year, which usually takes place a couple of months after January 1st.
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During that time, people will usually travel to their hometowns to visit their family, perform ancestral rites, and share an amazing feast of traditional foods. Not at all like the New Year’s we know, but that’s the fun of getting to know a new culture, right?
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Forget New Year’s as you know it . New Year’s is a favorite holiday for many Americans, but those who have moved to South Korea report that the same is not true for most locals. While it is celebrated there, it’s not in any way as popular as the Lunar New Year, which usually takes place a couple of months after January 1st. . During that time, people will usually travel to their hometowns to visit their family, perform ancestral rites, and share an amazing feast of traditional foods. Not at all like the New Year’s we know, but that’s the fun of getting to know a new culture, right? .

Food delivery with a one-of-a-kind approach
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There’s nothing new about the idea of food being delivered from a restaurant to your door, and in fact, this is a service that has become increasingly popular around the world in recent years. However, there’s something unique about the way South Koreans do it.
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Many establishments will send you a meal on quality dinnerware, instead of on disposable containers. When you’re done eating, you can put your plates and bowls outside your front door, and the delivery person will take them back to the restaurant.
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Food delivery with a one-of-a-kind approach . There’s nothing new about the idea of food being delivered from a restaurant to your door, and in fact, this is a service that has become increasingly popular around the world in recent years. However, there’s something unique about the way South Koreans do it. . Many establishments will send you a meal on quality dinnerware, instead of on disposable containers. When you’re done eating, you can put your plates and bowls outside your front door, and the delivery person will take them back to the restaurant. .

Heat rises from the floor
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In the West, we’re so used to central heating systems that send hot air through vents around the house, it’s hard to even imagine something working in a different way, which is why expats are so surprised when they discover how South Koreans stay warm in the winter.
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In most South Korean houses, the heat comes… through the floor! People report that it is amazingly comfortable to feel the warmth under their feet (remember, no shoes around the house), and that they finally understand why South Koreans traditionally sit on the floor.
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Heat rises from the floor . In the West, we’re so used to central heating systems that send hot air through vents around the house, it’s hard to even imagine something working in a different way, which is why expats are so surprised when they discover how South Koreans stay warm in the winter. . In most South Korean houses, the heat comes… through the floor! People report that it is amazingly comfortable to feel the warmth under their feet (remember, no shoes around the house), and that they finally understand why South Koreans traditionally sit on the floor. .

People are not afraid to ask personal questions
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Depending on which part of the US you are from, asking personal questions can be seen as rude, so it’s not uncommon for expats living in South Korea to feel this cultural clash, when locals question them about their life choices.
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“Are you married?” and “Do you have children?” are not rare questions to hear from people you don’t even know that well, but they shouldn’t be seen as an attack – it’s just curiosity, and you can always tell them when you don’t feel comfortable answering something.
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People are not afraid to ask personal questions . Depending on which part of the US you are from, asking personal questions can be seen as rude, so it’s not uncommon for expats living in South Korea to feel this cultural clash, when locals question them about their life choices. . “Are you married?” and “Do you have children?” are not rare questions to hear from people you don’t even know that well, but they shouldn’t be seen as an attack – it’s just curiosity, and you can always tell them when you don’t feel comfortable answering something. .

South Korea has two Valentine’s Days
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If you’re not a fan of Valentine’s Day, you might want to reconsider moving to South Korea, because not only do they have the same holiday, they actually make it double. It’s a bit tricky to understand if you’re new in the country, but here’s how it goes:
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On February 14, also known as Valentine’s Day, women are supposed to buy men presents (usually chocolates). Then, a month later, on March 14, known as White Day, it’s the guys’ turn to reciprocate with gifts of their own – also usually chocolates.
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South Korea has two Valentine’s Days . If you’re not a fan of Valentine’s Day, you might want to reconsider moving to South Korea, because not only do they have the same holiday, they actually make it double. It’s a bit tricky to understand if you’re new in the country, but here’s how it goes: . On February 14, also known as Valentine’s Day, women are supposed to buy men presents (usually chocolates). Then, a month later, on March 14, known as White Day, it’s the guys’ turn to reciprocate with gifts of their own – also usually chocolates. .

Living in South Korea is expensive, but you could do worse
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The cost of life in South Korea, especially in the capital, Seoul, is not exactly cheap, but expats who have spent time in other Asian countries will tell you that it is quite reasonable. It won’t be as affordable as living in Laos, for example, but it also won’t break the bank like living in Singapore.
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Foreigners can earn a good enough wage to pay for a nice place, which will probably be their biggest monthly expense in the country – around 35% of their salary.
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Living in South Korea is expensive, but you could do worse . The cost of life in South Korea, especially in the capital, Seoul, is not exactly cheap, but expats who have spent time in other Asian countries will tell you that it is quite reasonable. It won’t be as affordable as living in Laos, for example, but it also won’t break the bank like living in Singapore. . Foreigners can earn a good enough wage to pay for a nice place, which will probably be their biggest monthly expense in the country – around 35% of their salary. .

South Koreans can’t get enough of Spam
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South Korean cuisine is, for the most part, very healthy, as it is largely based on vegetables and fresh ingredients. Expats are surprised when they discover, then, that people there can’t get enough of Spam.
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Yes, we’re talking about the brand of canned cooked pork that became popular after the 1940s. In South Korea, Spam is a common gift that is given during Chuseok (kind of their Thanksgiving) – during the weeks leading up to the holiday, deluxe Spam gift sets are easy to find at any large supermarket.
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South Koreans can’t get enough of Spam . South Korean cuisine is, for the most part, very healthy, as it is largely based on vegetables and fresh ingredients. Expats are surprised when they discover, then, that people there can’t get enough of Spam. . Yes, we’re talking about the brand of canned cooked pork that became popular after the 1940s. In South Korea, Spam is a common gift that is given during Chuseok (kind of their Thanksgiving) – during the weeks leading up to the holiday, deluxe Spam gift sets are easy to find at any large supermarket. .

People are super proud of Korean movies
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Hollywood productions are huge in pretty much any place in the world, and South Korea is no exception. However, South Koreans are also super proud of their own movies, which is why national cinema is king.
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The country has had a vibrant industry in the past 50 years, with classics like The Housemaid, and cult films like Oldboy and Train to Busan. In 2020, Korean cinema made history with Parasite, the first non-English-language title to win Best Movie at the Oscars.
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People are super proud of Korean movies . Hollywood productions are huge in pretty much any place in the world, and South Korea is no exception. However, South Koreans are also super proud of their own movies, which is why national cinema is king. . The country has had a vibrant industry in the past 50 years, with classics like The Housemaid, and cult films like Oldboy and Train to Busan. In 2020, Korean cinema made history with Parasite, the first non-English-language title to win Best Movie at the Oscars. .

Bathing suits at the beach are not really a thing
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If you are a California babe living in South Korea, you are probably waiting anxiously for bikini season, when you’ll go to the beach with your newest swimsuit to soak up the sun. Well, you might want to think again.
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No one will stop you from sunbathing in your bikini, but you’ll likely find out you’re the only person in the entire beach doing so. South Koreans are not big on tanning, and they are pretty modest at the beach, so they’ll usually stay almost fully covered in an outfit like rash guard + shorts.
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Bathing suits at the beach are not really a thing . If you are a California babe living in South Korea, you are probably waiting anxiously for bikini season, when you’ll go to the beach with your newest swimsuit to soak up the sun. Well, you might want to think again. . No one will stop you from sunbathing in your bikini, but you’ll likely find out you’re the only person in the entire beach doing so. South Koreans are not big on tanning, and they are pretty modest at the beach, so they’ll usually stay almost fully covered in an outfit like rash guard + shorts. .

Don’t dig in just yet
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If you are lucky enough to make close local friends in South Korea, chances are, you’ll eventually be invited for a meal at their house. Good for you, but before you dig into that delicious home cooked meal… don’t.
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In the Asian country, it’s polite to wait for the host to take the first bite before you do so. Same thing if you happen to be sharing a meal with their whole family – you’ll notice everyone waits for the grandmother or grandfather to take the first bite.
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Don’t dig in just yet . If you are lucky enough to make close local friends in South Korea, chances are, you’ll eventually be invited for a meal at their house. Good for you, but before you dig into that delicious home cooked meal… don’t. . In the Asian country, it’s polite to wait for the host to take the first bite before you do so. Same thing if you happen to be sharing a meal with their whole family – you’ll notice everyone waits for the grandmother or grandfather to take the first bite. .

People take their education really seriously
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The belief that all Asians are brilliant students is a silly stereotype, but there is truth in the perception that people there take their education really seriously from a very young age.
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Academic success brings great pride to families, and a high education is viewed as fundamental if you want to rise through the ranks. It’s not uncommon for students to spend most part of their day in school, earning extra credits, and studying until late hours.
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People take their education really seriously . The belief that all Asians are brilliant students is a silly stereotype, but there is truth in the perception that people there take their education really seriously from a very young age. . Academic success brings great pride to families, and a high education is viewed as fundamental if you want to rise through the ranks. It’s not uncommon for students to spend most part of their day in school, earning extra credits, and studying until late hours. .

‘This dish is made of *what*?’
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Certain dishes like bibimbap (mixed rice with vegetables, meat, and pepper paste) and japchae (glass noodle stir fry) are well known even to people who never set foot in South Korea. However, the country has a rich food culture that is not for beginners.
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Among the delicacies that many expats living in South Korea find too “weird” to try are jokbal (deboned pig’s feet cooked with soy sauce, rice wine, leeks, ginger, and sugar), and soondae (a type of blood sausage made with steamed cow or pig intestines).
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‘This dish is made of *what*?’ . Certain dishes like bibimbap (mixed rice with vegetables, meat, and pepper paste) and japchae (glass noodle stir fry) are well known even to people who never set foot in South Korea. However, the country has a rich food culture that is not for beginners. . Among the delicacies that many expats living in South Korea find too “weird” to try are jokbal (deboned pig’s feet cooked with soy sauce, rice wine, leeks, ginger, and sugar), and soondae (a type of blood sausage made with steamed cow or pig intestines). .

The mystery of the arm-in-arm walk
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Americans who move to South Korea are always puzzled by the mystery of the arm-in-arm walk. After all, we always hear that Asians don’t do public displays of affection, so how come young couples walk around in such proximity to each other?
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The answer is that those people walking arm-in-arm are usually not romantically-linked couples. This is just a platonic practice between friends, and it can happen between any combination of genders – guys and girls, girls and girls, or guys and guys.
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The mystery of the arm-in-arm walk . Americans who move to South Korea are always puzzled by the mystery of the arm-in-arm walk. After all, we always hear that Asians don’t do public displays of affection, so how come young couples walk around in such proximity to each other? . The answer is that those people walking arm-in-arm are usually not romantically-linked couples. This is just a platonic practice between friends, and it can happen between any combination of genders – guys and girls, girls and girls, or guys and guys. .

On your birthday, you get a birthday soup
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If you grew up in America, the word “birthday” probably makes you think “cake,” so it can be hard to imagine that a birthday could be celebrated with anything other than a delicious sweet treat, preferably covered and filled with chocolate.
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What if we told you that, in South Korea, birthdays are traditionally associated with soup? Seaweed soup is what Korean women eat to recover from childbirth, and because of this association, it’s a tradition to eat the seaweed soup on your birthday.
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On your birthday, you get a birthday soup . If you grew up in America, the word “birthday” probably makes you think “cake,” so it can be hard to imagine that a birthday could be celebrated with anything other than a delicious sweet treat, preferably covered and filled with chocolate. . What if we told you that, in South Korea, birthdays are traditionally associated with soup? Seaweed soup is what Korean women eat to recover from childbirth, and because of this association, it’s a tradition to eat the seaweed soup on your birthday. .

The number four is considered unlucky
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This might seem unusual considering how technologically advanced South Korea is, and how vibrant and modern cities like Seoul are, but the Asian country has its shares of superstitions.
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An important one revolves around the number four. Because the word for “4” sounds like the word for “death,” Koreans see it as an unlucky number that should be avoided. That’s why in some buildings, the elevators will list the floors like 1, 2, 3, F, 5, 6…
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The number four is considered unlucky . This might seem unusual considering how technologically advanced South Korea is, and how vibrant and modern cities like Seoul are, but the Asian country has its shares of superstitions. . An important one revolves around the number four. Because the word for “4” sounds like the word for “death,” Koreans see it as an unlucky number that should be avoided. That’s why in some buildings, the elevators will list the floors like 1, 2, 3, F, 5, 6… .

K-dramas will rule your life
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In America, you might have felt that you were too cool to watch soap operas, but if you ever move to South Korea, you should know that you’ll eventually have to surrender to the concept of K-dramas.
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They might be cheesy, but they are utterly irresistible, and even the most stubborn expat will tell you they eventually had to cave in, because those shows are just too popular. Plus, they are a great way of learning the language and a bit of the culture of the country.
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K-dramas will rule your life . In America, you might have felt that you were too cool to watch soap operas, but if you ever move to South Korea, you should know that you’ll eventually have to surrender to the concept of K-dramas. . They might be cheesy, but they are utterly irresistible, and even the most stubborn expat will tell you they eventually had to cave in, because those shows are just too popular. Plus, they are a great way of learning the language and a bit of the culture of the country. .

People are taller than you’d think
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A common stereotype about South Koreans is that they are short, but Americans who have moved to the Asian country report that people there are taller than then expected.
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In fact, research shows that in the past century, women in South Korea have gained 8 inches in height, on average, which represents a more significant jump than any other population in the world. The United States, on the other hand, hasn’t grown much in the same period of time – only about 2 inches.
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People are taller than you’d think . A common stereotype about South Koreans is that they are short, but Americans who have moved to the Asian country report that people there are taller than then expected. . In fact, research shows that in the past century, women in South Korea have gained 8 inches in height, on average, which represents a more significant jump than any other population in the world. The United States, on the other hand, hasn’t grown much in the same period of time – only about 2 inches. .

Seafood is not ‘exotic’
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Expats will usually avoid using “exotic” to describe things, because they understand that everything is just a matter of perspective – what’s “exotic” to you, because you don’t see it often, might not be “exotic” to me, since I see it everyday, so basically, this is a word that doesn’t say much.
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For example, many people in the United States would consider seafood to be exotic, but in South Korea, items like crab and octopus are staple foods.
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Seafood is not ‘exotic’ . Expats will usually avoid using “exotic” to describe things, because they understand that everything is just a matter of perspective – what’s “exotic” to you, because you don’t see it often, might not be “exotic” to me, since I see it everyday, so basically, this is a word that doesn’t say much. . For example, many people in the United States would consider seafood to be exotic, but in South Korea, items like crab and octopus are staple foods. .

What you do with your hands can be sign of respect (or disrespect)
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Ever been in a conversation where you didn’t know what to do with your hands? In the States, this is just a little awkward, but expats warn that, in South Korea, what you do with your hands is of great importance, as it can be a sign of respect (or disrespect).
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When you shake someone’s hands, for example, you should use your left hand to “support” your extending right arm. If someone gives you a present, you should accept it with both hands. And if a friend or even a superior pours you a drink, you should hold the glass up with both hands.
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What you do with your hands can be sign of respect (or disrespect) . Ever been in a conversation where you didn’t know what to do with your hands? In the States, this is just a little awkward, but expats warn that, in South Korea, what you do with your hands is of great importance, as it can be a sign of respect (or disrespect). . When you shake someone’s hands, for example, you should use your left hand to “support” your extending right arm. If someone gives you a present, you should accept it with both hands. And if a friend or even a superior pours you a drink, you should hold the glass up with both hands. .

Men wear make-up too
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In America, most guys would never admit to wearing makeup, even if it’s something simple like a little concealer to hide a breakout. In South Korea, though, men have much more freedom when it comes to beauty and their overall appearance.
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This is unusual for expats, but South Korea has this “pretty boy” aesthetic popularized by K-pop idols, so people are not so judgy when it comes to men wearing concealers, BB cream, eyeliner, and even lipstick.
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Men wear make-up too . In America, most guys would never admit to wearing makeup, even if it’s something simple like a little concealer to hide a breakout. In South Korea, though, men have much more freedom when it comes to beauty and their overall appearance. . This is unusual for expats, but South Korea has this “pretty boy” aesthetic popularized by K-pop idols, so people are not so judgy when it comes to men wearing concealers, BB cream, eyeliner, and even lipstick. .

Pay attention to your choice of socks
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This one might seem a little random, but when living in South Korea, you should pay attention to your choice of socks. Why is that? Because you never know when you’ll be required to remove your shoes in front of other people.
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Entering someone else’s house, for example, is definitely a situation where you’ll have to leave your shoes at the door. Even a few traditional restaurants, in which you sit on the floor, will require you to remove your shoes, and you don’t want everyone to see the devastated state of your old, hole-ridden socks, right?
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Pay attention to your choice of socks . This one might seem a little random, but when living in South Korea, you should pay attention to your choice of socks. Why is that? Because you never know when you’ll be required to remove your shoes in front of other people. . Entering someone else’s house, for example, is definitely a situation where you’ll have to leave your shoes at the door. Even a few traditional restaurants, in which you sit on the floor, will require you to remove your shoes, and you don’t want everyone to see the devastated state of your old, hole-ridden socks, right? .

Hair stylists can do things you never knew were possible
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While we would expect all South Koreans to have the same straight, dark hair, people who’ve actually spent time in the country report that locals have a much richer hairstyle diversity, and much of this is thanks to their amazing stylists.
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South Korean hairdressers are true wizards, and they have developed very specific perm techniques that add volume and body to hair, while still keeping it healthy and natural looking. Perms are popular even among men!
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Hair stylists can do things you never knew were possible . While we would expect all South Koreans to have the same straight, dark hair, people who’ve actually spent time in the country report that locals have a much richer hairstyle diversity, and much of this is thanks to their amazing stylists. . South Korean hairdressers are true wizards, and they have developed very specific perm techniques that add volume and body to hair, while still keeping it healthy and natural looking. Perms are popular even among men! .

Oppa gangnam style
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Anyone who was alive in 2012 will remember “Gangnam Style,” the song by South Korean singer Psy that became a cultural phenomenon and broke many records worldwide – for instance, it was the first YouTube video ever to reach one billion views.
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American expats living in Seoul report they were pleasantly surprised when they discovered that the Gangnam referenced in the song is a trendy and hip district full of nice restaurants and cafes – and no people doing horse trot dance moves out in the streets, in case you were wondering.
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Oppa gangnam style . Anyone who was alive in 2012 will remember “Gangnam Style,” the song by South Korean singer Psy that became a cultural phenomenon and broke many records worldwide – for instance, it was the first YouTube video ever to reach one billion views. . American expats living in Seoul report they were pleasantly surprised when they discovered that the Gangnam referenced in the song is a trendy and hip district full of nice restaurants and cafes – and no people doing horse trot dance moves out in the streets, in case you were wondering. .

You’ll never want to wear another Western sunscreen
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Sunscreen is arguably the most important step in a South Korean’s skincare routine, because their beauty standard dictates that a spotless complexion is absolute goals. In America, people will often only wear sunscreen during the summer, when they go to the beach, but in South Korea, this is a year-round staple.
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Because of the high demand, local beauty companies spend a ton of money developing appealing sunscreens that are weightless, easily spreadable, and just overall nice to wear. You’ll never go back to wearing those sticky Western sunscreens!
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You’ll never want to wear another Western sunscreen . Sunscreen is arguably the most important step in a South Korean’s skincare routine, because their beauty standard dictates that a spotless complexion is absolute goals. In America, people will often only wear sunscreen during the summer, when they go to the beach, but in South Korea, this is a year-round staple. . Because of the high demand, local beauty companies spend a ton of money developing appealing sunscreens that are weightless, easily spreadable, and just overall nice to wear. You’ll never go back to wearing those sticky Western sunscreens! .

South Koreans have a taste for spicy foods
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Two of the most internationally-known South Korean foods – kimchi and bibimbap – are spicy, so this should give you an idea of what you would be dealing with if you were to move to this Asian country.
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South Koreans definitely have a taste for spicy foods, and they can really turn the heat up. They literally have a dish that translates to “fire chicken” (buldak), and it has this name because of how hot it is. Also, let’s not forget the Korean fire noodles challenge that went viral on social media not long ago.
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South Koreans have a taste for spicy foods . Two of the most internationally-known South Korean foods – kimchi and bibimbap – are spicy, so this should give you an idea of what you would be dealing with if you were to move to this Asian country. . South Koreans definitely have a taste for spicy foods, and they can really turn the heat up. They literally have a dish that translates to “fire chicken” (buldak), and it has this name because of how hot it is. Also, let’s not forget the Korean fire noodles challenge that went viral on social media not long ago. .

Get ready to add some steps to your skincare routine
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People who’ve moved to South Korea will often report an interesting thing they notice on the streets – the amount of people with the most beautiful, smooth skin they’ve ever seen in their lives.
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Turns out that South Koreans are very particular about their skincare routine, which can be much more extensive than what we are used to over here. Cleanser, exfoliator, toner, essence, spot treatments, masks, moisturizer, sun protection… But it clearly works, so expats will usually add a step or two (or three) to their own routines.
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Get ready to add some steps to your skincare routine . People who’ve moved to South Korea will often report an interesting thing they notice on the streets – the amount of people with the most beautiful, smooth skin they’ve ever seen in their lives. . Turns out that South Koreans are very particular about their skincare routine, which can be much more extensive than what we are used to over here. Cleanser, exfoliator, toner, essence, spot treatments, masks, moisturizer, sun protection… But it clearly works, so expats will usually add a step or two (or three) to their own routines. .

Your blood type and MBTI type are a conversation Starter
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For most of us, our blood type is never brought up to the conversation, unless it’s in some type of medical context. In South Korea, however, there’s a belief that your blood type is connected to your personality and temperament, therefore it is a common conversation starter.
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This is especially true if you are on a date with a South Korean. For example, while many of us believe Aries and Aquarius are a great match, in South Korea, many people think Type O males partner best with Type B females.
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Your blood type and MBTI type are a conversation  Starter . For most of us, our blood type is never brought up to the conversation, unless it’s in some type of medical context. In South Korea, however, there’s a belief that your blood type is connected to your personality and temperament, therefore it is a common conversation starter. . This is especially true if you are on a date with a South Korean. For example, while many of us believe Aries and Aquarius are a great match, in South Korea, many people think Type O males partner best with Type B females. .

Legs are fine, but shoulders are a no-no
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When you visit a country with a culture that’s very different from yours, it’s important to do a little research about their habits, so you don’t accidentally step on someone’s toes. A big aspect of this is knowing what you can and what you shouldn’t wear in public.
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Legs are fine, but shoulders are a no-no
When you visit a country with a culture that’s very different from yours, it’s important to do a little research about their habits, so you don’t accidentally step on someone’s toes. A big aspect of this is knowing what you can and what you shouldn’t wear in public.
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Legs are fine, but shoulders are a no-no . When you visit a country with a culture that’s very different from yours, it’s important to do a little research about their habits, so you don’t accidentally step on someone’s toes. A big aspect of this is knowing what you can and what you shouldn’t wear in public. . Legs are fine, but shoulders are a no-no When you visit a country with a culture that’s very different from yours, it’s important to do a little research about their habits, so you don’t accidentally step on someone’s toes. A big aspect of this is knowing what you can and what you shouldn’t wear in public. .

Age is not just a number
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In America, we like to say that age is just a number, but for South Koreans, age is much more that that – it is the element that guides all of their social interactions. Knowing someone’s age is important so you know how to address them, how to talk to them, and even how to talk about yourself.
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Therefore, while the question “how old are you?” can seem odd to us, and even a bit rude depending on the context, Koreans won’t think twice before asking this to someone they just met. Don’t feel offended – it’s all part of the culture.
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Age is not just a number . In America, we like to say that age is just a number, but for South Koreans, age is much more that that – it is the element that guides all of their social interactions. Knowing someone’s age is important so you know how to address them, how to talk to them, and even how to talk about yourself. . Therefore, while the question “how old are you?” can seem odd to us, and even a bit rude depending on the context, Koreans won’t think twice before asking this to someone they just met. Don’t feel offended – it’s all part of the culture. .

K-pop is everywhere
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For many of us, K-pop (short for Korean pop) was the first contact we ever had with this distant, eastern land. And while it’s important to note that South Korea is much more than just this style of music, people who have moved to there will recognize that K-pop is, indeed, everywhere.
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The biggest K-pop artists will not only be on TV all the time, they’ll also star their own shows, and advertise everything, from make-up to fried chicken.
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K-pop is everywhere . For many of us, K-pop (short for Korean pop) was the first contact we ever had with this distant, eastern land. And while it’s important to note that South Korea is much more than just this style of music, people who have moved to there will recognize that K-pop is, indeed, everywhere. . The biggest K-pop artists will not only be on TV all the time, they’ll also star their own shows, and advertise everything, from make-up to fried chicken. .

You’ll never want to leave Incheon International Airport
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The airport is the first thing you see when you land in a new country, and it can give you a lasting first impression of that culture, for better or for worse. For South Korea, the first impression is a pretty good one, at least if you land on their main airport.
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Incheon International Airport is considered one of the best in the world, thanks to its modern infrastructure and luxurious services – along with restaurants and gift shops, it also has a spa, an ice-skating rink, a casino, and a golf course. Waiting at baggage reclaim doesn’t sound like such a chore, huh?
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You’ll never want to leave Incheon International Airport . The airport is the first thing you see when you land in a new country, and it can give you a lasting first impression of that culture, for better or for worse. For South Korea, the first impression is a pretty good one, at least if you land on their main airport. . Incheon International Airport is considered one of the best in the world, thanks to its modern infrastructure and luxurious services – along with restaurants and gift shops, it also has a spa, an ice-skating rink, a casino, and a golf course. Waiting at baggage reclaim doesn’t sound like such a chore, huh? .

Single people get together once a year to ‘commiserate’ over their status
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Going through two consecutive holidays dedicated to couples can be pretty annoying when you’re single, but people who are not in a romantic relationship get their day, too. A month after Valentine’s Day, there’s White Day – and a month after that, there’s Black Day.
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On Black Day, those who didn’t get chocolates on the previous dates gather to eat jajangmyeon, a beloved noodle with vegetables and black sauce, and to “commiserate” over their single status.
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Single people get together once a year to ‘commiserate’ over their status . Going through two consecutive holidays dedicated to couples can be pretty annoying when you’re single, but people who are not in a romantic relationship get their day, too. A month after Valentine’s Day, there’s White Day – and a month after that, there’s Black Day. . On Black Day, those who didn’t get chocolates on the previous dates gather to eat jajangmyeon, a beloved noodle with vegetables and black sauce, and to “commiserate” over their single status. .

‘Take a bow’ is not just a Rihanna song
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Even though South Korea has assimilated a lot from Western culture since the country started opening up in the past few decades, bowing is still the traditional way folks greet each other over there.
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It might take you a little time to get used to bowing to other people, but South Koreans will deeply appreciate it when you embrace their customs. Pro tip: the deeper you bow, the more respect you’re showing, so be sure to hit at least a 45 degree angle when you’re bowing to someone who’s much older than you.
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‘Take a bow’ is not just a Rihanna song . Even though South Korea has assimilated a lot from Western culture since the country started opening up in the past few decades, bowing is still the traditional way folks greet each other over there. . It might take you a little time to get used to bowing to other people, but South Koreans will deeply appreciate it when you embrace their customs. Pro tip: the deeper you bow, the more respect you’re showing, so be sure to hit at least a 45 degree angle when you’re bowing to someone who’s much older than you. .

Nothing will prepare you for the experience of riding the subway on rush hour
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South Koreans are not big on physical contact (hello, their preferred method of saying hi is by bowing), but the concept of personal space goes out the window when we’re talking about public transportation, especially on rush hour.
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Nothing can prepare you for this experience, but be aware that even at an extreme state of a subway so packed, people can hardly move, manners matter. If an elder person happens to walk in and you are sitting, you are expected to offer them your seat.
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Nothing will prepare you for the experience of riding the subway on rush hour . South Koreans are not big on physical contact (hello, their preferred method of saying hi is by bowing), but the concept of personal space goes out the window when we’re talking about public transportation, especially on rush hour. . Nothing can prepare you for this experience, but be aware that even at an extreme state of a subway so packed, people can hardly move, manners matter. If an elder person happens to walk in and you are sitting, you are expected to offer them your seat. .

Street food is a huge deal
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The amount of items that are food-related on this list is probably a hint of how important gastronomy is to Koreans, and expats settled in South Korea can confirm that food is, literally, everywhere.
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Street vendors are a vital part of the local landscape, and people love to stop and have their favorite snacks like tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes) and hotteok (pancakes filled with molten cinnamon and sugar) on a night out with their friends.
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Street food is a huge deal . The amount of items that are food-related on this list is probably a hint of how important gastronomy is to Koreans, and expats settled in South Korea can confirm that food is, literally, everywhere. . Street vendors are a vital part of the local landscape, and people love to stop and have their favorite snacks like tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes) and hotteok (pancakes filled with molten cinnamon and sugar) on a night out with their friends. .

Focus on the eating
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South Korea has a lot of amazing food that you can check out, and that’s one of the coolest parts about living or visiting there. However, you should be aware about certain expectations that deal with food. One of the biggest is that it is largely considered rude to eat or drink things while you’re walking around.
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Even if you’re just running to some public transit to get to work, it’s advised to wait until you’re in private or in a place specifically meant for eating.
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Focus on the eating . South Korea has a lot of amazing food that you can check out, and that’s one of the coolest parts about living or visiting there. However, you should be aware about certain expectations that deal with food. One of the biggest is that it is largely considered rude to eat or drink things while you’re walking around. . Even if you’re just running to some public transit to get to work, it’s advised to wait until you’re in private or in a place specifically meant for eating. .

Quit staring at me!
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While personal space is considered in a different way in South Korea than it is in the west, that doesn’t mean you can just stare at whoever is standing next to you. In fact, you really shouldn’t stare into anyone’s eyes.
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While in the west it’s not too weird to have prolonged eye contact with people (even if it’s a bit awkward), it’s actually considered aggressive in South Korea. So keep your eyes to yourself whenever you can and only use eye contact with people you know!
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Quit staring at me! . While personal space is considered in a different way in South Korea than it is in the west, that doesn’t mean you can just stare at whoever is standing next to you. In fact, you really shouldn’t stare into anyone’s eyes. . While in the west it’s not too weird to have prolonged eye contact with people (even if it’s a bit awkward), it’s actually considered aggressive in South Korea. So keep your eyes to yourself whenever you can and only use eye contact with people you know! .

Koreans often will not say “no”
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Have you ever had someone refuse something you offered them to just be polite? It seems relatively normal at the time, but if you think about it, it doesn’t really make sense. The issue of declining things is always awkward no matter the social customs, but you can bet that customs around declining will differ everywhere you go.
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In South Korea, it’s considered polite to avoid declining something by jumping into a prolonged conversation about what has been offered. If this happens, treat it as a “no” and let it be.
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Koreans often will not say “no” . Have you ever had someone refuse something you offered them to just be polite? It seems relatively normal at the time, but if you think about it, it doesn’t really make sense. The issue of declining things is always awkward no matter the social customs, but you can bet that customs around declining will differ everywhere you go. . In South Korea, it’s considered polite to avoid declining something by jumping into a prolonged conversation about what has been offered. If this happens, treat it as a “no” and let it be. .