- By Farin Khatoon.
South Korea is one of the most developed and dynamic countries in Asia, known for its technological advancements, safety, and work ethic. Many international students and professionals dream of working there, but before packing your bags, it’s essential to understand what life is actually like beyond the K-dramas and glossy travel videos. Having lived in Korea for nearly two years, I’ve learned that while the country offers immense opportunities, it also comes with challenges that foreigners, especially non-Korean speakers and vegetarians, should be prepared for.
1. Language Is a Real Barrier
The most important thing to know before coming to Korea is that the language barrier is very real. English is not widely spoken, especially outside major cities or universities. Even in professional environments, day-to-day communication, paperwork, and official procedures are primarily conducted in Korean.
If you’re planning to work here, I strongly suggest learning basic Korean—at least enough to handle grocery shopping, transportation, and small talk. Knowing Hangul (the Korean alphabet) can make your life much easier. Apps like Duolingo, Talk to Me in Korean, and Naver Dictionary are good places to start.
When I first arrived, I underestimated how much not knowing Korean could affect my daily life—from ordering food to understanding announcements or filling out forms. Gradually, I realized that learning the language wasn’t just a convenience; it was a necessity for survival and integration.
2. Be Ready for Long Working Hours
Work culture in Korea can be intense. The famous “palli-palli” (hurry-hurry) culture extends to workplaces, where long hours are the norm. Many companies expect employees to stay beyond official working hours, and sometimes even weekends are included.
It’s not uncommon to see people leaving the office late at night or working during holidays. While this dedication shows Koreans’ commitment to excellence, it can be overwhelming for foreigners used to a more balanced work-life environment.
If you’re moving here for a job or research position, try to understand your working schedule clearly before joining. Don’t hesitate to ask about overtime expectations, weekend duties, and holidays. It’s always better to set realistic expectations from the beginning.
3. Food Can Be a Challenge (Especially for Vegetarians)
Korean cuisine is delicious and diverse—but heavily meat-based. Pork, beef, chicken, and seafood are staples in most dishes, and even “vegetable” soups often contain meat broth or fish sauce. As a vegetarian, I faced significant difficulties finding suitable food, especially in smaller towns or university cafeterias.
If you’re vegetarian or have dietary restrictions, plan ahead. You can find a few vegetarian-friendly restaurants in big cities like Seoul, Busan, and Daegu, but they are rare. Learning to say phrases like “저는 고기 안 먹어요” (jeoneun gogi an meogeoyo – I don’t eat meat) will save you from confusion.
I also learned to cook simple meals at home and carry snacks while traveling. Indian or international grocery stores in bigger cities are lifesavers for spices, lentils, and ready-to-eat vegetarian options.
4. Cultural Adjustment Takes Time
Korean society is hierarchical and deeply rooted in respect for age and authority. The work environment often reflects this—junior employees are expected to listen, not argue. Bowing, addressing people properly using honorifics, and maintaining humility are essential social cues.
At first, this might feel formal or distant, but understanding these nuances helps build better relationships and respect in the workplace.
5. Cost of Living and Housing
While salaries are generally good, the cost of living—especially rent and utilities—can be high, depending on the city. “Goshiwon” (small studio rooms) are affordable options for short-term stays, but long-term housing can require hefty deposits called jeonse. Make sure to research housing types and budget accordingly.
6. Weather and Lifestyle
Korea has four distinct seasons, and winters can be extremely cold, while summers are humid and hot. This can be a shock for those not used to such variations. Also, expect a fast-paced lifestyle—people walk quickly, buses don’t wait, and punctuality is highly valued.
Final Thoughts
Working in Korea can be a rewarding experience—it’s a country full of innovation, discipline, and hospitality. But it also requires mental preparedness, cultural sensitivity, and adaptability.
If you are planning to move for work, take time to learn the language, understand workplace expectations, and prepare for food and lifestyle adjustments.
My two years in Korea taught me that survival isn’t about fitting in perfectly—it’s about respecting differences, learning continuously, and keeping a flexible mindset.
Despite the challenges, Korea helped me grow—both personally and professionally. It taught me resilience, patience, and the importance of communication beyond words.
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