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South Korea

Currency
South Korean Won (KRW)
Languages
Korean (official), limited English
Capital
Seoul
Timezone
Korea Standard Time (KST) UTC+9
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South Korea: A prime digital nomad destination

Overview
Overview

South Korea, known for its advanced technology, pop culture, and historic traditions, offers a unique lifestyle that combines the vibrancy of urban cities with serene countryside landscapes. With a rich cultural heritage, a growing digital nomad community, and a focus on innovation, South Korea is an exciting destination for expatriates and digital nomads alike.

Culture

South Korea is rich in cultural heritage, known for its traditional art forms, festivals like Seollal (Lunar new year), and Chuseok (harvest festival). Modern Korean culture, including K-pop, K-dramas, and street food, is a global phenomenon.

Do’s and Don’ts

  • ✅ Do bow slightly when greeting; it’s polite to use two hands when receiving or giving items.
  • ✅ Do respect elders and use formal language.
  • ❌ Don’t speak loudly on public transportation; it’s seen as rude.
  • ❌ Don’t stick chopsticks upright in a bowl, as it resembles funeral rituals.

Government

South Korea is a democratic republic with an executive, legislative, and judicial branch. The government is active in creating policies that attract international talent, particularly in tech and innovation.

Social media

Popular social media platforms include KakaoTalk (the main messaging app), Naver, and YouTube, with Instagram and Facebook also commonly used.

National sport

Taekwondo is a widely practiced national sport and a source of national pride. Baseball and soccer also enjoy strong popularity.

4.0
RATING
It’s perfect for digital nomads
Digital nomad friendly
Fairly digital nomad friendly
Challenging for digital nomads
Not ideal for digital nomads

Friendly visa options, though cost of living can vary.

Internet
5.0
RATING

Extremely fast internet with wide availability.

Cost of living
3.0
RATING

Moderate to high, especially in Seoul, but affordable options are available.

Access to basic resources
5.0
RATING

Excellent healthcare, public transport, and essential services.

Weather
Seoul
4:30 est
4.0
RATING

Four distinct seasons; winter can be cold, summers are hot and humid.

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LGBTQIA+ friendly
2.0
RATING

Growing acceptance, especially in urban areas, but societal conservatism remains.

English proficiency
2.0
RATING

Limited; younger generations and business areas may have some English speakers.

Family friendly
3.0
RATING

Good education options, but some cultural adjustment needed for families.

Public transport
5.0
RATING

Extensive and reliable, with affordable subway and bus networks, especially in major cities.

Live
Live

Expat community

South Korea has a lively expat community, especially in cities like Seoul and Busan. Many expats work as English teachers, tech professionals, or in international businesses. Social groups, language exchanges, and meetups are popular.

Setting up a local bank account

To open a bank account, expats will need a valid passport, Alien Registration Card (ARC), and proof of local address. Major banks like KEB Hana and Shinhan offer English-language services for expatriates.

Getting around

  • Public transport: South Korea’s public transport is efficient and affordable, with extensive subway and bus networks in major cities.
  • Purchasing vehicles: Buying a car is common outside Seoul. A valid Korean driver’s license or international driving permit is required.
  • Driver’s license: International permits are valid for one year, but after that, you’ll need to convert it to a Korean license. Some countries allow direct exchange without a driving test.

Medical system

South Korea has an excellent healthcare system with both public and private hospitals. Health insurance is mandatory and covers most medical expenses. Expats are required to join the National Health Insurance (NHI) system, though private insurance can supplement it.

Work
Work

Visa eligibility

South Korea offers a range of visas for expats, including the E-series for teachers and professionals, and the H-1 working holiday visa for certain nationalities.

Temporary residence

Many digital nomads and freelancers enter on tourist visas, which can be extended up to 90 days.

Permanent residence

Obtaining permanent residency is possible, especially for those in skilled professions or with long-term investment in the country.

Digital nomad visa

South Korea doesn’t have a specific digital nomad visa but offers flexible long-term tourist and business visas.

Work culture

South Korea’s work culture is diligent and hierarchical, with a focus on teamwork and respect for seniority. Many expats find the work hours long, but the government is encouraging shorter work hours.

Job opportunities for expats

English teaching, tech, and international business roles are popular fields for expats.

Freelancing & entrepreneurship

Freelancers can work on a business visa, though rules may be strict for certain professions. For starting a business, South Korea encourages foreign investment, though it requires registration, permits, and a business plan for a formal setup.

Tax considerations

  • Income tax: Expats are subject to income tax, generally ranging from 6% to 42%, based on income level.
  • Social security: Mandatory for most residents, including foreign workers; it covers healthcare, pensions, and unemployment benefits.

Metropolitans & attractions

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Metropolitans & attractions
Metropolitans & attractions

Major cities

  • Seoul: The capital and a major tech and business hub, known for its nightlife, shopping, and historical sites.
  • Busan: A coastal city with a laid-back vibe, famous for beaches, seafood, and festivals.
  • Daegu: Known for its rich cultural heritage, temples, and textile industry.

Major attractions

‍Gyeongbokgung Palace: A historic palace with beautiful architecture.
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Jeju Island: A popular vacation spot with beaches, hiking, and volcanic landscapes.
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‍Bukchon Hanok Village: A traditional village with hanok-style homes, preserving Korean culture.
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Metropolitans & attractions
  • Gyeongbokgung Palace: A historic palace with beautiful architecture.
  • Jeju Island: A popular vacation spot with beaches, hiking, and volcanic landscapes.
  • Bukchon Hanok Village: A traditional village with hanok-style homes, preserving Korean culture.
Population
52 million
Digital nomad visa
Available
Driving side
Right
Calling code
+82
Public Holiday
15 days (including Lunar New Year, Chuseok)
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