Category: Lifestyle

Visiting Japan While Teaching English In Korea

Teach English And Travel!

Perhaps my favorite thing about teaching English in Korea is how easily accessible travel is. In just six  months of living in South Korea, I’ve traveled to 4 bucket list cities in the country and spent countless weekends exploring Seoul itself. From Jeju Island and its clear blue water to Jeonju and its beautiful architecture, South Korea truly has so many epic places to explore. Join me on my latest excursion visiting Japan!

 

N\ative English Language teacher taking a picture in front of cherry blossoms in Japan

Popular East Asian Destinations

When I decided to take my first international trip (yes, it’s financially and logistically possible to travel internationally while teaching English in Korea), I wasn’t sure what to expect. However, I was so delighted to realize that traveling internationally from Korea is just as easy as traveling domestically. Some popular international destinations from Korea include Japan, Vietnam, China, and Thailand.

 

Tokyo Travel Costs

For my first trip, I flew to Tokyo, Japan for a week.  Gimpo Airport and the flight (2 hours and 20 minutes) were a breeze. When I lived in the United States and would travel internationally, I always suffered from horrible jet lag. This time, I got to have a once-in-a-lifetime vacation while never switching time zones from Korea or dealing with the fatigue and brain fog that accompanies jet lag. I ended up staying in a hostel for my week in Tokyo, which only cost me about $160 USD in total. Plus, I got to meet people from all over the world!  Airfare from Seoul to Tokyo is extremely affordable in my opinion. Depending on when you decide to go, it can cost as little as $170 USD! 

 

The first time I set foot in Asia was when I moved to Korea to teach English. The most rewarding part of vacationing in Japan was getting to see a different side of Asia than what I’ve been exposed to in Korea. It gave me a deeper appreciation for Korean culture, particularly the food and the language. A few of the highlights were learning to make gyoza and visiting Sensoji Temple. It brought back memories of visiting Guinsa Temple in Korea last fall, and it inspired me to sign up for a kimchi making class here in Seoul!

 

Residency Pays Off!

When I returned to the airport in Korea, I got the best surprise. Because I am an ARC holder (the residency card you receive while teaching English in Korea), I got to go through the line with Korean passport holders and skip customs with the other citizens. Not only did this feel a little like having a super power because the line was faster, but it also made me feel like I belong in Korea in a way I’ve never experienced before! It was the perfect homecoming after a week of international travel visiting Japan!

Diana Richtman is a writer and ESL teacher living in Seoul, South Korea. Originally from Savannah, Georgia in the United States, Diana holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Georgia in English & Women’s Studies. After receiving her TEFL certification, Diana moved to South Korea where she works at one of Creverse’s April Institutes. When Diana isn’t working, she loves exploring Korea, drinking warm cups of tea, and scaring away her friends with her karaoke performances. 

Korea’s Cherry Blossom Season

Full Bloom

If you’re teaching in Korea this spring you won’t want to miss out on the Cherry Blossom season. Cherry Blossoms typically bloom in late March to early April, and cover the country in beautiful pink and white flowers. Keep in mind that the exact timing can vary each year due to factors like rainfall and  cold weather. This year, you can expect the season to be in full bloom by the beginning of April. I will share with you some of my favorite parts of the Cherry Blossom season!

 

Cherry Blossom Hotspots

Lotte Tower seen through Cherry Blossom tree branches and Seokchon Lake in South Korea

Cherry Blossom trees can be found across Korea but there are some really magical spots that you should definitely check out.

  • Seokcheon Lake: This is my all time favorite place to enjoy the Cherry Blossoms. Smack dab in the middle of the lake is Lotte World- a famous indoor/outdoor amusement park. And just a block away is Korea’s largest building – Lotte Tower! I recommend taking a walk around the lake to enjoy hundreds of trees that have transformed into cotton candy clouds! Here’s a sneak peak:
  • Gyeonghwa Station: The atmosphere here is super romantic and is the perfect place to take Instagram pictures. You can find this train station in Jinhae City which features a Cherry Blossom tunnel that looks like it’s from a fairy tale. Jinhae is a 29-minute taxi ride from Busan.
Cherry blossom trees in full bloom at Gyeonghwa Station in South Korea
  • The Garden of Morning Calm: This park is located in Gapyeong which is an easy day trip from Seoul and honestly feels like the set of a Disney movie. I recommend going there during the evening because the garden and pond are lit up with colorful lights at night.

Themed Desserts & Drinks

Another thing I love about Cherry Blossom season is all the themed desserts and drinks. Cupcakes, macarons, and ice cream are some of my favorite seasonal treats that feature the bright, delicious sakura flavors and color palette.

 

Cafes also offer lattes and teas that you can enjoy. I recommend the Cherry Blossom White Chocolate Latte at Starbucks that can be found at locations across Korea starting in March. I also like to order Cherry Blossom tea in local cafes which is super fragrant and delicious!

 

Cherry-blossomed themed tumblers from Starbucks in Korea

When you’re teaching English in Korea, each season brings something new to enjoy and the Cherry Blossom season is definitely a highlight of the year! I hope you check out some of these beautiful blossoms and enjoy them while they last.

Michelle Duquette is from Toronto, Canada and moved to South Korea in 2015. She has a Bachelors in English literature and a Masters in ESL Education. Michelle has taught at Creverse campuses in Gangneung, Songpa, and Mokdong and currently works as a CDI and April Trainer. Michelle never set out to be a teacher but fell in love with Korean culture and the excitement of being in the classroom. Michelle lives in Seoul with her partner and two cats, Cherry and Frost. 

Exploring Jeju Island In Winter

Exploring Jeju: The Hawaii Of Korea

Jeju Island is also known as “the Hawaii of Korea.” When I visited Jeju in February, I was worried the island would be a little boring because it was wintertime. However, my Korean friends pushed me to visit, telling me Jeju is beautiful during the winter, and I’m so glad I listened! From Seoul, Jeju Island is an hour long plane ride. So it is a perfect getaway when you are on your days off from teaching English! With its palm trees, clear blue water, and laid-back atmosphere, it really did feel like I was in Hawaii! Here’s some amazing ways of  exploring Jeju Island in the winter. 

 

Walk the Beaches

We only spent a few short days on Jeju, but we ended up exploring three different beaches on Jeju. While it’s a little too cool to go swimming, we admired the clear blue water, people-watched fishermen sorting through their catch for the day, and collected seashells. Honestly, a part of me wished I could move to Jeju, so I could take a walk along the beach everyday after work. I recommend Hyeopjae Beach!

View of the Hyeopjae Beach on Jeju Island

Visit Art Museums

Maybe you’re not much of an outdoorsy person. That’s okay! Jeju Island has plenty to offer for folks who would rather spend their time inside. We spontaneously decided to check out Arte Museum Jeju, and I’m so glad we did! Each room featured a different light installation. It was like stepping into a museum from the future! If that doesn’t sound like your thing, Jeju has plenty of other museums for you to explore!

 

An English teacher checking out an Art installation at Arte Museum Jeju

Cafe Hopping

If Korea does one thing well, it’s cafes. Jeju Island is no exception to this rule. We stopped into multiple cafes while visiting the island, but my favorite was Fluffy Cafe. We completely stumbled upon this place and ended up eating the fluffiest, most delicious pancakes. The staff was friendly, and my friend was able to grab some souvenirs for her family back home too! Anywhere you move in Korea, you’ll be able to find cute cafes to spend your weekends hanging out in, but I was really impressed with what Jeju had to offer.

 

Hike Hallasan National Park

Smack dab in the middle of the island, Hallasan National Park is perfect for anyone who loves hiking! Because of Jeju’s mild climate, I love that I can visit any time of year to hike in Hallasan National Park, even winter! While our trip was just a little too short to check out Hallasan National Park, it’s my motivation to visit the island again ASAP!

There are so many things to do on your days off from teaching English in Korea. Exploring Jeju Island is one you definitely don’t want to leave of your bucket list! When I got back to Seoul, the city had a good covering of a snow, so it was nice to see some sun!

Diana Richtman is a writer and ESL teacher living in Seoul, South Korea. Originally from Savannah, Georgia in the United States, Diana holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Georgia in English & Women’s Studies. After receiving her TEFL certification, Diana moved to South Korea where she works at one of Creverse’s April Institutes. When Diana isn’t working, she loves exploring Korea, drinking warm cups of tea, and scaring away her friends with her karaoke performances. 

Coolest Technology Innovations In Korea

Exploring the Coolest Tech Innovations In Korea

One thing many people know about Korea, besides K-Pop and K-Dramas, is that Korea has seamlessly integrated technology into everyday life. From robot coffee shops to futuristic bus stops, Korea is pioneering new innovations that make your daily life as a teacher more convenient. Let me tell you about some of the coolest technology innovations in Korea I use or see almost every day!

 

Smart Bus Stops

Waiting for the bus is usually uneventful, but my daily commute has never been more enjoyable thanks to smart bus stops. These high-tech shelters have interactive touchscreens that provide real-time bus schedules and weather updates. Another feature I love is that there are built-in WiFi and USB charging ports so you don’t have to use your data while waiting for the bus. These shelters even have heated seats so you can stay warm in the winter.

Smart touch screen at a smart bus stop in Korea
Charging ports and hand sanitizers at smart Bus Stop in Korea

Umbrella Dryers

A man following directions on a standing sign on how to use the eco friendly umbrella dryer.

There is nothing worse than lugging around a wet umbrella, especially during the rainy season. However, Korea’s umbrella dryers have got you covered. Dryers are located outside of most subway stations and corporate buildings. They use a combination of air and UV light to quickly dry your umbrella. The dryer is really user-friendly, and is one of the most practical and appreciated bits of technology. Innovations like this makes my life in Korea more comfortable.

 

Robot Coffee Shops

Have you ever had your coffee made by an AI barista? In Korea, robot coffee shops are popping up all over and make for a fun and unique cafe experience. These automated cafes not only serve up delicious beverages but also showcase the latest advancements in robotics and artificial intelligence. The cafes are really cool to experience, and have different drink options available.

 

People waiting for coffee to be made at a robot coffee shop

VR Cafes

Inside a VR Cafe in South Korea

Another cool place to grab a coffee and unwind after a busy week of teaching is a VR cafe. Korea is home to some of the world’s most advanced VR cafes where visitors can immerse themselves in virtual worlds and experiences. The cafes offer a bunch of different immersive games to play on your own or with friends. I recommend you check out VR Plus Cafe in Gangnam located near Gangnam Station Exit 1.

 

In conclusion, these technology innovations have transformed the way I live, work, and play. If you’re looking to change up your present life and teach in Korea, one thing is clear: the future is already here, and it’s super cool!

Michelle Duquette is from Toronto, Canada and moved to South Korea in 2015. She has a Bachelors in English literature and a Masters in ESL Education. Michelle has taught at Creverse campuses in Gangneung, Songpa, and Mokdong and currently works as a CDI and April Trainer. Michelle never set out to be a teacher but fell in love with Korean culture and the excitement of being in the classroom. Michelle lives in Seoul with her partner and two cats, Cherry and Frost. re she works at one of Creverse’s April Institutes. When Diana isn’t working, she loves exploring Korea, drinking warm cups of tea, and scaring away her friends with her karaoke performances. 

Tips For Learning Korean

Tips For Learning Korean

Before I moved to Korea, I didn’t know what to expect with the language barrier. Would I love it? Hate it? Struggle with it? Now six months into living in South Korea, I can honestly say one of my favorite parts of living here is the language. Not only is Korean beautiful but the language barrier has pushed me to try something I never thought I would: learn a second language. While big cities like Seoul are English-friendly, the challenge of reading and speaking in Korean has been one of the most rewarding parts of this whole experience! It’s given me a deeper appreciation for communication and more passion for teaching my own language! Here are all my best tips for learning Korean.

 

English teacher standing in front of a mountain and Han River in South Korea

Learn To Read Hangul

Learning Hangul, the Korean alphabet, has to be your first step. It’s easy to fall into the habit of searching online for the Romanized pronunciation of Korean words, but in the long run, this is only going to hold you back. Korean sounds and English sounds are not one-to-one, so save yourself the trouble and learn Hangul before anything else. I didn’t learn to read Hangul until my second month in Korea, but once I did, I felt so empowered!

Ask Your Students For Help

Of course, don’t ask them to teach you during class time, but I’ve found my Korean students love teaching me Korean before class and during break times! Adults have a tendency to overcomplicate things, but kids usually give the simplest answer. This can really help when it comes to Korean, especially if you’re a beginner! Plus, letting your kids teach you little phrases can go a long way in class. It helps them know you’re approachable and just as passionate about their language as you are about English!

Take A Class

I took a two month Korean class, and I can’t recommend it enough. It gave me structure and helped me develop my confidence speaking the language in a safe space before using it out and about in Korea! Sometimes, the hardest part is starting, and a class is the perfect way to kick-start your Korean journey! Here’s a brief look at a few different options.

  • Hagwons: Hagwons are private learning academies, and Korea has everything from science and math to English and Korean hagwons! This was the option I went with, and I’m so glad I did. It gave me a great foundation for understanding the language. Also, since I teach at a hagwon, it gave me insight into what my students are experiencing when they come to class each day!
  • Free Courses: There are plenty of free resources online as well as community centers in Korea that offer free classes to foreigners. Some of my friends have done this option and have loved it. Free courses tend to have bigger class sizes, but of course, you don’t have to pay for them! Here is an online class on Coursera by one of the top Universities in Korea.
  • Online Tutor: Learn Korean from the comfort of your apartment! I’ve met with an online Korean tutor a few times, and the best part is the one-on-one attention. Just like my students, sometimes it’s hard to ask questions in front of my peers. This option allows you to focus on your own personal shortcomings as a student and specialize your learning based on your interests and needs! But the best part? You can start learning now with an online tutor and not have to wait until you’ve moved to Korea.

Listen To K-Pop & Watch K-Dramas

Everyone I know who has spent time watching k-dramas and listening to k-pop has had a significant advantage when it comes to learning Korean. Immersing yourself in Korean entertainment is a fun way to absorb the language. While you probably won’t become fluent this way, it’ll definitely help you get a sense for the language! Netflix is great because they have English subtitles.

Don’t Get Lazy & Don’t Get Discouraged

In cities like Seoul, it’s easy to get complacent when it comes to learning Korean because Seoul is so English-friendly, but I’ve found locals really appreciate it when foreigners speak Korean. The best way to learn a language is to use it as much as possible, so even when you’d rather just switch to English, challenge yourself to use your Korean! Most importantly, don’t get discouraged! Learning a language doesn’t happen overnight. Making mistakes is all a part of the learning process, so don’t be afraid and don’t beat yourself up over it. Learning Korean has been so much fun for me – and trust me, I don’t have a natural affinity towards language learning – so I know it can be for you too! Hopefully some of these tips for learning Korean will help your own your journey!

 

Diana Richtman is a writer and ESL teacher living in Seoul, South Korea. Originally from Savannah, Georgia in the United States, Diana holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Georgia in English & Women’s Studies. After receiving her TEFL certification, Diana moved to South Korea where she works at one of Creverse’s April Institutes. When Diana isn’t working, she loves exploring Korea, drinking warm cups of tea, and scaring away her friends with her karaoke performances. 

Best Experiences For English Teachers In Spring

The Best Experiences for English Teachers In Spring

Springtime in Korea is a magical season with no shortage of cultural events, outdoor excursions and seasonal foods to enjoy. The season showcases a lot of what Korea has to offer and is one of the best times of year to be living and teaching abroad. So, let’s explore some of the best experiences for English teachers in Spring!

Picnic at Seoul Forest

Seoul Forest is one of my favorite places in the city to enjoy a picnic and spend time with friends. If you are looking to make the most of the weather, consider bringing some food and enjoying the lakeside area. It’s definitely one of the best spots in Seoul with a lot of shady tree coverage. I recommend ordering delivery chicken right to your picnic blanket!

Women holding a camera having a lakeside picnic at Seoul Forest Park in Seoul Korea

Gyeongju Cherry Blossom Marathon

As a runner, this event is one of my top suggestions for the spring season! This scenic race weaves through the historic and charming streets of Gyeongju which are lined with cherry blossom trees. It is one of the coolest ways to enjoy the dreamy spring flowers, see the city, and get in a good workout! You can participate in 5K and 10K distances, as well as half and full marathon courses. If you are a runner, this is definitely a bucket list experience you don’t want to miss!

Sign up for the race here!

Taean Tulip Festival

Taean Tulip Festival occurs from March to April, and is perhaps the most colorful Spring festival you can find in Korea. It’s famous for its stunning tulips which come in nearly every rainbow color imaginable. Recognized as one of the five World Tulip Summit festivals, it is a world-class event that includes performances from Korean singers and a fireworks display at night!

 

Taean tulip festival field in south Korea

Feast on Seasonal Jjukkumi

Jjukkumi, which literally translates to spicy baby octopuses, are not actually octopi babies but are called this due to their tiny size! Spring is the best season to eat them as they emerge from the deep waters on Korea’s west coast. Additionally, during the Spring their head is filled with eggs which makes this dish taste even more delicious and fresh! There are several ways to eat Jjukkumi, but my favorite way is Jjukkumi Samgyeopsal. It consists of eating baby octopuses with pork belly drizzled with a spicy red sauce. You can even add chewy rice cake to mellow out the heat!

Buddha's Birthday

One of my favorite parts of spring in Korea is experiencing the spiritual and cultural significance of Buddha’s Birthday. Celebrated nationally on May 6th, this holiday is an ideal time to enjoy the beautiful lanterns and relaxing incense at a traditional temple. I also recommend trying out a temple stay to enjoy a traditional Buddhist ceremony and some fresh and healthy vegan temple food. My first temple stay was one of my most memorable experiences in Korea so far.

Dragon lantern at night on Buddha's birthday in Korea
Traditional Buddhist temple food in South Korea

Strawberry Picking

Spring is a peak season for strawberry farming and Korean strawberries are especially big and juicy this time of year! There are many different strawberry fields around the country that can be visited and enjoyed once spring begins but I suggest you check out Seongyeon Strawberry Farm Experience (성연딸기체험농장). It’s accessible via Daehwa Station of Subway Line 3 which takes around an hour from Seoul.

 

English teachers enjoying some freshly picked strawberries in South Korea
English teachers enjoying some freshly picked strawberries in South Korea

Springtime in Korea is full of vibrant experiences for you to enjoy while teaching and living in Korea. I encourage you to embrace the beauty of the season and create unforgettable memories that will last you a lifetime!

Michelle Duquette is from Toronto, Canada and moved to South Korea in 2015. She has a Bachelors in English literature and a Masters in ESL Education. Michelle has taught at Creverse campuses in Gangneung, Songpa, and Mokdong and currently works as a CDI and April Trainer. Michelle never set out to be a teacher but fell in love with Korean culture and the excitement of being in the classroom. Michelle lives in Seoul with her partner and two cats, Cherry and Frost. 

A Gourmet Expedition into Korean BBQ

What Do You Really Know About Korean BBQ?

Fire up the grill! Korea has no shortage of amazing food but Korean BBQ is one of the best culinary experiences you can have. From traditional charcoal grilling to marinated short ribs and bulgogi, KBBQ is a delicious and fun experience that allows you to grill and eat right at your table. Being able to indulge in the many forms of traditional Korean BBQ is just one of the many perks of teaching English in South Korea. Let me take you on a gourmet expedition into Korean BBQ!

 

Is Korean BBQ Always Beef?

Traditionally, KBBQ restaurants serve different cuts of beef. Pork and chicken are other common KBBQ meats but if you are adventurous, why not try:

  • Gopchang (beef or pork intestines)
  • Gyutan (beef tongue)
  • Makchang (beef stomach)

Gopchang is my personal favorite! The rich and flavorful taste of gopchang pairs perfectly with the smoky char from the grill, creating a unique dining experience.

 

Dry-Aged Meat

Dry-aged BBQ is a sophisticated twist to traditional grilling. Cuts of beef like ribeye and sirloin undergo a dry-aging process that can take several weeks or even months before being served. This aging process allows for more complex, umami flavors to develop and gives the beef an intense, flavor-packed taste. The richness and tenderness of aged meat is the best way to elevate your KBBQ experience.

Wet-Aged Meat

Unlike dry-aged BBQ, wet-aged BBQ relies on soaking the meat in a mouth-watering marinade of soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, sugar, and various spices before grilling. Wet-aged BBQ is especially tender and is usually cooked on a flat, table-top grill. I recommend that you enjoy it with Makgeoli, as the sweet, tangy flavor is the perfect pairing! One of my favorite places to eat wet-aged KBBQ is Yeonnamseo Sikdang.

 Address: 189-7 Yeonhui-dong, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul South Korea

 

Hanwoo (Korean Beef)

Hanwoo, or Korean beef, is a breed of cattle native to South Korea and renowned for its deep marbling and premium quality. Hanwoo is often compared to other high-end varieties of beef like Wagyu and Kobe. Hanwoo barbeque is great for special occasions but can be enjoyed anytime. Typically, Hanwoo is cooked over a charcoal flame for flavor. I  recommend pairing with a fruity red wine, such as a Malbec, to compliment the robust flavors. You can even choose the beef at certain restaurants, which they then grill tableside. Or, you can take out Hanwoo to cook at home!

 

Seafood Grill

If red meat isn’t your thing, then why not indulge in seafood BBQ? Switch gears and enjoy succulent oysters, shrimp, calamari, and all sorts of fish. Seafood adds a fresh, coastal twist to the traditional KBBQ experience and can be a more affordable option. My favorite place to enjoy all the different seafood varieties is in Busan.

 

Now you’re ready to enjoy all that KBBQ has to offer when you teach English in Korea! Happy grilling!

Michelle Duquette is from Toronto, Canada and moved to South Korea in 2015. She has a Bachelors in English literature and a Masters in ESL Education. Michelle has taught at Creverse campuses in Gangneung, Songpa, and Mokdong and currently works as a CDI and April Trainer. Michelle never set out to be a teacher but fell in love with Korean culture and the excitement of being in the classroom. Michelle lives in Seoul with her partner and two cats, Cherry and Frost. 

Best Things To Do In Jeonju

The Place To Be

Jeonju is an idyllic city known for its traditional architecture, culture, and cuisine. It is a popular tourist destination, even among Koreans. And, for good reason! If you decide to teach English in Korea, make sure to strongly consider spending a year in this amazing city. Here are the best things to do in Jeonju.

Eat More Bibimbap

In Korean, “bibim” means mixing, and “bap” means cooked rice. This traditional dish often features egg, various vegetables, and sometimes cooked or raw meat! Jeonju is famous for its bibimbap, so don’t pass up the opportunity to try it. While you eat, go ahead and order Jeonju’s variation of makgeolli, a traditional rice wine! I had it when I visited Jeonju, and it was absolutely delicious.

Three people cheering Makgeolli, a traditional Korean rice wine in Keonju South Korea

Rent Hanboks

Hanboks are the traditional style of dress in Korea, but they’ve become more popular in recent years. Even though social media often shows only women wearing them, there are hanboks for men, women, and children! It’s super common in Seoul as well as other cities to see people wearing them for special occasions and around hanok villages and palaces. In Jeonju, we payed about ₩17,000 to wear our hanboks all day. Wearing a hanbok while exploring Jeonju is one of the coolest (and most fashionable!) cultural experiences I’ve had in Korea!

 

Women wearing traditional Korean hanboks walk the streets of Jeonju South Korea

Visit A Traditional Hanok Village

Now that you’ve got your hanbok, there’s no better place to go than Jeonju’s Hanok Village. A hanok is a traditional Korean building that features a wooden framework and often intricate, beautiful designs on the walls. This is the perfect place to soak up Korea’s rich history and feel like you’ve been transported back in time!

Jeonju Hanok Village Shops in South Korea
A traditional accomodation called Laon Hanok Gguliam in Jeonju South Korea

Visit Jeondong Cathedral

Right across the street from Jeonju Hanok Village is Jeondong Cathedral! This beautiful religious building was built in 1908 and is a must see when visiting Jeonju.

Head on shot of Jeonju Cathedral in South Korea
Inside of Jeonju Cathedral in South Korea

Indulge In Street Food

Korea has some of the best street food in the world, and there’s a little something for anything. What’s one you absolutely have to try in Jeonju? Korean coin bread. Imagine a waffle and a grilled cheese on a stick. That’s coin bread. Shaped like a coin, this street food is a perfect sweet and savory snack to end your day in the beautiful Korean city of Jeonju.

 

A steret food stall in Jeonju., South Korea

Diana Richtman is a writer and ESL teacher living in Seoul, South Korea. Originally from Savannah, Georgia in the United States, Diana holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Georgia in English & Women’s Studies. After receiving her TEFL certification, Diana moved to South Korea where she works at one of Creverse’s April Institutes. When Diana isn’t working, she loves exploring Korea, drinking warm cups of tea, and scaring away her friends with her karaoke performances. 

5 Reasons Why I Prefer Living In Korea

Here are the top 5 reasons Why I Prefer Living in Korea!

1. Transportation (High Tech Bus Stops)

Korea is often ranked one of the best public transportation systems on the planet. Let’s start with the buses, which can take you anywhere you want in major cities as well as across the country. In the winter, Korea has heated bus stop seats as well as heated waiting room areas at some locations. Not only that but some bus stops provide free phone charging stations, and all buses have public Wi-Fi. The bus system is convenient and affordable for anyone looking to get around quickly and comfortable. This is one of the main reasons I prefer living in Korea over the States.

 

A heated bus stop bench with free wirless charging in Korea
Heated Bench and Wireless Charging
Woman waits for a bus inside a glass-covered bus stop in Seoul, Korea.

The subway is fast, safe, and easy to use. All signs and announcements are made in both Korean as well as English. If you want to leave your city and explore another part of Korea, there are regular trains for the stop-and-smell-the roses type of passenger as well as the KTX bullet trains for those looking to get places fast. All of the options are affordable and give you the opportunity to view the beautiful Korean countryside.

2. Online Banking (Sending Money)

Forget Venmo and PayPal. In Korea, you can make easy and safe bank transfers online with your bank. This means you can pay people and businesses as well as receive funds in seconds. No more waiting 2-3 days to see funds show up in your bank account. In Korea, you can have your money instantly. (By the way, they’ve been doing it this way for almost 20 years! For better context, they never used a paper checking system.)

 

A row of ATMs of the top 5 most popular banks in Korea.
A row of ATMs of the top 4 banks
Smart phone app for a Korean bank to allow instantaneous transfer of money to other bank accounts.
Mobile App for Woori Bank

3. Public Safety (No Theft Or Guns)

With strict gun laws, it’s difficult to gain access to weapons in Korea. Between this and Korea’s CCTV coverage, South Korea is an extremely safe country to live in. When compared with other industrialized countries, South Korea has a very low crime rate, and in 2021, they saw their lowest crime rate in ten years. You may not realize it until you are here, but living in Korea made me realize how much unnecessary stress I frequently dealt with worrying about keeping myself and my belongings safe.  

 

4. Cheap Meals (Delicious & Healthy, too!)

The cost of a delicious, nutritious meal in Korea can be as cheap as ₩7,000, which is roughly $5.50 USD. Not only is eating out affordable, but there are plenty of delicious foods to try from. Korea has everything from bibimbap and tteokbokki to pizza and burgers. Oh, and a huge bonus you probably didn’t think was even a possibility. There is NO TIPPING in Korea! Whether you dine out or take a cab, tipping is not a part of the culture. It is a huge savings and makes life so much easier.   

Assorted fish, kimchi stew, and side dishes at a traditional restaurant in Korea

5. Skin Care (The Mecca for All Your Needs)

Koreans love skin care. With a huge market for it, you can find the exact right combination of products for your skin type. Due to its popularity, there’s a wide variety of options, and they are relatively affordable in comparison to American brands. In addition, Korea has many great spa options if pampering is your favorite method of self-care.  And it’s not just for us girls! Men all across the world are starting to take better care of their skin, and Korea has all the products you can think of.  

 

 

Diana Richtman is a writer and ESL teacher living in Seoul, South Korea. Originally from Savannah, Georgia in the United States, Diana holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Georgia in English & Women’s Studies. After receiving her TEFL certification, Diana moved to South Korea where she works at one of Creverse’s April Institutes. When Diana isn’t working, she loves exploring Korea, drinking warm cups of tea, and scaring away her friends with her karaoke performances.

Top 4 Travel Destinations from South Korea

A Hop, Skip, and a Jump Away!

Many people don’t know that Incheon Airport is considered one of the greatest airports in the world. While living in South Korea, make sure to take advantage of the cheap flights and book your next trip. There are plenty of places to travel to within just a few hours! Here are the top 4 travel destinations from South Korea. 

 

JAPAN

Japan is about a 2-hour flight. Round trip tickets typically range between $210 – $360 USD. The cheapest flights are usually sold around June, while the most expensive flights are sold during the month of March which is peak travel. Korean Air, Peach Aviation, Jeju Air, Jin Air, Asiana, T’Way Air, Air Seoul, EASTAR JET, Air Busan, Air Premia, Ethiopian, JAL and ANA fly directly from Seoul to Tokyo. Check out Diana’s trip to Tokyo here!

Picture at night of the crowded streets of Tokyo, Japan
Tokyo, Japan
A pagoda on a cliff in Okinawa, Japan.
Okinawa, Japan

VIETNAM

Halong Bay, the number one tourist spot in Vietnam, is about a 5-hour and 25-minute flight from Incheon. A round trip ticket typically sells for $254 USD. Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam and Hội An, a well preserved ancient town are other places well worth a visit. Both are about a 4-hour and 30-minute flight from Incheon with flight tickets starting at $254 USD as well.

A boat in the waters of Halong Bay in Vietnam.
Halong Bay, Vietnam
Night image of lantern festival at Hoi An, Vietnam.
Hoi An, Vietnam

CHINA

China’s capital Beijing and other cities like Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Chengdu are also about 2 hours away from South Korea by airplane. The lowest round trip tickets start at $175 USD. The highest round trip tickets end at $350 USD. Great Wall, anyone?

 

Korean City
Shanghai, China
Great Wall of China with a purple sunset.
Beijing, China

THAILAND

Popular tourist destinations in Thailand include Phuket, Chiang Mai, Phi Phi and Koh Samui to name just a few! The flight from Seoul to Bangkok is about 5 hours and 30 minutes, with plane tickets starting at $229 USD.

 

Cityscape of Bankok, Thailand.
Bankok, Thailand
Temple in Chang Mai, Thailand.
Chiang Mai, Thailand

These countries are just four of your many options you can travel to on the cheap in just a few hours. You should also consider the Philippines, Laos, Cambodia, or even Taiwan. If you have a love for adventure, this is your time to shine!

 

Amber Ochoa is from Los Angeles, USA, and just recently moved to South Korea in May. She studied Biochemistry as an undergraduate. After graduation, she began venturing out and embracing her love for adventure. She finds that “nothing holds greater power in our life than the unknown.” One night while applying to random jobs on Indeed, she came across an English teaching position in Seoul, Korea. Flash forward, she is now teaching at CDI, Mokdong branch. She claims that Creverse found her and ended up becoming a blessing in disguise. Amber says giving knowledge to students & inspiring them for higher achievements in life is one of the greatest feelings in the world.