Working in Korea

Korea's strong communityism can make it difficult for foreigners who have no contact at all to make true Korean friends.  Moving to a new country is an adventure, but it can also be lonely without a solid social circle. In South Korea, the social structure is deeply rooted in shared backgrounds—like school or work—which can make it feel a bit challenging for outsiders to break in. However, once you understand the local "vibe" and know where to look, making friends in Korea can be one of the most rewarding parts of your journey. Whether you're looking for local Korean friends or fellow expats to share your experiences with, this guide will show you the best ways to build a community in 2026. 1. The Gateway: Language Exchange Communities For many expats, language exchange is the most natural way to start making friends in Korea . These meetups are designed for people who want to practice English, Korean, or other languages in a relaxed, social setting. Global Seoul Mat...

 If you are living in South Korea, KakaoTalk is not just a messaging app—it is your digital identity. While most expats use it for basic texting, the true power of the app lies in its ecosystem. From navigating social obligations with KakaoTalk Gifticons to networking with digital business cards, knowing these "hidden" features is essential for any expat. In this guide, we’ll explore how to use KakaoTalk to build stronger relationships and manage your professional life in Korea. 1. The Art of the "Gifticon": Korean Social Lubricant In Korea, the concept of "Jeong" (connection) is often expressed through small, spontaneous gifts. The KakaoTalk Gifticon (a portmanteau of 'gift' and 'icon') is the most common way to say "Thank you," "Happy Birthday," or even "I'm sorry." How to Send: Open a friend's profile > Click the Gift box icon > Choose a product. The Etiquette: * Coffee is King: Sending a...