Moving to South Korea

Dubbed as the “Land of the Morning Calm,” South Korea’s stunning natural landscape is the best escape from the humdrum of city life, endowed with a temperate climate where winters can be relatively cold, and summers are pleasantly warm.

The country also experiences a short monsoon period called ‘jangma' in July. It is best to visit South Korea during autumn from September to November or in April to witness the spectacle of flowers in full bloom.

Bordered by China in the west and Japan in the east, this mountainous peninsula is located in the northeast of Asia. South Korea covers 99,678 square kilometers of the total land area (223,098 square kilometers).

Impressively, South Korea has weathered the economic global storm, its export industry gaining strength. It has steadily climbed its way to the top tiers of economic nations, thanks in part to a competitive education system that produces highly educated workers and also by enticing skilled workers from abroad.

However, the war has deeply affected this nation and has divided Korea into two separate governments, North Korea and South Korea. North Korea became communist while South Korea embraced democracy.

Today, the Republic of Korea (ROK), or South Korea, has emerged as the leader in international financing in Asia. It is home to big-named companies like Samsung and LG, who are among the top three manufacturers of televisions and mobile phones, and Hyundai, a leading global auto manufacturer.

South Korea boasts a high life expectancy of 78.72 years (Male 75.45 and Female 82.2). Its population was 48,219,000 as of July 2011 with a steady increase in foreign migration.

Seoul is the capital and the world's tenth largest city, teeming with a population of 10 million. The currency is the South Korean Won (KRW).

Expats are willing to relocate knowing that the country has the highest scientific literacy worldwide and ranks second in mathematical literacy. Language is one difficulty facing any expat, but rest assured that most locals are able to speak English, as this is widely taught in school.

The culture of Korea gives rise to an array of different religious beliefs adopted by its people. South Korea has no official religion; residents and foreigners are guaranteed freedom in choosing their religion in accordance with the Constitution. The majority of the population practices Buddhism.

Expats should learn and respect the customs of Koreans to be able to fit in. A handshake after a slight bow is a form of respect and blends the traditions of the two different cultures. After a meeting or any social or business gathering, a slight bow and goodbye to each person is essential. When entering a Korean home, remember to remove your shoes. Use your right hand for giving and receiving gifts from Korean nationals.

It is advisable for expats to take all necessary clothing to South Korea with them, as the Korean's physique is generally petite compared to westerners, making local clothes purchases difficult. Imported brands are now available in some shops, but choices are very limited, especially in shoes.

Foreign nationals planning to stay for a longer period in Korea need to have a visa and an alien registration card. For more information, you can visit the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Republic of Korea website. http://www.mofat.go.kr/english/visa/apply/index.jsp