Living conditions worsen for Expats in Seoul.
July 19, 2007
It seems the expat community’s views on life in Korea are on a steady decline, (however some say the business environment is improving–depends on who you ask. Don’t ask LoneStar!)
Typical issues of housing, education, housing, medical services, and um…HOUSING are always listed as top problems.
Seoulsteves notes that these problems make living in Korea quite difficult. We note that due to the factors involved, things will probably not get any better or change. Housing will continue being outrageous, finding a decent doctor is nearly impossible, the international schools will continue charging exhorbitant fees, apples will still cost 1,000won/per and buses will continue being erratic.
This forum will be where we as expats can share information with each other on surviving and thriving in Seoul. So, if you have any good information or tips, doctor advice, etc–we want to hear from you! Send mail to me directly.
Check out the Korea Times article that details the fall of Expat life in Seoul here.
Steve, I have read and have heard so many expats complaining that they are unable to get a Korean credit card. However we were able to obtain a Woori Bank Credit Card (Skypass Visa). What we had to do is put money into a CD account and they issued us a credit card equal to the amount that we deposited. It’s great for saving money, you earn interest and you get a credit card also. One note though for Woori Bank the mininium deposit is 2,400,000.00 KWR. And they retreive payment from your savings account once a month (payment is in full). One thing I did also find out is that if you book online with Korean Air, and if you have a korean credit card, you can choose to make payments on your trip that you purchase…3,6,12 month installments…so they charge your card accordingly…
Hope this helps someone!