Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Housing is one of the main adjustments expatriates will have to make, especially if they're
coming from a standard North American suburb. South Korea, and Seoul in particular, are
among the most densely populated places on the planet, and while Western-style homes ex-
ist in places, most people live in units of just three or four rooms in towering apartment
blocks. While they may find space more limited, many foreign residents come to enjoy
the convenience and security South Korean apartment life offers. For those who can afford
them, there are some lovely stand-alone homes up for grabs in some areas, from rustic
han-
ok
(traditional houses) to modern mansions.
Since the local real estate market can be tricky to negotiate for new arrivals, many com-
panies provide housing or assistance finding accommodations for foreign employees. If the
house hunt is something you have to tackle on your own, rest assured it is possible, although
you'll want to enlist the help of a Korean speaker. While housing costs are high overall,
there's a range of accommodations available that spans most budgets.
