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[KGY Travel TIP] What Are Everyday Challenges International Interns Face When Living in Korea and How to Solve Them

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What Are Everyday Challenges International Interns Face When Living in Korea and How to Solve Them

As an international intern in Korea, you’re bound to encounter some unique hurdles that can make your experience challenging yet rewarding. Here are five everyday challenges and practical solutions:

1. Budgeting Woes: Money Goes Fast

Living in Korea can quickly drain your wallet, especially if you’re not careful. Clothes, food, and social activities add up faster than expected. While Korean fast fashion is trendy, it’s not always budget-friendly, and eating out regularly can strain your finances.

Solution:

Shop during sales seasons or visit traditional markets for cheaper clothing and food options.
Cook at home more often. Korean grocery stores like Emarkt and Lotte Mart offer fresh ingredients, and traditional markets can be even cheaper.
Track your expenses using budgeting apps like Money Manager.

2. Food Spoils Faster Than You’d Expect

Many international interns notice that fruits, vegetables, and even bread seem to spoil more quickly in Korea compared to back home. This could be due to the high humidity or lack of preservatives in some products.

Solution:

Store perishables in airtight containers or resealable bags to keep them fresh longer.
Invest in a small dehumidifier for your kitchen.
Buy smaller quantities of fresh produce more frequently instead of stocking up.
Freeze foods like bread or pre-chopped vegetables to extend their shelf life.

3. Uncomfortably Hard Beds

Korean beds can be surprisingly firm, often consisting of thin mattresses filled with springs and minimal cushioning. For those used to plush beds, this can make sleeping uncomfortable.

Solution:

Purchase a mattress topper or foam pad from online stores like Coupang or Gmarket. These can significantly improve comfort.
If you’re on a tight budget, consider a thick blanket or yoga mat as a temporary solution.
Experiment with additional pillows to support your body.

4. Different Hospitality Norms

Hospitality in Korea may not align with what you’re accustomed to back home. For example, directness and formality can sometimes come across as impersonal or even cold.

Solution:

Approach social interactions with an open mind. Understand that cultural differences don’t equate to unkindness.
Learn some basic Korean phrases and cultural norms to help build connections. Showing effort often breaks the ice.
Accept that it takes time to form deeper relationships and focus on understanding their perspective rather than comparing it to your own.

5. Getting Hair and Skincare Products as a Black Girl

Finding products tailored to Black hair and skin can be a daunting task in Korea. Local beauty stores seldom carry options that cater to diverse needs, and ordering online isn’t straightforward due to ARNs, phone number verification, and the personal customs clearance code system.

Solution:

Use iHerb or specialized international retailers like Amazon or Shea Moisture’s online store. They often ship to Korea and carry the essentials you’ll need.
If you’re struggling with customs, ask a Korean colleague or friend for assistance. They can help navigate the system or act as your local contact.
Consider joining expat groups or forums like Black in Korea for tips on where to find products locally.
Stock up before arriving in Korea to minimize immediate challenges.

Living in Korea as an international intern presents unique challenges, but each one is surmountable with a little preparation and creativity. Remember, these experiences are part of the journey, and overcoming them will make your time in Korea all the more memorable.

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[KGY Travel TIP] What Are Everyday Challenges International Interns Face When Living in Korea and How to Solve Them