하이
Meet
line_icon
whatsApp_icon
KGY Tips
chevron-left-black

How to Travel Long Term in Korea: Best Way to Experience Korean Culture, Stay Long in Korea as an Au Pair

listIconBack to List

🇰🇷 THE KOREA DEEP DIVE: BUDGET HACKS & AUTHENTIC IMMERSION STRATEGIES FOR GEN Z TRAVELERS

 

Totally obsessed with K-Culture and dreaming of a long term stay in Korea? The realistic concern is always the budget. We've compiled practical Korean travel so you can maximize your experience, even if your wallet is light. We'll show you how to naturally blend into Korean society while saving on travel expenses. With this guide, you can live less like a tourist and more like a local soaking up the Korean vibe!

 

1. Smart Budget Hacks to Beat Korea’s High Cost of Living

The most memorable trips aren't the ones where you spend the most money, but the ones where you have the best experiences. Check out these key tips to switch your budget from 'Tourist Mode' to 'Living Like a Local Mode.'

📍 Food Costs? Worry No More!

Korean convenience store food (Pyeon-uijeom) is the ultimate K-quick meal culture. Explore diverse options centered around dosirak (lunch boxes) and sandwiches. Crucially, Korean convenience stores constantly run great deals like '1+1' (buy one, get one free) or '2+1'. Use these smart tips to enjoy trendy food on a budget!

⭐ Pro Tip: Try the instant ramen cooking machines available at convenience stores in parks like Yeouido or Ttukseom Hangang Park. You can enjoy the true Seoul "healing vibe" like a K-Drama protagonist.


📍 Utilize 'Culture Day'!

Mark the last Wednesday of every month on your calendar. On this day, you can visit national museums, art galleries, and royal palaces (like Gyeongbokgung) for free or at a discounted price. Don't miss this fantastic opportunity to dive deep into Korean history and culture!

📍 PC Room are Your Multi-Purpose Solution

Use the PC Room to get ultra fast internet and a simple meal at the same time: Korea has great Wi-Fi, but when needed, you can use a PC Room for a low fee, which includes high-speed internet, plus options to buy ramen or snacks. It’s useful for quick work or catching up online while experiencing Korea's world-famous internet speeds!

📍 Go Shopping at Daiso

Buy all your essential travel supplies at Daiso! This affordable Korean variety store literally has everything. Grabbing socks, a multi-tap, or small gifts here can significantly cut down costs. Snapping up cute, practical 'Korean sensibility' items from Daiso instead of expensive souvenirs is a practical gift hack!

📍 Find Value Near University Towns

Visit the restaurants and cafes near universities! Areas like Sinchon, Korea University and Konkuk University have budget-friendly Korean eateries and trendy cafes designed to fit a student's budget. Experience delicious local food in places overflowing with young energy!

 

2. Going Off the Tourist Grid for a Deeper Korean Understanding

 

We’ll show you how to travel beyond the typical Seoul-centric tourist path, exploring the hidden charm of smaller, regional Korean cities efficiently and enjoyably.

📍 Travel by Moving 'Hub Cities'

Don't concentrate on your entire trip in Seoul. Move your base camp to Busan, Jeonju, or Jeju! Take the KTX (bullet train) to major cities, then explore the surrounding areas. You’ll experience the completely different charm of each region—from unique dialects and warm hospitality to special local cuisine.

 

📍 K-Transit Hacks to Save on Transportation

The T-money Card is essential (it includes transit discounts). For long-distance travel, utilize the KORAIL Pass! If you plan to move between several cities quickly, the unlimited KTX use offered by the foreigner-only KORAIL Pass is the most economical option. You’ll save money and experience the romantic Korean travel vibe of 'spontaneously hopping on a train.'


📍 Join the K-Hiking Culture

Hike the Seoul Dulle-gil trails or regional trekking courses: Korea is famous for its well-connected mountains and parks right next to major cities. Find trekking paths that let you enjoy nature, even in the heart of the urban center. Hiking is Korea’s 'National Hobby.' Eating simple snacks at the summit while enjoying the view is a special way to truly experience Korean culture. (Remember to bring all your trash down for proper recycling—a sign of mature civic engagement!)


3. Networking Strategies to Naturally Blend into the K-Vibe

📍 Join a 'Hobby Club'

Actively participate in local groups that share your interests! We recommend finding local communities (using apps, etc.) centered around shared hobbies like running or hiking, rather than simple language exchange groups. A common interest is the best connector for building deep friendships beyond the language barrier.

📍 Take the Jjimjilbang Challenge

Solve your accommodation and cultural experience needs cheaply at the same time! Spend time at a Jjimjilbang (Korean public bathhouse/sauna). Sweat it out and try Sikhye (sweet rice drink) and baked eggs while experiencing this unique Korean sauna culture. Don't forget to take a photo wearing the classic 'sheep head towel' you've likely seen in K-Dramas—it will be an unforgettable memory!

📍 Experience Healing through Temple Stays

If you're tired from traveling or just want to escape the busy city life, find rest in the serene nature of a traditional Korean temple! These programs, often 1-night/2-day or longer, allow you to experience traditional Buddhist culture through meditation and Barugongyang (traditional monastic meal). Use the foreigner-friendly Temple Stay programs to understand tranquil Korean Buddhism and recharge your mind and body without worrying about the language barrier.

 

By utilizing all these tips, you can save money while gaining a deep understanding of Korean culture. If you want more detailed information on how to truly immerse yourself in the Korean lifestyle and build unforgettable memories, check out Korea Gap Year!

 

 

Level Up Your Korean Life: How to Stop Touring and Start Connecting with Locals 🇰🇷

 

You didn't come to Korea just to chase K-Pop idols on stage or scout K-Drama filming locations, did you? You want to dive into the real lives of Korean people! This guide is for those ready to switch off 'Tourist Mode' and genuinely experience the local culture and daily routine. We’re offering concrete, valuable information on questions like: "How do I make real Korean friends?", "How do I learn Nunchi (social intuition)?", and "How do I actually live a Korean life?"

 

1. Practical Networking Strategies to Meet Locals


The most memorable trips aren't about how much money you spend, but how many great experiences you have. Check out these key tips to switch your budget from 'Tourist Mode' to 'Living Like a Local Mode.'


📍 'Genuine Networking' Spots Through Hobbies

  • Target Interest-Based Communities (Meetup, SoMoim): In Korea, hobbies are powerful social connectors. Search for and join highly active groups like running crews, hiking clubs, or sports teams. It's okay if your Korean is shaky—when you laugh together while sweating, borders disappear.

  • Utilize Conversational Language Exchange Meetups: Check out regular offline language exchange meetings in areas like Itaewon or Hongdae. This creates a Win-Win structure where your Korean friends can boost their English, and you can practice your Korean. The key mindset is to seek a 'Conversation Partner,' not just a 'Language Exchange Partner.'



📍 The Magic of Becoming a 'Regular' in Your Neighborhood

  • Local Cafes/Small Restaurants: If you're staying long-term, don't hunt for new tourist spots daily. Instead, find a favorite tasty café or restaurant in your neighborhood and become a regular. Build closeness by engaging in light conversation and compliments: "What do you recommend today", or "The food is delicious!"

  • Create Your Own Local Hangout: Frequently visit spots where you can authentically experience Korean 20s culture. We recommend Coin Karaoke (Noraebang) or a PC Room! If you visit a PC Room alone, try asking the Korean person next to you about a popular game or recommended snack. An accidental meeting might just start there.


2. Enjoying Cultural Differences: Dining, Drinking, and Relationship Culture

 

True Korean relationships begin at the table. To truly become 'one of them', you must understand this culture.

📍 Korean Sharing Culture and Relationship Building

  • The Food Sharing Culture (N/1): Unlike Western culture, it is common in Korea to share communal dishes like stews or soup. "Eating one dish together" often means, "We are one." Be proactive—offer to spoon food into their bowl first or encourage them to "Eat together."

  • Efforts for a 'Home-Cooked' Experience: Being invited to a Korean friend's home for a meal is a truly special experience—it signifies a high level of trust and intimacy. Try inviting your Korean friend over first to cook a dish from your country, or increase intimacy by offering small helps.


📍 Understanding Korean 'Age' and 'Titles'

  • The Importance of 'Title' Culture: In Korea, age establishes the hierarchy of a relationship. While asking someone's age upon first meeting might seem rude in the West, in Korea, it's an essential step to set the 'title' and foster closeness. Actively use titles like "Eonni/Oppa/Hyeong/Noona" even if your Korean is clumsy; locals will welcome it and open their hearts.

  • Nunchi and Consideration: A core element of Korean culture is Nunchi (social intuition). Observing another person's mood or situation without them explicitly saying anything is seen as a virtue of consideration. Small actions build trust: filling your friend's soju glass when it’s empty, or asking, "Should we leave?" if they look tired.

  • Mastering Drinking 'Etiquette': Korean drinking culture is unique. Learn basic manners, such as receiving a drink with two hands and turning your head to drink when receiving a glass from an older person (senior). This demonstrates important respect. Don't hesitate to join in and shout "Geonbae (Cheers)!" when the moment arises!

 

3. Daily Digital & Consumer Culture

Korea is one of the fastest and most efficient digital societies in the world. You must understand and utilize this pace to easily connect with Koreans and share in their dynamic daily life. Also, traditional markets are where the Korean way of life breathes most dynamically—it’s where you can experience the deepest sense of Jeong (communal warmth).

📍 Transforming into a Digital Local: Korea’s Palli-Palli and Hyper-Connected Culture

  • Understanding the Positive Side of Palli-Palli (Quickly-Quickly): This is the core driving force of Korean culture, rooted in efficiency and a will to solve problems. Experience the miracle of food arriving via delivery apps in just 20-30 minutes, and understand the Korean expectation of 'speed.'

  • Adapting to Hyper-Connected Communication (KakaoTalk/Group Chats): Once you make a Korean friend, the main communication channel is KakaoTalk. Actively engage with local friends in the group chat using emojis and memes!


📍 Exploring Traditional Markets: The Essence of Local Culture

  • Experiencing Jeong Culture in the Market: Be brave! Join a table at the Bunsik (Korean snack) corner and strike up a conversation with the local next to you. Through this process, you will experience Korea’s unique culture of 'free service' and warm local generosity.

  • Attempt Conversation with Vendors: Don't just pay when buying things. Increase closeness by asking vendors questions like, "How do I eat this?" or "Is there a famous place to eat nearby?" You will catch a glimpse of their life wisdom and warm hearts.



4. Active Participation: Deep Exchange Through Social Activities

 

Beyond simple tourism, we’ll show you how to gain meaningful experiences as a participant in Korean society. The Korean government and local authorities run many dynamic programs for foreigners to experience culture and even act as cultural ambassadors.

📍 Beyond K-Culture: Traditional and Regional Experiences

  • Participate in Local Festivals and Holidays: Join hands-on programs at unique regional festivals. Local festivals are the best place to experience the collective energy and culture of the local residents all at once!

🌟Recommended Festivals: Boryeong Mud Festival, Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Festival, Andong International Maskdance Festival, Jinju Namgang Yudeung (Lantern) Festival, etc.

  • Experience Korean Tradition and Arts: Beyond K-Pop Dance, consider enrolling in a Taekwondo class or classes for traditional arts like Gukak (Korean music) or traditional dance.

📍 Utilizing Platforms and Programs for Foreign Residents

  • Seoul Global Cultural Experience Center: Global centers in major tourist spots like Myeongdong or Hongdae run various daily one-day classes for foreigners. You can naturally converse with Korean instructors and fellow participants while learning about Hanbok, K-Pop Dance, or Hansik Cooking.

  • Seoul Tourism Plaza 'Cultural Experience Programs': Check the Visit Seoul English website for programs like calligraphy or traditional crafts.

  • Vokunteering Programs: Join program for language and cultural exchange volunteering, or other community support to gain experience contributing to Korean society. Look for opportunities on Korea GapYear to find volunteer roles. This allows for a deeper, shared daily life with your host.






The most important thing is courage! Don't worry too much about clumsy Korean or cultural mistakes. Koreans view foreigners who genuinely try to understand their culture in a positive light. You are a participant, not just an observer. If you want more diverse information like this, check out the Korea Gap Year! 

 

🇰🇷 Why Korean Host Families Prefer Au Pairs: Discover Your Value!

 

You're dreaming of a unique experience in Korea. But settling into an unfamiliar place—securing accommodation and covering living costs while diving deep into the culture—isn't easy. This is exactly where your value meets the needs of a Korean host family. Busy modern Korean households need foreign Au Pairs due to the necessity of English education and childcare support for their children. Discover the specific reasons Korean families look forward to your participation and the amazing experiences this opportunity will offer you right now!

 

1. The New Standard for Child Education: Creating a Living Foreign Language Environment 💬

 

In modern Korean households, foreign language education (primarily English) is no longer optional—it's essential. The most important reason Korean host families need an Au Pair is to provide their children with an environment where they can acquire a foreign language naturally through daily life, not just through rote memorization.

📍 Host Family Expectations

  • Language Proficiency Improvement: Serve as the core educational partner who helps boost the children's English speaking skills and confidence.

  • Expanding Cultural Horizons: Provide the opportunity for children to develop an international perspective from a young age and learn tolerance for diverse cultures.

📍 Special Value You Gain

  • Professional Skill Enhancement: Your language and cultural knowledge are recognized as a premium educational service beyond simple caregiving, making this a meaningful experience for future career development.

  • Mentor Satisfaction: Achieve a high sense of reward and satisfaction through the unique experience of directly contributing to the children's growth and having a positive impact on their lives.

2. The Reliable Supporter for Working Families: Stable Life and Childcare Relief 🏡


You will provide essential practical support to busy modern Korean families. Korea has a very high dual-income ratio, leading to massive demand for stable and reliable childcare support. The Au Pair is the most trusted family member and supporter, allowing host parents to focus on their careers with peace of mind.

📍 Host Family Expectations

  • Trust-Based Childcare Partner: Provide responsible care and household support in a safe environment, helping prevent parental career breaks and maintaining household stability.

  • Adherence to Clear Working Hours: Establish a predictable and stable living system by adhering to the agreed-upon schedule tailored to the family's needs.

 

📍 Special Value You Gain

  • Guaranteed Economic Security: With full support for room and board, you can begin your life in Korea without major fixed living expenses. This is the biggest advantage differentiating it from financially burdensome Working Holiday schemes.

  • Sufficient Free Time and Flexibility: Outside of agreed work hours, you are guaranteed time to focus on personal growth and leisure activities, such as traveling Korea, studying Korean (e.g., registering for a language class), or socializing with friends.





3. Deep Dive into Korean Culture: Life-Integrated Cultural Experience Beyond Tourism 🌐

 

The Korea you've encountered through K-Pop and K-Dramas is just the tip of the iceberg. While countless tourists visit Seoul's landmarks and leave, the real Korean lifestyle is hidden deep within the daily lives of its people. The Korean family gains a new perspective and vitality through exchange with you, and in turn, you gain a unique chance to step into their 'real' daily life.

 

📍 Host Family Expectations

  • Fostering Mutual Cultural Understanding: Inject new culture and perspectives into the host home, fostering diversity and openness for the entire family.

  • Role as a Private Diplomat: Demonstrate a willingness to adapt well to Korean society and culture, building positive experiences that enhance Korea's global image.

📍 Special Value You Gain

  • Deep Integration into Korean Life: You experience the true daily life of Koreans through the eyes of a family member—something tourism can never offer. You maximize your cultural understanding through experiencing Korean holidays, dining etiquette, and weekend activities.

Improved Language and Social Adaptability: Consistent conversation with the family provides the most effective environment for boosting your Korean language skills, helping you naturally integrate into Korean society.



Ultimately, the Korean host family sincerely hopes to provide their children with a new language environment and warm care through genuine cultural exchange with you. The Au Pair program is your best opportunity to experience the true daily life of Korea while sharing your valuable skills, all without worrying about accommodation. If you are curious about more details on this special cultural exchange, visit the Korea Gap Year website now!

Next Post |Surviving the Freeze: A Dutch Girl’s Winter Gap Year Guide to Korea
Previous Post|Living in Seoul for 3 Months: My Honest Korea Gap Year Experience