10 Years as a Foreigner Living in Korea 🇰🇷 Pros and Cons of Living Here

[@aleksei8884]

I have been living in Seoul for 2 years now, and its been a great experience. I started off as a korean language student and ended up opening my business here that has been doing well for almost a year now. cant wait to see how life goes here

[@lostthenfound]

Wow great job @aleksei8884! Hope your business does well and all the best with your life in Korea!

[@Kobbernaut]

are you hiring (: @aleksei8884

[@H_0735]

That’s so great you started a business! What’s your business?

[@Wiki024]

Is there anything to do because I usually go to famous theme parks in America and I know Japan has a Disney and Universal

[@smirk01_]

that's awesome man I hope you're doing well! I'm gonna become a Korean language student pretty soon so I been doing a lot of research on Korea and started to get ahead with my studies before I go there but I'm really excited

[@BrianHSC]

I'm opposite since I'm Korean living in USA but it's funny that everything you say applies to me as well. I think these are general difficulties any foreigner face living abroad. Not just in Korea.

[@lostthenfound]

I bet you there are a lot of similarities for sure! Totally agree that no matter where you live as a foreigner, there will be difficulties faced. Korea treats me really well on the whole though!

[@mone6773]

Yes its hard to be a foreigner who try to make in a other country but least you don't get a bad racially profiled a Asians in US or Canada perhaps you will never understand, so if you think it is difficult to be adapted to be a Korean society think all other minorities living in racist western world.

[@lostthenfound]

I agree and know that I have it easier as a caucasian man in this world for sure. The world isn't fair unfortunately, and I think the difficulties that minorities face in the Western world is uncomparible to what I face. My life is quite good overall here!

[@Nimora]

Typical Korean defensiveness, trying to dismiss anything negative about Korea

[@Oren0614]

@@mone6773 at the end of the day almost everyone is racist they just don't show it. no matter where you are as long as you work hard and something to show people will show respect, your victim mindset has nothing to do with it. most racism i have faced living in the states were from african americans, and why do i even let that bother me when i know asian americans are doing far better than them

[@williamfiore1732]

110% Spot on!! I'm an American who spent my Decade from 1980 to 1990 and everything you have experienced I did too!!! In fact I was fortunate to have seen Korea rise from the Dictatorships to the Seoul Olympics. You have NO idea how much EVERYTHING has changed since then!!! Just wanted to tell you that you are in the Very Best Country for Experiencing an Overseas Lifestyle!!!!! Good Luck with your teaching and Marriage. Korean women are Unique in this World!!!

[@lostthenfound]

Thanks so much @williamfiore1732! I can imagine that Korea is an entirely different country now! I think I'm really lucky and fortunate to be here!

[@user-chjteadbj]

"Korean women are unique." LOL There must be some like hidden meanings.

[@sandihunter1260]

My son has been in Korea for 9 years, first as an English teacher and now a headmaster at an International School. He loves Korea and has a Korean girlfriend. I haven't seen him in 5 years but this Christmas he is coming home to Canada!!!

[@lostthenfound]

Oh wow you haven't seen him in 5 years eh? You must be so excited for him coming home for Christmas! Hope you guys have an amazing holiday time together!

[@koreatraveljennyjo5757]

Have you visited Korea?

[@sandihunter1260]

@@koreatraveljennyjo5757 Yes in may 2024 and I loved it!!

[@baehongkim952]

Congratulations!

[@김도헌-n3w]

한국인이지만 중간에 굉장히 공감되기 때문에 웃기는 부분도 있었고 흥미로운 내용도 있었습니다. 저도 직장 동료중에 외국인 친구들 있는데 한국에 살면서 이런 느낌이겠구나 하는 생각이 드네요. 당신이 앞으로도 행복하시길 바랄께요! ❤❤

[@lostthenfound]

@user-sj8rl6rl6c님 감사합니다! 저는 한국에서 살 수 있으니까 운이 좋다고 생각하고 앞으로도 기대가 많이 돼요! 😊 @user-sj8rl6rl6c님도 좋은 하루 되시고 행복하세요~

[@mpandunky]

Your video has made me realize that Korea's property development has been quite balanced between modern buildings & nature. The city doesn't just have more buildings; it's got more trees and functioning parks as well.

[@lostthenfound]

They are certainly trying to include more green spaces when developing which is good to see. A lot of the "new cities" have central parks that go through the middle of the city, so you can walk through trees when commuting to work or buying groceries.

[@ytn00b3]

not enough demand for new property, as matter of facts - Korea need to reduce or even close down some areas and return to nature

[@지구별여행자-c2s]

@@lostthenfound 맞아요 . 요즘 아파트 건설은 국가에서 30% 녹지 비율을 의무화 하고 있습니다. 그리고 회사들은 더 쾌적한 모습으로 더 빠른 분양을 위해 1-10% 녹지를 더 투자하는 방향으로 경쟁하고 있습니다. 단점은 녹지비율 때문에 건물이 점점 높아지고 있어요

[@trex1448]

​​​@@fbotcjptuI've been to Korea and Seoul. You're talking about whichever neighborhood you lived at. This guy's entire video shows otherwise. Previous poster says law stipulate at least 30% green space with new developement.

[@--ZENITH--]

@@fbotcjptu hey liar. you don't live there.

[@guillaumedenis5979]

Great video ! As a French who lived in Korea for a year back in 2015 I can tell than Korean work market is really tough for foreigners, especially if you don’t have any particular skill. I really enjoyed living in Seoul and traveling around the country but when it came to job search it was quite tough to be honest. To anyone who is considering to live in Korea, I would really say that you need to be prepared for the extremely competitive work market. Nobody is waiting for you there and you will need to prove your value over and over again. That said, Korea is an amazing country to live in, with a great culture, amazing food, and friendly people.

[@lostthenfound]

Totally agree with everything you say! It's a tough place to prove your worth, but very rewarding once you get your foot in the door.

[@harrye9105]

한국 사람도 특별한 기술 없으면 먹고 살기 힘들어요 :P... 진짜 요즘 물가도 오르고 살기가 너무 빡세고 힘드네요. "유럽이 지루한 천국이라면 한국은 재밌는 지옥" 알고 오시면 좋겠네요 :) +P.S) 끝까지 스킵없이 잘 보았습니다. 훌륭한 영상에 감사드립니다!!

[@doubletrouble3241]

Getting a decent job is very difficult even for native Koreans if you don't have a particular skill. I guess it is true for every country.

[@guillaumedenis5979]

I agree that it is tough everywhere but to me Korea is another level. I have a background in science, including a master degree in industrial engineering but when I was in Korea I couldn't get any private tutoring job, mostly because Korean parents who I dealt with wanted a tutor who graduated from a top level university. I also tried English tutoring (though I am not native speaker I have a pretty decent level) but I was always denied from 학원 because I wasn't a native speaker. And the list goes on. If you are not fluent in Korean or a native English speaker, Korea is super tough.

[@vrsc9312]

Hello! And what about remote working for example as an IT specialist, for some international companies, maybe outside Korea - is it a viable way to work and live in Korea?

[@aellope3849]

I'm Korean and it is refreshing to see my country in foreigner's view point. For police problem, unless someone is physically assaulted, they tend to have "Well, nothing we can do." attitude. However if you really want police to do their job, you can ask police officer's name and file a complaint.

[@lostthenfound]

Thanks so much for this useful information @aellope3849! We didn't try this back then, but I think it would have helped for sure.

[@RajiRahan]

Hi, I'm just wondering how people in Korea would treat people with darker skin colors? I'm from South Asia, where most people have brown skin. I'm a lighter brown though because my mom has fair skin. I've always wanted to move Korea but I'm kind of scared that they judge people with darker skin colors there. 😭

[@mmm-hd1lz]

​​@RajiRahan I'm Korean. Please understand that this article may sound strange because I turned the translator. People will probably stare at u whenever u go to a place with high probability. But you won't be able to adapt to this, but don't worry. It's not a hostile gaze, it's just looking at it out of curiosity that's different from themselves Koreans have lived as a single ethnic group for a long time, so when they see different skin colors and races, they tend to look at them, especially as they get older. And try to speak Korean as much as possible. Regardless of your skin color, most of you will try to be kind. Of course, there can be no discrimination against skin color. There's no perfect country, right?

[@RajiRahan]

@@mmm-hd1lz Ok, thank you!

[@anthonylim2428]

Korean-Canadian here. I had moved to Korea for about a year back in '07 working as a mechanic.. unexpectedly lol I worked 13 hours a day and the only days I had off were Sundays. It was quite an experience. I don't know how Koreans do it and still enjoy their life. Maybe not all but most. I guess that's the norm if you were born in Korea. The hardest thing for me when I had to go back was - 정... people were genuinely nice and full of 정. They always tried to take care of me(I was the yongest) and take me out for dinner and etc but more so as my own brother and sister if that makes sense. I literally cried for hours when I had to leave... I'll never forget that... 정 is the nicest thing ever but yet the most hurtful when or if you have to leave it behind..

[@lostthenfound]

Thanks for the message! That must have been really tough working as a mechanic here. I have no idea how you were able to go through that! It amazes me too what people go through on a day to day basis here. I am not nearly strong enough to go through what a lot of people go through here. I know what you mean about 정 too. Koreans are really great at taking care of each other on the whole, and friendships here are insanely deep. It feels like a true bond, where people will do anything for their friends and family, and it's really beautiful if you think about it.

[@richsmith3300]

Funny you should say that i just watched a docco of koreans throwing themselves off their work place buidings .

[@TimaMikheev]

Amazing insides on some aspects of the culture that people usually don't know of. I'm so happy to hear you feel accepted and welcome here. I've been here for over 7 years and have also been thinking of making a video on cultural differences and things that are different in me after living here for so long. Amazing content, keep it up!

[@lostthenfound]

Thank you so much! Wow 7 years! You've definitely seen a lot of changes in Korea too then. Also you should make a video about it too! There are so many things to talk about, and everyone has different and unique experiences, so it's really good to share your experience! Also I have no idea why, but this video got me like 50x more views than I've ever gotten before lol. It might be a trending topic? I have no idea. Hope all is well, and 화이팅!!

[@jasej4525]

@@lostthenfound Yeah, I believe it's because it got recommended on the side (like me). Thanks for your honest opinion and insightful video.

[@Hdr-rg7fkz]

Korean citizen in the US here. Can't agree more that things change so quickly in Korea. I recently visited Korea for the first time in about 10 years, and things were quite strange at first. I didn't know how to call a taxi anymore, so many slang words I have no idea about, the food scene was different, now people don't rush into the subway before everyone gets out, etc. It was strange to feel like an outsider while in my home country. I'm sure the US has changed a lot too in the last 10 years, but probably nowhere near Korea.

[@김도헌-n3w]

10년동안 어떤것들이 변했나요??

[@lostthenfound]

@DK-rm4cj It must have been quite a shock to see everything change eh! Haha Kakao Taxi has completely changed the taxi system, and people definitely don't rush onto subways/buses as much anymore. It must have been really fun to see the changes though! When I go back to Canada, things seem mostly the same but a lot less workers working minimum wage jobs (because you can't survive like that) and homelessness has increased unfortunately.

[@lasvegascity]

군대 2년만 갔다와도 강산이 바뀌어 있는데.. 우리나라 진짜 너무 빨리 바뀜

[@opicnojam]

What an incredible record of a decade-long transformation!

[@lostthenfound]

@opicnojam thank you so much! It was pretty interesting to see how fast Osan changed in that time. There are massive projects going on in Seoul for the next 10 years as well, so it's not stopping anytime soon! Haha

[@MrTraveller.]

Great perspective & dialogue. Been living in Taiwan 🇹🇼 +10yrs & can relate. I love living in Asia

[@lostthenfound]

Taiwan is awesome too! Love going there every time! I agree that living in Asia is amazing!

[@P7ejfjr]

As a Korean, yeah this is accurate. It's not a perfect place for everyone I think. But it would be quite good place to live in long-term if someone is willing to adjust their lifestyle and try to learn

[@lostthenfound]

Agree for sure! I'm really lucky to have found a place like Korea to live in, and can't wait for the future as well!

[@jackier1726]

I already know a bit about Korea and what living there may be like as I have been looking into it for about two years so far, but I really wanted to say how informative this video was. There were no bells and whistles, no romanticisation, just pure facts and experience presented in such an honest and coherent way. Watching this felt like having a chat with a good friend. It took me back to when I knew nothing about Korea, and it's honestly so refreshing. Thank you for making this video.

[@lostthenfound]

@jackier1726 thank you so much! Really glad to hear that! There are so many more things to talk about that weren't in this video as you know ( edited out about 15-20 minutes of "back in my day" stuff haha), but it's definitely important to be honest on social media these days with all of the sensationalism that goes on for sure!

[@Tt-at]

영상이 뭔가 고퀄이고 전문가스럽다고 생각했는데 관련 일을 하셨군요. 다양한 노력이 당신의 멋진 오늘을 만들어 준 것 같네요 앞으로도 화이팅입니다!

[@lostthenfound]

@Tt-at님 감사합니다! 저는 한국에서 살 수 있어서 운이 좋다고 생각해요. 그리고 한국의 미래에 대해서 엄청 궁금하고 기대되네요! @Tt-at님도 화이팅 하시고 좋은 하루 보내세요~

[@eliasorbon450]

A wonderful video deserves a worthy comment. I lived in Korea for five transformative years and resonate deeply with your analysis. I'd add that the quiet public decorum is a rare gem, and property ownership can indeed pave a golden road to prosperity. However, these pros have their darker reflections. The soaring property market devalues labor, leading to an unsettling imbalance. Upon learning Korean, the veneer of politeness revealed a landscape of superficial interactions, seldom reaching the depth I yearned for. Coupled with an unsustainable demographic curve and a work culture demanding yet unrewarding, I found myself at an existential crossroads. While Korea offered a magical introduction during my 2018 Seollal arrival, the enchantment inevitably wore off, leaving a sense of unfulfilled potential. Ultimately, I've found my sanctuary in Thailand, a land teeming with the diversity that I felt was stifled in Korea. Your video beautifully captured the pros and cons, but it's worth noting that what makes a place 'home' varies for each of us, shaped by our unique experiences and values.

[@eliasorbon450]

I must add, this is your best video yet! You keep improving conceptually. Your production value is stellar, as always. No surprises there. Keep it up.

[@eliasorbon450]

And I still often visit Korea, and probably will forever!

[@lostthenfound]

Thanks so much Elias! Definitely agree with you that it can be extremely hard to have deeper interactions with people here, and the work culture is extremely unrewarding. As you have definitely noticed, most people prefer to stick to the surface and just talk about food/celebrities/appearance of things when meeting up as friends or colleagues. I don't know exactly why to be honest, but a lot of people might be worried that their relationships will turn sour if they have vastly different opinions from each other. The work culture is also really frustrating with the mindset of "because I can, I will" getting rewarded so much, especially with the higher ups taking advantage of the workers below them for as much personal gain as possible. I don't think these things are uniquely Korean, but you definitely feel the impact of them in daily life here. On the other side of things, it impresses me so much when you see people here acting selflessly, doing things for the greater good and not just for personal gain/advantage. They've grown up in an extremely competitive environment where their selfless actions are often not rewarded, and even seen as "weak". However, they continue to live this way regardless of being rewarded or not. These are the people that are keeping me here, and I'm seeing them more and more every day. Totally agree that everyone is different and a place we call "home" varies for everyone. I'm happy that you found your place in Thailand! Every time I've been there I have definitely noticed a certain warmth from people. I've only scratched the surface there, but they seem to be very welcoming of people from different countries/cultures. Very curious how you feel after you've lived there for a while too!

[@eliasorbon450]

@lostthenfound You're spot-on about the tension in relationships due to differing opinions. For me, the most striking issue was Korea's devaluation of labor. In stark contrast, Thailand prioritizes labor value, preserving domestic purchasing power. While foreign investment in Korea elevates property values, benefiting landowners, it often leaves young, non-property-owning workers behind. This isn't unique to Korea; we see it in countries like Canada and the U.S. as well. Thailand's approach, restricting foreign real estate investment, actually stands out as the unique model here. Moreover, Korea's retirement system, coupled with a dwindling young workforce and resistance to foreign labor, presents a worrisome future. It's hard to commit to a system with such an uncertain outlook.

[@lostthenfound]

Wow that's awesome to hear about Thailand! Sounds like a lot of the world could learn a lot from them.

[@calvinstark338]

I love your attitude! It's realistic but positive :) My halmoni is from Osan!

[@lostthenfound]

Thanks so much @calvinstark338! That's awesome your 할머니 is from there too! Osan is almost becoming like Dongtan these days (newer with more highrise buildings). The bus terminal is pretty futuristic now too!

[@yasminelee6759]

Don't know why, watching your video teared me up a bit... I guess I felt your sincere love and value toward Koreans and Korean culture. :) Look forward for your next video. Bravo!

[@lostthenfound]

That makes me really happy to hear and thanks for sharing that with me! Hope all is well, and stay healthy and happy! 😊

[@jasonnam5731]

한국에 좋은 인상을 갖게됨에 감사드립니다. Korean American 인 내아들보다 한국말을 잘하네요. 응원합니다

[@jyh1299]

고생이 많았네요! 영상 잘봤어요~~ 화이팅!

[@lostthenfound]

@jyh1299님 감사합니다!

[@antonias7637]

I think your comments are very fair. I think this experience of being a foreigner happens wherever you are. Kudos to you for being so open minded and forward thinking.

[@lostthenfound]

Thank you so much! Agree that a lot of this can happen anywhere in this world too!

[@user-sl309jd90]

I agree with many things as a Korean. Until very recently I started living in Italy, I didn't realize a single restaurant can offer all the food. I mean, all the restaurants here will be just written 'ristorante' without any information outside. Then the restaurant menu will have lists of all the Italian cuisine that people will individually choose from, while in Korea all the restaurants will specialize in only few specific menu. The restaurants in Korea wouldn't be titled as 'restaurant' but rather with a specific food name. So what happens is a group of people will always have to decide and come up with an identical menu choice before going to a restaurant, because everyone will probably be eating the same thing! It's so weird that I never thought this was a strange thing because I was born there and lived there whole my life. It was indeed a huge cultural aspect of Korea that I didn't realize, probably could be the whole East Asian thing. Though in Italy as well some exceptions do exist like if you go to pizzeria then you would eat pizza. But they will have hundreds of pizza choices including vegetarian. Anyone thinking to go live in Korea who has a limited variety of food choices will be likely to suffer a lot if you hang out with Koreans.

[@lostthenfound]

It's very interesting to hear from the opposite perspective of a Korean person going to live abroad! Canada sounds similar to Italy, where you can usually order a variety of different foods at one restaurant (except for certain restaurants) and then everyone just orders what they want. Haha when I first got to Korea, I went into every restaurant in my neighborhood and just said "비빔밥?" and everyone was so confused. (I couldn't read 한글 so I didn't know what food they had lol). I didn't understand that I would have to find a specific place like a 김밥천국 to eat a 비빔밥. Now I'm totally used to the system here though and love eating out here because it's so comfortable and the servers don't keep doing small talk haha.

[@bikechingu]

Time flies so fast. For sure, I will miss all the convenience of Korea when I go home for good. Transportation, fast internet, convenient stores, returning items at department stores. But most especially, I will miss the bike paths and mountain trails. Cheers!

[@lostthenfound]

It's so fast eh Thoan! Feels like just yesterday when I first got here. Also Korea's cycling and hiking are so amazing, and I would definitely miss them a lot too if I ended up leaving here. When did you first get here and long do you plan to stay for?

[@bikechingu]

@@lostthenfound 1997-2003, then 2009 up to now. Maybe a few more years. I've spent more time away from my family, and a month's vacation really couldn't fill up the gap. Stay safe guys!

[@lostthenfound]

@@bikechingu Wow you were living here in '97?! Korea must have been an entirely different country back then eh? That's really amazing! Stay safe out there too eh!

[@teshi1424]

This is a great, informative, balanced video. Glad that it’s not sensationalized

[@lostthenfound]

Thank you so much @teshi1424!

[@iPaulLee]

Great video. I’m Korean American and understand a lot of what you said about Korean culture. Thanks for sharing

[@lostthenfound]

Thanks a lot @iPaulLee!

[@walterpelaez1146]

I’m planning on working in Korea for a year starting in November at a Hagwon and watching videos like these are really helpful to give me an idea of what I’m getting into. Can’t wait !

[@lostthenfound]

@walterpelaez1146 so happy to hear that! Thanks so much for watching, and all the best with your future life in Korea! Good to note months 3-6 will probably be the hardest after you settle in and things aren't "new and exciting" anymore (I almost quit at that point), but it usually gets a lot better after that!

[@walterpelaez1146]

@@lostthenfound oh what got rough in months 3-6? Thanks for the kind words btw

[@lostthenfound]

@@walterpelaez1146 it's just a psychological thing after the honeymoon phase where you start settling into a new country. All of a sudden the things that are "new and exciting" become "cumbersome and hard to deal with." Not everyone faces this though, and just wanted to give some encouragement in case you do that it will definitely go away!

[@ru2188]

Funny, this year is 10 years in Korea for me, too. The KZbin algorithm amazes me every day. Oh, and I love your video.

[@lostthenfound]

Thanks a lot! Haha that's awesome congrats on your 10 years here! I strongly recommend visiting the area you started in and seeing the changes. Will be a great trip down memory lane as well!

[@claribelle]

I am so glad to hear how you listed these points, as I too feel the same even though I lived there for only 5 months so far! Often my peers think living here is like "perfect" but it really is just like any other place: got its ups and downs!! please live happily with your family there man, god bless 🙏🏻

[@lostthenfound]

Thank you very much @claribelle! All the best with your life here in Korea!

[@EverlastingEclipses]

as korean having lived in states for just couple years shy of a decade and have returned back to korea, the idea of trying to fit in to Korean societal norm is crazy to me. and watching videos like you and many other foreigners really just helps me better understand the situation and feel sort of 동질감 to how i feel living here starting from zero again. (well at least for me anyway) Knowing how the subway works in seoul, knowing how the 물가 price is different versus in USA. etc etc. also people are just drastically different both culturally and socially. All these little bits factors into an obstruction to my way of readjusting into Korean life. but thank you for posting such videos to help me really understand my country once again and embrace the differences.

[@logophilelyss4390]

I love that your intonation? Inflection? Is a mix of English and Korean at this point- I can't imagine how natural your Korean sounds!

[@lostthenfound]

@logophilelyss4390 haha I struggle a lot with intonation in general. I don't think I have the ears for it, but I'm from the countryside in Canada which probably has a big effect on my English intonation. My Korean is enough to get by and do anything I want here, but it doesn't sound like a Korean person that's for sure! Will have to keep practicing as much as I can!

[@logophilelyss4390]

@@lostthenfound Then we're in the same boat! My intonation leaves a lot to be desired in Korean and native English too lol

[@volatilemessage7025]

Wow non-stop 20 min talking video but it is surprising finding me enjoying watching it without any pause! Bravo!!

[@lostthenfound]

That's really nice to hear @volatilemessage7025! You made my day with that! (Was pretty nervous filming it to be honest lol)

[@HahahahahaLoveyou]

미국에 8년째 살고 있는 한국사람이에요~ 영상을 너무 잘 만드시네요! 아름다운 영상, 공감가는 주제, 영어선생님 답게 발음도 너무 정확해서 영어공부 겸 잘 봤어요! 또 놀러올게요:)

[@lostthenfound]

@heekyungkim2287님 감사합니다! 미국에서 살면서 어려움을 많이 겪으실 것 같아요. 저는 원래 캐나다 시골사람이라서 영어발음이 좀 느린 편이에요. ㅋㅋㅋㅋ 즐거운 하루 되세요~

[@user-bz5io6ph8w]

Thanks, this is a really good straightforward introduction!

[@lostthenfound]

Thank you very much @user-bz5io6ph8w!

[@MuhammedAli-td5qs]

Thank you so much for sharing your experience.

[@MagicGreenSquid]

A very clear and well-balanced assessment, mate. Much appreciated (from Australia).

[@lostthenfound]

Thank you very much @MagicGreenSquid!

[@dannyy8619]

I really enjoyed this video Matt!!! You probably don't remember me, but this is Danny. We met a long ago around 2015 I'd say to watch GSL. I occasionally came across your activities on Facebook, but I'm glad to hear you're doing well. 10 years is a long time! Hope you and Yujin had a good Chuseok and wish you all the best for the next 10 years as well!

[@lostthenfound]

Hey Danny! I remember watching GSL with you and Nick! That French company was going to film us talking about StarCraft at a bar too for a documentary haha (I don't think we ended up filming it from what I remember though). Haven't watched StarCraft 2 in a while but it's still barely hanging on by a thread here! (StarCraft 1 is doing better though) Hope you had a great Chuseok and are doing well too! Stay healthy and take care!

[@alexouellette6472]

Really useful video. I lived in Korea for 2 years from 2010-2012. He hits the nail on the head.

[@lostthenfound]

Thanks so much @alexouellette6472!

[@youtubebusiness1728]

Wow you just speak out of my Heart. That's exactly what I needed. Amazing. Thank you

[@lostthenfound]

Thanks so much @youtubebusiness1728! I'm glad it was helpful!

[@lilililliilil]

I’m Korean and have no ideas y I’m watching your video, but it provides a decent information based on the facts and experience. Well spoken!❤

[@lostthenfound]

Thanks so much @lilililliilil! Glad there was some value to it!

[@TheManyManyMore]

Wonderful video and quality information. Thank you for sharing your insights and experiences!

[@lostthenfound]

Thanks so much @TheManyManyMore!

[@Fynmarr]

Thank you for the insight. I visited Busan about 18 months ago to meet my fiance's family. Things didn't work out, but her family, the culture and the environment I experienced was the greatest I've ever been around. I dream of going back every day. Time to make it happen. Cheers.

[@lostthenfound]

@Fynmarr sorry to hear that things didn't work out, but so glad to hear that you found a place that you connect with! Hope you can make it back here someday, and all the best with life's journey ahead!

[@szvqorwnpstahskypfwmp9821]

I used to live and work in 세교 Osan too! I have worked at Keumam Elementary School in Osan from 2012~2014 as an English teacher like you. Osan has developed tremendously as you said!! Lastly, Asian Americans living in the U.S. are not considered "real Americans" by "Americans" even though they were born and raised and speak perfect English due to their race/ethnicity. I know because I am an Asian descent born and raised in Michigan and I get asked, "Where are you really from?" everywhere I go in the U.S. feeling like I don't belong there and being treated like a foreigner. So, don't take it personally if you are not accepted as a "real" Korean living in Korea because, after all, Korea is a very homogenous country with 95% Koreans with five thousand a rich history. It is not a multicultured/immigrant country like the U.S. and Canada. Nevertheless, Korea is still a great country to live in for foreigners. It's a very safe, organized, efficient, and welcoming country for everyone!! At least you do not have to worry about violent hate crimes and getting attacked by random strangers living in Korea just because you are a foreigner, unlike many innocent Asian Americans who literally face every day in the U.S. just for being Asians!! This was quite common during the pandemic!! So wrong and unjust!! Great video!! Bye~

[@harleydavis3814]

"Where are you really from?" I can really relate to this, I'm mixed and from Missouri, I got this a lot growing up there

[@lostthenfound]

Wow no way that's awesome! Most of my students were from 금암초 so we definitely taught the same kids! We probably passed each other on the street sometimes back then without realizing it too haha. It's really unfortunate that Asian Americans like yourself have to worry about hate crimes and being attacked just because of your appearance. It must be so frustrating being treated like that in your home country. Places like USA and Canada get a lot of reputation for being accepting of people of all races and cultures, but as you’ve said and experienced, it’s not always the case, and it's crazy how far some people are willing to go and verbally/physically harm others for their race/ethnicity. I wish everyone had the chance to see the world directly (and not through the eyes of the media) to realize that we are all the same! Also I totally agree with you that life is mostly good here as a foreigner (especially as a caucasian). I feel way more accepted here than I ever expected, and I've never felt threatened by people because I'm not the same as them. I mostly outlined the things about not being a “real Korean” in the video as they are topics that other people are curious about on KZbin, but they don’t bother me on a day to day basis to be honest. I feel friendliness and curiousity from people every day here, which I have no problem with at all. Obviously there is room for improvement, but it gets better every year which makes me really optimistic for my future here!

[@vmoses1979]

As a Canadian of African descent- I think making a comparison between Korea and the US/Canada on this basis is a false analogy. You have citizenship and recognition as an American or Canadian from an immigrant background. There really is no equivalent. I think anecdotal questions from ignorant people don't change the fact Canada and the US are immigrant nations that have a broad view of who can be a fellow American or Canadian.

[@sergel02]

Ehh Asian Americans still are considered Americans, as much as anyone else anyway, due to the country being an immigrant country. I’ve gotten questions of where I’m from, though it’s usually asking what my ethnic background is. There is a difference between Asian Americans and what being a foreigner in Korea or Japan is.

[@jm7578]

Only uncultured ignorant dolts will ask “ where are you really from ?” It’s no one’s business anyway. Stay well

[@kev2582]

This is really helpful content comprehensive for foreigners who wants to live in Korea. Respect to you for your 10 year journey and your successful landing!

[@lostthenfound]

Thank you so much @kev2582!

[@marksalinas5905]

Love seeing the photos of the same places taken from the same spot 10 years later. Well done.

[@lostthenfound]

Thanks so much @marksalinas5905! It's so cool to see how fast things change here!

[@ALEX-cs6vo]

Nobody said it would be easy... I admire your persistence and dedication ! We should definitely have a longer conversation about this in the future.

[@lostthenfound]

Thanks a lot Alex! Look forward to hearing about your trip and chatting about Korea when you are back in Seoul!

[@RyanKorea]

This was very interesting. I've been here for 7 years and I recently visited Osan. Really cool to see the comparison photos!

[@lostthenfound]

Thanks so much for watching @RyanKorea! Osan has changed so much over time, and it'll be interesting to see what it looks like in another 10 years!

[@tokee1234567]

I went to Osan from Canada when my father died in 2013. He stayed in Osan for a few years before he passed away. I lived there for 6 months and I still remember all the subway stations and the terminal too. Seeing your photo brings back so much memories. I lived more than 20 years abroad as an ethnic Korean and it’s crazy how places change. Where I live in Canada there has been major urbanization in smaller suburban areas in the last 10 years as well.

[@lostthenfound]

I'm sorry to hear about your father. You must have a lot of memories of Osan as well. Glad that I could show you what it looks like now. Osan is definitely a lot nicer and newer than it was back then, just like it sounds a lot of places in Canada are changing as well!

[@tristanvanberkom]

Man, nice video, you live very close to me haha I also lived in Korea since 2010, also originally Canadian, don’t plan on leaving. I’m not an English teacher and I respect that as an English teacher, you didn’t fall into the foreigner trap, and you made an effort to learn the culture and language! Final point, when Koreans compliment your Korean language skill, tell them you are very impressed by THEIR Korean language skill, it always gets a good laugh ;-)

[@lostthenfound]

Thanks a lot @tristanvanberkom! Wow sounds like you are in the same boat as me then eh, fellow Canadian lifer! 😁🇨🇦 I live in Seoul these days, but I miss a lot of things about living near 오산대역 for sure!

[@sunflower7874]

What do you do for ur job?

[@lostthenfound]

@sunflower7874 right now I'm trying out KZbin full time, but I also do freelance camera jobs when they are available.

[@remyespino1257]

Btw, I like the pictures of 2013 and 2023, awesome.

[@lostthenfound]

Thank you very much! 😊

[@triotams]

Thank you for sharing. It is helpful to hear the good, bad, and ugly truth about living in any country. It’s a grounded reality check. PS. I noted your Canucks hat. 😊. Best of health and luck to you and your family.

[@lostthenfound]

Thank you very much @triotams! Go Canucks go! All the best to you and your family as well! 😊

[@eent123]

I was raised up in Osan where it used to be a countryside. I am glad to find out your channel. The funny thing is that one of my Canadian friend wrote the book titled “Found and Lost” which is very similar to your channel name.

[@lostthenfound]

That's awesome! Osan has changed so much eh! Haha "Lost Then Found" is actually a reference to the fact that I used to feel lost when I lived in Canada, and I found myself when I came to Korea. Maybe your Canadian friend is similar? 😁

[@eent123]

@@lostthenfound Yes, it must be. I will find it out soon. Yes I think she is very similar to you. I felt your emotional in Australia. :)

[@jamierudberg4843]

Canadian here! Awesome video needed this! I moved to Korea 4 months ago to pursue English teaching and currently live in Gimhae si city!

[@lostthenfound]

Thanks so much for watching @jamierudberg4843! That's awesome you came here to teach, and Gimhae is a beautiful place for sure! All the best with your life here!

[@Ray.H1564]

I have been living in the Pyeongtaek area for about 2 years, my wife and I retired in the states and decided to move to korea, it has been a lot harder than we expected but now that we have bought our apartment and have our visa's straight we are happy with our decision.

[@lostthenfound]

That's great @Ray.H1564 thanks for sharing! Happy that you guys are enjoying your retirement here!

[@susiel374]

Loved the photo comparisons. Congrats on making Korea work out well for you!!

[@lostthenfound]

Thanks so much @susiel374! Really cool to see how fast Korea is changing for sure!

[@TM-li7bl]

Just subscribed bc you are so straight forward 🙏🥰 from SoCal, USA

[@lostthenfound]

Thanks a lot @TM-li7bl! 😊

[@smp528]

Nice video. As a Korean, in most of your opinions, I couldn't agree more. Especially the grocery prices these days... geez. :-( I feel sorry about what happened to you last time about the car scam. Although Korea is kind of well-known for having a good public safety system, sometimes it is very hard to get "reasonable" responses from cops even Koreans when bad things happen. Please keep it up and show us more about your life in Korea. Cheers!

[@lostthenfound]

Thanks so much! Haha grocery prices are out of control eh? Definitely happy with my life here overall though! Take care!

[@remenajtayo2132]

this is a great help for mr, coz I've been planing to work and live in korea for long term, and your video is like an Eye Opener, i hope that destiny brings me to that country, I'm really excited if that happens.

[@lostthenfound]

@remenajtayo2132 thanks so much for watching, and all the best with your life in Korea!

[@eddielim4132]

i like your honesty in this video without the grudge or the rose colored glasses. well dones mate!

[@lostthenfound]

Thanks a lot @eddielim4132!

[@geikiou3186]

I really appreciate your detailed and inspiring video, thanks for uploading and best regards 🎉

[@lostthenfound]

Thanks so much for the kind words @geikiou3186! Really appreciate it!

[@NangNangEE]

Well, I think you have an excellent personality which you could fit in at any society, any country, any place in the world.

[@lostthenfound]

Thank you very much! That's incredibly nice of you to say! Have a great day! 😊

[@adsxdaz]

Was looking forward to hearing your perspective and experiences on living here! Great storytelling .

[@lostthenfound]

Thanks a lot @adsxdaz! 😊 Hope all is well!

[@mollyzhou]

I’m considering going to Korea through the Fulbright program for 1 year so this was super helpful, thank you!

[@lostthenfound]

@mollyzhou I've never heard of that, I assume it's intended for research after graduation? That sounds like an amazing opportunity! All the best with your year in Korea! It's going to be a blast!

[@mollyzhou411]

@@lostthenfound haha I should have explained, yes Fulbright is a US program that lets students or recently graduated students spend a fully-funded year in a foreign country teaching English, doing research, or attending school! It’s application based, so I’m writing my application for a research project on Korean politics that I want to conduct in South Korea! Will keep you updated or let you know if I have any questions :)

[@lostthenfound]

@@mollyzhou411 oh thanks a lot for following up! That sounds incredibly interesting, as Korean politics is so incredibly in-depth and wild especially with the history over the last 125 years or so. Really appreciate it, and all the best with your time in Korea!

[@Kognito72]

Well done, mate. Your stories sounds just like mine, but ended up in Japan. How you describe Korean culture is so similar to Japan too. Thanks for making this video.

[@lostthenfound]

Thanks a lot @Kognito72! I'm sure there are a lot of similarities living in Korea and Japan for sure. Both of them are amazing countries!

[@Ad_Astra2023]

Hi, I just wanted to leave a comment to say that my husband and I appreciate your videos a lot. We're also an interracial couple-I'm Korean and my husband is British-and we both live in the UK. Thank you for sharing your honest opinions here. I can relate to what you mentioned, as I have lived in the UK for the past 22 years. While I am technically a British citizen, I'm afraid I may never fully feel like I belong here, and I do miss the warmth of the people in Korea. However, I will probably remain here, as I've lived away from Korea for so long that I don't feel a sense of belonging there anymore, either. Anyway, I just wanted to say that we're rooting for you across the globe, and we appreciate how you share your down-to-earth opinions through this channel.

[@lostthenfound]

@Ad_Astra2023 hi there thank you so much for the kind words and support! Really appreciate it! Also 22 years is a long time so I'm sure you've adapted a lot to the UK, and I can definitely imagine it's hard to feel like you fully belong there at the same time. Hope all is well with your life over there, and if you haven't, definitely consider coming to visit Korea here and there as it's pretty insane how much it's changing even these days!

[@justinstewart691]

First-time-watcher, Matt. That Homeplus-Osan view was interesting, the 10-years-ago view is how I remember it! I've been living in Suwon for the last 13 years as a small English business owner with my wife. Haven't been out there for ages but enjoyed the "blacksmith" restaurant and the botanical gardens. I don't get out much. Perhaps I'll go our there this long weekend. Thanks for the inspiration and all the best.

[@lostthenfound]

Hi @justinstewart691 thanks a lot! It's pretty crazy to see how much it changed down there eh! I'd definitely recommend checking out some older areas you used to visit just to see how they have changed. It's a really good trip down memory lane! Take care!

[@timetravelr3000]

Well said. Korea is a great place. I met my wife in Seoul 24 years ago. I wish that I could speak Korean as well as you!

[@lostthenfound]

@@timetravelr3000 thank you so much for all the kind messages! I still study Korean all the time and can't understand certain people after 11 years of studying. It's a hard language to learn for sure!

[@lostthenfound]

@@timetravelr3000 thank you so much for all the kind messages! I still study Korean all the time and can't understand certain people after 11 years of studying. It's a hard language to learn for sure!

[@jack-ew1us]

Great video, I've been in korea 2 years and everything you say is correct

[@lostthenfound]

Thanks a lot @jack-ew1us!

[@ceciliadearmas]

Thanks for the video. Like very much your explanation. 😊

[@lostthenfound]

Thanks so much @ceciliadearmas!

[@wheresmyeyebrow1608]

As someone dating a Chinese girl I also was completely taken aback by how accepted I was into 'the family' - I am invited out for dinner and activities with them more than I ever have been with my 'own' side of the family. Learning Mandarin as well as only furthered that bond. All quite amazing

[@lostthenfound]

That's amazing! Happy you were able to find a nice family as well! Also great job for learning Mandarin! It doesn't look easy to learn as an English speaker, but it's such a useful language to know, especially if you have family to communicate with as you've seen.

[@ot7stan207]

I was there for two years, I left due to several reasons. 1. The pollution was so bad I was concerned about my health. My hair was bad, my skin was bad, everything was bad. 2. The trends - I could not keep up with the trends and fast fashion and amount of waste 3. Limited opportunities (unless you teach at university etc its very limited) 4. No way to really make friends (its hard as an adult but even harder in a diff country) I enjoyed my stay however and appreciate learning about their country and culture and get homesick for korea like a second home country. Visiting is great, but definitely not a place to live in forever. I left and went back to the US and some how got hired in IT (again, more opportunities in the US) and now make six figures and can go back to korea whenever I want. Suggest visiting first, dont move blindly

[@lostthenfound]

These are all very legitimate reasons that people should consider when thinking about living here long term. Korea is definitely not for everyone, and it sounds like you managed to make some great memories while being here and found an awesome place to come back to from time to time and travel/explore! Also congrats on getting your IT job back in the states!

[@ryantim4691]

i think if u left korea for number1 reason "pollution" then u never be able to live in any other asian countries.most of all coming from china and none of countries in asia could avoid it. korea is much much better then other for sure.

[@KXS-l4l]

Aaah the air pollution. Every year around March, I get urges to move out of Korea. Then I forget about it around late June when abundant rain cleanses the air. Around September~November I just love Korea. Then comes winter and it goes around again.

[@life4dummies2023]

Can’t wait for you to do an episode on Daegu. We just moved back from Daegu after living there almost 2 years. We enjoyed walking to the park at 11 PM and eat ice cream from e-mart in the summers 😊

[@lostthenfound]

Will have to check it out and film a video some day! I've only been to Daegu a couple of times, and don't know that much about it to be honest.

[@rivertowers520]

I lived in Daegu from 2013-2015. It was such a great experience, especially for a guy in his early- to mid-twenties. I lived in Seoul from 2015-2017, which obviously is more international, but Daegu was where it all started for me, so I still remember my time there particularly fondly.

[@wrldtrvlr4vr]

Great video! Love to see more of your content on Korea

[@lostthenfound]

Thanks so much @wrldtrvlr4vr! Will be making a lot of Korean content in the future too!

[@Expat_Jimmy]

I'm an Aussie who's been living in Korea for almost 8 years. Great video, very informative. I think these days there are a lot more opportunities for foreigners who don't speak much Korean. I've done modeling, been a writer for a tourism company and even been a taste tester for export food products. I think if you're willing to look outside of just teaching English many doors will open for you.

[@lostthenfound]

@Expat_Jimmy thanks a lot for the additional information! Definitely good to hear that there are more opportunities for foreigners these days who don't speak Korean too!

[@marioseoul]

"There could be mold problems." {Shudders at repressed memories} Anyway great video. Nice to see comparison shots and snippets of your experiences. It'll be 20 years next month since I first visited Korea. Then I also lived there for 10 years starting in 2010. So a bit of a sense of kinship watching this video. Good luck in the future!

[@lostthenfound]

Ahaha sounds like you have dealt with the mold first hand @marioseoul. Hopefully you were able find a better place later on! You must have seen so much change in those 20 years! I can't even imagine what it was like in the early 2000s. It's great hearing from people who have lived here for a while as well, as there are so many shared experiences that people on the outside world don't relate to directly. Good luck to you as well! 화이팅!

[@marioseoul]

Oh thanks for the reply! No, the mold seemed to get worse with every villa I moved to lol. The Great Mold Party of the Summer of 2018, while I was traveling home to Seattle, was particularly devastating. Well, briefly, in 2003, I found Seoul to be incredibly ultra-modern! Coming from techie Seattle, even back then, I was still amazed by the number of new cars everywhere, while Seattle was still full of cars from the 70s and 80s, and my family was still running a '68. The ondol seemed futuristic even though it was of course based on a traditional system. There were digital door locks everywhere, and I'd never even heard of them before. And rotating parking garages! TV on flip phones! Flat screen HDTVs in the metro stations! The amazing metro system itself! A four-story Starbucks! So many things. But so many traditional things too. And of course there was the amazing food and the kindness of everyone, and the perfect October weather. @@lostthenfound

[@lostthenfound]

@@marioseoul oh wow haha yeah it's really hard to avoid mold with the environment here. I've had better luck with places that have good window frames and decent ventilation. It must have been so fun traveling back in 2003! People still had those TV phones with antennas on them when I first came and I thought they were so cool! Haven't seen one for a while now though.

[@bobby_thompson]

Really great video. Arrived in korea around the same time as you and left in 2016 but still miss it greatly. Nice to hear your long term perspective

[@lostthenfound]

Thanks so much! I'm sure you miss a lot about living here. Come back and check it out some day if you can! It's still changing every year and there are so many new things since 2016 as well!

[@bobby_thompson]

@@lostthenfound absolutely mate. Was out in Gangwondo the first year but moved to Seoul before the Winter Olympics so would love to see what it’s like there now. Saw them building all the new infrastructure on my 4 hour bus rides back from Seoul! 🥱 Keep up the top work 💪💪

[@pbj6606]

Great information and summary. I'd like to add that there is a very strong hierarchy in Korea. I remember not being treated so well when I was younger and as a woman but now going back to Korea recently after 43 years and with gray hair ( I was one of the very few walking around with gray) now gets treated differently and with respect. It felt liberating.

[@lostthenfound]

Thanks a lot for your stories @pbj6606! That's true that Korea is a very hierarchical society.

[@hawkkim1974]

Man, I used to live there 10 years ago as a Korean. I think South Korea is kinda limited for foreigners when it comes to jobs and business opportunities. Something needs to change. Anyway, I'm so glad to hear you have lived here for ten long years. I would call it your destiny. Wish you a good luck!

[@lostthenfound]

Oh wow you lived near 오산대역? It's so much different now! Developed a lot! I think Korea will change naturally as the declining birthrate will lead to more immigration, so it'll be a lot easier to get jobs here as a foreigner. In fact, Starbucks Korea just announced that foreigners can work as baristas now. Will be interesting to see how many will start working there. Thanks so much too! I'm so glad I found my place here! Wish you all the best!

[@toddsheridan9113]

Thanks for putting these videos together. It's very informative and helpful. I'm curious if you have much of a social circle outside of your relationship with your wife. It'd be fun to see you two interacting with friends, neighbors, and even strangers. I watch a lot of Dramas, but it'd be great to see Koreans interacting with you in natural ways that aren't scripted or unrealistically idealized. KZbin's Korean Englishman channel is one of my favorites for that reason. Subscribed!

[@lostthenfound]

Thanks so much @toddsheridan9113! I do have a social circle here, but usually when we meet up I prefer to do it without a camera so we can just catch up naturally. However, we will start interacting with a lot more people in the videos as we walk around Korea and show the countryside!

[@noralutonadio]

Listening to your tale of South Korean culture I felt like you were telling stories about African cultures 🙂. This is my first time to watch this channel and this video has been very informative for someone like me who dreams of visiting South Korea one day because I happened to watch K-dramas and it made me wish to immerse myself in that culture for a month or two. And I just loved the sincerity from your vlog.

[@lostthenfound]

Haha that's an interesting perspective @user-mx5hp6bf2i, glad that it was interesting to listen to though. Hope that you can come to Korea some day to check it out for yourself!

[@vivenna]

As a foreigner living in Japan for almost the same amount of time, this is very interesting. Some similarities (eg. you’ll never be Japanese, and oddly lots of foreigners feel offended when people praise their Japanese), but I honestly felt thankful that Japan seems to have slightly different problems. The part about the scam & the unwilling police was a bit shocking. Of course Japan also has scams (eg see Big Motor), but those target less likely individuals with sudden high amounts. I’ve never had any unexpected costs other than rising prices overall due to recent inflation. Also the job market doesn’t seem as limiting, though many surely get stuck in the language teaching jobs as well. I’m not trying to say Japan is better than Korea, but I’m happy with my personal decision to come here rather than to Korea. Though it would be nice to not learn kanji anymore haha

[@forexdragon]

Hey Matt! I just found your channel for the first time. I'm a Korean Canadian from Vancouver who's moved back to Canada after living in Korea for over a year. Thanks for the video and I look forward to more videos from you. Also, I'm a Canucks fan and my prediction is that we are going to make the playoffs this year! lol GO CANUCKS GO!

[@lostthenfound]

Hi @forexdragon! Thanks a lot! Did you have a good time living in Korea? Ah I really hope we can make the playoffs this year! Was hoping that Podkolzin would develop into a top 6 power forward, but it's looking like he's having a tough time adapting to the NHL. Other than that things are looking good though! Our defense is a lot better and we have a capable backup goalie now. Let's go Canucks!! Haha

[@forexdragon]

@@lostthenfound Yes, I quite enjoyed living in Korea. I'm came back to Vancouver to join a startup and if it doesn't pan out, I'll be going back to Korea. As for Podkolzin, I am not very confident he will be with the Canucks after this season unfortunately.

[@lostthenfound]

@@forexdragon all the best with your startup! I think you are right about Podkolzin too unfortunately. 😢

[@forexdragon]

@@lostthenfound Thanks Matt! Take care 👍

[@-detectivealec8937]

Cool video man, been here 5 years myself. Lived right next to 오산. Now living in the country side working remote near 여주. Def a lot of similar experiences. Will prob be here forever

[@lostthenfound]

Thanks a lot @-detectivealec8937! 여주 is really nice with the river over there too! All the best!

[@hopefullylost4012]

The best the most downright honest foreigner's brief about living in Korea. What he's saying you can belive without a doubt.

[@lostthenfound]

Thanks a lot @hopefullylost4012! There are so many things to say about this topic that can't make it into a 20 minute video as I'm sure you know (it sounds like you live here too), but tried to sum up the important things as much as I can truthfully. Take care and fighting!!

[@VernaSelander]

I like you and I enjoy what you have to say!! I’m a brand new subscriber from New Orleans, Louisiana 😃🇰🇷🇺🇸👌

[@lostthenfound]

Thank you so much @vernaselander8276!

[@paullee9160]

i am a korea born korean. living in US.. i also lived in europe for 10 years for work. one thing i can say is that in countries like korea and japan, you will never be 'home'. you will always be a foreigner. there is a lot of minuses to that. it's great if someone wants to experience the world.. i strongly recommend that. but also plan on coming home soon or later.. it's not like US where many different kind of people can call it 'home'. even living in europe is much better in that sense than east asia. one thing i do want to mention is that because i travelled so much and lived abroad for so long, my 'real life' started much later. i got a home in my 40s.. had my first child in my 40s.. so basically, i am running behind 10-15yrs compare to everyone else. is my life terrible? no.. it infact is great, but it has been greater since i came back home to US, and settled down with family.

[@lostthenfound]

This is a really great take, and that's great they you were able to find a home and settle down with a family! If I was planning on having kids, then I'm not sure if I would stay in Korea. But because my wife and I want to travel and adventure a lot in our life, living here is great for us! I'm totally okay with the fact that I will never be accepted as a Korean.

[@georgemccarten2706]

There is a freedom to not entirely belonging. Expectations are lower, and forgiveness for social etiquette ignorance is usually granted. My wife and I have been out of Korea for 27 years now. We are in Thailand, she here she is just about in the same boat as am I. Not many expectations of her either here. Total bliss.

[@annerodden311]

I found this video really interesting but would have loved to hear how an older retired person would probably experience Korea, not as a resident but as a visitor.

[@lostthenfound]

@annerodden311 thank you very much! Maybe I can get my parents in their 70s to travel around for a day by themselves next time they are here and talk about their experience. Was our plan to do that last time they visited but we ended up spending some much needed family time instead!

[@annerodden311]

I am in my late 70s and recently made some big changes logistically and also just got my passport. Really want to go to the British Isles and Asia so I was just curious as everything seems to relate to much younger people. You really hear very little about visitors my age. ​@lostthenfound

[@youin.focusle]

Wow! this is so helpful for us. Thank you so much. I really love to travel to South Korea, I believe that we have almost the same warm culture as in the Philippines where many koreans goes to study english and somehow live there too. I am excited about enjoying the food from their local markets that I can only see in korean novela, youtube and netflix :). Thanks for mentioning about scams and some bad elements, that could be found anywhere in the world anyway, we just need to be more vigilant and careful when travelling around. I live in one of safest beautiful place on earth (Austria) but still I would love to see South Korea and hopefully this year.

[@lostthenfound]

Thanks for the nice comment @youin.focusle! Really glad it was helpful! Yes, we definitely have to be careful everywhere we go in this world, so it's important not to let our guards down even in places like Korea, but luckily it's a really safe place overall! Hope you get to see it this year too!

[@israeldavila27]

Not even interested in Korea but your thumbnail looked great, was not disappointed by the quality of the video. Great vid 👍

[@lostthenfound]

Thanks so much!

[@jenny14485]

Thanks for this Amazing video!!! 🙏

[@lostthenfound]

@jenny14485 thanks so much! Really glad to hear that!

[@howardlee7189]

Well done living and working in a foreign country for 10 years. Thank for the information. Regards

[@lostthenfound]

Thanks so much Howard! 😊 It has been a really fun ride so far! Hope you have an amazing week!

[@pinayinsklee]

Super like the presentation of places regards from Goyang City.

[@lostthenfound]

Thanks so much @pinayinsklee!

[@jonathansakura]

I spent 4 years in Korea 🇰🇷 😊 and finally left Greetings from Thailand 🇹🇭 😊

[@lostthenfound]

Oh nice 4 years in Korea! Thailand is awesome too! Can't wait to travel there again when the prices go down a bit for flights!

[@jonathansakura]

​@@lostthenfoundi lived 2 years in Seoul and 2 in Jeju-do

[@lostthenfound]

@@jonathansakura oh that's awesome! I would love to live in Jeju some day!

[@unit4512]

I'm planning on moving to Korea permanently sometime around may. I'm studying the language a lot and want to get a bachelors degree there, then start and finish my career there. Videos like these with subjective, first hand experiences are really helpful for what to expect. It's a big and difficult plan, but I've never felt more compelled to work towards something in my entire life. It's got so much meaning to me that, even if I didn't like it, I think I would be more than content either way with my decision and would not turn back from it. Subscribed, and thank you for the valuable info! Also, if you haven't already, could you make an entire video covering visas? I think that's my biggest fear going forward, finding a long term visa or a method to gain permanent citizenship.

[@lostthenfound]

Thanks so much @unit4512! Getting a bachelor's degree here is a good idea I think, as I assume you will have a bit of time to explore the country as well! Keep up the Korean study too! It'll do wonders here! I should be able to make a video on visas in the future too.

[@lostthenfound]

@user-bn5pq7bh5g that's awesome you lived in Osan! Did you live in the city or out of city limits? How did you like it?

[@Apieceofgarbage]

@lostthenfound oh I lived around the Osan station, casue there were many jobs and transportation was not bad. I saw more south asians compared to other regions. And sadly many stores were closed due to Covid 19. You seem like a very humble person. I hope you enjoy your life in Korea

[@lostthenfound]

@user-bn5pq7bh5g oh that's awesome! Yeah Osan has pretty good transportation and a decent amount of stuff within the city. Definitely sad that a lot of the stores closed down there though. Thanks a lot! Hope all is well for you!

[@liontgu]

If you speak in Korean fluently, then you don't have to worry that much. There are not so many foriegners who can speak in Korean fluently even in Seoul, If you study really hard then not gonna be the problem! but If not, you might have to live without earning which is so terrifying ..

[@changseokseo8355]

Great video. As a one man of a Korean, I always think this society has too limited diversity. People in here are not familiar with foreigners. From that reason government services, laws, private services... everything are not considering foreigners or non-Korean speakers. Most of services for foreigners are focused to short time travelers. But those are also changing fast as everything in Korea. I think TV show's such as 비정상회담, 어서와 한국은 처음이지 made huge difference. Normal people in Korea don't have much chance to meet foreigner but from that show even elder people in here feel far more comfortable about foreign people. I hope you doing well in here and meet many kind people around you!

[@lostthenfound]

Thanks so much @changseokseo8355! Korea is still quite a homogeneous society, but I feel the increase in diversity every year! And like you said, shows like 어서와 한국은 처음이지 are gaining popularity here, and introducing other cultures to the average person here since there are still limited opportunities to meet foreigners. My wife's family watches them a lot, and always talks about the shows with me to connect further. Life is already great for me in Korea, and will continue to improve over time!

[@stepsoflife]

Really informative and to-the-point

[@lostthenfound]

Thanks so much @stepsoflife!

[@kalebquinn9365]

my wife is from daegu, met her in 2015, lived there twice for 4 years total and went back last winter for vacation for sure my forever home.

[@stephenprice5882]

You are a good guy. Thanks for the authentic review of korea

[@lostthenfound]

Thanks so much @stephenprice5882!

[@carolineg3079]

Really good video. I watched because I'm interested in visiting Korea (as a tourist) but its nice to see a bit below the surface

[@lostthenfound]

Thanks so much @carolineg3079!

[@deltastripes]

Excellent video, you’ve got a new subscriber

[@lostthenfound]

Thanks so much!

[@farhankutub6564]

I have seen many videos about life in Korea for foreigners but this guys is the most authentic, thanks for your honest opinion it really helps.

[@lostthenfound]

Hey @farhankutub6564 thanks a lot for watching and for the kind words!