Lifestyle in Seoul

The lifestyle in Seoul pulses with energy and possibility. Whether an experienced employee in one of the city’s embassies or a young teacher seeking new experiences, expats are sure to find something to their taste in the Korean capital.

Shopping in Seoul

When it comes to shopping in Seoul, there are plenty of options for any budget. Areas such as Myeong-dong and Dongdaemun house large assortments of international brands and reasonably priced boutiques. The more upmarket Gangnam District and Apgujeong have huge department stores and several restaurants.

Another area with notable shopping options is Itaewon. The area is packed with a variety of shops, restaurants, tailors, and designer products, which are largely aimed at the Western market. Itaewon is also home to other shops that provide Western favourites, as well as some English-language bookshops.

For general grocery shopping, major chains such as Costco, Emart, and Homeplus stock Western goods, with Costco offering bulk discounts. International speciality stores can be found throughout the city, particularly in areas like Itaewon and Gangnam.

Areas and Suburbs in Seoul

Nightlife and entertainment in Seoul

Itaewon is a popular area for restaurants, bars and nightclubs, and the areas around Hongik University in Sinchon, as well as the Gangnam District, are other fun locales to spend an evening in.

Korean restaurants are found on every city block, but those looking for a traditional Korean dining experience should head to Insadong. Street performers and independent theatres can be found in the areas around Hyehwa and Hansung University. There are also numerous annual festivals happening in Seoul, as well as international film festivals held in both Busan and Jeonju.

Outdoor activities and sports in Seoul

Expats will find a fair amount of outdoor activities in Seoul. Many residents choose to get their fresh air along the Han River, which cuts through the middle of the city. At various spots along the river, expats can find picnic spots, basketball courts and bicycle hire stations, which also offer tandem bikes for couples.

Seoul has two professional baseball teams. The LG Twins and Doosan Bears both play their home games at Jamsil Baseball Stadium in the Songpa District. Watching a KBO League game offers a lively experience complete with passionate fans, cheerleaders and plenty of fried chicken and beer.

The Seoul Grand Park and Zoo are easily accessed by subway and make for a great day out for the family, offering exotic animals, plants, an amusement park and a cable car.

The Seoul Forest is also a major attraction, occupying a massive tract of land in the middle of the city. The area has transformed from royal hunting grounds to a military inspection facility to housing several naturally themed parks in one area. Visitors have an opportunity to see local fauna and flora, go bird watching or enjoy themselves at the Hangang River Waterside Park.

The mountains that surround Seoul are some of the most beautiful in the country, and hiking is a popular Korean pastime. The Gwanaksan, Achasan and Bukhansan Mountains are all a convenient subway ride away and offer spectacular views of the city.

Things to See and Do in Seoul

Meeting people and making friends in Seoul

Meeting people and making friends in Seoul can be one of the most intimidating parts of relocating to a new country. There are numerous ways to build your social circle in Seoul through shared interests, volunteering opportunities and expat-focused groups. Social media groups and online platforms are easy starting points for making connections, and sports clubs, cultural activities and business networking events cater to more specific interests.

The American Women’s Club Korea is an oasis for expat women from all over the world looking to engage in enriching charitable, cultural and educational activities while building lifelong friendships. Expat parents looking to meet new people should look into Seoul International Playgroup, which hosts weekly play sessions for babies and toddlers up to five years old and provides a great way for parents to build support structures in their new city.

Seoul Expats Handball Club hosts weekly training for expats from all over the world and participates in friendly matches, tournaments and handball events. Established in 2006, Seoul International Hikers’ Club is open to locals and foreigners alike, giving nature-loving expats the opportunity to take in Seoul’s picturesque mountain- and cityscapes while making connections with like-minded individuals.

Useful links

• Meetup: Seoul
• American Women’s Club Korea
• Seoul International Playgroup
• Seoul Expats Handball Club
• Seoul International Hikers’ Club