Introduction
After living in Korea for a year, I headed back to Germany to visit my family and noticed several habits I had unconsciously picked up from Korea. These changes happen quickly, you don't realize them until you leave Korea and see how convenient everything was. Let me share some habits you might develop after staying in Korea for a while!
Not Having to Carry Keys
One thing I really love about Korea is not having to carry keys or do the three-pocket check before leaving: wallet, phone, keys... no keys needed!
Staying at a Cafe to Work
In Europe and many other countries, working with your laptop or studying at cafes isn't common, people usually visit cafes just for coffee, breakfast, and socializing. Open workspace areas aren't as readily available as they are in Korea.
Relying on Working Public Transportation
If you've ever used public transportation in Germany, you'll appreciate Korea's reliable infrastructure even more. In Germany, taking the train is an odyssey, an adventure where you never know where it will take you. Timetables are more like suggestions, and you simply hop on the train hoping it takes you closer to your destination. Every year I have my hopes up that it will eventually get better, but have been proven wrong every time!
Late Night Snack at a Convenience Store
Sometimes you crave a hot bowl of ramyeon at the convenience store, knowing it's available any time of day. But in Germany, stores close early and the streets are empty. You end up sitting in your room thinking, "There's nothing I can do here."
Dynamic of Bustling Streets of Seoul
Seoul's general vibe is so unique that it's impossible to describe until you experience it. I tried explaining it to my friend for 10 years, and when he finally visited, he said, "Now I kind of get what you mean!"
Become a Little Bit More Impatient 빨리 빨리 Culture
You'll definitely become more impatient as things in Korea happen so quickly, the service is fast, people respond immediately, and everything you need is conveniently available!
Expecting Fast Delivery to Your Doorsteps
Same-day delivery to your doorstep at any hour is life-changing. In Korea, you never worry about missing the delivery person. In Germany, I've actually had to track down delivery drivers to get my packages true story!
Missing Stores Greeting you when you enter "안녕하세요~"
You'll miss hearing greetings when entering stores. While the silence can feel more comfortable since you don't feel watched or followed, it's somehow a bit sad.
General Safety
In Korea, you feel generally safer. You know people on the street won't bother you, society is orderly, and you don't need to worry about theft or pickpockets.
Conclusion
Living in Korea will change you! From the convenience of digital door locks to the efficiency of public transportation, these Korean lifestyle elements become second nature. When you return home, you'll find yourself missing these aspects of Korean life and perhaps even advocating for similar conveniences in your own country. These habits aren't just about convenience, they reflect Korea's innovative, fast-paced, and community-oriented culture that prioritizes efficiency and social harmony.
While readjusting to life outside Korea might take time, these acquired habits and perspectives ultimately enrich your worldview and help you appreciate different approaches to daily life. They serve as a reminder of how living in another culture can broaden our horizons and challenge our assumptions about what's "normal" or "standard" in our daily routines.
🤝 Collaborations & Inquiries
Are you a brand, business, or organization looking to reach the expat or digital nomad community in Korea?
I’m open to meaningful partnerships that align with my mission, bridging Korea 🇰🇷 with the world 🌍.
Whether you’re looking to:
- 📢 Promote a product or service to a Korea-curious audience
- 🤝 Collaborate on culture, tech, or lifestyle content
- 🎤 Invite me to speak, host, or create for your platform
- 🧭 Share helpful resources with people living in or moving to Korea
💡 How I Can Help You
Whether you’re visiting, staying long-term, or relocating. I share honest insights, guides, and tools to help you navigate life in Korea.
🛫 Working Holiday Korea
Real experiences & survival tips from someone who’s been through it all.
💻 Digital Nomad Korea Service
Guidance for remote workers and entrepreneurs building a life in Korea.
🧠 Need Help Understanding Korea?
What I Offer:
- 🧭 Personalized Advice: Get tailored advice specific to your situation
- 🧠 Cultural Insights: Learn about Korean customs and etiquette
- 🧰 Practical Tips: From finding accommodation to understanding public transport
- 🌐 Networking Opportunities: Connect with other expats and locals
- 📕 Exclusive Resources: Gain access to exclusive guides and resources
📬 Weekly Tips in Your Inbox
Join 1,000+ readers learning how to live smarter in Korea — from visas to vibes.
👋 About Kim Ninja
Kim Ninja (Nguyen Huy Kim)
🧭 Cultural Guide · ✍️ Storyteller · 🎨 Curator
📢 Creator helping foreigners understand and thrive in Korea
🗺️ I turn everyday challenges into comics, guides, and stories
The blog published by Kim Ninja (Huy-Kim Nguyen) is available for informational purposes only and is not considered legal advice on any subject matter.
