If you’re a K-pop and K-drama fanatic who’s lucky enough to have a remote job, you might want to consider being a digital nomad in South Korea! There’s good wifi connectivity, great food like army stew (부대찌개) and Korean rice cakes (떡볶이), and most importantly, you might run into your favorite actor or idol in the streets of Gangnam or Hongdae!
South Korea’s workation visa program is attracting digital nomads to Korea, offering a unique opportunity for remote workers. Other Asian countries are also implementing similar initiatives to attract foreigners and boost their workforce.
But wait! Before you go ahead and book that flight ticket or accommodation, read this article to learn more about what you can expect from living the digital nomad life in South Korea. And while you’re at it, why not learn some simple Korean phrases beyond your typical ‘I love you’ (사랑해요) and ‘thank you’ (감사합니다) to get you by?
Table Of Contents
Visa Requirements To Be A Digital Nomad In South Korea
If you’re looking to be a digital nomad in South Korea in 2024, you’re in luck! South Korea has recently rolled out an exciting opportunity for digital nomads — the new Digital Nomad Visa, also known as the Workation Visa (워크케이션 비자)! The South Korean government launched this visa to attract remote workers and digital nomads.
This visa is designed to boost the local economy and promote Korean culture and tourism. If you’re ready to explore life in South Korea while working remotely, here’s everything you need to know about this new visa and its benefits.
Important Facts
- Launch date: January 1, 2024
- Who can apply: Foreigners working remotely, plus their family (spouse, children)
- Duration: Up to 2 years (initial 1 year, plus 1-year extension)
Eligibility And Requirements
- Work Status: Must work for a company abroad or be a freelancer
- Income: Earn more than 85 million won (about USD66,000) in 2023. The substantial monthly income requirement has locked out many digital nomads from consideration, as it is higher compared to the income requirements of other countries offering digital nomad visas. Many hope for future revisions to make the visa more accessible.
- Age: Must be 18 or older
- Experience: At least one year in the same industry
- Application location: Korean embassy in your country or switch from certain visas if already in Korea
- Insurance: Personal medical insurance covering at least 100 million won
Required Documents
- Visa request form
- Passport and a copy
- Passport-sized photo
- Proof of employment or freelance work
- Pay stubs and bank statements
- Criminal record extract (no prior convictions)
- Proof of insurance
- Address in Korea
Note: Document validity must be 3 months from the issue date.
Benefits Of The Digital Nomad Visa
- Extended stays: With South Korea’s digital nomad visa, you can stay in South Korea for over three months, up to two years (initial one year, plus a one-year extension).
- Affordable housing: Access cheaper long-term apartment rentals.
- Banking convenience: Open a Korean bank account.
- Free language classes: Enjoy free Korean language classes.
- Daily life ease: Experience convenience in daily tasks like ordering food and other local services.
Things To Keep In Mind About The Digital Nomad Visa
Digital Nomad Visas, also called Workation Visas (F-1-D), allow you to work only for overseas companies or freelancers, not Korean companies. Temporary residents are taxed only on their income paid into Korea; specific tax treaties apply.
Visa holders receive an Alien Registration Card (ARC), which offers various benefits. The visa application process typically takes 10-15 days. You can apply for this visa if you are already in South Korea on a B-1, B-2, or C-3 visa.
If bringing a partner, the main applicant must meet the income requirement individually and prove a legal family relationship.
If you want to bring your pet, you should check pet regulations with the South Korean quarantine authorities.
Housing In South Korea
Once you’ve got your visa sorted out, it’s time to start apartment hunting in South Korea! Just like any other country, finding a place to live might seem intimidating and complicated. But don’t worry—here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the housing market with ease.
Types Of Housing In South Korea
South Korea offers a variety of housing options to suit different lifestyles and budgets. From high-rise apartments (아파트) that are popular among families and long-term residents to versatile officetels (오피스텔) or studio apartments that cater to young professionals, there’s something for everyone.
Apartments (아파트)
- High-rise buildings with various amenities.
- Common for families and long-term residents.
Officetels (오피스텔)
- Studio-type apartments with mixed-use for living and working.
- Popular among singles and young professionals.
Villas (빌라)
- Low-rise buildings with fewer units.
- Often cheaper but with fewer amenities.
Goshiwon (고시원)
- Small, affordable rooms with shared facilities.
- Ideal for short-term stays or budget living.
How To Rent In South Korea
Renting in South Korea can be straightforward as long as you know where to look! Whether you choose to go with real estate agents (부동산), online platforms like Zigbang and Craigslist, or turn to expat communities and social media groups for valuable advice, it all depends on what works best for you.
Real Estate Agents (부동산)
- Visit a local real estate office for help finding available apartments.
- Agents charge a fee, typically one month’s rent.
Online Listings
- Websites and apps like Zigbang, Dabang, and Craigslist have apartment listings.
- Search and contact landlords directly.
Expat Communities
- Join local expat forums or social media groups for recommendations and advice.
- Average Rent in South Korea
Average Rent In South Korea
Just like any other country, rental prices in South Korea vary depending on the city and type of housing. For example, an officetel in the heart of Seoul is definitely going to cost more than a three-bedroom in the outskirts of Daegu!
Seoul
- Studio (Officetel): ₩500,000 – ₩1,000,000 per month.
- One-bedroom apartment: ₩1,000,000 – ₩2,000,000 per month.
- Villas and larger apartments: ₩2,000,000 and above.
Other Cities
- Generally cheaper than Seoul by 20-50%.
Payment Terms
Key Money (전세)
- Large deposit (often 50-70% of the property value) returned at the end of the lease.
- No monthly rent.
Monthly Rent (월세)
- Lower deposit with monthly rent payments.
- Typical deposits range from ₩5,000,000 to ₩20,000,000.
Advance Rent
- Sometimes, landlords may ask for a few months’ rent in advance.
Recommended Expat Neighborhoods In South Korea
There are several neighborhoods in South Korea that are particularly welcoming to expats. For example, in Seoul, Itaewon (이태원) is known for its diverse international community and abundance of global cuisine, while Hongdae (홍대) attracts a younger crowd with its vibrant nightlife and artistic atmosphere. So, choose the location that fits your lifestyle and vibe best!
Seoul
- Itaewon (이태원): Diverse and foreigner-friendly with international restaurants and shops.
- Hongdae (홍대): Vibrant area known for nightlife and youth culture.
- Gangnam (강남): Upscale neighborhood with modern amenities and shopping.
- Hannam-dong (한남동): Quiet, residential area popular among diplomats and expats.
Busan
- Haeundae (해운대): Beachfront area with modern apartments and amenities.
- Gwangan (광안): Known for its scenic views and relaxed atmosphere.
Daegu
- Suseong-gu (수성구): Popular among expats for its parks and international schools.
Incheon
- Songdo (송도): Modern district with international schools and a large expat community.
How To Say Digital Nomad In Korean?
The term “digital nomad” in Korean is “디지털 노마드” (dijiteol nomadeu). This is a direct transliteration of the English term.
Easy Phrases For Digital Nomads In South Korea
Here are some simple Korean phrases related to being a digital nomad.
| English Translation | Korean Phrase | Pronunciation |
|---|---|---|
| I am a digital nomad. | 저는 디지털 노마드입니다. | Jeoneun dijiteol nomadeu imnida. |
| I work and travel around the world. | 저는 전 세계를 여행하면서 일합니다. | Jeoneun jeon segyereul yeohaenghamyeonseo ilhamnida. |
| I like working in co-working spaces. | 저는 코워킹 스페이스에서 일하는 것을 좋아합니다. | Jeoneun kowoking seupeiseueseo ilhaneun geoseul joahamnida. |
| My work schedule is flexible. | 제 업무 일정은 유연합니다. | Je eommu iljeongeun yuyeonhamnida. |
| I found a suitable workspace in South Korea. | 저는 한국에서 적합한 작업 공간을 찾았습니다. | Jeoneun hangukeseo jeokhaphan jageop gongganeul chajatsseumnida. |
Frequently Asked Questions Related To Digital Nomads In South Korea
Can I Be A Digital Nomad In South Korea?
Yes, so long as you meet the requirements either as a company employee or as a self-employed freelancer. So, if you are currently running a business, have one year of experience in the same industry, and have proof of income, you can apply for a Workation visa. Foreigners who are not affiliated with an overseas business cannot apply for the visa.
Can I Work Remotely In Seoul?
Yes, provided that you are eligible for South Korea’s digital nomad visa aimed at remote workers. To be eligible for South Korea’s digital nomad visa, you must be a remote worker employed by a foreign company, making at least double South Korea’s gross national income per capita from the previous year. For 2023, that figure calculated out to about 85 million won, or approximately $64,000.
How Much Bank Balance Is Required For A South Korean Visa?
The Korean embassy/government doesn’t indicate the minimum bank balance required for a South Korean visa. However, your money should be enough to cover your daily expenses during your trip.
Ready To Be A Digital Nomad In South Korea?
There’s no doubt that being a digital nomad in South Korea offers an exciting opportunity to explore vibrant Korean culture, enjoy modern conveniences, and build your career remotely. With the new Workation Visa (워크케이션 비자), you now have the opportunity to stay longer, find affordable housing, and immerse yourself in the dynamic life of cities like Seoul and Busan, much more than you would as a mere visitor. And if you want to brush up on your Korean before going to South Korea, you should try the Ling app! Knowing the local language will make your life a thousand times easier.
All the best, aspiring digital nomads!
