An increasing number of young adults around the world are embracing Korean culture and language, inspired by the Korean Wave, which encompasses K-pop, K-drama, K-beauty, and K-fashion. Korea is known for its vibrant lifestyle, featuring convenient public transit networks, robust Internet connectivity, an excellent healthcare system, public safety, and a diverse array of culinary delights. This is why many young people are flocking to Korea on working holiday visas. Let’s hear from some of these youths who are currently experiencing Korea through the working holiday scheme!

K-pop and BTS inspired my journey to Korea.

Hello, my name is Mathilde. I’m 31-year-old and arrived in Korea on a working holiday visa from France in October 2023.

K-pop and BTS were my gateways to Korea. I began learning Korean at the King Sejong Institute in Paris. You can find King Sejong Institutes all around the world, and I highly recommend their Korean language courses.

I first visited Korea in March 2023 for a two-week trip to see whether I truly wanted to work here. After returning to Paris, I immediately applied for a Working Holiday Visa (H-1), quit my job, packed my entire life into a 23-kilogram suitcase, and left France.

(Credit: MATHILDE)

Now I’m employed at a law firm in Korea.

I’m currently employed at a law firm that specializes in patent law. Before arriving in Korea, I had the chance to connect with professionals in my field. Based on their recommendations, I was introduced to the company where I’m now working and successfully secured an interview. My role at the firm involves managing the latest information on European laws and facilitating connections for technology transfer to and from France.

I meticulously planned every facet of my stay in Korea before my arrival.

The question, “Can I thrive in a life 8,000 kilometers away from my home?” fueled my anxiety and prompted me to meticulously plan my stay in Korea six months before my arrival. Notably, there are many groups on Facebook where people discuss their working holiday experiences. These communities were invaluable, even helping me find a doctor who spoke French in Korea. Their advice was crucial for navigating my day-to-day life in Korea.

Koreans’ kindness never fails to amaze me.

Koreans are so kind! While Koreans may initially come across as shy or reserved, they are incredibly kind-hearted and eager to assist in times of need. There have been instances when I’ve sought help from individuals who didn’t speak any English, yet they went out of their way to assist me or find someone who could. My colleagues really try to help me out as well. Although I don’t have many friends here, the ones I do have frequently check in to see if I’m having any troubles or misunderstandings. Such gestures deeply touch me, reflecting their desire for me to fully embrace and enjoy my life here.

(Credit: MATHILDE)

It’s okay if you aren’t fluent in Korean!

I spent two years studying Korean in Paris, yet I’m still not fluent. There’s a significance difference between learning Korean in a classroom and applying it in real-life situation in Korea. Now, five months into my stay, I believe I’ve become proficient enough to manage small talk.

I speak English well, so navigating life in Korea hasn’t been too difficult for me. Most Koreans speak at least some English and are genuinely eager to help, despite any language barriers. Therefore, not being fluent in Korean does not pose many difficulties in living in Korea.

Most services and facilities offer English translations, and information centers are staffed by English speakers to assist foreigners. This makes it quite convenient for non-Korean speakers to live in Korea, language-wise.

When it comes to lifestyle, the availability of imported products in supermarkets can help alleviate homesickness. Additionally, there’s a wide variety of restaurants serving international cuisine, further enhancing the comfort of those from abroad.

I found a gosiwon through Airbnb, and I’m satisfied with it.

Most apartments in Korea require large deposits, which was a significant burden on my budget. Therefore, I opted to live in a gosiwon, a decision made easier after finding a suitable place through Airbnb. I initially reserved it for a month to see how it would work out, and I’ve continued to stay there. Though it’s very small, it reminds me of my dormitory days in school, which I don’t mind. A gosiwon is an excellent choice for me because it’s very affordable and doesn’t require any deposit.

What do I enjoy for fun in Korea? Café tours!

I was amazed by the vibrant coffee culture here. Cafés are everywhere, each with its own charm. Some offer beautiful views, and others serve unique beverages inspired by various themes. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed touring these cafés, where I can relax and catch up with friends.

On days blessed with good weather, I enjoy long walks after spending time in cafés. Without any particular destination in mind, I simply wander where my feet take me. During these walks, I find myself fully absorbing the unique charms of Korea, discovering beauty in every nook and cranny I happen to explore.

(Credit: MATHILDE)

One aspect of life in Korea I particularly enjoy is the ability to work part-time. My goal was to find a balance between work and exploring Korean culture and society, and the Working Holiday Visa (H-1) enables me to do just that. During work, I communicate with my coworkers, which helps improve my Korean, and outside of work, I enjoy my freedom to explore. On my days off, I travel to different regions with my friends. I’m truly satisfied with my working holiday here; it has allowed me to meet my professional needs while fully enjoying everything Korea has to offer.

(Credit: MATHILDE)

Building up a network in advance is worth the effort!

If you’re planning to come to Korea on a working holiday, I strongly recommend forming a network that can support you in Korea.

It’s crucial to meticulously plan every aspect of your life in Korea, beyond just preparing the documents required for the visa application. Korean culture may differ significantly from what some are used to, so it’s beneficial to make connections and set up a network before your arrival. Having these contacts in place can be incredibly helpful for receiving the support you need once you’re here.

This was the story of Mathilde, whose love for K-pop led her on a working holiday adventure in Korea. Are you looking to dive deep into K-culture? We highly recommend considering working holiday programs. These programs offer the opportunity to work in your desired field while fully embracing and enjoying K-culture.

INFORMATION: France

▶ How to Apply for a Working Holiday Visa (H-1) to Korea

* Eligibility

- The visit must primarily be for tourism and cultural experiences.

- The H-1 visa can be issued only once per individual.

- Must be aged between 18 and 30.

- Stay period: Up to 12 months

* Required documents

Passport, photograph, visa application form, round-trip air tickets, health statement, cover letter for stay programs, etc.

-For further details: overseas.mofa.go.kr

*Where to apply: Korea Visa Application Center (KVAC) via mail

* Where to Apply: Embassy of the Republic of Korea in Japan

* For more information, please visit the following websites:

- Ambassade de la République de Corée en France

- Working Holiday Info Center

▶How to Change Your Working Holiday Visa (H-1) to a Long-Term Student Visa (D-2) in Korea

Eligibility

Must be residing in Korea for the purposes of studying, research, exchange programs, and other educational activities.

*Download and complete the application form from the Korea Immigration Service.
www.immigration.go.kr

*Required documents

Passport, photograph, documents testifying to the purpose of stay, financial statement, health statement, etc.

▶Find information on Korean Language Programs in Korea!

Go to VK Travel Highlights

▶Recommended websites

- PVTISTES (https://pvtistes.net): This website provides information on visa application and administrative procedures.

- VISIT KOREA (https://english.visitkorea.or.kr): This website provides a variety of information on Korean culture.

INFORMATION: Belgium

▶ How to Apply for a Working Holiday Visa (H-1) to Korea

* Eligibility

- The visit must primarily be for tourism and cultural experiences.

- The H-1 visa can be issued only once per individual.

- Must be aged between 18 and 30.

- Stay period: Up to 12 months

* Required documents

Visa application form, bank account statement, health statement, original passport and a copy of the passport’s identification page

-For further details: overseas.mofa.go.kr

*Where to apply: Embassy of the Republic of Korea to the Kingdom of Belgium (via appointment)

*For more information, please visit the following websites:

- Embassy of the Republic of Korea to the Kingdom of Belgium (consul.mofa.go.kr)

- Working Holiday Info Center (whic.mofa.go.kr)

INFORMATION: Canada

▶ How to Apply for a Working Holiday Visa (H-1) to Korea

* Eligibility

- The H-1 visa can be issued only once per individual.

- Must be aged between 18 and 35 (expanded from the previously eligible age range of 18 to 30)

- Stay period: Up to 2 years (expanded from the previous limit of 12 months to 24 months)

- Canadian citizens are exempt from the 25-hour weekly work limit.

* Required documents

Visa application form, original passport and a copy, one color photograph, working holiday plan, etc.

For further details: overseas.mofa.go.kr

*Where to apply: Please inquire at the nearest embassy or consulate.

* For more information, please visit the following websites:

- Embassy of the Republic of Korea to Canada (overseas.mofa.go.kr)

- Working Holiday Info Center (whic.mofa.go.kr)

Curious about other working holiday experiences?

* This column was last updated in April 2024, and therefore information may differ from what is presented here. We advise you to check details before visiting.