Seoul Expats Chat

An English-speaking Telegram chat for people living in or moving to Seoul.

English only · Free · ModeratedOpen since Oct 2026

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Who it's for

Made for digital nomads, English teachers and students in Seoul.

Common questions in this chat

How does Korea's Workcation (F-1-D digital nomad) visa work?

It lasts 1 year with a possible 1-year extension in Korea. A Korean embassy page lists an income requirement tied to Korea's GNI (higher for ages 35+ than for ages 18-34), residence in the Seoul area, one year of experience in the same industry and private medical insurance. Amounts change, so check your embassy for current figures. Source: overseas.mofa.go.kr/ca-en/brd/m_5238/view.do?seq=727688. Checked: 2026-10.

How much is a one-room in Seoul?

Contract data (Q1 2026) puts the average Seoul one-room (33 sq m or less) at about KRW 809,000 a month for villas and KRW 820,000 for officetels, converted to a KRW 10 million deposit; a 5-10 million deposit band had a median rent of about KRW 700,000. Mapo and Gangnam are higher, and maintenance fees are extra. Source: global.ziptoss.com/en/monthly-rent-in-seoul-low-deposit/. Checked: 2026-10.

How do I get my Alien Registration Card (residence card) in Seoul?

If you will stay more than 90 days you must register within 90 days of entry. Reserve a visit on hikorea.go.kr, bring your application form, passport, a 3.5x4.5 cm colour photo and visa-specific documents. Seoul's guide lists a fee of KRW 35,000 (cash). The card takes about four weeks if mailed. Source: world.seoul.go.kr/service/living/housing/6-registration/. Checked: 2026-10.

Do I need a K-ETA to visit Korea?

Many nationalities are temporarily exempt from the K-ETA requirement until 31 Dec 2026 (e.g. US, Canada, Japan, Singapore, Hong Kong, Australia, New Zealand and many European countries); check k-eta.go.kr for any extension. Visa-free stay length depends on your nationality, so check the official K-ETA site. Source: english.visitkorea.or.kr/svc/contents/contentsView.do?vcontsId=251923. Checked: 2026-10.

Do I have to report a new address in Korea?

Yes. Registered foreigners must report a new address within the official deadline after moving (shorter for some visa holders) to the immigration office or an Administrative Welfare Center, or online through HiKorea. Your landlord or household head registering does not cover you. Late reporting can be fined. Source: immigration.go.kr/bbs/immigration/47/447103/download.do. Checked: 2026-10.

Chat rules

  1. No spam. No ads, promo or referral links without a moderator's OK.
  2. Nothing illegal or dangerous: no escorts, drugs, scams, fake documents.
  3. No forwards from channels while you're new — write your own words.
  4. Respect each other. No insults, discrimination or harassment.
  5. English only so everyone can follow.
  6. Stay on topic: life in Seoul — housing, visas, work, health, events, tips.
  7. Report, don't argue: reply to the message with /report and moderators will look.

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