Although South Korea is not regularly considered a top destination for digital nomads, its newest visa program aims to change that. With effect from January 1, 2024, workers and their families can now enter the nation for a maximum of two years using this new “workcation” visa.
Candidates must work for a foreign company and have a minimum of one year of experience in the same industry to be eligible. In addition, they must have personal health insurance worth at least 100 million won (roughly £59,000) and an annual salary of 84.96 million won (roughly £50,000). In addition to promoting economic growth, the visa is designed to increase tourism by showcasing South Korean landmarks.
What to visit
No matter where your home base is, day trips to South Korea are feasible due to its small landmass.
The majority of visitors rank Gyeongbokgung Palace, which is situated in the Jongno neighborhood of North Seoul, as a must-see attraction. Then, pay a visit to Insadong neighborhood, which has a main pedestrian street adorned with art galleries and traditional teahouses.
A trip to Seoul’s Tteuksom Han River Park is also advised, particularly from spring through fall. Throughout the year, people play sports and games like checkers and Go-Stop at this well-liked location, which also features an outdoor swimming pool in the summer and outdoor snow slides in the winter.
Hallasan National Park in Jeju is well-known for its serene views and hiking paths. Yeongjusan Mountain, which translates “the mountain high enough to pull the galaxy,” is located in the middle of the park and is nearly 1,950 meters tall—the highest point in South Korea. Boars and deers are among the 4,000 animal species and more than 1,800 plant species found in the park.
Jeju was recently listed as one of the 50 World’s Greatest Places for 2023 by TIME Magazine. Both domestic and foreign tourists like visiting Jeju Island because of its breathtaking natural scenery, rich cultural legacy, and mouthwatering cuisine.
What to know
South Korea is one of the most homogeneous countries in terms of ethnicity. Although some foreigners may initially view Koreans as aloof or inhospitable, this is typically a result of cultural misinterpretation.
Foreigners are generally well-liked and appreciated by locals, although they rarely approach strangers for conversation.