How to Make Korean Friends as a Foreigner
Korea’s Social Culture, Practical Strategies, and Unique Local Tips for Building Real Friendships
Introduction
Making friends in a new country can feel overwhelming, especially in Korea where deep-rooted norms and social etiquette are different from the West. If you’re living, working, or studying in Korea, genuine friendships make your life richer and unlock local experiences. This in-depth guide combines cultural explanation, practical strategies, and trusted resources to help you build lasting friendships—not just meetups, but authentic long-term bonds.
1. Understanding Korean Social Culture
1.1 Group-Oriented Society
Korean society is group-oriented (collectivist), valuing family, school, or work circles over the individual. Many friendships start through “dongari” (clubs) or “moim” (gatherings), so joining groups often leads to more opportunities than solo approaches.
1.2 “Jeong” and Relationship-Building
“Jeong” (정) is a uniquely Korean concept: a special bond developed slowly through repeated, sincere interaction. Becoming real friends in Korea takes time and trust, not just a handful of enjoyable conversations.
1.3 Hierarchy and Politeness
Language and rituals respect seniority, age, and the situation. Polite language (존댓말) is mandatory at the start; casual speech (반말) comes only after mutual agreement, usually after friendships deepen.
2. Mindset for Making Korean Friends
- Be patient: Friendship forms slowly; initial shyness is normal, not rejection.
- Show genuine interest: Sincere curiosity in Korean culture, food, and language is highly appreciated.
- Participate actively: Don’t be afraid to join traditions or group activities, even if it feels awkward.
- Don’t take hesitation personally: It’s often shyness, not a lack of interest.
3. Where to Meet Koreans – Offline
Universities & Language Exchange
- Language clubs: Like “Talk Talk Korea,” “SeoulMate,” or university-based chat programs. Ask about “Ewha Language Exchange,” “Seoul Global Youth.”
- Buddy/mentor assignments: Most universities offer intercultural buddy systems, pairing you with locals curious about global cultures.
Private Academies & Hobby Classes
- Culture centers(문화센터): Pottery, dance, Korean cuisine in city departments or department stores.
- Sports clubs/gyms: Join local “donghohoe”(동호회)—badminton, football, hiking, or bowling.
Volunteering
- Korean Red Cross, Habitat Korea, 푸드뱅크: Volunteering creates organic relationships with locals.
Cafés & Co-working Spaces
- Book, open mic events, or “study cafes” are active networking venues.
Religious Communities
- English-language churches, temples, and mosques offer fellowship, regardless of faith.
4. Where to Meet Koreans – Online
| Platform | Features |
|---|---|
| Meetup | Local and hobby meetups, mostly in English and Korean |
| HelloTalk, Tandem | Language exchange, Koreans eager for English/language swap |
| Everytime, Blind | .edu/company login for schools and workplaces |
| Facebook Groups, KakaoTalk open chat | Search “Expats in Seoul,” “Korean Language Exchange,” or join open chat rooms |
| Instagram, Discord | Hobby/fandom/expat groups; message with your interest |
Tip: Use a real name, respectful photo, and be clear (“Interested in Korean culture—want to make friends.”)
- Ask open questions—not just “Where are you from?”
- After a few chats, suggest meeting in a cafe or public space.
- Avoid instant personal questions (salary, age, relationship status).
- It’s fine to say your Korean is basic—many Koreans want language exchange too.
5. Korean Friendship Customs
Group Activities Come First
Friendship begins in groups—dinners, social gatherings, small meetups. Accepting group invites paves the way for one-on-one friendship later.
Gift Etiquette
Small, personal gifts (souvenirs, snacks) from your home country are appreciated, especially for first meetings or when invited home.
Conversation Starters/Cautions
- Safe: Food, K-culture (music, drama), local travel, festivals
- Careful: Politics, negative talk about Korea, overly private matters
6. Strategies to Deepen Friendship
- Be consistent and reciprocate invitations.
- Share your culture—cook or suggest a language/culture exchange.
- Show up on time and keep your promises (plans matter!).
- Learn and use simple Korean greetings (annyeonghaseyo, kamsahamnida, etc.).
- Favorite activities: festivals (cherry blossoms, kimchi-making), group outings, traveling together.
7. Real-Life Korean Friendship Scenarios
International Student: Anna in Seoul
Joined school exchange, then a hiking group and animal shelter. Gradually, Korean friends began inviting her for family meals and helped her settle.
Expat Teacher: John in Busan
Met colleagues at work, but joined a local baseball club and volunteered as an English coach at a community center. Food and activity broke down barriers.
8. Overcoming Barriers (Language, Culture, “Foreigner Bubble”)
- Use apps (Papago, Google Translate), attend casual Korean classes (시민센터, uni programs)
- In groups, sit in the middle and smile. Courage is respected.
- Balance expat and local events—don’t stay only with foreigners!
- If lonely, share with new friends—honest emotion builds Jeong.
9. Table: Do’s and Don’ts
| Do | Don't |
|---|---|
| Use polite Korean, attend group events, share your culture, reciprocate, be sincere, punctual, offer to help | Criticize Korean customs early, expect instant friendship, get discouraged, ask personal questions too soon, cancel plans last minute |
10. Useful Resources
- YouTube: “Korean Englishman,” “Korean Unnie”
- Community events at city halls or “주민센터” (population offices)
- Korean Cultural Centers for workshops
Conclusion: Friendship is a Journey
Making Korean friends as a foreigner is a challenge—but also an adventure that makes living in Korea deeply rewarding. Be patient, be brave, and you’ll find meaning and “Jeong” that last a lifetime.
Have your own tip? Leave a comment to help others on their journey!
