Moving to South Korea is an exciting experience, but making friends in a new country can feel overwhelming. Whether you are an expat, student, or traveler, there are plenty of ways to connect with people and build friendships!
Here are 15 ways to make friends in South Korea, from language exchanges to cultural events.
Attend Language Exchange Meetups 🗣️
Language exchange events are one of the best ways to meet locals and fellow expats while improving your Korean skills or helping others practice English. These meetups typically take place in cafés, bars, or community centers, providing a relaxed and friendly atmosphere for conversation. Some gatherings focus on structured discussions, while others are more casual and social. Attending regularly helps build friendships and language skills over time. Many cities in South Korea, especially Seoul and Busan, have active language exchange communities with weekly meetups.
Join Online Communities 🌐
Online forums and social media groups are fantastic tools for finding expat communities, networking events, and hobby clubs. Platforms like Facebook, Meetup, and KakaoTalk host numerous groups where members share event announcements, job postings, and general advice for living in South Korea. Many expats and locals organize meetups through these groups, ranging from casual coffee chats to professional networking events. Engaging in these communities can help you stay updated on activities happening near you while also providing a support system for adjusting to life in South Korea.
Visit Expat-Friendly Cafés & Bars ☕🍻
Some cafés and bars in South Korea cater specifically to foreigners and expats, making them excellent places for socializing. Whether you enjoy themed trivia nights, live music, or casual gatherings, these spots provide a welcoming atmosphere for meeting new people. Many language exchange events and networking gatherings are also hosted in these venues. In cities like Seoul and Busan, there are well-known bars where expats and travelers naturally gather, making it easier to strike up conversations and form connections.
Volunteer with Local NGOs 🤝
Getting involved in volunteer work is a fulfilling way to contribute to society while meeting like-minded people. South Korea has various NGOs and non-profits focusing on different causes, such as teaching English to underprivileged children, caring for rescued animals, or participating in environmental clean-ups. Volunteering provides a sense of purpose and belonging, allowing you to engage with locals and other expats who share similar values. Organizations like Habitat for Humanity, Korean Animal Welfare Association, and local food banks often welcome international volunteers.
Attend Networking Events 👥
For professionals and entrepreneurs, attending networking events can be an excellent way to expand both social and career connections. These events vary from formal business meetups and startup pitch nights to industry-specific seminars and casual after-work gatherings. Many organizations host networking events in English, making them accessible to expats. Whether you are looking to grow your professional network, find potential business partners, or simply make new friends in your field, these events offer valuable opportunities.
Join Sports Clubs & Fitness Groups 🏋️♂️⚽
Staying active while making friends is easy when you join a local sports club or fitness group. Whether you enjoy soccer, running, yoga, rock climbing, or martial arts, South Korea has a variety of groups that welcome participants of all skill levels. Many fitness studios also offer group workout classes, making it easier to meet people with similar interests. Outdoor activities like hiking and cycling are especially popular, with organized trips to scenic destinations such as Bukhansan, Seoraksan, and Jeju Island.
Participate in Cultural Events 🎭🎎
South Korea has a vibrant cultural scene filled with festivals, traditional workshops, and historical exhibitions. From the famous Seoul Lantern Festival to hands-on experiences like calligraphy, hanbok wearing, and kimchi-making classes, these events provide an opportunity to immerse yourself in Korean culture while meeting people with similar interests. Attending cultural festivals also gives you a deeper understanding of Korean traditions and allows you to engage with locals who are excited to share their heritage.
Explore University Circles & Student Groups 🎓
If you are a student, joining university clubs and international student groups can help you establish a strong social network. Most universities have clubs for language exchange, cultural exploration, and sports, as well as buddy programs that pair international students with local students. These groups often organize social events, weekend trips, and academic support sessions, making it easier to settle into student life in South Korea. Even if you are not currently enrolled, some student clubs welcome non-students to their events.
Join Hobby Clubs, Dance, or Art Classes 🎶🎨
South Korea has a variety of hobby-based communities where you can connect with people who share your interests. Whether you are into photography, painting, dance, or playing an instrument, there are plenty of workshops and group classes to join. These activities allow you to explore your creative side while making friends in an interactive setting. Many expat-friendly creative studios also offer beginner-friendly classes in English, making it easier for newcomers to participate.
Explore Outdoor Adventure Groups ⛰️🏄♂️
With its breathtaking landscapes, South Korea is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Hiking, cycling, surfing, and even paragliding are popular activities, and many groups organize regular trips for both beginners and experienced adventurers. Joining an outdoor adventure group is a fantastic way to stay active, explore the country’s natural beauty, and meet fellow outdoor lovers. Many of these groups communicate through social media and welcome international members.
Go to Expat Markets & Fairs 🎪
International markets, holiday fairs, and cultural expos attract diverse crowds and create a relaxed setting to meet both locals and fellow expats. These events often feature food stalls, handmade crafts, and live performances, providing a great opportunity for cultural exchange. Many embassies and international communities host markets showcasing goods from different countries, making them an excellent place to find familiar products while meeting people from around the world.
Take Cooking Classes 🍜
Learning to make Korean food is not only a fun and immersive experience but also a great way to meet people. Cooking schools and cultural centers often offer hands-on classes where you can learn how to prepare dishes like kimchi, bibimbap, and tteokbokki. Many of these classes encourage group participation, which makes it easier to bond with classmates over shared culinary experiences. Some classes are specifically designed for foreigners, ensuring an easy-to-follow learning experience.
Sign Up for Weekend Travel Groups 🏕️
If you love exploring new places, joining a weekend travel group is a great way to see more of South Korea while making new friends. Many travel agencies and expat communities organize weekend trips to destinations like Jeju Island, Busan, Gyeongju, and national parks. These trips are typically all-inclusive, covering transportation, accommodation, and activities, making them a stress-free way to travel while forming meaningful connections with fellow adventurers.
Try Board Game Cafés & PC Bangs 🎲🎮
Board game cafés and PC gaming lounges (PC bangs) are hugely popular in South Korea, offering a fun and relaxed way to meet new people. Whether you enjoy classic board games, tabletop RPGs, or competitive online gaming, these spaces provide an interactive way to bond with others. Some cafés even host tournaments or themed game nights, creating a lively and engaging environment for socializing.
Host Your Own Meetup! 🎉
If you can’t find a group that fits your interests, why not create your own? Organizing small gatherings like coffee meetups, hiking trips, book clubs, or language exchanges can be an effective way to build your social circle. Platforms like Meetup, Facebook, and KakaoTalk make it easy to connect with like-minded individuals and start your own community. Hosting events allows you to meet people in a way that aligns with your interests while also contributing to the local expat network.
Final Thoughts
Making friends in South Korea takes effort, but with so many opportunities available, it is easier than you think. Whether you prefer structured events or casual meetups, the key is to stay open and keep trying!
💬 What’s your favorite way to meet new people in South Korea?
