How Do You Make Korean Friends as an Expat?
A Korean Local’s Honest, Practical Guide
Making friends in a new country isn’t just about exchanging numbers — it’s about breaking cultural rhythms, understanding social cues, and building trust over time. In Korea, where social bonds often form differently than in many Western cultures, expats sometimes ask: Is it hard to make Korean friends? The short answer is: it can be — but it’s absolutely possible with the right approach.
I live in Korea, interact with both Koreans and internationals daily, and see firsthand what helps friendships take root. In this guide, I’ll share what works, what to expect, and how to turn introductions into genuine connections.
Understand the Cultural Context First
Korean friendships often grow slowly. Unlike some cultures where casual invites are common (“let’s grab coffee sometime”), Koreans tend to:
- Take time to invite you into small group settings
- Introduce you to friends through mutual connections
- Value shared experiences over quick hangouts
Understanding this rhythm is the first step. Koreans may seem reserved at first, but they often warm up once they know you’re genuinely interested in their culture and life.
Start With Language and Cultural Exchange Groups
Language exchange meetups are a natural starting point for many expats. These meetups give you:
- Opportunities to practice Korean
- A relaxed environment to meet locals who are also interested in cultural exchange
- Topics to talk about instantly
Korea has many language cafés, university groups, and community events structured around language learning. They’re low-pressure, fun, and a regular place to see the same people again — a key to making friends.
Attend Social Events and Meetups
Korean cities — especially Seoul, Busan, and Daegu — have thriving social calendars. You can find groups for:
- Hiking and outdoor activities
- Book clubs
- Art and hobby groups
- Expat-local mixers
- Volunteer activities
What works well is shared interest. When you show up regularly to something you genuinely enjoy, you’ll meet people with similar interests. Koreans value shared experiences and often bond through activities rather than just chatting.
Use Apps and Platforms That Mix Locals and Foreigners
Digital tools can help connect you with locals who are open to multicultural friendships. Some platforms and apps popular in Korea or among expats include:
- Meetup
- Facebook groups
- Couchsurfing events
- Language exchange apps
- Hobby-based communities
Don’t be shy about posting locally — Koreans who want to practice English or meet global friends often respond positively to genuine, friendly invitations.
Be Consistent and Follow Up
This one is crucial: friendships deepen with consistency.
If someone invites you to an event, try to show up. Afterward, send a message thanking them or suggesting the next hangout. Koreans appreciate thoughtfulness and reliability — it signals respect and genuine interest rather than casual friendliness.
Learn Basic Korean Expressions
You don’t need to be fluent, but learning some Korean phrases makes a big difference. Even simple efforts show:
- Respect
- Interest in culture
- Willingness to integrate
People often respond warmly to someone trying their language, even if imperfect. It breaks the initial formality and opens doors socially.
Participate in Community Activities
Korean families and locals often participate in community festivals, local markets, and neighborhood events. Getting involved:
- Shows you care about local life
- Puts you in contact with families and neighbors
- Creates natural opportunities for conversation
Often, these settings lead to friendships that grow beyond the event itself.
Workplace Dynamics Can Help or Hinder
At workplaces, socializing often happens within group settings:
- Team dinners after work
- Group outings
- After-work gatherings
While these can feel intense to foreigners unused to group-centered social life, they’re actually opportunities to build deeper connections if you participate with an open mind.
Be Patient and Read Social Cues
Korean social behavior can be subtle. Some signs you’re making progress:
- Invitations to second or third meetups
- Invitations into small group plans
- Personal messages outside group chats
Koreans may not invite you into their closest circle immediately, but frequent invitations to group activities signal growing trust.
Balance Cultural Curiosity With Personal Sharing
In early interactions:
- Ask about Korean culture, food, and festivals
- Share about your own background and experiences
Koreans are often curious about global lifestyles, and mutual curiosity fosters deeper conversations.
Don’t Take Distance Personally
If a Korean acquaintance seems warm but not very communicative at first, it’s usually cultural, not personal. Many Koreans:
- Value privacy
- Are cautious with new relationships
- Prefer slower friend formation
Once trust is built, their warmth and loyalty in friendship can be deep and lasting.
Celebrate Small Wins — And Keep Showing Up
Friendship isn’t instant. If you:
- Attend events regularly
- Smile and show genuine interest
- Learn just a bit of language
- Follow up with messages
You’ll notice that what starts as casual acquaintance can develop into weekend plans, shared meals, and lasting bonds.
Final Thoughts from a Korean Local
Making Korean friends as an expat requires a mix of patience, genuine curiosity, and regular effort. It’s not a quick process, but the friendships you build often become meaningful, warm, and deeply rewarding.
Remember, friendship is mutual — offering interest, consistency, and cultural respect goes a long way. Embrace group activities, learn a bit of language, and don’t hesitate to reach out. Over time, the social rhythms that once felt unfamiliar become comfortable and familiar.