Meet David, an American who came to Korea as an English teacher and now thrives as a freelance actor, voice actor, and content creator. He loves Korea’s safety, convenience, and vibrant culture, which led him to build a unique life there, including plans to marry and continue freelancing globally.
Interview
- WHERE ARE YOU FROM?
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United States
- WHAT DO YOU DO IN KOREA?
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Like many others, I first came to Korea to travel and work as an English teacher. I did that during the first half of my journey in Korea, and now I work as a freelance actor, voice actor, and content creator.
- WHY ARE YOU INTERESTED IN KOREA?
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I could make an entire video about the things that interest me in Korea, with the obvious ones being the food and culture. However, after traveling the world and spending time in many different places, while also living the latter half of my life in Korea, I’ve realized that what makes Korea truly special are the safety and convenience. I love the food delivery system, convenient stores, the incredible transportation system, how everything you could ever need is within a 5-minute walking distance, and, of course, my favorite—the 24-hour food and drinking culture. 😊
- WHY DID YOU CHOOSE TO STAY IN THIS CITY?
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I currently live in Cheonan. It is an hour south of Seoul. I love it because it’s more calm, less people yet still has everything you need for a good time.
- WHERE IS YOUR LOCAL RECOMMENDATION IN THIS CITY?
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Depends on the city. However my current favorite place to enjoy in Seoul is the food street in Jonro-3ga. You can immediately get a taste of the Korean “going out ” and “pocha macha” culture. Have some dried fish and kimchi pancakes with a few bottles of soju until 6am haha it’s so much fun.
- WHAT DO YOU ENJOY THE MOST WHILE STAYING ABROAD?
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I love the convenience and safety of everything here. You could essentially stay in your house without ever leaving and still live comfortably, with almost anything delivered within 20 minutes. But what truly stands out is the sense of safety—never having to worry about someone stealing from you while walking down a dark alley. This is something very rare around the world, yet Korea has somehow made it a reality.
- WHAT IS THE BIGGEST CHALLENGE BEING IN KOREA?
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Of course, there’s the language barrier and cultural differences. If you choose to live here as long as I have without properly grasping the language, the feeling of dependency on Korean friends can be challenging. It’s also common to get frustrated with societal differences that may seem less progressive. However, it’s important to stay centered and remember that we are guests in another country, and we should try not to let the negative aspects outweigh the positive. It’s all too easy to blame the culture and the differences when things go wrong, but in the end, it’s how we handle ourselves living abroad and our outlook that make the biggest difference.
- WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENCES BETWEEN KOREA AND YOUR COUNTRY?
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I grew up in San Diego, California, where people tend to be ultra outgoing, progressive and friendly—sometimes maybe a bit too much, haha. Californians, in particular, seem to specialize in small talk and warm greetings, whereas Korea has a different culture when it comes to introductions, with people tending to be more shy and introverted. This contrast is part of the beauty of living in a different place. It allows you to adapt and grow in ways you never thought possible. Of course you could write a book about the many differences but in short this is one that is highly noticeable.
- DID YOU EXPERIENCE ANY CHANGE IN YOUR LIFE AND FUTURE PROSPECTS?
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My entire life is different now. The path I chose somehow led me to Korea. I came here right out of college, like a baby deer learning to walk, haha. I learned about independence, living alone in another country, the importance of an open mind, communication, following your instincts, and living the way you imagine. I came here not knowing what I was looking for, but along the way, I found things I never expected. For example, I now get to experience what it’s like to act in a Netflix movie—in Korea—or to be the voice of an animation. How random and cool is that? I also found love and stability within my otherwise unstable life and will be getting married next year. Korea made this happen. It’s a special place that allowed me to follow a unique path in life. Whether in Korea or another country, those who leave their comfort zone and settle somewhere new overcome a lot of mental turbulence and truly choose to live an unconventional life. It’s beautiful and scary at the same time.
- WHAT IS YOUR DREAM?
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I laugh when I hear this question because my dreams change as often as my midlife crises, haha. 😊 However, my current dream is to continue freelancing with my partner and to live comfortably while doing exactly what we love. I want us to grow and thrive together around the world… with our corgi, of course! haha
- MESSAGE TO OUR FRIENDS WHO WILL GO TO KOREA.
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GO! STOP HESITATING AND GO! Whether it’s a short trip or a decision to stay for a year for work, travel, or study, IT WILL CHANGE YOUR LIFE in ways you could never imagine. And, of course, learn how to do a soju tornado while you’re here so you can impress your friends back home. 😉
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