Living in Korea vs Living in Japan: Pros and Cons

Living in Korea vs Living in Japan: Pros and Cons

Written by Eclipse

 There are many Pros and Cons of living in both Korea and Japan, but which Country is better to live in? These two Eastern Countries have some heated history, and even though they are similar in a lot of ways especially in their language; there are still plenty that each has to offer uniquely.

Pros Of Living in Japan

1. Respectful 

That's not to say that Korean citizens are not respectful, but the Japanese culture is especially considerate in passing by. Offering elders, a seat when one isn't available, always making sure they are within a safe distance when interacting but not too far in a negative way, when giving you change, they will do it slowly to make sure you got everything. 

2. Vending Machines

It's strange but they are EVERYWHERE, you'll never realize how convenient and lifesaving it is until you're hiking in the middle of nowhere and forgot to pack a drink and snacks and "-oop THANK GOD A VENDING MACHINE!". 

3. Ramen Noodles

Ramen noodles in a pack just does not taste the same after you've experienced authentic Japanese cuisine, and this is something that cannot be re-created in Korea.

4. Low Crime Rates

 It's been well known for a while now that Japan has the top 10 lowest crime rates in a country. Korea is pretty good as well but not as cleanly documented as Japan. You can feel sleep sound at night knowing your front door is unlocked, your garage opened, and car windows rolled down and there will be no theft or danger of any kind.

CONS

1. Birth Rate

For a long while now, Japan's birth rate is rapidly declining, and it continues to become an issue. So much so that the government is paying 2000000 yen the equivalent of 20,000 US dollars to whoever births a child.

2. Perversion

Japan doesn't hide the fact that it is extremely perversive and some might say it's encouraged considering the population issue. Be careful when bringing your kids to a public convenient store...there may be magazines purporting a different...kind of Issue...

Pros Of Living in Korea

1. Partying/Clubbing

There is certainly no lack of things to do when it comes to living in Korea, "clubbing" and "bar hopping" is prominent in Korea and is the main entree to the much fun you can have while living there. 

2. Transportation is CHEAP

In general, everything is slightly cheaper in Korea than in Japan but especially transportation. An hour drive in a taxi will cost half of what it would have cost in Japan.

3. Aesthetics

Korean skin care is one of their main forms of economic growth and we love that. You'll find that aesthetically Koreans just do it better in terms of style, look, and grooming. Koreans just seem to take better care of themselves than the Japanese.

4. More westernized

This is a pro and a con in a lot of ways, but you'll notice there is a lot more hip-hop music in Korea as well as a more liberal approach to life whereas Japan is more old school.

CONS

1. Trash

Korea is much more trashy and generally dirty. Littering seems to not be a problem for the average Korean and the laws don't seem to punish this. When walking around Korea you'll notice lots of plastic and trash floating around regardless of the city or town you're in.

2. Homelessness

You'll notice a lot of homelessness on the streets and especially in the subways and it can be especially sad when it's older women.

3. Adult Sites are Blocked

You'll notice that all of the sites that are especially made for adults are blocked and require a Korean number which you as a foreigner probably don't have.

4. Really bad/rude Drivers

In Korea one of the top causes of death deals with car collisions and hit and runs. You'll also notice a lot of the taxi drivers seem to have low tolerance and patience while behind another driver. As you first land and hop in a taxi, it won't be long before you hear a horn beep...you get used to it unfortunately.

5. Suicide

South Korea is the top 5 for most suicidal country, so upon entering and interacting you need to be especially considerate of who you're talking to because it may be their last day.

So, which one do you like more?