It's been a couple of months since I packed my bags in South Africa, said goodbye to my people, and set off for a new chapter in South Korea, 17 hours away. I thought I was ready—I’d researched, scrolled through social media, and read countless articles. But the reality is a complete 180-degree shift. The culture, buildings, nature, and people are entirely different.
Arriving here was overwhelming. I’d prepared for change, but "overwhelmed" doesn’t cover it. At times, I’ve questioned my choice. Was this really the right decision? The first few weeks were a blur of emotions, confusion, and constant reminders to just breathe and take it slow. I’m in an entirely new place, completely on my own, and it's okay to feel like everything’s upside-down.
One of the reasons I took this leap was for the thrill of new experiences. Yet here I am on a Friday night, feeling lost just trying to decide where or what to eat. Having no one to share a meal with can be hard, but I remind myself not to dwell on it. When I greet people on the street, a smile back is a win; if they look puzzled, I just laugh to myself and move on.
Being here feels like a journey lost in translation, where each day brings both challenge and discovery. Communicating without knowing the language is difficult; even simple tasks like ordering food or asking for directions can feel like big achievements. Yet, every time I manage to use their language,there’s a sense of shared warmth. I see kindness in a smile when I say “thank you” in their words, and in those moments, the unfamiliar feels a bit more likehome.
When loneliness hits, I remember my friends and family are deep in sleep on the other side of the world. This wasn’t an easy decision—it’s massive. I need to give myself grace. Over time, this strange place will start to feel familiar.I’ll find a favourite café or spot where I’ll become a regular, where familiar faces will bring a sense of comfort. For now, I’ll take it day by day, no rushing.
Already, I’ve explored restaurants, beaches, tried some social events, and visited different markets. When homesickness creeps in, I listen to my favourite SouthAfrican band, Spoegwolf, and let the emotions flow. I’m proud of myself. I’m learning to adapt, building resilience, and finding beauty in discomfort. Each day here teaches me something new, and even in moments of doubt, I know I’m growing in ways I never could back home.
