Living in Taiwan for over two years has presented both challenges and opportunities for adaptation. For someone who has struggled to fit into Korean society, the move to Taiwan offers a unique alternative worth considering for those in similar situations. The experience of navigating life in a foreign country, especially without fluency in the local language, can be daunting. Yet, Taiwan has its own set of advantages and disadvantages that develop it an intriguing option for those seeking a fresh start.
The desire to live abroad has long been a part of my personal narrative. Jokingly, I often tell my wife, ‘I’m not really Korean; I just happened to be born there.’ This jest stems from my unconventional lifestyle choices—disliking kimchi, abstaining from alcohol, and having little interest in Korean dramas—traits that might seem alien in a society where such preferences are norms. My wife has often remarked that I don’t fit the typical image of a Korean person, frequently mistaking me for Japanese due to my English-speaking tendencies and appearance.
Reflecting on my identity, I realize that I do not embody the typical Korean persona. While I sometimes find myself caught up in national pride, I’ve generally felt like an outsider within my own culture. I never sought a stable job, nor did I aspire to invest in real estate or stocks. Instead, I left Seoul, a city I had lived in for 30 years, seeking solace in the mountains and eventually settling in a rural village in Jeju. Writing, which has not been financially rewarding, became my primary focus, and I even established a small library in my community. This path distanced me further from the expectations of my peers, who were busy raising children and planning for retirement.
Experiencing Cultural Differences
Throughout my struggle to adapt to Korean society, I had the opportunity to visit several countries. While many places may appear similar, each has its unique character. Mongolia and Cuba stood out to me as particularly captivating destinations due to their warm-hearted people and vibrant nature. However, the idea of settling in those countries felt daunting, perhaps because they contrast sharply with the urban lifestyles I am accustomed to. My visits to Japan and the United States too reinforced my belief that these were not viable long-term options for living.
Eventually, I found myself in Taiwan, where I officially registered as a foreign resident. This move, initially a joke about ending up in a ‘southern country across the sea,’ has turned into a reality. While I don’t plan to make Taiwan my permanent home, my immediate goal is to raise my children well and carve out a novel life here.
The Realities of Immigration
My situation diverges from that of many expatriates. Whereas I am a freelance writer, my income primarily comes from projects in Korea, meaning I do not seek employment in Taiwan. What we have is not a typical retirement migration, yet I find myself living as a foreign resident in a new country. Taiwan offers several advantages that make the experience worthwhile, including cultural similarities, geographical proximity, and openness to foreigners.
Firstly, Taiwan shares many cultural traits with Korea, making it one of the most similar countries I have encountered. The lack of stark physical differences between people is a significant advantage. Culturally, Taiwan resembles Korea more than North Korea or even Japan, which are traditionally seen as closer relatives. Although there are detailed differences, the overarching framework of being a ‘Westernized Sinophone culture’ that retains Asian traditions offers similarities that ease the transition.
Secondly, Taiwan’s geographical proximity to Korea is a notable benefit. It only takes around two hours to return to Korea, a significant advantage compared to migrating to countries on the other side of the world, where travel could take over ten hours. The time difference is just one hour, making it easier to stay connected with family and friends back home.
Embracing Openness in Taiwan
One of the most compelling aspects of living in Taiwan is the society’s openness. This characteristic can be attributed to its status as an immigrant nation. Unlike ethnically homogeneous nations that define belonging through bloodlines and culture, Taiwan welcomes individuals who pass through legal processes into its social fabric. Despite appearing as a single-ethnic nation, Taiwan’s history is marked by diverse migrations, similar to countries like the United States and Australia.
For those without Chinese language skills, the ability to navigate daily life using basic English is an added comfort. Although acquiring Taiwanese nationality can be challenging, We see generally easier than obtaining citizenship in many other countries. For those married to Taiwanese citizens, like myself, the process is notably more straightforward, although my satisfaction with living in Taiwan is not contingent on formal citizenship.
The Challenges Ahead
Of course, living in Taiwan comes with its challenges. The ongoing tensions in cross-strait relations with China are a persistent concern. While the immediate threat in Taipei may seem minimal, natural disasters like earthquakes and typhoons are unfamiliar hurdles. Adapting to the climate and food differences has also been a daily challenge. Despite my previous adaptability to Korea’s distinct seasons and spicy cuisine, the pangs of nostalgia are inevitable for anyone who has left their homeland.
As I recall my early days in Jeju, I remember contemplating whether it was necessary to live in the bustling and costly city of Seoul, especially with the ability to connect with people and work online. The realization that I could live in a different environment while maintaining my connections has been liberating. This perspective may resonate with others who feel out of place in Korean society and are considering Taiwan as a potential alternative.
As more individuals explore the idea of relocating to Taiwan, it is essential to weigh both the positives and negatives. The experience can prove enriching for those seeking a fresh start in an environment that offers cultural familiarity, geographic convenience, and a welcoming atmosphere for newcomers. Comments and shared experiences from others contemplating a similar journey are welcome.
