Hello everyone! First of all, thank you for taking the time to read my blog.
Let me introduce myself: I’m a Filipino who lived in Korea for 11 years, working both as a factory worker and an actor. Now, I’m back in the Philippines, happily reunited with my family. Currently, I’m a Korean language content creator, actively sharing my experiences on social media. You can find me on my channels below!
Table of Contents
A Journey of Growth
Living and working in South Korea for over a decade has been an incredible journey filled with cultural immersion, personal growth, and professional development. From a totally different country, culture, language and people, I treated South Korea as my second home. Throughout my time in this vibrant country, I have experienced the highs and lows of navigating a foreign culture, building relationships with locals, and adapting to the fast-paced work ethic of Korean society.
Why I Chose to Move to Korea
I first came to Korea when I was 20 years old. At first, I was really hesitant to come here cause firstly it has a totally different language, culture and I have no friends in this country. It was like being reborn again on a totally different place where nobody knows me. But since I’m the eldest on our family I have this responsibility to earn money and help them, I come to South Korea alone thinking that this is for the sake of myself and my family. It was really hard to adopt to Korean Culture at first most especially if you don’t know their language.
Overcoming the Language Barrier
Good thing I learned some basic greetings and words that I can use while living in South Korea. But it is still not enough, so I slowly started learning through my co-workers and slowly trying to meet Korean friends. By talking to the native Korean speakers, I learned a lot not only the language but also their culture. In the whole 11 years of my life, this is one of the most exciting parts of my life. I slowly feel so assured and confident speaking to Koreans. It feels like really big achievement the moment I understand what they are talking and I can answer them back in Korean.
Working in Korea
I remember the first 2 years of my life in Korea when my supervisor talks to me and I don’t know how to answer back. My supervisor will try to do a body language just for me to understand what he wanted to say. It was really hard for the both of us to communicate. Working on a factory is also a first time to me, it was really hard at first but once you get used to it everything will be as easy as 1,2,3. You just need to be careful and alert at all times especially if you are using on a dangerous machines and tools. Even myself gets hospitalized twice for getting injuries while working.
Exploring the Entertainment World
Working in Korea has been challenging, but it has also provided incredible opportunities. I’ve had the chance to participate in cultural events, dance performances, and even try my hand at acting. Although my roles weren’t major, the pay was good, and I got to meet genuine Korean superstars! The entertainment industry in Korea is exceptionally influential, and being part of a drama or movie, even for a few days, was a tremendous honor. I even managed to be featured on YouTube and TV ads! Watching myself on screen in a theater, or on TV—it’s beyond words. I can’t fathom how different my life would be if I hadn’t chosen to work in Korea.
Seasons of Change
Another thing is South Korea’s weather. Way back in the Philippines, we only have 2 seasons the summer season and rainy season. So, living in a country with 4 seasons really needs a big adjustment, I always get sick every time a new season is coming. But as the years goes by, I get used to the weather and found some tips what food to eat during specific season and things I should do to avoid getting sick as the season changes. But also having these 4 seasons, I got a chance to experience snowfall, winter activities, cherry blossoms, maple leaf season and many more.
Meeting Genuine Friends and Family
Meeting Korean friends is a challenge to me because I’m a foreigner. Some people are afraid to talk to me because of the language barrier. But there are some who will be wholeheartedly be friend with you and will treat you like a family. And I luckily met that kind of friend who will not only treat you as a friend, but as a brother and a family. Having a Korean friend really helps me exploring Korean culture. They have the knowledge that the books cannot give to you. I get to experience also their culture like 설날 [New Year] and 추석 [Thanksgiving]. I also noticed that despite South Korea and Philippines are totally different country, they also have a lot of similarities.
Adventures with Expat Friends
While living in South Korea, I get a chance to have some free trips and gifts every year. They have this program for foreigners who are living in Korea that will help their Korean life better and enjoyable. I remember having a whole 3 days and 2 nights trip for free including foods, transportation and hotel accommodation. I get a chance to travel to beautiful places in South Korea, and also meet new friends for free.
I’ve also had the opportunity to meet influencers from around the world who are residing in Korea. We meet up, hang out, and attend events together. Additionally, I consistently receive sponsored products, which has been fantastic. Sharing my reviews of Korean products on social media has been an incredibly enjoyable experience!
Filipino Connections in Korea
It’s not all about meeting Koreans and foreigners. The toughest part is often dealing with homesickness. However, spending time with my community here has made a huge difference. I’ve had the chance to connect with fellow Filipinos in Korea, hang out, cook, and eat together. So, don’t be afraid to come and explore. Give your best effort in everything, and you will achieve more than you imagine. Trust me!
Finding Fortune Through Hard Work
Some might consider me lucky for the diverse adventures I’ve experienced in Korea, but luck had little to do with it. I wouldn’t say I’m lucky for the opportunities I’ve had. Instead, I believe it’s because I work harder than most. I learned Korean, actively searched for opportunities, and never gave up.
I dedicated myself to mastering the Korean language, actively seeking out opportunities both offline and online. Transitioning from being shy and reserved to actively participating in the entertainment industry and connecting with people from around the globe was a significant leap for me. Now, I find myself working as a content creator, a role I never imagined I’d embrace.
Starting wasn’t easy, but I kept pushing forward, refusing to give up. Remember, nothing worthwhile comes without effort. Keep exploring, keep pushing boundaries, and never abandon your dreams—they will eventually become your reality.
Korea: My Second Home
For a total of 11 years living in South Korea, it has ups and downs but that was so memorable and I will forever treasure for the rest of my life. I get to know more about myself, I managed to become an independent person, I met wonderful persons and I earned a lot for me and family. South Korea will forever a second home for me.
Love,
Kuya Billy
