south korea

[bohemianvegan]

I lived in South Korea for one year and four months. I have now been back in the USA for ten months. I haven't done anything constructive and I want to return to Korea. I still have friends up there

Comments

[baggyk]

Nah. It's not like there is anything like employment stability or security these days. Life is hort, you might as well spend it living rather than saving for your retirement or planning your funeral.

[breakingthrunow]

No. Unless you plan on allowing to let your family rule your life. Of course it's understandable they want you there. Feel flattered and continue doing what you want. PS- Compared to other places, US social security/services actually suck so if it's about that, establish yourself in a place where there's free healthcare and things like that. Also look into international agreements that exist! http://www.ssa.gov/international/agreements_overview.html

[purlygirl]

Really I just agree with the comments above, but would like to add that perhaps your friends/family are simply anxious for you to establish yourself somewhere, and assume it would have to be in the US, if only due to immigration issues.

Maybe the emphasis for you is less on 'good job' than on 'right job' - ? Somehting that would allow you to pursue writing etc.?

[articulate_ink]

Go where you feel you belong. That's my advice. There's this lingering myth that it's possible to establish yourself in a stable career in the US. The days of the guaranteed job, the white picket fence, and the well-funded retirement are over. Your friends and family no doubt want you nearby, which is great, and they're concerned about your well-being. However, the reality of the situation is that other countries also offer gainful, well-paying employment... and often a much higher quality of life. Why go back to school and rack up student loans when you could work, do it later, save the money, and pay for your tuition in cash? Why remain in an environment where you have to have a car (and all its associated costs) to go anywhere? Yes, it's wise to save for retirement, but you can do that elsewhere too... and at a much lower (or nonexistent) tax rate. Best of luck!

[shigatsuhana]

Yes, agreed, you need to follow your heart and do what's best for you. The worst thing you can do is let other people dictate your life and your happiness. Then I suppose you're most likely to hear that from other ex-pats! ;)