Adventure, stunning beach views and a healthy does of city-life: this is the life that awaits the Black expat in Busan, South Korea. Candace Green, an expat originally from Texas, swapped her life in the States for one in South Korea.
Between teaching abroad, seeking out adventures and finding intentional ways to move through life, she has convinced us here at Travel Noire that Busan is truly abundant in all the best things for Black expats.
Here is what Candace’s life looks like as a Black expat in Busan, South Korea:
As a former international flight attendant, I knew living abroad in another country would be my next venture and lifestyle goal. I currently live in Busan, South Korea— a large port city known for its beaches, mountains and temples. Busan is the second largest metropolis city, after Seoul and the perfect mix of big city and chill beach vibes. I live in the Haeundae-gu area about a ten minute walk from the beach and absolutely love my location!
I have been living in Korea a little over a year and continue to fall more in love with this beautiful country and my new city everyday. To have daily access to breathtaking coastal views and numerous hiking trails excites me. There is always something to explore in and around Busan. Plus the public transportation system in Korea is very organized and efficient where a quick weekend escape is always just a fast KTX train away. Being able to discover new hidden gems and immersing myself into the culture daily is why I love the life I have created here in Korea.
On weekdays, I usually work 9-5 as a kindergarten teacher at a private hagwon. I love working with kids and really enjoy seeing each of them accelerate in their English abilities every day. I’m grateful to be able to end the day enjoying the outstanding sunsets on my way home from work.
Here I’ll share what a day in my life looks like on a weekend:
7:00 am – My weekends are usually a good mix of exploring, errands, and relaxation. On Saturdays I start my mornings drinking my coffee and burning some Palo Santo and incense.
8:00 am – I begin watering my plant babies and tidying up my space. Sometimes I talk with family and friends back home in the States while making a light breakfast of scramble eggs and veggies.
9:00 am – I set out to enjoy my morning walk. Living so close to the coastline, the coastal walks are breathtaking. I typically walk for about an hour to hour and half stopping along the way to take in the view and meditate by the water. Along the coast there are many local farmers and fishermen selling herbs, vegetables, fruit, clams, and seaweed. I’ll purchase some green onions or fresh basil on my walk. Feeling the morning breeze always energizes my spirit and brings me peace.
11:00 am– I stop in my neighborhood market or mart and pick up a few items before heading home. I typically make a quick lunch before heading out to explore around.
3:00 pm – I jump on the subway and head more into the city center. I love the beach and being by the water so I typically spend my afternoons drinking and hanging out at Gwangalli beach, Haeundae beach, or Dadaepo beach. The cafés around Korea are always so aesthetically pleasing and provide amazing views. I try to check out a new café and enjoy a pastry, latte or homemade ade.
6:00 pm – I watch the sunset and enjoy the moment. I love watching the sunset and intentionally try to catch at least one per week. It’s a beautiful reminder to live and appreciate each day as I watch the sun disappear into the distance.
7:00– I either meet up with friends for a fresh seafood dinner and drinks or head home and cook dinner while enjoying a glass of wine to end my evening.
To keep updated with Candace’s expat life abroad, be sure to check out her Instagram and her website.