Life abroad means loving where you are, while still missing where you came from
Mexican Food Cravings – From Chipotle to Vatos Urban Tacos
Nothing hits quite like a loaded burrito or street taco from a corner taqueria in the States.
Living in Korea, I quickly realized that authentic Mexican food is still hard to come by.
While Vatos Urban Tacos or Gusto Taco in Seoul offer some comfort,
the flavors lean Korean-fusion, not traditional.
Still, when the craving hits, these spots offer a passable fix—just don’t expect extra guac without a price.
American Deli Sandwiches – Casablanca as a Stand-In
One of the biggest food voids I felt? A proper deli sub.
American-style sandwiches are rare in Korea, where sandwiches are often lighter, sweeter, and more minimal.
Casablanca Sandwicherie in Haebangchon comes close with hearty Moroccan-style options.
Some bakeries or cafés label their items “American,” but don’t expect sourdough or a footlong Italian BMT.
Backyard BBQ Dreams – Hangang Parks and Korean Grills
The American backyard BBQ is hard to replicate in Korea’s apartment-dominated cities.
No backyard means no grill, no yard games, and no coolers full of beer on a Sunday afternoon.
But Korea offers alternatives: Hangang Park picnic zones, rooftop terraces, and of course, Korean BBQ restaurants
provide their own version of grilled-meat bonding—just not the same as manning your own Weber.
Grocery Store Variety – Navigating E-Mart, Costco, and Import Markets
U.S. grocery stores like Trader Joe’s or Whole Foods spoil you with options—
10 types of granola, 40 kinds of cheese, almond milk in every flavor.
In Korea, E-Mart, Homeplus, and Costco offer some relief,
but I found myself hunting foreign markets for salsa, cereal, or shredded cheddar.
When I finally found Lucky Charms, I knew I’d struck gold—even if it cost double.
Small Talk and Social Warmth – Finding Connection in a Reserved Culture
In the U.S., casual conversations in line, a wave to a stranger, or “how’s your day?” is normal.
In Korea, such interactions are less common, and people value privacy and formality.
It’s not cold—it’s just a different social rhythm.
To reconnect with that open energy, I joined language exchanges, visited expat cafés,
and embraced the slow build of Korean friendships, which run deep once formed.
Cultural Adaptation – Embracing the Balance Between Two Worlds
Missing home is inevitable, but living abroad is also about expanding your world.
Every American thing I missed had a Korean counterpart that gave me new joy:
Mexican fusion, communal BBQs, and quiet, respectful connections.
Life in Korea isn’t about replacing what I lost—it’s about learning to love what’s new,
and finding comfort in the in-between.
