Whereas Jeju is more well known for its scenery and its status as a popular tourist destination, they have reputable schools as well!

Jeju National University is the most prestigious on the island, and they are known for a selection of good international schools!

You might be thinking that Jeju might be a good place to visit, but you probably have no idea what it's like to live there!

Here's the upsides and downsides of living on the island!

 

Positives

1. You live in paradise!

Obviously, the biggest upside is that you live in the dream destination of many.

You get to see all the popular sights, but also explore hidden natural paradises that are only known to locals!

I don't think we have to say any more than that!

 

2. You get to know everyone!

In an island as small as Jeju (about 700,000 population), you are bound to be very familiar with the community.

This means that you'll have a family of new friends on the island quickly.

Though you shouldn't expect very good English from the people of Jeju, you can expect them to be friendly to you!

There are, of course, some downsides to this.

 

Negatives

1. You're on an island.

Living on an island away from mainland Korea means that you could feel a bit trapped.

The lack of crazy nightlife like the ones you can find in Seoul could also be a problem.

However, if you're a person that likes a lower intensity life, and came to Jeju to live a relaxing way, then I wouldn't consider this a negative!

Besides, you can always take a cheap flight elsewhere - either north into mainland Korea, or south to other East Asia travel destinations!

 

2. Public Transport

Having been to Jeju once, I can attest to this point.

Though public transport is widely available in the form of buses, I would highly recommend you getting a car.

These timetables are everywhere in Jeju, but it doesn't mean they're accurate...!

Buses arrive at incredibly infrequent times, and missing the bus would mean you're stuck waiting for up to an hour or more.

I was almost late for my flight because I missed my airport bus!

 

If you insist on taking the public transport though, it is best to keep to a tight schedule, as you'll undoubtedly get to know your bus driver and his timings.

 

If you are a person that can get used to these downsides, you will find that some of the happiest people in Korea live in Jeju Island!

Perhaps you can be one of them!

 

Do you have anything to add about life in Jeju?
Tell us in the comments below!