Pinoy Sarang

  As rural towns struggle with population decline, some local governments are offering homes for as little as ₩10,000 a month. Could this be the future of living in Korea? By Majella Pagayon | June 14, 2026 Imagine paying only ₩10,000 per month —less than the cost of a few cups of coffee—for a place to live in South Korea. At first glance, it sounds impossible. Yet across several rural communities in South Korea, programs offering extremely low-cost housing have become a reality. What began as an experiment in places like Hwasun-gun in South Jeolla Province has attracted national attention. As more towns face shrinking populations, aging residents, and empty homes, local governments are looking for creative ways to bring people back. For foreigners already living in Korea—or those considering building a future here—these programs may offer opportunities that were almost unimaginable just a few years ago. But before packing your bags, there are important realities you should underst...

In one of South Korea's quieter cities, community policing and personal connections are helping foreigners feel secure and supported. By Majella Pagayon | June 14, 2026 As a foreign resident who has spent many years living in Chungju, one of the things I appreciate most is the sense of security that comes with living in a smaller city. Unlike the fast-paced energy of Seoul, Chungju offers something different—peace of mind. The streets are quieter, the neighborhoods feel more connected, and there is a strong sense that people genuinely look out for one another. An important part of that feeling comes from the dedication of the local police officers who work every day to keep the community safe. Recently, I had the opportunity to speak with one of my students, Officer Lee Song-won , who is better known by his English name, James . Our conversation provided valuable insight into how Chungju Police support not only Korean citizens but also the growing number of foreign resi...

Understanding the benefits, requirements, and realities of voluntarily leaving South Korea through legal channels. By Majella Pagayon | June 14, 2026 For many undocumented residents in South Korea, the future can feel uncertain. Some have spent years building lives, supporting families, and working hard in a country they have come to know as a second home. Yet living without legal status often brings constant anxiety, limited opportunities, and the risk of serious immigration consequences. To address this issue, South Korean immigration authorities periodically introduce programs designed to encourage voluntary compliance with immigration laws. One such initiative is the Special Voluntary Departure Program , which offers eligible individuals an opportunity to leave the country on their own terms while potentially avoiding some of the most severe penalties associated with overstaying. While the special program period that ran through early 2026 has ended, understanding how these program...

As South Korea faces demographic challenges, many are asking whether children who grow up Korean in every way should remain foreigners on paper. By Majella Pagayon | June 14, 2026 What makes someone truly belong to a country? Is it their passport? Their parents' nationality? Or is it the place where they grew up, went to school, made friends, and built their identity? These questions are becoming increasingly important in South Korea as the country continues to navigate the realities of globalization, immigration, and a rapidly changing population. One person who has reflected deeply on this issue is Dr. Mohammad Nazmul Hasan , widely known as Nadim, a former international student who earned his PhD from the Korea National University of Transportation (KNUT). His story highlights not only the opportunities South Korea offers to talented individuals from around the world but also the challenges many foreign residents continue to face when trying to build long-term lives ...