Living in Korea is exciting—but making friends in Korea can be really hard.
Even if you’ve figured out housing, transport, and delivery apps, feeling truly connected is another story.
Cultural habits, group-based social circles, and language gaps often make it difficult to meet people.
But you're not alone in this—and you're not doing anything wrong.
In this guide, we’ll explore why making friends in Korea feels so tough, and show you where and how to find your people.
Why Making Friends in Korea Can Feel So Hard
Most social circles here are formed through school, work, or shared history.
If you're not part of those, it's easy to feel left out.
Even friendly people tend to keep a bit of distance.
Small talk doesn’t always lead to deeper connection.
Going to an event alone can feel intimidating too—especially if everyone already knows each other.
But here's the good news: there are many others, both Koreans and foreigners, looking to meet new people.
And now, there are tools to help—apps, clubs, and meetups made exactly for that.
You don’t need perfect Korean or a huge social circle to start.
Just the right places—and the right approach.
Beyond Dating: The Best Apps for Finding Your Tribe
When most people think of social apps, they think of Tinder or Bumble. But if you’re looking for platonic friendships, those can be a bit of a minefield. The good news is, Korea has a fantastic ecosystem of apps specifically designed for social groups and hobbies. These are where you'll find people genuinely looking for friends and activity partners.
소모임 (Somoin)
Somoim (소모임) is the original Korean hobby club app. It’s perfect for finding local groups based on your interests, from hiking and cycling to board games and book clubs. The interface is in Korean, but many groups have English-speaking members or are very welcoming to foreigners. Just type in an activity you like, and you'll find dozens of local clubs.
문토 (Munto)
Munto (문토) is a more curated, trendier version of Somoim. It’s known for high-quality meetups focused on specific topics like writing, photography, or even personal finance. The events are often well-organized and led by a host. The app is also a hub for language exchange groups, making it an excellent platform for those who want to practice Korean and connect with locals. While it's mostly in Korean, you can often find groups that specifically say they welcome foreigners or "외국인 환영."
프립 (Frip)
Frip (프립) is the app for you if you're into unique experiences. It’s not just a social app, but a platform for booking one-day classes, workshops, and outdoor activities. You can join a surfing lesson on the coast, a pottery class in Seoul, or a weekend hiking trip. It's a low-pressure way to meet new people because the focus is on the activity itself.
Using these apps is a game-changer. You don't have to just hope you'll meet someone by chance; you can actively join a group of people who already share your passions.
Hobby & Interest-Based Communities: Connect Through What You Love
Connecting with people is always easier when you have a common interest. That’s why hobby-based communities are one of the most effective ways to find friends in Korea. It takes the pressure off "making small talk" and puts the focus on the fun activity you're doing together.
Sports & Fitness
Whether you’re into hiking, soccer, or even bouldering, there's a club for it. Apps like Somoim and Meetup are great for finding these. Joining a weekly badminton group or a running club is a great way to meet people consistently.
Creative & Artistic Hobbies
Have you always wanted to learn to play the guitar or try your hand at painting? Look for local art classes, music academies, or even private studios. Many of them offer one-day classes or regular sessions that are perfect for meeting like-minded people.
Culinary & Foodie Groups
Food is a universal language. Join a cooking class to learn how to make traditional Korean dishes, or find a foodie group that explores new restaurants. It’s an easy and delicious way to break the ice.
The key here is to be proactive. Instead of waiting for an invitation, be the one who searches for a group and shows up. You'll be surprised at how welcoming people can be when you take the initiative.
Language Exchange: More Than Just a Lesson
Language exchange isn't just about practicing your Korean. It’s also one of the easiest and most natural ways to make new friends in Korea.
When you meet with a language partner, you're not just a student—you're a cultural exchange partner. This creates a balanced, friendly dynamic where both sides have something to share and learn.
Apps like HelloTalk and Meeff make it easy to find Korean speakers who want to practice English or other languages. Many users end up building lasting friendships that go far beyond just language practice. In fact, it’s not uncommon for people to stay in touch for years through these platforms.
With no pressure and shared curiosity, language exchange can be the starting point for real, long-term friendships.
Download Meeff App :
Expand Your Circle: Volunteer Work & Cultural Activities
If you want to meet locals who are passionate about their community, consider volunteering. Volunteering with a local group is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in Korean culture and meet people who are naturally kind and community-oriented. You could help with a kimchi-making event, clean up a park, or assist at an animal shelter. Not only will you be doing good, but you'll be meeting people outside of a traditional social setting. You can find these opportunities through local community centers or by searching for "volunteer work Korea" online.
Likewise, joining cultural activities can be a great way to meet people. Take a traditional Korean cooking class, try your hand at a calligraphy workshop, or even join a tour of a historical site. These activities naturally bring people together and provide a shared experience to talk about. These shared moments are what build connections and turn strangers into friends.
Tips for Success: From Introvert to Social Butterfly
Finding groups and activities is only half the battle. The other half is making the most of them. Even if you're an introvert, these tips can help you confidently step into a new social circle and turn acquaintances into friends.
Be a Regular: Consistency is key. Don't just show up once. If you find a group you like, make an effort to go every week. People get to know you and remember you when you’re a familiar face.
Take Initiative: Don't wait for others to talk to you. Ask open-ended questions like, "What got you into hiking?" or "What's the best part of this class for you?" It shows you're genuinely interested and takes the pressure off the other person to start the conversation.
Exchange Contact Info: After a good conversation, don't be afraid to say, "Hey, it was great talking to you. Would you mind exchanging Kakaotalk IDs?" It's a natural next step and shows you want to continue the friendship.
Please remember, the goal isn't to be friends with everyone, but to find a few people you really connect with. Don't be discouraged if it doesn't happen overnight. Building a community takes time and effort, but the feeling of belonging is well worth it.
FAQ about Making friends in Korea
We've covered a lot, but you might still have a few questions on your mind. Here are some of the most common questions foreigners have when they’re trying to build a community in Korea.
Q1. What is the best city in Korea for making friends?
While Seoul has the largest number of expat communities and a huge variety of social groups, cities like Busan and Daegu also have active international communities. The key isn't the city, but the effort you put into finding groups and activities. Smaller cities might have fewer options, but the communities are often tighter-knit and more welcoming.
Q2. Is it harder for older foreigners to make friends?
Not necessarily. While many social apps are popular with a younger crowd, there are plenty of hobby groups and volunteer opportunities that attract people of all ages. Focusing on shared interests like hiking, book clubs, or art classes is a great way to meet people who share your passion, regardless of age.
Q3. What's the main difference between Korean friends and foreign friends in Korea?
Foreign friends often share a common experience of being an outsider, which can lead to quick, deep bonds. Korean friends, on the other hand, can offer a more authentic cultural connection and help you integrate more smoothly into society. Both are valuable and can enrich your life in different ways.
Q4. What is the best way to maintain friendships with Korean people?
Kakaotalk is essential for daily communication. A simple "잘 지내세요?" (How have you been?) or sharing a funny photo can go a long way. Inviting them to your gatherings or trying a new restaurant together shows you value the friendship. Showing genuine interest in their life and culture is the most important thing.
Q5. Can I join a group even if I don't speak fluent Korean?
Absolutely. Many hobby groups, especially in big cities, are used to having non-native speakers. While knowing a few basic phrases is always helpful, most people are patient and willing to help. You'll often find someone who speaks some English, and the shared activity will be the main focus, not perfect conversation.
Final Thoughts: Don't Give Up, Just Explore
Finding your tribe in a new country isn't something that happens overnight, and it's okay to feel lonely sometimes. But remember, you've already taken the biggest step by moving to Korea. You're brave, resilient, and capable of building a wonderful life here.
All you need to do now is explore. Try a new hobby, download one of the apps mentioned, or simply say "hello" to someone new. Your community is out there, waiting for you. This guide is just the first step in your journey to 한국인 친구 만들기.
So, what are you waiting for? Start your adventure today!
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