SEOUL, June 13 (Korea Bizwire) – Living in another country is an experience fraught with challenges. Even something as simple as using public transport can be difficult if you don’t speak the language or don’t have accurate information.

As the number of foreign residents in Seoul was estimated to be nearly 280,000 as of last year, the Seoul Metropolitan Government has published a new guidebook dubbed ‘Hanwooltari’ (One Fence) in 11 different languages including English, Chinese, Vietnamese, and Thai, encompassing useful information regarding various aspects of public life in Seoul.

The new guidebook, which can be downloaded in digital form at www.mcfamily.or.kr, contains a wide range of information ranging from civil administration services including the visa application process to welfare services such as how to obtain maternity benefits.

Apart from information regarding hospitals, schools, housing leases and job hunting, the guidebook also outlines ways to cope with natural disasters as well as accidents.

According to the findings of the 2017 Seoul Survey released last week, nearly half of foreign nationals living in the capital said the city hasn’t changed much from the past.

When asked why, over one in four respondents who held a negative view said Seoul needs to be more open and embrace foreign residents, while just over 20 percent cited ‘insufficient welfare services’ as a problem.

Hyunsu Yim (hyunsu@koreabizwire.com)