If you are an expat in a foreign country, chances are, you have had some difficulty making friends. It is very difficult to find a place where you belong when you are starting from zero. However, if you are an expat here, in South Korea, I have a resource where you just might be able to find your people.
The Loneliness of an Expat
If youโve ever lived abroad, you may relate to the loneliness that sometimes comes to heart. It is not unusual, and everyone that has lived abroad can tell you for certain that they may have felt that way at some point. So, as humans, it is also common for us to look for a community and a place to belong.
Thatโs how I stumbled upon YNA on Instagram while looking for something fun to do and to make new friends. You see, for me it is hard to make friends out of the blue, just approaching someone, due to my introverted personality. So, I have resorted to different platforms to make friends, and so long it has been very fruitful.
The Struggle to Make Friends
Youโre not alone is the name of this community of foreigners and Koreans who gather to exchange languages and have a nice time together. Personally, as an introvert, it is hard for me to find places to fit in.
Starting from the moment I have to introduce myself, to the stage in which I have to answer basic questions such as my age, and occupation I am quite uncomfortable. That is why in Korea of all countries, I have found it very difficult to follow the small talk.
You Are Not Alone
But in a community like YNA, it is easier. I think it is because everyone is on the same page. All the foreigners are looking for a place to feel less lonely, and a place to belong in. And all the Koreans โor at least most of themโ are welcoming and willing to learn more about you and your culture.
So hanging out with this new community not only makes it easier to overcome the loneliness sometimes you feel as an ex-pat in Korea, but it also helps you make friends from all around the world and also Korean friends. I found it a little bit difficult given the differences between my culture and Korean culture.
YNA is a place where everyone is welcomed, where they all go to have a nice time, and where they will smile at you on your first time and be curious about you, but knowing also how it feels to be a newbie.
Make Friends With Other Expats
You Will be able to make friends, to have a listening ear whenever you want to talk, and you will also find a community that will share its knowledge with you, help you with all your questions, and that will make you feel included and safe. You will also find people of all ages, different backgrounds, and life stories, and getting to know them will not only benefit you, but it Will also open your world to a new group of people who understands you and who can be helpful on several occasions.
So, if thatโs what you are looking for, or if you want to have a nice evening of language exchange, I highly recommend you Click Here to be redirected to their Instagram and find more information about their meetings.
