5 rules for expat life in Korea

You’ve moved to Seoul and on your first day at work you end up in a karaoke joint till 3 a.m. surrounded by girls pointing V signs into their faces while they pose for photos singing ‘classics’ from the Backstreet Boys.

That’s just a regular day at the office.

Avoid the culture shock with this quick guide to acclimatizing in Seoul

1. Learn to drink like a fish
   Your work contract might say 9-5 but you forgot to read the fine print. Birthday parties, staff dinners and other work functions will keep you going late into the night. Just remember that in the South Korean workplace, an invitation is an obligation.

2. Try not to get 'celebrified'
   Just because you get cat calls on the street from students who are surprised to see a foreigner does not mean you are famous. There might be a certain novelty to being a visible minority here, but try not to let it get to your head.

3. Bring your own clothing
   If you have broad shoulders, big feet, a big chest or a big anything, forget looking for something that fits in Korea because you probably won't find it without a hunt. And don't trick yourself into thinking you can pull off Korean style because you definitely can't (this isn't a challenge)

4. Learn to dance K-Pop
   It doesn't matter how straight you are, your pre-pubescent love for boy or girl pop groups (remember the Spice Girls and N'Sync?) will come rushing back with the hottest sounds from 2 p.m. and Big Bang to The Wondergirls and Girls Generation. And don't feel ashamed that you know all the dance moves; your Korean friends will love it.

5. Adjust your diet
   Goodbye gluten, hello spice and rice. Your grubbery will complete a 180-degrees spin as you transition into the world of Korean cuisine. Not to worry, as most of the food is healthy and dining out can be pretty cheap. For the incorrigibly Western though there's a slew of