Expat partner Amirah Sawan was extremely apprehensive about moving to South Korea from Saudi Arabia. But ever since she landed, she’s been having the time of her life.
Pre-assignment anxieties
“I had a lot of anxiety about living in Seoul. I thought that it would take a long time to adjust. I pictured becoming a lonely and depressed expat housewife, who’s always at home. I talked about this with my German husband, Patrick, and, of course, he encouraged me to have a positive outlook,” says Amirah. “But I didn’t really know what to expect, so I was still quite unsure on arrival.”
A world of opportunities
But rather than experience ‘culture shock’, Amirah’s eyes have been opened wide by her life in the South Korean capital. “Growing up in Saudi, I was unable to pursue many activities as a woman. There is more freedom for women in the present day but there are so many exciting things for me to do in Seoul. I am like a free bird living here!”
The pursuit of happiness
“I really appreciate the support I received from Ines Ahrens at Global Connection. I thought some of the hobbies I wanted to pursue were a bit silly but she really encouraged me to follow my heart and find joyful places. Often our conversations had a therapeutic effect on me. After our calls I would feel so happy and enlightened.”
New, fun hobbies
Some of Amirah’s new hobbies include skateboarding and learning how to play the ukulele (she’s also learning German three times a week): “Friends back home can’t understand what I am doing. When I posted a clip of me riding a skateboard on Instagram, someone asked if I was having a midlife crisis!” says Amirah. “I’d also like to join a knitting class. I have thought about doing a masters in marketing but mastering German is a priority for now.”
Focused on self-discovery
“My son is in daycare from morning to afternoon, so I’ve plenty of time for studying, pursuing my hobbies and discovering Seoul with friends. Even after just a few months of expat life, I’m so happy about our decision to come and live here. Since moving to South Korea, I have been able to focus on self-discovery and now I feel like I know myself much better than I ever did before. I am really having the time of my life.”
Photo: Amirah playing the ukulele, one of several new hobbies after her move to Seoul
