A Guide for South Korean Families Moving to Poland

Annyeonghaseyo, Kraków! 한국에서 폴란드로 이주하는 방법

For a family transitioning from the high-tech, fast-paced districts of Seoul, Busan, or Incheon to the cobblestone charm of Kraków, the journey can feel like a profound leap. You are trading the banks of the Han River for the Vistula, and while the change is significant, you will soon find that moving to Poland from Korea is a path already well-trodden by a thriving community of professionals and their families.

Poland has become a vital strategic partner for South Korea, with southern Poland acting as a hub for industrial giants such as LG Energy Solution, Samsung R&D, SK Innovation, and POSCO. If your company is sponsoring your relocation to this historic “City of Kings,” your primary concerns likely revolve around the logistics of settling in and ensuring your children do not lose their academic edge.

Here is your essential advisor’s guide on how to move to Poland from Korea, covering everything from the cultural “Jeong” to finding a school that understands your high standards.

How is Poland for Koreans? Cultural Parallels: Resilience, Respect, and “Jeong”

While the languages are worlds apart, the heart of Polish and Korean culture beats to a similar rhythm. Both nations are defined by a history of incredible resilience. Just as the “Miracle on the Han River” saw Korea rise from the ashes of war to become a global powerhouse, Poland has undergone a remarkable economic transformation over the last three decades.

When considering life in Poland for Koreans (한국인의 폴란드 생활), you will find a familiar comfort in the Polish focus on family and social hierarchy. Sundays are typically reserved for multi-generational family dinners, and there is a deep-seated reverence for education and the role of the teacher. The unique Korean concept of Jeong (profound connection and attachment) finds its echo in Polish hospitality. When you are invited into a Polish home, the generosity you receive is genuine and heartfelt, making it easier for expat families to build lasting friendships.

The Education Pathway: Why A-Levels Suit Korean Students

For Korean parents, education is often the highest priority. There is a natural anxiety about your child “falling behind” the rigorous standards of the Korean system, particularly in Mathematics and the Sciences.

When researching the best international schools in Kraków, you will find that a British-based curriculum, such as the one offered by Embassy International School, often provides the perfect middle ground between Western creativity and the depth required by Asian systems.

• Specialisation and Depth: The British A-Level system, typically for students aged 16 to 19, allows them to focus intensely on 3 or 4 subjects. If your child is a future engineer or medical professional, they can specialise in Mathematics, Further Maths, Physics, and Chemistry. This level of rigour is highly respected by top-tier universities globally and back home in South Korea.
• The “Applied Science” Approach: While maintaining high standards, the British system emphasizes “applied science”—learning by doing and critical thinking—rather than rote memorisation. This prepares students for the 2026 job market, where the ability to solve complex problems is paramount.
• A “Shared” Academic Home: Relocation is a major emotional shift for children. Choosing a school that views each student as a “shared child” between the parents and the institution ensures that your child’s emotional well-being is nurtured alongside their grades. At Embassy International School, small class sizes allow for the individualised attention that helps a new student from Incheon or Seoul find their confidence quickly.

Navigating the Logistics: Visa and Settlement

If you are wondering how to get a Poland visa from Korea (한국에서 폴란드 비자를 받는 방법), the process is generally straightforward for South Korean citizens, who often benefit from favourable bilateral agreements. While you can often enter for short stays without a visa, long-term residence for work and school requires a National D-type visa followed by a temporary residence permit (Karta Pobytu). Most major Korean corporations in Kraków have dedicated HR teams or relocation agencies to handle these complexities, but it is always wise to begin the documentation for your children’s school records well in advance.

Is Poland a good country to work for Koreans?

For Korean professionals, Poland is increasingly viewed as one of the most promising work destinations in Europe. This is largely driven by the unprecedented levels of South Korean investment in the region, with industrial leaders like LG Energy Solution, Samsung R&D, and SK Innovation establishing Poland as their strategic European base. Beyond the presence of these familiar ‘chaebols’, the Polish labour market offers a refreshing alternative to the high-pressure work culture often found in Seoul. Here, the professional environment is defined by robust labour laws that prioritise work-life balance, providing mandatory paid vacation of 20 to 26 days and generous parental leave – a significant draw for families wanting to spend more quality time together. When combined with the lower cost of living compared to Western Europe and a high degree of safety that mirrors the security of South Korean cities, working in Poland becomes more than just a career move; it is a lifestyle upgrade. For many Korean expats in Kraków, the city provides a unique ‘Jeong’-filled community where professional growth in high-tech sectors is balanced with a peaceful, family-oriented daily life.

Cultural Identity: A School That Celebrates Seollal

A common fear when migrating to Poland from Korea is that your child might lose touch with their roots. It is vital to find a community that does more than just tolerate diversity; it must actively celebrate it.

The most inclusive schools in Kraków are known for weaving their students’ heritage into the fabric of the school year. For instance, the vibrant Seollal (Lunar New Year) celebrations at Embassy International School, featuring traditional games, costumes, and food, give Korean students a profound sense of pride and belonging.

Furthermore, look for schools that offer dedicated EAL (English as an Additional Language) support. The goal is for your child to achieve native-level fluency in English while still being encouraged to maintain their academic Korean language skills.

Lifestyle: Kimchi, Safety, and Travel

Safety: South Korea is famous for its safety, and you will be pleased to know that Kraków is widely considered one of the safest cities in Europe. Families can enjoy the city’s many green spaces and leafy parks with total peace of mind.

Food: Missing the taste of home? Kraków’s culinary landscape is becoming increasingly cosmopolitan. Stores like Asia Deli or My Korea provide authentic ingredients for you to prepare a proper Kimchi-jjigae at home. The city also hosts several authentic Korean restaurants where the expat community frequently gathers to share a meal and advice.

Travel: Kraków is perfectly positioned in the heart of Europe. A short drive takes you to the Tatra Mountains (perfect for skiing, similar to Gangwon-do), and Balice Airport offers direct flights to nearly every major European capital.

How is Poland for Koreans?

So, is Poland good for koreans? The answer is a resounding yes. Moving from Korea to Poland is an opportunity to provide your family with a world-class international perspective without sacrificing the academic rigour you value.

By choosing a school like Embassy International School, which combines the academic solidity of the British curriculum with a warm, family-oriented atmosphere, you ensure your transition to Kraków is not just a career move, but a successful new chapter for your entire family.

Welcome to Kraków. Hwan-yeong hamnida!