The couple settled in the resort town of Sokcho, located in South Korea, where both found jobs in a hotel. According to Meerim, this place is famous for its calm atmosphere, clean air, and harmonious combination of sea and mountains.
Although Meerim is an English teacher by education, she has not been able to realize herself in this profession. In the future, she plans to return to teaching and try her hand at it back in her homeland.
After the wedding, the newlyweds moved to Moscow, where they spent three years working hard and saving money for a one-bedroom apartment. Upon returning to Bishkek, they faced difficulties adapting to their new life.
Meerim's interest in South Korea began in her school years when she watched the drama "Boys Over Flowers." Later, at the age of 19-20, she worked in a Korean restaurant, which strengthened her connection to this culture.
In February 2025, her cousin, who has been living in Korea for over ten years, suggested moving there. After discussions with her husband, they made the decision and arrived in Korea on March 23, 2025.
Meerim's first impression of Korea was positive. She noted the politeness of the locals, cleanliness and order, as well as the convenience of urban infrastructure. Many everyday things, including modern technologies, became a new experience for her.
Meerim also noticed the strict rules and fines: despite the frequent consumption of alcohol, public conflicts and disturbances are extremely rare.
The difference in safety between Korea and Kyrgyzstan became obvious to her. She mentioned that lost items on the street are often handed over to the police or specialized points, and surveillance systems are installed everywhere.
Currently, the couple is working and saving money for more spacious housing, as their current place feels small to them. Nevertheless, they try to find time for trips and new experiences.
The working conditions in the hotel help save money: accommodation and meals are provided, minimizing daily expenses. However, at home, the couple continues to cook traditional Kyrgyz dishes.
Language issues became one of the main difficulties at the beginning of their life in Korea: the Korean language is unfamiliar to them, and even with a translator, it was challenging. The physical workload at work also turned out to be tough.
Previously, Meerim worked in a beauty salon, and being a maid in a hotel became a new experience for her. She notes that the management treats them with understanding, despite the language barrier.
According to Meerim, the largest Kyrgyz communities are in Incheon and Gwangju. There are few Kyrgyz people in Sokcho, so most of her communication happens with colleagues — Kyrgyz and Kazakhs.
She also observed that many employees work 10-12 hours, and Koreans are known for their hard work, discipline, and attention to appearance. Some family traditions, in her observation, are similar to Kyrgyz ones, especially in the relationships between mother-in-law and daughter-in-law.
In their free time, Meerim and her husband enjoy traveling around Korea, sometimes visiting Seoul, which takes about 3.5 hours by bus. Due to high costs, such trips are not planned frequently.
Recently, Meerim started creating UGC content: she films videos about life in Korea, prices, and daily life, sharing her impressions with her followers. According to her, several Korean cosmetic brands have already sent her PR boxes, which has become additional motivation for developing this direction.
In the future, the young couple intends to return to Bishkek, become parents, and build their life in their homeland. They are approaching parenting questions consciously and want to strengthen their financial positions first, especially regarding housing.
Gallery: Meerim Eshkojoeva.
