When I was 24, I decided to take a break from my usual life in Seoul and travel around Scandinavia for a year. It was a big decision, especially since I was already building my career as a journalist covering Korean entertainment news. But the idea of spending an entire year exploring new places, experiencing different cultures, and having a real-life adventure was too tempting to resist. I saved up, planned carefully, and then flew off to the land of fjords, Vikings, and the famous Nordic lifestyle that everyone seems to be raving about.
Now that I’m back in Seoul and back to reporting on the K-pop scene (and yes, occasionally chasing celebrity scandals like the one involving actor Kim Soo-hyun and the late actress Kim Sae-ron), I’ve had some time to reflect on my year abroad. The short version? It was an eye-opening experience, but if you asked me whether the Scandinavian lifestyle is worth the cost, I’d have to say “no.” Before you read on, let me clarify that I’m not saying Scandinavia is terrible or that I regret going. I met incredible people, saw breathtaking landscapes, and learned tons about the cultures of Sweden, Norway, Denmark, and even a bit of Finland and Iceland. However, there are a few big reasons why I think the lifestyle just doesn’t match up to the hype—at least not for me.
1. The Cost of Living Is Sky-High
This probably isn’t a huge surprise, but I can’t overstate just how expensive everyday life is in Scandinavia. I thought living in Seoul was pricey, but it felt like pocket change compared to Oslo or Copenhagen. A basic lunch of a sandwich and coffee could easily cost the equivalent of 20,000 to 25,000 won (about 15 to 20 US dollars). Don’t even get me started on dining out for dinner.
I remember one of my first nights in Norway. I decided to treat myself to a simple meal—nothing too fancy, just a main dish and a small glass of wine at a restaurant that locals had recommended. The bill came back, and I almost choked. It was double what I would have paid for a similar meal in Seoul. After that, I mostly stuck to cooking at home in my rented apartments or hostels, just to avoid going broke.
While many people argue that higher salaries and stronger social benefits balance out the high cost of living, it’s different when you’re a foreign traveler without a stable job in the country. Unless you’ve got a well-paying local position or substantial savings, your budget will be stretched very thin.
2. Weather: The Long, Dark Winters Can Be Tough
Another aspect that surprised me was how drastically the weather affected my mood and daily life. In Seoul, we have four distinct seasons, and winters can be cold, but our days aren’t as short as in the Nordics. In many parts of Scandinavia, you can expect very limited daylight during the winter months, especially if you travel far north.
At first, I thought it was kind of cool—like I was in some mysterious, icy wonderland. But after a few weeks, the constant darkness really started to wear on me. Waking up at 9 a.m. to find the sky still dark is not exactly motivating. It can feel like time is standing still. I remember having all these plans to go sightseeing, take photos, or meet friends. But with so little daylight, it was hard to get everything done before sunset.
This, of course, doesn’t bother everyone. Some people love the cozy atmosphere. They embrace the idea of “hygge” (in Denmark) or “mys” (in Sweden), curling up inside with candles, hot chocolate, and a good book or a K-drama on their laptop (in my case). But for me, the darkness was draining. It made me crave the bright lights and bustling energy of Seoul even more.
3. Social Culture: Polite, Yet Distant
Let me say this upfront: every country, every culture is different, and that’s one of the beauties of traveling. But as a Korean, I was used to a certain kind of social warmth and familiarity. We often share side dishes at meals, we’re loud, and we like to gather in groups—at least, that’s how my friends and family roll.
In Scandinavia, people are usually polite and kind, but they tend to keep to themselves. It can take a while to make close friends there. When I did make friends with locals, they were wonderful, but that initial barrier was tough to break through.
For instance, in many Scandinavian countries, it’s not common to just chat with strangers on the train or the bus. Some might find it rude if you strike up a conversation for no reason. Also, personal space is respected much more strictly. I found myself feeling a bit lonely at times, missing the chaotic togetherness of Seoul’s nightlife or the busy cafes where people share tables.
4. The Idealized “Scandinavian Lifestyle”
We’ve all heard about the Scandinavian lifestyle: minimalism, sustainability, balance, and all those “best country to live in” rankings. In many ways, Scandinavia is indeed a leader in social welfare, environmental consciousness, and quality of life—if you fit into their system.
However, behind the glossy magazine covers and Instagram posts of snow-capped cabins, fresh salmon dinners, and stylish interior design, there’s the reality of high taxes, strict regulations, and a cost of living that puts a lot of pressure on people. It’s true that if you’re a citizen or a long-term resident with a good job, the social benefits are fantastic: free healthcare, subsidized education, and a solid safety net. But if you’re just passing through or trying to make it as a foreigner, it can be a very different story.
I also noticed that not everyone is entirely happy with the system. Some locals I met felt like they were forced to conform to certain standards—whether it’s the unwritten social rules or the high taxes that come with the generous welfare. Of course, this is all anecdotal, but it made me realize that even “happy countries” have their downsides.
5. Cultural Differences: Missing the Buzz of Seoul
I can’t speak for all travelers, but I found myself missing the energy of my home city. Seoul is fast-paced, vibrant, and alive at almost all hours. You can walk out at midnight and still find somewhere to eat or hang out with friends. In many Scandinavian cities, everything is quiet after 9 or 10 p.m., especially on weekdays. Restaurants and shops often have shorter operating hours, and people head home early.
This might be wonderful for people who love peace and quiet, but I often felt restless. I remember being in Stockholm on a Tuesday night, wanting to grab some late-night snacks, and finding that most convenience stores had already closed. It was such a small thing, but it made me realize how I’d taken 24-hour culture for granted in Seoul.
If you’re someone who thrives on city buzz, night markets, and spontaneous outings, you might find the slow-paced Scandinavian lifestyle a bit stifling. On the flip side, if you’re seeking tranquility, it could be your paradise.
Final Thoughts: Worth the Visit, But Maybe Not the Long Stay
Don’t get me wrong—I’m incredibly thankful for the year I spent in Scandinavia. I had experiences that I’ll never forget: hiking in the Norwegian fjords, trying real Nordic cuisine, celebrating Midsummer in Sweden, and even joining a Danish friend’s family for a traditional Christmas gathering. I made memories that will stay with me for a lifetime.
But if you’re considering moving there long-term or adopting the “Scandinavian lifestyle” because it seems perfect on social media, I’d advise caution. The reality is a lot more complex. The cost of living can be overwhelming, the weather can be brutal, and the social atmosphere—while polite—can take a while to warm up. Plus, if you’re like me and love the buzz of a big city like Seoul, you might find yourself missing the late-night energy and nonstop pace.
For a short trip or even a few months of exploring, Scandinavia is definitely worth it. The scenery alone is worth the plane ticket, from the majestic fjords in Norway to the fairy-tale streets of Copenhagen. But staying there for a whole year showed me that the day-to-day reality isn’t as picture-perfect as those travel guides make it out to be.
Coming back to Seoul, I appreciated my home city even more—yes, even the long lines at my favorite K-pop concerts and the sometimes chaotic nightlife. I love the bright lights, the 24-hour convenience stores, and the sense of constant motion that defines Korean urban life. I still cherish my Scandinavian memories, but I realized I’m more of a Seoul person at heart.
I guess the bottom line is that every place has its pros and cons, and what’s “worth it” really depends on your personal preferences. Scandinavia was an incredible adventure for a year, but for me, the high cost and certain cultural differences made it less appealing in the long run. If you’re thinking about going, I say go! Just keep your expectations realistic, prepare your wallet, and be ready for a slower pace of life. For some, it might be paradise. For others, like me, it’s a lovely place to visit—but not somewhere I’d want to call home.