torn between Taiwan and Korea

[ghostrabbit]

I've visited Korea previously and I loved it there. I also speak basic Korean, and can read Hangul. I also know a few people who live in Korea. The only reason I hesitate to choose Korea is I am a transgender man, and I know Korea is a conservative country. I know there is an LGBTQ community, and I would have access to medical care, but there is not really any protections legal wise.

Taiwan has much better laws protecting LGBTQ people and I know they are generally more accepting of queer/trans people. However going to a country where I don't know anyone and cannot speak or read any of the language feels like it could be very isolating. Of course I would try and learn Mandarin, but I know how difficult it is and I feel like I would really struggle and it would take a while, whereas I already can communicate somewhat in Korean already

I'm not sure which would be the better choice.

[eggshell]

I'd say South Korea is the better option career-wise since you speak the language and have connections there. Laws aren't perfect but attitudes seem to be gradually changing, as articles like this show: https://eastasiaforum.org/2022/01/13/so ... cceptance/.

South Korea's growing tourism industry, which sees more international visitors, may expose locals to different cultures and perspectives over time too: https://gowithguide.com/blog/tourism-in ... -know-5254.

Your existing Korean skills will help you settle in more easily compared to starting from scratch in Taiwan. Korea could be a good fit and you may even help advance LGBTQ issues there during your time.