Introduction
Koreans, one of the largest ethnic groups in Asia, can be found all over the world. In France, Koreans have been immigrating since the 1970s and have established their communities throughout the country. This article aims to explore and provide a comprehensive guide on where Koreans live in France.
The history of Korean immigration to France
Korean immigration to France began in the 1970s when South Korea’s economic growth led to an increase in labor migration. Many Koreans came to France as students, and others were recruited by French companies. Today, there are around 25,000 Koreans living in France.
Paris
Paris is home to the largest Korean community in France. The neighborhood of Sainte-Anne, located in the 1st and 2nd arrondissements, is known as Little Korea. It is where most Korean restaurants, grocery stores, and shops are located. There is also a Korean Cultural Center in Paris that offers language classes and cultural events.
- Talk To Me In Korean (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 164 Pages - 09/21/2015 (Publication Date) - Longtail Books (Publisher)
- Kim, Woojoo (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 6 Pages - 11/23/2021 (Publication Date) - Tuttle Publishing (Publisher)
Lyon
Lyon has a significant Korean population, with around 4,000 Koreans living in the city. The neighborhood of Guillotière is where most Korean businesses are located, including restaurants, grocery stores, and beauty salons.
Marseille
Marseille has a small but growing Korean community. The neighborhood of La Plaine has a few Korean restaurants and cafes.
Toulouse
Toulouse has a small but active Korean community. The area around the Jean-Jaurès metro station is where most Korean businesses are located.
Other cities
Other cities with significant Korean populations include Bordeaux, Lille, and Strasbourg. In these cities, Koreans can find Korean restaurants and grocery stores.
Why do Koreans choose to live in France?
Koreans choose to live in France for various reasons, including education, work opportunities, and quality of life. Many Korean students come to France to study, while others come for job opportunities or to start their own businesses.
Challenges faced by Koreans in France
Koreans in France face various challenges, including language barriers, cultural differences, and discrimination. The lack of understanding of the Korean community by the French government has also been a challenge.
Korean-French cultural exchange
Despite the challenges, there have been efforts to promote cultural exchange between Korea and France. The Korean Cultural Center in Paris organizes events and exhibitions that showcase Korean culture. French-Korean associations also organize events to promote cultural exchange.
Conclusion
Koreans have established their communities throughout France, with the largest population located in Paris. Despite facing challenges, Koreans in France are active in promoting cultural exchange and contributing to French society.
Is there a Koreatown in France?
Although Chinatowns are common in Western cities, it can be difficult to locate Koreatowns. However, the 15th arrondissement of Paris stands out as a prominent Koreatown.
How many Koreans live in France?
- Talk To Me In Korean (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 164 Pages - 09/21/2015 (Publication Date) - Longtail Books (Publisher)
- Kim, Woojoo (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 6 Pages - 11/23/2021 (Publication Date) - Tuttle Publishing (Publisher)
There are approximately 25,417 people of Korean descent living in France, followed by 22,847 in Argentina and 20,983 in Singapore. The total Korean diaspora population across 36 locations is listed.
Where are the most Koreans in Europe?
The largest Korean community in Europe is located in Germany, while the biggest European Koreatown can be found in London.
What city in France has the most Asians?
The 13th district of Paris is home to the Quartier Asiatique, which is the largest and most significant community for the city’s Asian population.
As of October 2022, the neighborhood of Gangnam-gu in Seoul, South Korea was the most expensive area, where apartments sold for an average price of approximately 2.28 billion South Korean won. Gangnam, along with Seocho-gu, Yongsan-gu, and Songpa-gu, is considered to be one of the wealthiest neighborhoods in South Korea.
What is the biggest Koreatown in Europe?
New Malden is known to have the biggest Korean community in Europe. This began in the 1950s when a South Korean company signed an agreement with a British electronics company called Decca Radar, which was situated in the town but is no longer in operation.
Contributions of Koreans in France
Koreans in France have made significant contributions to French society. Many own businesses, including restaurants, beauty salons, and grocery stores. They also contribute to the French economy by creating jobs and paying taxes.
In addition, Koreans in France are active in promoting cultural exchange between Korea and France. They organize cultural events, performances, and exhibitions that showcase Korean culture. These efforts help to increase understanding and appreciation of Korean culture among the French population.
Moreover, Koreans in France are also involved in various community organizations that aim to support their community members. These organizations provide services such as language classes, legal advice, and social support for Korean immigrants.
Korean-French diplomatic relations
Diplomatic relations between Korea and France date back to 1886 when they established diplomatic ties. Since then, the two countries have maintained a positive relationship that is based on mutual respect and cooperation.
France has been an important partner of Korea in various fields, including culture, trade, education, and science. Korea and France have signed numerous agreements that aim to strengthen their partnership and promote cooperation in these areas.
Furthermore, the relationship between Korea and France has been strengthened by people-to-people exchanges. Many Koreans visit France as tourists or students, while many French people visit Korea for business or cultural exchange programs.
Conclusion
Koreans in France have established themselves as a vibrant and active community that contributes to French society. They have faced challenges but have also made significant contributions to promote cultural exchange between Korea and France. The diplomatic relationship between Korea and France continues to be strong, with both countries working together to strengthen their partnership and promote cooperation in various fields.
