A Life Transformed by Chance: Rabi’s Journey to Korea
Sometimes, all it takes is a simple encounter to completely change the course of a life. Rabi’s story is one of those inspiring tales. Originally from Istanbul, Turkey, she now lives in South Korea — a decision that was born from a chance meeting and nurtured by courage, curiosity, and persistence.
It All Started on a Tram Ride in Istanbul
Rabi’s journey to Korea began in an unexpected way. While working at Atatürk Airport in Istanbul between 2013 and 2014, she met two Korean women on her tram ride home. They looked like they needed help, and with gentle hesitation, Rabi offered her assistance. She accompanied them to Sultanahmet, helped them find their hotel, and then went home.
Deeply touched by her kindness, the women expressed a desire to meet again. They stayed in touch even after returning to Korea, and eventually invited Rabi to visit them. In the winter of 2014, she accepted their invitation and traveled to Korea for the first time. She immediately fell in love with the country.
After staying for a month, she returned to Turkey with a new dream: to live in Korea. Determined to make it happen, she saved money and, in the summer of 2017, enrolled in a language program at the University of Seoul. She’s been living in Korea ever since.
Living Between Cultures
Rabi now lives in Korea with her husband, son, and their beloved cat “Panda.” She describes her career path as “an international life,” balancing family responsibilities with personal projects. Over the years, she developed a keen interest in Korean beauty and cosmetics. Currently, she’s preparing to take professional training in nail art and skincare, which she hopes will be her next career move.
She also briefly studied dog grooming, though she had to pause due to health reasons. Still, she’s open to returning to that path in the future.
“Doing two completely different things isn’t easy, but why not?” she says with a smile.
Visiting vs. Living Abroad
According to Rabi, there’s a big difference between traveling and actually living in a foreign country. She’s visited Japan, Malaysia, and Taiwan, but nothing compares to the experience of truly immersing oneself in a new culture.
“Travel is exciting, but temporary. Living in a country means becoming part of it. You stop being a guest — you become a resident, part of the rhythm of daily life.”
Life in Korea: Discipline, Safety, and Structure
Rabi describes life in Korea as fast-paced yet highly organized. What impresses her most is how hardworking people are and how strongly they adhere to social rules. This, she says, makes Korea a very safe and peaceful place to live.
The food culture is one of the biggest cultural shifts she experienced. Every meal comes with multiple small side dishes known as banchan. And the most unusual thing she’s ever eaten? Live octopus.
She also notes how deeply age hierarchy is embedded in Korean society. “You don’t start a conversation without knowing someone’s age,” she explains. “And speaking loudly in public is considered impolite.”
Global Influence and Local Identity
Rabi has observed an increase in international residents in Korea, coming from various countries. She’s also seen how proud Koreans are of their growing global cultural influence, particularly in film and television. The global success of Korean cinema is a source of national pride.
Future Dreams and Words of Courage
When asked about her future plans, Rabi keeps it simple and heartfelt: her main goal is to raise her son in a healthy and happy environment. Alongside that, she wants to continue developing herself and explore more of what the world has to offer.
To those dreaming of moving abroad, she shares this advice:
“The most important thing is courage. It’s not easy at first, but you get used to it. Living in a new country will challenge you — and strengthen you. I always say, ‘Let go of your roots, but don’t forget who you are.’ And don’t step into the unknown only with hope — go in knowing there will be challenges, but believe in yourself to overcome them.”
Life Lessons and Light-Hearted Moments
Living in different countries has taught Rabi one universal truth: Life rarely goes according to plan, but it still offers beauty.
She’s also collected many funny and awkward stories along the way — most involving language mishaps. “I’ve often ordered the wrong meal just by mispronouncing a word,” she laughs.
A Message to the Universe
If she could send a message out into the universe, Rabi would say:
“Love and kindness are the most universal languages. Wherever you are, spread them.”
A Korean Autumn and Inner Peace
Rabi ends by sharing one of her favorite photos — fields of soft pink grass that bloom in Korea during autumn. These iconic scenes bring her a sense of calm and joy.
Rabia Diler (Rabi) / South Korea
“I love the energy of autumn in Korea,” she says. “If you’re curious about other sides of life here, I’d be happy to share more.”
The Power of One Act of Kindness
Rabi’s story is a moving reminder of how a simple act of kindness can lead to a life-changing journey. Through resilience, curiosity, and a generous heart, she’s built a new life in a faraway land — and in doing so, created a bridge between cultures.
Thank you so much Rabi
Melda Sherman
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