Hi, I am Markus Maximilian Dieminger and 22 year old exchange student from Germany, studying at SKKU/Technical University of Munich for a bachelor’s degree in Sports Science. I’m also teaching Taekwondo to children in Yongin.
Q. What type of housing do young people in Germany prefer these days?
There are different options for young Germans. There are similar types of housing like Mangrove and I have lived in one but it was in poorer condition. It was a student housing, with students from different universities in Munich living there. There is also what we call “WG” which is a shared apartment or share housing. This option is most commonly used by friends or other students.
Q. What was the most important factor or concern while looking for a house in Korea?
My priority was having a private room while also having an opportunity to meet new people from other countries, especially Korea. Additionally, I wanted a home that offered a sense of security, trustworthiness, and high standards before coming to Korea. Mangrove has definitely met all of these expectations.
Q. How did you find out about ‘Mangrove’? Any specific reason why you decided to live here?
I learned about Mangrove through an agency called Hirevisa, which was recommended by the University. I decided to live here because I wanted an opportunity to make international friends. Also, safety and cleanliness were important factors for me when choosing a home.
I wanted a home that offered a sense of security, trustworthiness, and high standards before coming to Korea. Mangrove has definitely met all of these expectations.
Q. So how is living in Seoul? Does it meet your expectations?
I think Seoul is a city of opportunity to meet new people and to experience diverse activities. It has many cultural and historical landmarks as well as many cafés and restaurants, and other interesting places to visit. Whether it’s meeting friends, enjoying cultural and historical sites, going to concerts, shopping, or exploring cafés or restaurants, Seoul is definitely the city to live in!
Q. ‘Sinseol-dong’ is a neighborhood with lots of local charms. Do you have any favorite places to visit in the neighborhood?
I enjoy visiting smaller rivers in the area which offer a peaceful escape from Seoul’s busy ciity life and allow for more outdoor activities. As for my impression of the neighborhood, it is quite different from what I’ve experienced in Germany. Korean city life feels fuller and more compact, with restaurants, clothing stores, and sports & entertainment venues conveniently located. The public transportation system is also highly developed, making it easy and affordable to get around.
There is always someone interested in
meeting new people and sharing their interests!
Q. Are there any cultural or residential differences you find interesting in Korea?
One difference I noticed is the existence of shared rooms, which is uncommon in Germany. While shared apartments and houses are typical, it’s rare for people to share sleeping spaces. Another difference is that cooking at homes seems less common in Korea compared to Germany, where home-cooked meals are a regular part of life.
It’s my dream to open my own Taekwondo gym in Germany oneday.
Q. You’ve practiced Taekwondo over 10 years. What was your first impression of it?
At first, it was quite unfamiliar. Cultural elements like bowing and addressing instructors as “master” were new to me as a European. Over time, I grew to appreciate these traditions and the values of Taekwondo. I’ve always enjoyed the sport’s physical challenges, as it allows me to give 100% and push my body’s limits. Beyond the physical aspects, it also builds self-confidence in both mind and body.
Q. What do you think is the true charm of Taekwondo?
For me, the charm lies in being surrounded by like-minded people who push each other to their best and support one another during tough times. It feels like being part of a family that encourages and uplifts each other, regardless of differences in worldviews or opinions.
The charm lies in being surrounded by like-minded people who push each other to their best and support one another during tough times.
Q. You seem to enjoy being surrounded by people. Are you the type of person who gets energy from others?
Yes, I do get inspired by people and their passion. It’s exhilarating to see other people light up when they talk about the things they care about deeply. Engaging in conversations-whether agreeing or disagreeing-always brings new perspectives, especially when interacting with people from different cultures and backgrounds.
Q. What do you usually do on weekends?
During the week, I’m quite busy, so weekends are my time to relax and spend time with friends I’ve made at Mangrove. We often cook, watch movies together, or plan to visit cultural and historical sites together. I hope to explore more of Seoul and South Korea in the future when my schedule allows.
It’s exhilarating to see other people light up when they talk about the things they care about deeply.
Q. Is ‘Mangrove’ the right fit for your personality and lifestyle?
I really enjoy living here at Mangrove. There are many opportunities to meet people, though I regret not having more time to socialize due to my busy schedule. Apart from that, I feel very welcomed here, and it’s great to have friends living in the same building. It makes it easy to hang out whenver there’s free time.
Q. Any tips for making friends at Mangrove?
The best way is to participate in social activities organized through the Mangrove app or to post an invitation for others to join like learning a language, watching a movie or playing board games. There’s always someone interested in meeting new people and sharing their interests.
The activities organized by the community team make it easier to form friendships and discover new hobbies.
Q. Which part of living in Mangrove do you enjoy the most?
I would say Mangrove mobile app for sure! It provides great opportunities to meet new people. I’m not sure how common it is for accommodations tohave such an active community, but I really like it here. The activities organized by the community team make it easier to form friendships and discover new hobbies.
Q. We’ve recently started a program called ‘Mangrove Social Club by members.’ Would you consider making a social club of your own?
I’ve been interested in teaching or offering personal Taekwondo lessons since the beginning. However, I currently don’t have the necessary equipment or a space to hold the lessons. Once I figure out a suitable location, I’d love to give it a try.
Find more about Mangrove Sinseol
Written by | Dabomi Shin
Photos by | Seokhyeon Lee, Logan
