Seung Duk Rha and Family

Korean cook finds recipe for success in Calgary

Seung Duk Rha and his wife Mihyang of Seoul, Korea were looking for a fresh start in a new country – and they found it in Canada. While searching on the Internet one night, Seung Duk came across a website all about the province of Alberta, and it didn’t take long before he was hooked. So he learned everything he needed to know about the immigration process, and in January 2007, Seung Duk moved to the City of Calgary. Six months later, his wife and two children joined him.

An experienced cook, Seung Duk did not take long to find a job in his field. He currently works at the Chestermere Landing Restaurant in Calgary, a position he found by doing his research once again on the Internet.

Overall the Rha family has adjusted very well to living in a new country. And unlike most people, they say they actually enjoy the cold winter weather in Alberta. “The warmth of the people here more than makes up for the cold weather,” laughed Seung Duk, “but we can honestly say we don’t mind the cold temperature at all.”

One of the things Seung Duk and Mihyang enjoy most about living in Alberta is the education system for their children. “Our children have adjusted extremely well and are doing well in school,” said Seung Duk. “And we would like to have them complete their schooling in Alberta.”

The Rhas continue to improve some things about their life in Alberta. Mihyang has not been as fortunate as her husband in finding the type of work she would like. Her interest and experience is in the child care field, and she is looking for a job in that area.

Despite their challenges, the Rhas encourage people from other countries to consider immigrating to Alberta. “It is a great place to live and work and we are certainly happy we made the choice to move here,” said Seung Duk. Their advice for others is to be patient during the transition period and to develop their English skills as much as possible. “Often people who choose to move to a new country face challenges when looking for work especially. In Alberta, I believe it will be easier than in many other places. The labour market is very good here so patience is important. Speaking the language can also be a major advantage for newcomers," he added.

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Date Updated: Nov 25, 2009
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