An American Appa in Korea

Hi, I’m Tae — husband, father, creator, and the person behind Appa’s Diary.

Before moving to Korea, my life looked very different.

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I spent over 13 years working in corporate America in accounting and finance and earned my CPA license along the way. Like many people, I followed the traditional path: build a stable career, work hard, provide for family, and keep climbing. That career gave me a strong foundation and allowed me to build a life I’m grateful for. It helped support my family and shaped the way I approach responsibility, discipline, and long-term thinking.

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But deep down, I always felt pulled toward something more creative and meaningful than simply running in the rat race until retirement.

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Our move to Korea happened because I wanted to support my wife’s career opportunity, but the transition ended up changing my life too. Living abroad gave me a chance to slow down, reset, and rethink who I was outside of my profession. For the first time in a long time, I gave myself permission to explore the creative side of me that had been sitting quietly in the background for years.

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That’s how Appa’s Diary began.

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What started as documenting memories for my kids slowly turned into storytelling — sharing our experiences living in Korea, traveling as a family, exploring culture, food, parenting, and life between identities as a Korean American dad abroad. Living in Pyeongtaek, in a US military community, is a unique experience unlinke anywhere else in Korea

As someone raising a family between cultures, I’m drawn to stories about identity, representation, belonging, and the everyday moments that often go unnoticed. Some content is lighthearted family fun, some is travel-focused, and some reflects on culture and life experiences that shaped me.

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A lot of social media focuses on perfection. I’m more interested in authenticity and connection.

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Appa’s Diary is ultimately about creating a life that feels intentional — one where family, culture, creativity, and meaningful experiences matter more than simply checking boxes.

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Thanks for being part of the journey.