The Matcha & Olive Journey

Founder's Story:
"When I first moved to Korea, I had the career opportunity of a lifetime—but no community to help me navigate the complexities of building a life here. Despite Korea's incredible beauty, safety, and innovation, I found myself struggling with isolation and missed connections. Every networking event felt transactional, every expat gathering superficial. I craved depth, purpose, and women who understood both the professional climb and the need for authentic connection. Matcha & Olive was born from this void—a space where ambitious women can find both practical support and soulful connection. Our name embodies our ethos: the ritual and calm energy of matcha paired with the strength and nourishment of olive. Together, they represent the balance we're creating for women building meaningful lives in Korea."

Mission Statement:
Building an exclusive, supportive community for career-driven women—Korean and foreign—focused on wellness, entrepreneurship, personal growth, and authentic connection.

Beyond Surface Connections For Foreign Women in Korea:

Pain Point: "I've been here for years but still feel like an outsider. The language barrier and cultural differences make it hard to build meaningful relationships beyond surface-level interactions."
Pain Point: "I have no idea how to navigate Korea's complex legal and business systems as a foreigner with entrepreneurial aspirations."
Pain Point: "Dating and building a personal life here feels impossible—the cultural gaps seem too wide to bridge."

For Korean Women with Global Mindsets:

Pain Point: "I've studied or worked abroad and struggle to find like-minded Korean women who understand my more international perspective."
Pain Point: "I'm looking for spaces to promote my business beyond traditional Korean networks, and connect with global-minded women."

For All Career-Driven Women:

Pain Point: "I feel constant impostor syndrome and struggle with work-life balance in Korea's demanding professional culture."
Pain Point: "I need a circle of supportive peers who understand ambition but also value wellness and intentional living."

How Matcha & Olive Helps🌿:
Through curated events, workshops, and meaningful connections, we create a safe space where these challenges transform into shared growth opportunities and lasting friendships.

Who we are

A Community, Not Just a Network

Matcha & Olive is not another superficial networking group or typical expat meet-up.

We are:

- A Sanctuary: Where globally-minded women find refuge from isolation and imposter syndrome
- A Launchpad: For business collaborations, creative partnerships, and professional growth - - A Ritual: Providing regular touchpoints that celebrate both ambition and wellbeing
- A Bridge: Connecting cultures, ideas, and opportunities in meaningful ways

Member Voice :

"After three years in Korea building my consultancy, I had professional contacts but no true friends who understood both my business challenges and my need for authentic connection. At Matcha & Olive, I found women who celebrate my wins, help troubleshoot my struggles, and make Korea truly feel like home." — Sarah, Management Consultant