The best places to live in South Korea, from Seoul and Busan to the countryside.
South Korea, officially known as the Republic of Korea, is a country in East Asia that has grown rapidly in the last few decades. Located on the southern half of the Korean Peninsula and sharing a land border with North Korea- they're separated by the Korean Demilitarized Zone (DMZ)- it is now a global leader in electronics and automobiles.
The country has a population of approximately 51 million people, with the majority of its citizens living in urban areas. Seoul, in particular, can be shockingly overcrowded. (It has around 10 million residents.)
Other major cities include Busan, Incheon, and Daegu. Each city has its own unique culture and attractions, making it an exciting place to live or visit. However, more rural areas, such as Jeju (the Hawaii of Korea) and Gyeongju, can also be a great place to stay, depending on what you're looking. (I've been to all these places, and will include my thoughts on them below!)
Best Cities
South Korea has a variety of cities to choose from, each with its own unique charm and benefits.
Here are some of the best cities to live in South Korea:
Seoul
Seoul is the capital city of South Korea and the largest city in the country. It is a bustling metropolis that offers a wide range of opportunities for work, education, and entertainment.
If you're looking for a modern and cosmopolitan experience, with easy access to as many international experiences as possible, then Seoul is the place for you. You will also find more people speaking English in Seoul than in other parts of Korea.
The city is known for its efficient public transportation system, which includes buses, subways, and taxis, so you will not need to drive. (Drivers in Korea are quite aggressive.)
Seoul is also home to many historical and cultural landmarks, such as Gyeongbokgung Palace, Namsan Tower, and Myeong-dong shopping district. You'll also find nature and hiking opportunities right at its doorstep, so there's something for everyone here, and you'll never be bored.
However, living in Seoul can be expensive. Life in the city can be stressful and the cost of living is higher than in other cities in South Korea.
Neighbourhood: Gangnam
Within Seoul, there are many neighborhoods that offer a high quality of life and plenty of amenities.
Some of the best neighborhoods in Seoul include Gangnam, Itaewon, and Hongdae. Gangnam is known for its upscale shopping and dining options. It's generally thought of as an area where the rich live, and has a lot of the necessary infrastructure to make life more convenient.
Note: I actually prefer the area around Seoul Forest to Gangnam.
Neighbourhood: Hongdae
Across the Han River is Hongdae, a trendy and youthful neighborhood known for its artsy vibe and nightlife. There are a lot of music clubs in this area, and it's a popular place to live in Seoul for students.
Neighbourhood: Itaewon
Itaewon is a popular area for expats and foreigners due to its international flair.
Busan
Busan is the second-largest city in South Korea and is located on the southeastern coast of the country. It's a short KTX ride from Seoul (2-3 hours), and a popular day trip.
Surrounded by mountain and seas, it is known for its stunning coastal scenery and beautiful beaches, such as Haeundae (most famous beach in Korea) and Songdo (first public beach in Korea.) It is also famous for its spectacular natural scenery, fresh seafood, vibrant nightlife, and cultural attractions such as Gamcheon Cultural Village.
Busan has a lower cost of living than Seoul and offers a variety of job opportunities in industries such as shipping, tourism, and manufacturing.
It is actually closer to Japan than it is to Seoul, so there are many Japanese restaurants in Busan. If you enjoy traveling to Japan often, Busan is a place to consider.
If you can't decide between Busan vs Seoul, click through for a comparison of the 2 cities.
If you're older in age, or less mobile, keep in mind that Busan is SERIOUSLY HILLY.
Neighbourhood: Haeundae and Marine City
The Haeundae and Marine City neighborhood in Busan is known for its beautiful beaches and luxury high-rise apartments. (Most of Busan's 5-star hotels are clustered along Haeundae Beach.)
Marine City is a very popular neighbourhood with expats in Busan, with more modern conveniences.
Incheon
Incheon ((인천광역시) is a large city located in the northwest of South Korea, near the capital city of Seoul.
It is home to Incheon International Airport, one of the largest and busiest airports in the world, so it would be very convenient for flying to and from your home country.
The city has a lower cost of living than Seoul and offers a variety of job opportunities in industries such as finance, technology, and transportation.
It is not a super exciting place to live, but you can always hop over to Seoul if you're looking for entertainment.
Daegu
Daegu is the third-largest city in South Korea and is located in the southeast of the country.
It is known for its hot summers and cold winters, fried chicken, beautiful girls, as well as its rich cultural heritage and historic sites. However, having been to Daegu, I must confess I'm not particularly enamoured of the place. (It's actually the most boring part of Korea that I've visited.)
However, Daegu has a lower cost of living than Seoul so it's good for those on a budget.
Jeju Island
Jeju Island is a popular tourist destination located off the southern coast of South Korea. Koreans love this little volcanic island, and call it their Hawaii. There are a lot of domestic tourists as well as visitors from China in Jeju.
Like Busan, it is known for its stunning beaches and natural scenery. (To decide between Busan vs Jeju, click here.) However, it also has its own unique culture (different from mainland Korea.)
Living on Jeju Island can be a great option for those who enjoy a slower pace of life and a more relaxed atmosphere. You will, however, need to drive, as the public transportation system in Jeju is not the most developed.
The cost of living on Jeju Island is generally lower than in other cities in South Korea, but job opportunities may be more limited.
Many famous Korean dramas were filmed on Jeju Island!
Neighbourhood: Jeju-Shi (Jeju City)
This is Jeju's main city and it's closest to Jeju International Airport.
Neighbourhood: Seogwi-po
This is the second-largest city in Jeju, located to the South, nearer the resorts such as Shilla Jeju and Lotte. It is slightly less developed than Jeju-shi.
Gyeongju
If you like history, Gyeongju is the place for you. It's so steeped in history, it's known as the Musuem without walls!
An easy distance from Busan, it's also located in the South of Korea.
Daejeon
Daejeon is a large city located in the center of South Korea, famous for science.
For those who want a quieter city, you can consider Daejeon over Busan or Seoul.
The cost of living in Daejeon is also lower than in Seoul, but higher than in some other cities in South Korea.
Overall, South Korea offers a wide range of cities to choose from, each with its own unique benefits and drawbacks. When deciding where to live, it is important to consider factors such as job opportunities, cost of living, and cultural attractions, as well as personal preferences and priorities.
Cost of Living
South Korea has a relatively high cost of living compared to other Asian countries, such as Thailand and Malaysia.
It's not as expensive, or comparable to, Singapore though. (Whether it's more or less expensive would depend on what you're looking for. For example, in Singapore, live-in help is much cheaper than in Korea.)
However, the cost of living can vary greatly depending on the city or region you choose to live in. Seoul is obviously one of the most fun places to live in Korea but it's also the most expensive. If you're on a budget, look to a smaller city or the countryside.
Housing
The cost of living in South Korea is affected by various factors such as housing, transportation, food, and entertainment.
Housing is the biggest expense for most people in South Korea, with rent prices being particularly high in Seoul. However, if you are willing to live outside of the city center and commute, you can save a significant amount of money on rent. Many Koreans commute for an hour or more to get to work!
The rental system is Korea is unique. Typically, one has to put down an extremely large deposit (jeonse) to rent a place! The jeonse can be anything between 50-90% of the propety's value, and the tenant pays no further rent during the lease years (usually 2 years.)
As you can imagine, this can add up to quite a large sum of money, pricing many people out of the rentint market! There is also the risk that you may not receive your deposit back at the end of the lease.
Food
Food is an essential part of Korean culture, and there is a wide range of options available at various price points.
Street food is a popular and affordable option. There are also many small eateries serving delicious Korean cuisine that are inexpensive- the prices have remained around 10,000 won (US$USD7-8) for a main dish in the 10+ years I've been visiting Korea.
However, fancy restaurants, such as hotel restaurants are obviously more expensive. The portions can be quite large and sharing is frowned on.
Note: outside of Seoul, it can be difficult for solo diners to find restaurants to eat at. (Unless you want to pay for 2 people.)
Entertainment
Entertainment options in South Korea are plentiful and diverse, ranging from museums and art galleries to theme parks and nightclubs. Going to a Korean karaoke (noraebang) is also a popular activity. If you want to live somewhere exciting with more nightlife, Seoul is the place for you.
The cost of entertainment varies depending on the activity and location, but there are many affordable options available.
Overall, the cost of living in South Korea can be high, but it is possible to live comfortably on a budget. By choosing a city or region with a lower cost of living, being mindful of expenses, and taking advantage of affordable transportation and entertainment options, it is possible to enjoy all that South Korea has to offer without breaking the bank.
Culture
Korean culture is deeply rooted in Confucianism, which emphasizes respect for authority, family values, and education. This can be hard for many Westerners to adapt to.
These values are reflected in the country's social hierarchy, where age and status play a significant role in determining how people interact with one another. Korean society also places a strong emphasis on collectivism, with the needs of the group often taking precedence over the needs of the individual.
The Korean writing system, known as Hangul, was created in the 15th century and is known for its simplicity and ease of use. It consists of 24 letters, which can be combined to form syllables.
Unlike many other writing systems, Hangul was designed to be accessible to the common people, rather than just the elite, so it's pretty easy to learn. You'll be able to pick up the spelling quickly, though you may not know what the letters mean when combined!
Transportation
Most of South Korea has an extensive and efficient public transportation system that makes it easy and convenient to get around the country. The transportation infrastructure is modern and well-maintained, which makes traveling a breeze for both locals and tourists.
Transportation in South Korea is efficient and affordable. The country has an extensive public transportation system, including buses, subways, and trains, which makes it easy to get around.
South Korea's subway system is one of the best in the world, with multiple lines that connect the major cities and suburbs. The subway stations are clean, safe, and easy to navigate, with signs and announcements in both Korean and English. The subway lines are color-coded, making it easy to identify which line you need to take.
The cost of public transportation depends on the distance traveled, but it is generally affordable. Taxis are also readily available- they are generally more expensive than public transportation but MUCH cheaper than taxi in, say, Singapore or London.
In some rural areas, such as Jeju, you will unfortunately need a car to get around.
International Airport
South Korea has two major international airports: Incheon International Airport and Gimpo International Airport.
Incheon International Airport is the larger of the two and is considered one of the best airports in the world. It has won numerous awards for its facilities and services, including its duty-free shopping, restaurants, and lounges. The airport is connected to the city by the Airport Railroad Express (AREX), which takes passengers to Seoul Station in just 43 minutes.
Language
When it comes to language and communication in South Korea, there are a few things to keep in mind.
The official language is Korean and English is not widely spoken, even in major cities and tourist areas. Outside of Seoul, you'll be lucky to find service staff who can speak and understand English even in a 5-star hotel!
It is also worth noting that learning Korean can be a valuable skill for those who plan to live and work in South Korea. While it is possible to get by with just English, knowing the local language can help individuals to better integrate into the local community and build stronger relationships with colleagues and neighbors.
Fortunately, there are many resources available for those who are interested in learning Korean. Private language schools and tutors are widely available, and there are also many online resources and language exchange programs that can be helpful for those who are looking to improve their language skills.
Overall, while language and communication can present some challenges for those who are new to South Korea, there are also many opportunities available for those who are willing to put in the effort to learn and adapt.
Education
South Korea is known for its outstanding education system, with a strong emphasis on academic achievement. The country has a variety of educational options available, including international schools, public schools, and French schools.
International schools in South Korea offer a diverse range of curricula, including the International Baccalaureate, American, British, and Korean. These schools are a popular choice for expat families, as they provide a familiar education system and a community of like-minded individuals. Some of the top international schools in South Korea include Chadwick International School, Seoul Foreign School, and Dwight School Seoul.
Public schools in South Korea are highly regarded, with a rigorous curriculum and high academic standards. The country has a strong focus on STEM subjects, particularly in secondary education. Students in South Korea are known for their strong work ethic and dedication to their studies. However, the language of instruction in public schools is Korean, which can be a challenge for non-native speakers.
For French-speaking families, the French School in Seoul is an excellent option. The school offers a French curriculum and is accredited by the French Ministry of Education. The school caters to students from preschool through high school and has a strong focus on language acquisition.
South Korea is home to some of the best universities in Asia, including Seoul National University and Korea University. These universities are highly regarded for their academic programs and research facilities. However, admission to these universities is highly competitive, and international students must meet strict academic requirements.
Overall, South Korea offers a diverse range of educational options for families and students. Whether you are looking for an international school or a public school, South Korea has something to offer.
Employment Opportunities
The country's economy is driven by technology, manufacturing, and service industries, and there is a demand for skilled professionals in some fields.
Seoul is the economic center of South Korea and has the highest concentration of job opportunities. It is home to many multinational corporations, including Samsung, LG, and Hyundai.
However, one thing to note is that the Korean working culture is very intense. If you're used to working life in the West, you may find it difficult to adjust to the long working hours and high expectations of employees, that some may find intrudes into their personal life.
English Teaching
English teaching is a popular job for expats in South Korea.
There is a high demand for English teachers,particularly in private language schools known as "hagwons." Many schools and language institutes offer competitive salaries and benefits packages. My friend got paid so much as an English teacher in Korea, it funded her Masters education at Cambridge!
However, it is important to note that English teaching jobs typically require:
- a Bachelor's degree
- a TEFL certification (recommended but not always necessary)
- clean criminal background check
- clean drug check
- In addition, Korea only hires people with citizenship from certain countries: U.S., U.K., Ireland, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and South Africa. Even if you're a native English speaker, but not from these countries, you'll find it difficult to get hired as an English teacher in Korea. (I know because I tried! (I'm from Singapore.))
Safety
South Korea is generally considered a safe country with a low crime rate.
According to the Global Peace Index, South Korea is ranked as the 10th safest country in the world, making it a desirable location for expats and travelers alike. However, as with any country, it is important to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings.
Certainly, for petty crime, such as pickpocketing, you don't have to worry. However, female-related crimes are a big issue. For example, molka (hidden cameras in toilets, hotel rooms etc) are a HUGE issues in the country.
Another safety concerns in South Korea is the risk of natural disasters. The country is located in a region that is prone to earthquakes, typhoons, tsunamis, and flooding. However, the government has implemented strict building codes and disaster preparedness plans to minimize the impact of these events.
Recreation
South Korea offers a wide range of leisure and recreational activities for its residents. From historical sites to sandy beaches, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
For those interested in history, South Korea has numerous historical sites, such as the Gyeongbokgung Palace and the Changdeokgung Palace. These palaces were built during the Joseon Dynasty and offer visitors a glimpse into the country's rich cultural heritage.
Amusement parks are also a popular destination for families and thrill-seekers alike. One of the most famous amusement parks in South Korea is Everland, located in Yongin. It boasts a variety of rides and attractions, including a water park and a zoo.
If you're looking for a day at the beach, South Korea has a number of beautiful sandy beaches to choose from. Haeundae Beach in Busan is one of the most popular beaches in the country, with its clear waters and soft sand.
For those who love to shop, South Korea has no shortage of shopping malls. Some, such as the COEX Mall in Seoul, are even located underground!
Beautiful parks are also scattered throughout the country, such as the Namsan Park in Seoul. It offers stunning views of the city and is a popular spot for picnics and hiking.
Hiking is a popular activity in Korea too. Bukhansan National Park, located in the northern part of Seoul and offering breathtaking views of the city, is another popular destination for hikers and nature enthusiasts.
Buddhist temples are also a significant part of South Korea's cultural heritage. The Bulguksa Temple in Gyeongju is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is considered one of the most beautiful temples in the country.
Overall, South Korea has a wealth of leisure and recreational activities to offer its residents. Whether you're interested in history, nature, or simply having fun, there is something for everyone to enjoy in this beautiful country.
Food
Street food is another must-try in South Korea.
From the famous Korean fried chicken to the traditional bibimbap, there is a wide variety of street food available throughout the country.
Korean food is known for its bold flavors and unique ingredients. Some of the most popular dishes include kimchi, bulgogi, bibimbap, and tteokbokki (Korean rice cake.) Something unique about Korean food is the large number of side dishes (banchan) that are served at a meal.
Due to the generous use of gochujang paste and gochugaru chili, Korean food is often spicy. If you can't take the heat, here are some non-spicy Korean dishes.
In addition, keep in mind that the traditional Korean diet revolves heavily around meat. If you're vegan or vegetarian, you will have to do a bit more research to find places to eat.
Fun fact: At traditional Korean restaurants, diners take off their shoes and sit on the floor!
Expat Community
South Korea has a thriving expat community, with the largest ones located in Seoul and Busan. The expat community in South Korea is diverse, with individuals from all over the world.
Seoul has the most expats in South Korea, with around 300,000 foreigners residing in the city. The city is home to many international schools, making it an ideal location for families with children. The Itaewon neighborhood in Seoul is known for its diverse population and is a popular area for expats to live and hang out.
Busan, South Korea's second-largest city, has a growing number of foreigners, with many foreign workers employed in the city's shipping and manufacturing industries. The Haeundae Beach and Marine City areas are popular locations for expats, with their proximity to beautiful beaches and lively nightlife.
If you have any questions about the best places to live in South Korea, let me know in the comments!
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