KoreaBest Places for Digital Nomads to Live in Korea
South Korea, a land of rich culture, advanced technology, and delicious food, has become an increasingly popular destination for digital nomads. With its high-speed internet, reasonable cost of living, and various attractions, it offers an ideal environment for remote workers. In this article, we'll explore seven cities and towns in South Korea that cater to digital nomads, providing a perfect balance between work and play.
Busan
Busan, the second-largest city in South Korea, is known for its beautiful beaches, delicious seafood, and vibrant nightlife. Digital nomads can work from hip cafes in the trendy Seomyeon neighborhood or from the co-working space Busan Startup Hub. The Jagalchi Fish Market is a must-visit, where you can buy fresh seafood and cook your own meal. Cost of Living: A one-bedroom apartment in a safe, central neighborhood costs around $500 monthly, groceries for one person for a week cost around $100, and a moderate dinner for one person with a drink costs around $20.
Where to Stay & Eat: Stay in the Nampodong area, which is known for its affordable furnished rentals and numerous restaurants. Try the famous Busan BBQ and the seafood dishes at Jungang Market.
Jeju City, Jeju Island
Jeju Island, located off the southern coast of Korea, is famous for its natural wonders, including the beautiful Manjanggul Cave and the picturesque Hyeopjae Beach. Digital nomads can work from co-working spaces like CoWorking Space Jeju or the Jeju Global Center. Cost of Living: A one-bedroom apartment in a safe, central neighborhood costs around $600 monthly, groceries for one person for a week cost around $120, and a moderate dinner for one person with a drink costs around $25.
Where to Stay & Eat: Stay in the Seogwipo area, which is known for its reasonable rents and delicious seafood dishes. Try the famous black pork and the abalone porridge.
Seoul
Seoul, the capital city of South Korea, is a hub for technology, culture, and nightlife. Digital nomads can work from various co-working spaces like the Seoul Global Center or the Spaces Gangnam Center. The bustling Myeongdong neighborhood offers a wide range of shops and restaurants. Cost of Living: A one-bedroom apartment in a safe, central neighborhood costs around $800 monthly, groceries for one person for a week cost around $150, and a moderate dinner for one person with a drink costs around $30.
Where to Stay & Eat: Stay in the Hongdae area, which is known for its affordable furnished rentals and vibrant nightlife scene. Try the famous Korean fried chicken and the spicy rice cakes called Tteokbokki.
Daejeon
Daejeon, often referred to as the "Technopolis of Korea," is the country's third-largest city and a major hub for science and technology. Digital nomads can work from the Daejeon Techno Park or the Daejeon Global Innovation Center. The city is also home to numerous parks and museums, including the Expo Science Park. Cost of Living: A one-bedroom apartment in a safe, central neighborhood costs around $600 monthly, groceries for one person for a week cost around $100, and a moderate dinner for one person with a drink costs around $15.
Where to Stay & Eat: Stay in the Jung-gu area, which is known for its affordable rents and numerous cafes and restaurants. Try the famous Daejeon Tteokbokki and the spicy rice cake dish called Jjajangmyeon.
Gangneung
Gangneung, located on the eastern coast of Korea, is known for its stunning beaches, delicious seafood, and beautiful temples. Digital nomads can work from the Gangneung CoWorking Space or the Gangneung Creative City. The city is also home to the famous Haeundae Beach and the beautiful Sokcho City. Cost of Living: A one-bedroom apartment in a safe, central neighborhood costs around $500 monthly, groceries for one person for a week cost around $100, and a moderate dinner for one person with a drink costs around $20.
Where to Stay & Eat: Stay in the Sosu-dong area, which is known for its affordable rents and delicious seafood dishes. Try the famous Gangneung Sashimi and the spicy stir-fried crab dish called Gamjatang.
Daegu
Daegu, the fourth-largest city in South Korea, is a hub for education, culture, and business. Digital nomads can work from the Daegu Global Center or the Daegu Techno Valley. The city is also home to numerous parks, museums, and temples, including the beautiful Donghwamun Fortress. Cost of Living: A one-bedroom apartment in a safe, central neighborhood costs around $600 monthly, groceries for one person for a week cost around $100, and a moderate dinner for one person with a drink costs around $15.
Where to Stay & Eat: Stay in the Suseong-gu area, which is known for its affordable rents and numerous cafes and restaurants. Try the famous Daegu Jjimdak and the spicy stir-fried chicken dish called Dakbokkeumtang.
About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange and serves as Co-President of Expat Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange and Digital Nomad Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC
Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.
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