Best Cities to Live in Korea for Foreigners (2026 Guide)
Not every foreigner wants to live in Seoul.
If you're moving to Korea in 2026, you might be wondering:
– Which Korean cities are affordable? – Where is it easiest to meet other expats? – What cities are best for families, digital nomads, or retirees?
This guide ranks the **top 6 cities in Korea for foreigners** based on real-life expat experiences.
1. Seoul — Best for Career & Convenience 🌆
Seoul is the capital and economic heart of Korea.
If you're working in tech, business, finance, or education — this is where the jobs are.
- ✅ Most international companies and schools
- ✅ Huge expat population and communities
- ✅ Excellent public transport & global services
⚠️ Downsides: High rent, fast-paced lifestyle, competitive work culture
2. Busan — Best for Beaches & Balanced Living 🏖️
Busan is Korea’s second-largest city — with coastal views and a relaxed vibe.
It’s ideal for foreigners who want urban convenience but a slower pace of life.
- ✅ Lower cost of living than Seoul
- ✅ Great beaches and seafood
- ✅ Active foreigner scene (especially near Haeundae & Gwangalli)
⚠️ Downsides: Fewer job options outside teaching, local dialect can be tricky
3. Daegu — Best for Affordable Urban Life 💸
Daegu is underrated — but a favorite among budget-conscious expats.
It offers big-city living without Seoul prices.
- ✅ Low rent and cost of living
- ✅ Good public transportation
- ✅ Growing number of expats and local events
⚠️ Downsides: Hot summers, less English spoken
4. Daejeon — Best for Families & Students 🎓
Daejeon is known as Korea’s “science city” — clean, calm, and education-focused.
It’s home to major universities and government research centers.
- ✅ Family-friendly neighborhoods
- ✅ Central location with fast train access to Seoul/Busan
- ✅ More relaxed pace of life
⚠️ Downsides: Less nightlife, fewer expat-specific services
5. Jeonju — Best for Culture & Food Lovers 🍲
Jeonju is famous for traditional Korean culture, hanok villages, and food.
It’s a great city for creatives, students, or retirees seeking peace and culture.
- ✅ Low living costs
- ✅ Safe, walkable city
- ✅ Rich local traditions and cuisine
⚠️ Downsides: Smaller job market, limited expat services
6. Gwangju — Best for Arts & Social Activism 🎨
Gwangju has a strong identity as Korea’s city of democracy and culture.
It’s home to international art festivals and liberal-minded locals.
- ✅ Affordable housing
- ✅ Artistic and cultural energy
- ✅ Growing digital nomad scene
⚠️ Downsides: Slower pace, smaller expat population
Quick Comparison Table 📊
| City | Best For | Cost of Living | English-Friendly |
|---|---|---|---|
| Seoul | Jobs & Access | High | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Busan | Beach & Chill Life | Medium | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Daegu | Budget Urban Life | Low | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Daejeon | Families & Students | Medium | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Jeonju | Culture & Food | Low | ⭐⭐ |
| Gwangju | Arts & Activism | Low | ⭐⭐ |
Conclusion: Which Korean City Fits Your Life in 2026? 🎯
Korea is more than just Seoul.
If you're moving here, choose your city based on:
- 📍 Budget
- 👔 Career goals
- 👨👩👧 Family needs
- 🎨 Lifestyle preferences
Each city offers a different version of Korea — from beach life to culture to business.
Up next: Healthcare in Korea for foreigners — what to expect in 2026.
