South korea
Language
Korean
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Weather
South Korea experiences four distinct seasons, with a noticeable contrast between summer and winter. Summers are hot and humid, with temperatures often reaching highs around 30-35°C (86-95°F). Winter, on the other hand, brings cold winds and can see temperatures drop as low as -10 to -20°C (14 to -4°F), especially in northern regions.
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Population
51.3 million
Ranked 23rd for population density
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Cuisine
Korean food is based on rice and soup with sides of vegetables and meats. Kimchi is a classic Korean dish which is served with most meals, it is a dish of seasoned and fermented vegetables. In South Korea, you will also be able to find a lot of your home comforts, including many popular fast-food chains.
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Currency
South Korean Won (KRW)
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Social
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Lots of gyms and sports clubs
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Lots of cafes, restaurants, and bars
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Great for nightlife
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Cost of living
Depending on your lifestyle, it’s definitely possible to save a good amount of money in South Korea, as many everyday costs are similar to what you’d find in the UK or the USA.
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Local food and drink are usually much cheaper than international foods or dining at major fast-food chains. For instance, a meal at a local restaurant typically costs around 8,000 KRW (roughly £5 - £6 or $6 - $7).
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Rent can vary depending on the city you live in, but in general, it tends to be cheaper than what you might expect in the UK, especially outside of central areas in Seoul.
For a more detailed breakdown of living expenses, we recommend using Numbeo.
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Accommodation
Spacious accommodation can be hard to come by in many cities in South Korea, with Seoul being one of the most extreme examples. As a result, much of the affordable accommodation consists of small apartments, particularly in central areas. However, the rent tends to be quite reasonable compared to cities like London or New York, with the average monthly rent for a one-room apartment (also called an officetel or studio) being around 715,000 KRW (approximately £450 - £500 or $550 - $600).
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Public transport
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There are 15 airports in South Korea with the main being in Seoul; Incheon International Airport
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Very efficient Subway systems
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Buses and taxis available and are easy to navigate