Most nomads in Korea live in Seoul or Busan, which both have full guides. This page compares them with four other bases.
The costs are ballpark figures for a comfortable month for one person in a furnished officetel or apartment, eating out often, with coworking, transport and a social life.
The Bases at a Glance#
| Base | Comfortable month | Best months | Suits |
|---|---|---|---|
| Seoul | about $2,700 | April to June, September to November | Big-city life, community |
| Busan | about $2,000 | April to June, September to October | Beaches, mountains |
| Jeju Island | $1,800 to $2,400 | April to June, September to October | Island nature |
| Gangneung | $1,500 to $1,900 | May to October | East-coast beaches, coffee |
| Daegu | $1,400 to $1,800 | April to May, October to November | A real Korean city, low costs |
| Gyeongju | $1,300 to $1,700 | April to May, October to November | History, calm |
Seoul#
Korea’s capital is huge, fast and endlessly interesting, with the most coworking, cafes, nightlife and international community. See the Seoul digital nomad guide.
Busan#
Korea’s second city and beach capital, with a city workation programme. See the Busan digital nomad guide.
Jeju Island#
A volcanic island with Hallasan mountain, olle walking trails, beaches and a slower pace, an hour’s flight from Seoul. Some workation programmes run here. A car helps.
Gangneung#
An east-coast city known for beaches, coffee streets and surf, about two hours from Seoul by KTX. It is quiet and good value.
Daegu#
A large inland city with lower costs and very few tourists, known for food and markets. Summers are among Korea’s hottest.
Gyeongju#
The ancient capital of the Silla kingdom, with royal tombs, temples and a calm pace. It is small and quiet, near Busan.
Choosing Your Base#
- Start in Seoul for the easiest setup and most English.
- Avoid the July and August heat and rain if you can.
- Learn Hangul before you come; it takes a few hours and helps enormously.
Where to Base FAQs#
Where do most digital nomads live in South Korea?
Seoul, followed by Busan.
What is the cheapest place in South Korea for digital nomads?
Smaller cities such as Daegu and Gyeongju, at about $1,300 to $1,800 a month.
Is Jeju good for digital nomads?
Yes, for nature lovers who want a slower pace, though you will need a car and the community is small.