Seoul Cost of Living: What a Month in South Korea’s Capital Costs

Modern city, surprisingly manageable costs

Seoul is more expensive than Southeast Asian cities but significantly cheaper than Tokyo, Singapore, or major Western cities. The combination of affordable food (when eating Korean), excellent public transport, and a wide range of accommodation options makes it a viable longer-stay destination.

Rent

Studio near Hongdae or Itaewon (popular expat/foreigner areas): ₩600,000–1,200,000/month for a goshitel (small furnished studio) or gosiwon. Traditional apartment: ₩800,000–1,500,000/month unfurnished. The Korean housing deposit system (jeonse) doesn’t apply to most short-term foreign renters — expect monthly rent without deposit or a Airbnb-type arrangement.

Food

Eating Korean food regularly: ₩300,000–450,000/month. Including occasional Western food and Korean BBQ nights: ₩500,000–700,000/month. Seoul’s Korean food is excellent value — a proper meal with side dishes costs ₩8,000–15,000.

Transport

Seoul subway monthly pass or T-Money top-ups: ₩80,000–120,000/month for regular commuting. The subway goes everywhere important and is genuinely fast.

Total monthly budget

Budget: ₩1,200,000–1,500,000/month ($900–1,100). Comfortable: ₩2,000,000–3,000,000/month. Seoul is good value for the quality of city it is.