5 Best Neighborhoods for Expats in Seoul
Seoul, Korea
1. Popular Neighborhoods for Expats
Hannam-dong, Yongsan: One of Seoul's most desirable international residential neighborhoods, popular with executives, diplomats, professionals and families. It offers premium apartments, quieter residential streets and convenient access to central Seoul.
Itaewon, Yongsan: An established international neighborhood popular with singles, couples and professionals. Itaewon is known for its diverse dining, nightlife, walkable streets and international atmosphere.
Gangnam, Gangnam-gu: Ideal for professionals and executives working in Seoul's major business districts. Areas such as Yeoksam and Nonhyeon offer modern apartments, restaurants, shopping and excellent transport links.
Seongsu-dong, Seongdong: Particularly attractive to younger professionals and couples seeking contemporary apartments, cafés, fitness studios and a creative neighborhood environment.
Yeonnam-dong, Mapo: Popular with younger expats, students and couples who enjoy independent cafés, restaurants, neighborhood parks and proximity to Hongdae.
A street in Seoul
2. Dining, Fitness & Lifestyle
Itaewon and Hannam-dong offer some of Seoul's most internationally oriented dining and social environments. Gangnam has major shopping districts, gyms, restaurants and a busy professional atmosphere.
Seongsu-dong and Yeonnam-dong appeal to residents who prefer café culture, independent retail, creative spaces and walkable neighborhoods. All five areas provide convenient access to public transportation and employment centers.
An apartment in Seoul
3. Apartment Rental Prices
Approximate monthly rents under a standard monthly-payment arrangement include:
Hannam-dong: Smaller apartments ₩1.3–3 million (US$970–2,240); larger family residences ₩3–7 million+ (US$2,240–5,220+).
Itaewon: Smaller apartments ₩800,000–1.7 million (US$600–1,270); larger apartments ₩1.6–3.5 million+ (US$1,190–2,610+).
Gangnam: Smaller apartments ₩900,000–2 million (US$670–1,490); larger apartments ₩1.8–4 million+ (US$1,340–2,980+).
Seongsu-dong: Smaller apartments ₩800,000–1.6 million (US$600–1,190); larger apartments ₩1.6–3.5 million+ (US$1,190–2,610+).
Yeonnam-dong: Smaller apartments ₩600,000–1.2 million (US$450–895); larger apartments ₩1.2–2.5 million+ (US$895–1,865+).
Important: Korean monthly rental contracts usually require a separate security deposit. The amount can substantially affect the advertised monthly rent.
An apartment in Seoul
4. Housing Types
Seoul offers compact studios, one-bedroom apartments, officetels, larger high-rise apartments and low-rise residential buildings. Hannam-dong has more premium family housing, while Gangnam and Seongsu offer a strong selection of modern apartment developments.
Yeonnam-dong and Itaewon have more varied residential buildings, including renovated older apartments and low-rise homes. Expats should compare apartment size, deposit requirements, transportation and management fees when selecting housing in Seoul.
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