Moving to Busan

As the second-largest city in South Korea, Busan is a popular alternative to fast-paced Seoul. Expats moving to Busan will enjoy good weather and the beaches, making the city an alluring prospect for expats who can't face the extreme winters the northern provinces suffer. 

Living in Busan as an expat

Busan houses the country's largest port. This generates a booming economy, which has led to a healthy job market. Although many expats find work related to shipbuilding or logistics, the city is also one of the most popular choices for young expats moving to Korea to teach English.

With the city divided into 15 gu districts, expats will have many expat-friendly neighbourhoods to choose from when it comes to accommodation. That said, apartments tend to be smaller than many expats may be used to. Public transportation options in Busan are vast and efficient, making it easy to navigate the city's subway and bus systems. Taxis are also widely available and affordable. 

Even though Busan is best known for its beaches, it also hosts numerous festivals and cultural events throughout the year, making it a cultural hub. The lifestyle in Busan is surprisingly diverse. The city has a mix of huge shopping malls and traditional street markets. Expats can eat Korean food quite cheaply at local restaurants, and there is also a wide selection of international restaurants.

Cost of living in Busan

Although Busan is slightly cheaper than Seoul, it is still one of the more expensive cities in South Korea. Living costs here are higher than in many European cities, such as Stockholm and Toulouse, but remain more affordable than in major Asian hubs like Taipei and Shanghai. Fortunately, salaries are competitive, and employment contracts often include benefits such as accommodation and schooling, which can help expats manage their expenses.

Expats will find that transport, locally manufactured goods, and meals at Korean restaurants are relatively affordable, while imported goods and foreign foods tend to be much pricier. In some cases, dining out at Korean restaurants can even be cheaper than buying groceries for a single person, as many food items are sold in bulk, which may not always be practical for individual expats.

Families and children in Busan

Expats with children will find the city family-friendly, with many attractions that will keep tots and teens entertained. There are also a few international schools in the city, which expats generally opt for rather than local Korean schools due to the language barrier. The American curriculum and the International Baccalaureate are taught at many of these schools. There is also a Japanese school in the city.

Climate in Busan

Thanks to Busan's far south location and its proximity to the sea, winters are slightly warmer than in the rest of the country. Temperatures rarely drop below freezing, and accumulated snowfall is rare. That said, the warmer months are hot, humid and wet, with the monsoon season lasting for much of summer. Typhoons are also possible towards the end of summer in Busan.

Busan is a beautiful South Korean coastal city, boasting a rich history and culture. Those who try to learn the language will be welcomed with open arms. Friendly locals, low crime rates and great amenities make moving to Busan a comfortable experience even for first-time expats.