Best (and worst) areas and suburbs in Seoul

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The best places to live in Seoul

Seoul is divided into 25 districts known as gu, which are further separated into neighbourhoods known as dong. If an area has the suffix ’-gu’, it is a larger area made up of various dong. If the name has ‘-dong ’ at the end of it, then it refers to a specific neighbourhood within a gu.

Split in two by the Han River, Seoul is made up of various areas and suburbs. Traditionally, expats have settled north of the river in central areas such as Itaewon-dong, Yongsan-gu and Hannam-dong. These areas are particularly popular among diplomats and their families. Meanwhile, some newer, more expensive suburbs can be found south of the Han River. This includes Gangnam-gu and Apgujeong-dong, which young professionals are often drawn to.

Most areas in Seoul are connected to the city centre by its efficient train and bus services, so you can commute easily from wherever you choose to settle. Expats typically choose their suburb based on proximity to their workplace or their children’s schools.

Working in Seoul
Education and Schools in Seoul

Areas south of the Han River

Gangnam-gu

Gangnam-gu is a much-desired district with a large foreign community, but it is also home to many Koreans. The area has plenty of apartment complexes and studio apartments that are popular with the young and affluent. It has a central built-up area with many offices, bars, and restaurants, and it boasts some of the priciest real estate in the country.

Despite the relatively high prices, Gangnam-gu is populated with English teachers, since it offers easy access to transport as well as some of the best schools in Seoul.

Daechi-dong is one of the more residential areas within Gangnam-gu and is popular with expats who prefer a quieter lifestyle that isn’t too far from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Apgujeong-dong

This affluent area is home to many upmarket shops and restaurants. Apgujeong Rodeo Street is one of the best shopping streets in Seoul. With good access to public transport, Apgujeong-dong is another ideal choice for young professional expats.

Transport and Driving in Seoul
Lifestyle in Seoul

Areas north of the Han River

Areas North of the Han River

Itaewon-dong

Close to some US military facilities in Seoul, Itaewon-dong is filled with Western restaurants, shops and English-language services and amenities. This neighbourhood has one of the largest expat communities in South Korea.

Itaewon-dong is a hilly region with a range of affordable accommodation options available. You can choose between apartments, villas and large houses with gardens. The area also has easy access to public transport and a variety of excellent schools.

Haebangchon-dong

This is another popular expat area, mainly because it’s close to Itaewon-dong and US military facilities. Many English language teachers settle in Haebangchon-dong, and the community is quite multicultural.

Ichon-dong

Ichon-dong in Yongsan-gu is known as "Little Tokyo" and has a large community of Japanese expats. There are many authentic Japanese restaurants in this area. There is also an abundance of apartment complexes, making it a convenient place to look for accommodation.

Hannam-dong

Hannam-dong is a popular residential area for diplomats to settle. It’s close to the expat hub of Itaewon and is made up of the UN Village and a residential neighbourhood. Hannam-dong is quite exclusive, and the houses are large and luxurious. The accommodation here consists mainly of freestanding homes, but some apartments are also available.

Hannam-dong is only 45 minutes away from Seoul International School in nearby Seongnam, and there are two English pre-schools in the neighbourhood. There is also a school bus service to most of the international schools in the area.

The UN Village is an exclusive compound within Hannam-dong that is patrolled by security guards. The accommodation here is palatial, and the complex is close to the Deutsche Schule Seoul (German School Seoul International).

Seodaemun-gu

Close to many of Seoul’s universities, Seodaemun-gu is a residential area that is popular with students and professors. There are also many international schools in the area, which is a big draw for many expats. Seodaemun-gu is surrounded by mountains and is, therefore, a great place if you enjoy the outdoors.

Seorae Village (Bangbae-dong)

Seorae Village in Bangbae-dong is an area favoured by French expats because of its proximity to Lycée Français de Séoul (French School of Seoul). Around half of Korea’s French nationals live in this neighbourhood, earning it the nickname "Montmartre" or "French Village." There are many accommodation options available in this neighbourhood, and it’s close to shopping centres and the subway.

Seongbuk-dong

Seongbuk-dong is an affluent suburb where you can find large, spacious homes. The suburb is relatively close to the city centre, making it convenient if you need to commute into the city. The suburb is great for families, but it isn’t as well-connected to the public transport network as other areas in Seoul are. As such, you might need to invest in a car if you live in Seongbuk-dong.

Yonhi-dong

Although Yonhi-dong can feel isolated, there are many large and beautiful houses and convenient shopping centres, as well as open areas for children to play in. Accommodation in Yonhi-dong is cheaper than in areas such as Hannam-dong and Itaewon-dong, and the Seoul British Foreign School is nearby.

Accommodation in Seoul
International Schools in Seoul

Areas to avoid in Seoul

Seoul is one of the safest major cities in the world, with a low crime rate that ranks favourably even against other developed nations. You’re unlikely to encounter serious safety issues in most parts of the city.

That said, some areas warrant extra caution at night. Seoul Station and its surrounding neighbourhood can feel slightly less polished than other parts of the city, particularly late at night. The main concern here is petty crime rather than violent incidents.

Bukchon Hanok Village in the Jongno district has become overwhelmed by tourists in recent years. The Seoul government has implemented restrictions on tourist access to protect residents from noise, littering and privacy concerns. If you’re seeking a peaceful residential area, you might find the constant stream of visitors disruptive.

Parts of southwestern Seoul have slightly higher rates of property crime, although these areas rarely attract foreign residents. The nightlife districts of Hongdae and Itaewon see more petty theft and occasional scams targeting intoxicated visitors, particularly late at night on weekends.

During peak construction periods, some neighbourhoods like Seongsu experience significant noise and disruption as the city continues its rapid development. Check current construction projects before signing a lease in trendy, up-and-coming areas.

What do expats say about the best areas in Seoul?
"Look at a map of the city, and make sure you are close to a subway station. I would recommend finding a place on the green subway line (Line 2) as it goes in a circle around the city."
Read more about Malcolm's expat experience in his expat interview about life in Seoul.
"I think that if you are looking to live near other expats, Seoul is probably the best place for you. Itaewon (a neighbourhood in Seoul) is particularly populated with foreigners."
See what else Bronwyn, a South African expat, has to say in her expat interview about moving to South Korea.

Are you an expat living in Seoul?

Expat Arrivals is looking for locals to contribute to this guide, and answer forum questions from others planning their move to Seoul. Please contact us if you'd like to contribute, or fill in our expat interview form to be featured.

Areas and suburbs in Seoul