Cost of Living in Korea: What to Expect in 2025

South Korea is known for its high-tech cities, vibrant culture, and excellent public services. Many expats, students, and job seekers ask: "How much does it cost to live in South Korea?" Whether you're planning to study in Korea, work in Seoul, or relocate long-term, understanding the cost of living in South Korea in 2025 is essential for financial planning. This guide breaks down the estimated expenses, covering rent in Seoul, transportation costs, food prices, and more.

 

Housing Costs in Korea (2025)

Housing represents one of the largest expenses when living in Korea. Your monthly rent in Korea varies by city and accommodation type.

- Monthly Rent by Housing Type:

✔ One-room apartment (Seoul) – ₩600,000 to ₩1.5M per month

✔ One-room apartment (Other cities) – ₩400,000 to ₩1M per month

✔ Officetel (studio with office space) – ₩700,000 to ₩2M per month

✔ Shared housing (Goshiwon or Hasukjip) – ₩250,000 to ₩600,000 per month

✔ Jeonse (long-term deposit lease) – ₩100M+ deposit, no monthly rent

Seoul commands the highest prices, while cities like Busan, Daegu, and Daejeon offer more affordable options. For students in Korea, university dormitories provide the most economical choice, ranging from ₩300,000 to ₩800,000 per semester.

Transportation Costs in Korea (2025)

Korea boasts an efficient and affordable public transportation system. Most residents rely on the subway, buses, and taxis.

✔ Subway & Bus Fare – ₩1,400 per ride (with T-money card discount)

✔ Monthly Transit Pass (Seoul) – ₩55,000 to ₩70,000

✔ Taxi Fare – ₩4,800 base fare, ₩1,000 per km

✔ Intercity KTX Train (Seoul to Busan) – ₩60,000 to ₩80,000 per trip

For those who prefer driving, car rental in Korea starts at ₩600,000 per month, with gas prices in Korea averaging ₩1,800 per liter.

Food Prices in Korea (2025)

While dining out remains relatively affordable, grocery prices continue to rise. Here's a breakdown of food expenses in Korea:

✔ Budget meal (Kimbap, Ramen, etc.) – ₩5,000 to ₩7,000

✔ Mid-range restaurant meal – ₩10,000 to ₩15,000

✔ Fine dining per person – ₩50,000+

✔ Coffee (Americano) – ₩4,500 to ₩6,500

✔ Groceries (per month, for one person) – ₩400,000 to ₩700,000

✔ Imported goods (Cheese, Wine, etc.) – 30%+ higher than local prices

While cooking at home saves money, dining out remains both convenient and cost-effective, especially for expats in Korea.

 

Utility Bills & Internet Costs

Monthly living costs include utilities such as electricity, water, and internet.

✔ Electricity & Water (Small apartment) – ₩80,000 to ₩150,000 per month

✔ Heating (Winter months, Gas bill) – ₩100,000 to ₩300,000 per month

✔ High-speed Internet – ₩30,000 to ₩50,000 per month

✔ Mobile Phone Plan – ₩40,000 to ₩100,000 per month

With some of the fastest internet speeds in the world, Korea proves ideal for remote work.

Entertainment & Lifestyle Costs

Korea's vibrant entertainment scene offers diverse options. Here's what to expect for popular activities:

✔ Movie Ticket – ₩12,000 to ₩15,000

✔ Concert Ticket (K-pop, etc.) – ₩100,000+

✔ Gym Membership – ₩50,000 to ₩150,000 per month

✔ Streaming Services (Netflix, Disney+) – ₩10,000 to ₩20,000 per month

The reasonable entertainment costs make Korea an attractive destination for those looking to live and work abroad.

 

Healthcare & Insurance

Korea offers an efficient and affordable healthcare system. Work visa and student visa holders automatically enroll in the National Health Insurance (NHI).

✔ Doctor's Visit (With Insurance) – ₩10,000 to ₩30,000 per visit

✔ Prescription Medicine – ₩5,000 to ₩20,000

✔ Private Health Insurance – ₩100,000+ per month

✔ Dental Care – ₩50,000+ per treatment

The affordable healthcare costs stand out as a significant advantage for expats in Korea.

Total Monthly Cost of Living in Korea (2025)

Monthly budgets vary by lifestyle:

✔ Budget (Students & Low-Cost Living) – ₩900,000 to ₩1.5M per month

✔ Mid-Range (Comfortable Living) – ₩2M to ₩3.5M per month

✔ Luxury (High-End Living) – ₩4M+ per month

Your living expenses in Korea will vary based on your lifestyle choices, location, and spending habits.

 

South Korea offers an appealing balance of affordability and high quality of life for expats, students, and digital nomads. Though housing in Seoul commands premium prices, the reasonable costs of public transportation, food, and healthcare maintain the country's appeal. If you're considering moving to Korea, careful budget planning will help you make the most of your experience.