Best Neighborhoods for Retirees in Seoul
Summary: If you're retiring in Seoul, here are some of the best neighborhoods in Seoul for retirees.
Seoul, is a vibrant city that blends traditional culture with modern amenities, making it an attractive destination for expats and retirees. With numerous neighborhoods to choose from, each offering unique characteristics, it's important to know which areas cater best to a retiree's lifestyle. Here are eight of the best neighborhoods for retirees to live in Seoul.
Itaewon
Itaewon is a multicultural hub that is great for retirees due to its international atmosphere and amenities. Retirees can spend their leisure time exploring the diverse dining scene, visiting art galleries, or taking strolls along the nearby Namsan Mountain trails. The Itaewon Global Village Center offers various programs and services tailored for expats.
Location: Yongsan-gu, central Seoul
Real Estate: Average rental price of a 2-bedroom apartment is around 2.5 million KRW, and a 3-bedroom is around 3.5 million KRW. Purchase prices vary greatly, but expect to start from 700 million KRW for a 2-bedroom and 1 billion KRW for a 3-bedroom.
Healthcare: Severance Hospital and the International Clinic at Yongsan Garrison are nearby.
Where to Eat: Vatos Urban Tacos, Braai Republic, and The Booth Brewing Company.
Interesting History: Itaewon was a popular area for U.S. military personnel post-Korean War, shaping its international character.
Volunteer Organizations: Itaewon Global Village Center offers volunteer opportunities.
Parks: Namsan Park is nearby, offering beautiful trails and views of the city.
Gangnam
Gangnam is an upscale district with excellent shopping, dining, and cultural facilities. Retirees can enjoy performances at the Seoul Arts Center, visit the Horim Art Center, or relax in the nearby Yangjae Citizen's Forest. The area is well-connected by public transportation.
Location: Gangnam-gu, south of the Han River
Real Estate: Rental prices start from 2 million KRW for a 2-bedroom and 3 million KRW for a 3-bedroom. Purchase prices start from 1 billion KRW for a 2-bedroom and 1.5 billion KRW for a 3-bedroom.
Healthcare: Samsung Medical Center and Gangnam Severance Hospital are in the vicinity.
Where to Eat: WooLaRae Noodle Restaurant, Yang Good, and O'Kim's Braised Beef.
Interesting History: Gangnam's development began in the 1970s, transforming it into a modern, affluent district.
Volunteer Organizations: Gangnam-gu District Office has volunteer programs.
Parks: Yangjae Citizen's Forest and Ttukseom Hangang Park are popular nearby parks.
Seongbuk-dong
Seongbuk-dong is a charming, historic neighborhood known for its traditional hanok houses. Retirees can enjoy cultural experiences, visit the Seongnag Won Garden, or explore the local art galleries. The area is peaceful and offers a glimpse into Korea's past.
Location: Seongbuk-gu, northern Seoul
Real Estate: Rental prices start from 1.5 million KRW for a 2-bedroom and 2 million KRW for a 3-bedroom. Purchase prices start from 500 million KRW for a 2-bedroom and 700 million KRW for a 3-bedroom.
Healthcare: Korea University Anam Hospital is nearby.
Where to Eat: Hangaram, Tosokchon Samgyetang, and Dongdemun Yeotgi Tteokbokki.
Interesting History: Seongbuk-dong was a popular residence for artists and writers in the mid-20th century.
Volunteer Organizations: Seongbuk Global Village Center has volunteer opportunities.
Parks: Seongnag Won Garden and Samcheong Park are beautiful nearby parks.
Pyeongchang-dong
Pyeongchang-dong is a peaceful, upscale residential area with beautiful views of Bukhansan Mountain. Retirees can enjoy hiking, visit the nearby art museums, or relax in the local cafes. The area is known for its luxurious homes and quiet atmosphere.
Location: Jongno-gu, northeastern Seoul
Real Estate: Rental prices start from 2 million KRW for a 2-bedroom and 3 million KRW for a 3-bedroom. Purchase prices start from 800 million KRW for a 2-bedroom and 1 billion KRW for a 3-bedroom.
Healthcare: Seoul National University Hospital is nearby.
Where to Eat: Pyeongchang Jaecheopguk, Eojin Eobuksu, and Yeongpyeong.
Interesting History: Pyeongchang-dong was a popular residence for high-ranking officials and royal family members during the Joseon Dynasty.
Volunteer Organizations: Jongno-gu District Office has volunteer programs.
Parks: Bukhansan National Park is nearby, offering numerous hiking trails.
Hannam-dong
Hannam-dong is a trendy, international neighborhood with a mix of old and new. Retirees can explore the local art scene, enjoy various dining options, or take a stroll along the Han River. The area is well-connected and offers a unique blend of cultures.
Location: Yongsan-gu, central Seoul
Real Estate: Rental prices start from 2.5 million KRW for a 2-bedroom and 3.5 million KRW for a 3-bedroom. Purchase prices start from 700 million KRW for a 2-bedroom and 1 billion KRW for a 3-bedroom.
Healthcare: Severance Hospital is nearby.
Where to Eat: Linus' Bama Style Barbecue, The Beastro, and Casablanca Sandwicherie.
Interesting History: Hannam-dong was a popular residence for foreign diplomats and missionaries in the early 20th century.
Volunteer Organizations: Itaewon Global Village Center offers volunteer opportunities.
Parks: Namsan Park and Ichon Hangang Park are popular nearby parks.
Bangbae-dong
Bangbae-dong is a family-friendly neighborhood with a strong sense of community. Retirees can enjoy the local parks, explore the Seoul Arts Center, or join community classes. The area is known for its good schools and safe environment.
Location: Seocho-gu, south of the Han River
Real Estate: Rental prices start from 1.5 million KRW for a 2-bedroom and 2 million KRW for a 3-bedroom. Purchase prices start from 600 million KRW for a 2-bedroom and 800 million KRW for a 3-bedroom.
Healthcare: Seoul National University Bundang Hospital is nearby.
Where to Eat: Bangbae Yeoldubap, Bangbae Kalguksu, and Bangbae Tteokbokki.
Interesting History: Bangbae-dong was a popular residence for intellectuals and artists in the mid-20th century.
Volunteer Organizations: Seocho Senior Welfare Center has volunteer programs.
Parks: Bangbae Park and Seoul Arts Center Park are popular nearby parks.
Seorae Village
Seorae Village is a French-inspired neighborhood known for its unique architecture and European atmosphere. Retirees can enjoy the local cafes, visit the Montmartre Park, or explore the nearby Banpo Hangang Park. The area is a popular destination for its international vibe.
Location: Seocho-gu, south of the Han River
Real Estate: Rental prices start from 2 million KRW for a 2-bedroom and 3 million KRW for a 3-bedroom. Purchase prices start from 700 million KRW for a 2-bedroom and 1 billion KRW for a 3-bedroom.
Healthcare: Asan Medical Center is nearby.
Where to Eat: Paris Croissant, La Vie en Rose, and Le Saint-Ex.
Interesting History: Seorae Village was developed in the early 1990s to resemble a French town.
Volunteer Organizations: Seocho-gu District Office has volunteer programs.
Parks: Montmartre Park and Banpo Hangang Park are popular nearby parks.
Samcheong-dong
Samcheong-dong is a traditional neighborhood known for its hanok houses, art galleries, and cozy cafes. Retirees can enjoy cultural experiences, visit the nearby palaces, or explore the local shops. The area is popular for its traditional atmosphere and scenic alleys.
Location: Jongno-gu, northern Seoul
Real Estate: Rental prices start from 1.5 million KRW for a 2-bedroom and 2 million KRW for a 3-bedroom. Purchase prices start from 500 million KRW for a 2-bedroom and 700 million KRW for a 3-bedroom.
Healthcare: Korea University Anam Hospital is nearby.
Where to Eat: Samcheongdong Sujebi, Samcheongdong Kalguksu, and Samcheongdong Bukchon Kalguksu.
Interesting History: Samcheong-dong was a popular residence for noble families during the Joseon Dynasty.
Volunteer Organizations: Jongno-gu District Office has volunteer programs.
Parks: Samcheong Park and Bukchon Hanok Village are popular nearby attractions.
Ichon-dong
Ichon-dong is a vibrant neighborhood known for its diverse dining scene and cultural attractions. Retirees can enjoy performances at the National Theater of Korea, visit the nearby art galleries, or explore the local shops. The area is well-connected and offers a mix of traditional and modern experiences.
Location: Yongsan-gu, central Seoul
Real Estate: Rental prices start from 2 million KRW for a 2-bedroom and 3 million KRW for a 3-bedroom. Purchase prices start from 700 million KRW for a 2-bedroom and 1 billion KRW for a 3-bedroom.
Healthcare: Severance Hospital is nearby.
Where to Eat: Ichon Kalguksu, Ichon Tteokbokki, and Ichon Jokbal.
Interesting History: Ichon-dong was a popular residence for artists and writers in the mid-20th century.
Volunteer Organizations: Yongsan-gu District Office has volunteer programs.
Parks: Ichon Hangang Park and Namsan Park are popular nearby parks.
Each of these neighborhoods offers unique characteristics and amenities that cater to a retiree's lifestyle. Whether you prefer a traditional atmosphere, international vibe, or upscale living, Seoul has a neighborhood that will suit your needs.
About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC
Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.
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