Retire in Suwon, Korea
Last updated on Apr 07, 2025
Summary: Retirees are attracted to Suwon, Korea for its rich cultural heritage, vibrant nightlife, and convenient transportation. The weather in Suwon is generally mild, with temperatures ranging from an average low of -2°F in January to an average high of 86°F in August. There are several retirement communities in Suwon, offering a variety of amenities such as swimming pools, fitness centers, and social activities. The cost of a nice 2 bedroom home in Suwon is typically around $200,000 USD, while a nice 3 bedroom home can cost around $250,000 USD.
What is it like to retire in Suwon?
"Retiring in Suwon offers a great combination of urban living close to nature. The city has excellent public transportation, making it easy to explore the area and access amenities. The city's rich history and modern, bustling cityscape provide a perfect backdrop for those seeking a less hectic lifestyle. There is plenty of enjoyable recreation throughout Suwon, from museums and parks, to art galleries, traditional markets, and hiking trails. Additionally, Suwon is home to excellent healthcare and educational institutions, making it a desirable choice for retirees. The cost of living is generally cheaper than cities like Seoul, making it an affordable option as well," said one retiree in Suwon.

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SJB-Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model. Our clients benefit from their country’s most favorable tax environment by utilizing the efficient investment vehicles we offer. Our commitment to quality service is reflected in our stellar reviews, with over 300 testimonials boasting 95% five-star ratings.
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What advice do overseas retirees have for others considering retiring abroad?
"Expatriate retirees often suggest looking into the total cost of living in a potential retirement destination. From healthcare and housing to food and transportation, take into account both the financial and emotional costs of relocating. Do your research and get to know the culture and society you may be living in. Consider joining an expat organization to find out more about the local customs and meet other retirees living there. Additionally, many retirees encourage saving ahead of time and investing in the local currency to manage finances in the future. Lastly, it is important to make plans for travel back home, if needed," explained a retiree in Suwon.
What are the most challenging aspects of retiring in Suwon?
"One of the most challenging aspects of retiring in Suwon is the language barrier. Although English is becoming more widely spoken, many of the services and amenities available to retirees may not be available in English. Additionally, the cost of living in Suwon can be quite high, making it difficult for retirees to make ends meet on a fixed income. Finally, the culture and customs of Korea can be quite different from those of other countries, making it difficult for retirees to adjust to their new environment," commented one retiree living in Suwon, Korea.

SJB-Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model. Our clients benefit from their country’s most favorable tax environment by utilizing the efficient investment vehicles we offer. Our commitment to quality service is reflected in our stellar reviews, with over 300 testimonials boasting 95% five-star ratings.
Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

SJB-Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model. Our clients benefit from their country’s most favorable tax environment by utilizing the efficient investment vehicles we offer. Our commitment to quality service is reflected in our stellar reviews, with over 300 testimonials boasting 95% five-star ratings.
Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.
What are the most rewarding aspects of retiring in Suwon?
"Retiring in Suwon offers a variety of rewarding experiences. The city is known for its vibrant culture, with a variety of festivals and events throughout the year. The city also offers a wide range of outdoor activities, from hiking and biking to golf and fishing. The city is also home to a number of historical sites, including the Hwaseong Fortress, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Additionally, Suwon is known for its excellent healthcare system, with a number of hospitals and clinics providing quality care. Finally, the city is known for its friendly and welcoming people, making it a great place to retire and enjoy life," said a person in Suwon.
What are healthcare services like in Suwon?
We asked retirees if they have access to good medical care in Suwon. They wrote:
"Suwon offers a wide range of healthcare services to its citizens. The city has a number of hospitals and clinics that provide medical care for both acute and chronic conditions. In addition, there are several specialized medical centers that provide specialized care for specific conditions. The city also has a number of pharmacies and health centers that provide a variety of services such as vaccinations, health screenings, and health education. Furthermore, the city has a number of health promotion centers that provide health promotion activities and health education programs. Finally, the city also has a number of health insurance companies that provide coverage for medical expenses," explained one retiree living in Suwon.
How do I meet people in Suwon?
When we asked people living in Suwon about club and activities where newcomers can meet others, they responded:
"Expats in Suwon can join a variety of clubs and activities, such as language exchange groups, hiking clubs, and sports teams. Expats can also meet people by attending local events, such as festivals, concerts, and art exhibitions. Additionally, many expats find it helpful to join online forums and social media groups dedicated to connecting expats living in Suwon. Finally, expats can also meet people by attending meetups and networking events hosted by local organizations," said one retiree in living in Suwon, Korea.
What is life like in Suwon?
When we asked people living in Suwon what life is like and how people spend their time, they said:
"Living in Suwon as an expat or digital nomad can be an exciting and rewarding experience. The city is known for its vibrant culture, delicious food, and friendly locals. Expats and digital nomads can find plenty of activities to keep them busy, from exploring the city's many historical sites to taking part in the city's vibrant nightlife. The city also offers a wide range of accommodation options, from traditional Korean-style apartments to modern high-rise apartments. The cost of living in Suwon is relatively low, making it an attractive destination for expats and digital nomads. The city also has excellent public transportation, making it easy to get around. Overall, Suwon is a great place for expats and digital nomads to live and work," said a retiree who moved to Suwon, Korea.

SJB-Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model. Our clients benefit from their country’s most favorable tax environment by utilizing the efficient investment vehicles we offer. Our commitment to quality service is reflected in our stellar reviews, with over 300 testimonials boasting 95% five-star ratings.
Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

SJB-Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model. Our clients benefit from their country’s most favorable tax environment by utilizing the efficient investment vehicles we offer. Our commitment to quality service is reflected in our stellar reviews, with over 300 testimonials boasting 95% five-star ratings.
Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.
What do I need to know before retiring in Suwon?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Suwon, they said:
"Before retiring in Suwon, expats should be aware of the cost of living, which is generally lower than in other major cities in Korea. They should also be aware of the language barrier, as English is not widely spoken in the city. Additionally, expats should research the healthcare system in Suwon, as well as the availability of international schools for any children they may have. Finally, expats should familiarize themselves with the local culture and customs, as well as the climate, to ensure a smooth transition into their new home," said a person in Suwon.
What type of recreational activities are there in Suwon?
"1. Hwaseong Fortress: A UNESCO World Heritage site, Hwaseong Fortress is a well-preserved 18th-century military structure that offers visitors a chance to explore the history of Suwon and enjoy panoramic views of the city. 2. Suwon World Cup Stadium: This impressive stadium, built for the 2002 FIFA World Cup, hosts various sporting events and concerts, and features a football museum and a sports park for visitors to enjoy. 3. Korean Folk Village: This living museum showcases traditional Korean culture and architecture, with various performances, workshops, and exhibits that allow visitors to experience the country's rich heritage. 4. Gwanggyo Lake Park: A beautiful park surrounding a serene lake, Gwanggyo Lake Park offers walking and cycling paths, picnic areas, and various cultural events throughout the year. 5. Manseok Park: This popular park features a large pond, walking trails, sports facilities, and a beautiful traditional pavilion, making it a perfect spot for relaxation and recreation. 6. Suwon Hwaseong Museum: This museum offers a comprehensive look at the history and culture of Suwon, with exhibits on the construction of Hwaseong Fortress and the life of King Jeongjo. 7. Gwanggyo Mountain: A popular hiking destination, Gwanggyo Mountain offers various trails with stunning views of the surrounding area, as well as a beautiful temple and a traditional village. 8. Suwoncheon Stream: This picturesque stream runs through the heart of Suwon, offering a peaceful escape from the bustling city with walking paths, benches, and beautiful scenery. 9. Hyowon Park: A well-maintained park with a large pond, Hyowon Park offers a peaceful setting for picnics, leisurely strolls, and outdoor activities. 10. Paldalmun Market: This traditional market is a great place to experience local culture and cuisine, with a wide variety of food stalls, shops, and street performances," wrote one person in Suwon.
Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in Suwon?
"Expats in Suwon, can buy groceries and do other shopping at various places. One popular option is Homeplus, a large supermarket chain that offers a wide range of products, including fresh produce, meat, and household items. Homeplus has a store in Suwon, which can be found at this link: https://www.homeplus.co.kr/. Another option for grocery shopping is E-Mart, another large supermarket chain in Korea. E-Mart has a store in Suwon, which can be found at this link: https://www.emart.ssg.com/. For those looking for international and specialty products, expats can visit High Street Market, an international grocery store that offers a variety of imported goods. High Street Market has a store in Suwon, which can be found at this link: http://www.highstreetmarket.co.kr/. In addition to supermarkets, expats can also shop at local markets, such as the Suwon Nammun Market, which offers fresh produce, meat, and seafood. The market is located in the heart of Suwon and can be found at this link: https://www.facebook.com/suwonnammun/. For other shopping needs, expats can visit the AK Plaza, a large shopping mall in Suwon that offers a variety of stores, including clothing, electronics, and home goods. The mall can be found at this link: http://www.akplaza.com/. Lastly, expats can also shop at the Lotte Mall Suwon, another large shopping mall that offers a variety of stores and entertainment options. The mall can be found at this link: https://www.lotteshopping.com/branch/branch.asp?mall_id=1," remarked one retiree in Suwon.
About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International
and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University
with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.
Other Questions:
- What do I need to know before moving to Suwon?
- What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Suwon?
- What is the average cost of housing in Suwon?
- How do I meet people in Suwon?
- What do I need to know before retiring in Suwon?
- What should I pack when moving to Suwon?
- Where should I setup a bank account in Suwon?
- Will I be able to find a job in Suwon?
- What is life like as an expat in your area?
- What do people like (and dislike) about Suwon?
- What type of social life can someone expect in Suwon?
- What is the social scene like in Suwon?
- What advice to expats in Suwon have about housing?
- What are medical services in Suwon like?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Suwon?
- Is the cost of living in Suwon high?
- What are the visa & residency requirements in Suwon?
- Why do people move to Suwon?