Markets

Insider Trading

Hedge Funds

Retirement

Opinion

12 Best Places to Retire in South Korea

In this article, we will take a look at the 12 best places to retire in South Korea. If you wish to skip our detailed analysis on South Korea’s economic transition, you may go to the 5 Best Places to Retire in South Korea.

South Korea’s Economic Transition

South Korea is one of the largest economies in Asia. Back in the 1960s, it was just a struggling nation on the road to recovery from a devastating war. However, it now stands amongst the largest economies in the world. As of 2022, its GDP in nominal terms was $1.65 trillion. Economists note that two critical drivers have been behind South Korea’s successful economic growth: technology upgrading and management efficiency. As such, it’s significant investments in the R&D sector have particularly proved to be beneficial for the economy. From investing 4% of its GDP for the first time in 2014, to continuing the trend in years 2019 and 2020, the country has certainly come a long way. Today, the country has managed to become a global player in mobile phones, electric vehicles, semiconductors, automobiles, and even premium consumer goods.

Another major force behind South Korea’s successful economy are the corporate powerhouses called chaebols. Chaebols are large industrial conglomerates in South Korea that are run by individuals or families. The most prominent chaebols that have been responsible for South Korea’s success are the Samsung Group, the largest South Korean company by market capitalization; SK, an energy, telecommunications, and semiconductors company; Hyundai, a multinational automotive manufacturer; LG, a multinational conglomerate; and Lotte, a food business group. According to the Bank of South Korea, these chaebols represented 44% of GDP in 2019. Meanwhile, in 2022, the ten largest chaebols in South Korea made up 60% of the country’s GDP.

These chaebols have been under fire for the past many years, accused of fostering a culture of corruption and fraud. However, recent years have witnessed them cleaning up their acts and making some serious amends. While Samsung and Hyundai are committing billions of dollars to new semiconductor and EV factories in the US, others are signing deals with the US in other arenas. In particular, Samsung Biologics has announced two deals with Pfizer Inc. (NYSE:PFE) in July 2023 worth a total of $897 million. The agreement involves the long-term manufacturing of Pfizer Inc. (NYSE:PFE)’s multi-product portfolio. Samsung will use its newest facility Plant 4 located in Incheon, South Korea, to facilitate the production.

“Pfizer Inc. (NYSE:PFE) is excited to continue our strategic partnership with Samsung Biologics Ltd. that aims to enable greater access to medicines for more patients across the world. This commitment is a reflection of Pfizer’s trust in the Korean Pharmaceutical industry to address emerging health challenges.”

Mike McDermott, Chief Global Supply Officer, Executive Vice President, Pfizer

In other news, South Korean companies have been pouring in billions of dollars in the US. A memorandum of understanding has been signed, as of May 2023, in order to expedite the on-shoring of EV battery manufacturing to the country. The US non-profit battery trade association founder states that South Korea has the best available manufacturing technology to build a supply chain for lithium-based batteries. South Korea’s investment of $100 billion has helped make it a key stakeholder in America’s transition to a clean energy economy.

An Attractive Retirement Destination

Owing to its booming economy, technological prowess, and global business arrangements; South Korea has successfully managed to present itself as an attractive retirement destination. High-quality healthcare, rich cultural heritage, and scenic beauty make it one of the best countries to retire to in Asia. There is a strong education system for retirees to engage in lifelong learning, plenty of social and recreational opportunities, and delicious cuisine to explore and relish along the way.

With regards to retirement in the country, one common question that we get asked is: can a foreigner retire in South Korea? The answer is that the country does not have a specific retirement visa for foreigners. However, individuals may find other ways to qualify for a long-term visa. Another common question asked pertaining to retirement is: how much money do you need to retire in South Korea? Well, seniors will be pleased to know that the cost of living in the country is much lower than that of the United States of America. On average, the monthly cost of living for an individual retiree to live in major cities such as Seoul is $1,400. Overall, South Korea is a great country to retire to.

Methodology

To compile the list of best places to retire in South Korea, we have used a number of sources such as Life from a Bag, Adam Fayed, and Plan a Retirement, amongst others. We have also made use of expat forums to determine the best retirement cities and towns in South Korea based on expat experiences.

Next, we adopted a consensus approach to rank the places. Each time a source mentioned a place, we awarded it one point. Points were summed up and places were ranked in an ascending order from the lowest to the highest scores.

We have also discussed the costs of living for each place. The figures depict the monthly cost of living for an individual retiree living in South Korea. The cost also includes the monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city/town center. The sources used to determine the costs of living include websites such as Cost of Live, and Nomads List, amongst others.

Here are the best places to retire in South Korea:

12. Jeju-si

Insider Monkey Score: 2

One of the best cities to retire to on Jeju Island, South Korea is Jeju-si. Scenic coastlines, lush waterfalls, dramatic volcanic landscapes, and majestic rainforests embrace the island, and retirees can explore these areas for biking, hiking, and even beachcombing. The city itself is revered for its laid-back lifestyle, something that bustling cities such as Seoul cannot offer. Historical sites such as Haeinsa Temple, Seogwipo World Marine Park, and Gwacheon Castle are a sight to explore. There are modern healthcare facilities in the city; and many museums, cultural centers, and festivals to learn about the city’s cultural heritage. On average, the monthly cost of living for an individual retiree is $1,379. This cost includes an estimated $907 spent on rent.

11. Daejeon

Insider Monkey Score: 3

Strategically located in the center of South Korea, Daejeon offers easy access to the major cities of Seoul and Busan. Daejeon City can be one of the best places to retire in South Korea for retirees, especially those interested in life-long learning. Known as the mecca of cutting-edge science and technology, the city is home to several universities and research education that retirees can enroll themselves in. Expo Park, Yuseong Hot Springs Park, and the Daejeon O-World are some of the many parks and green spaces to enjoy in. On average, the monthly cost of living for an individual retiree is $1,062, which includes $590 spent on rent.

10. Ulsan

Insider Monkey Score: 3

Located on the southeastern tip of the Korean peninsula, Ulsan is a popular retirement destination for many South Koreans. Being a major industrial hub, employees in industries such as HD Hyundai Heavy Industries, the world’s largest shipyard, work all their lives in the city and choose to retire here, too. Revered for its rocky cliffs and beautiful sandy beaches, Ulsan’s coastline is a major draw for retirees. Mount Gaji and the Taehwa River add to the appeal of retiring here, as well as offer opportunities for recreation. As one of the cheapest places to live in South Korea, the monthly cost of living in Ulsan for an individual retiree is $935.

9. Busan

Insider Monkey Score: 4

Busan is one of the best places to live in Korea for foreigners because of its moderate climate, modern healthcare facilities, and international community. It is home to many beaches, mountains, and temples; and retirees also get to enjoy its renowned international film festival that happens each fall. Busan is ideal for retirees who wish for a coastal lifestyle, enjoying the many beautiful beaches and cliffs the city has to offer. Beyond the beautiful coastline of the city, Busan also offers many mountains and hiking trails for exploration. On average, the monthly cost of living for an individual retiree is $1,182. The cost includes a monthly rent average of $440.

8. Daegu

Insider Monkey Score: 5

Located in the southeastern region of South Korea, Daegu offers retirees a unique blend of rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and modern entertainment. Retirees can hike and explore the Palgong Mountains, experience the local culture and cuisine in Seomun Market, try the famous Korean chicken and beer (Chimac) in Daegu’s Dakdongjip (chicken gizzard) Alley, or even enjoy a leisurely stroll in Daegu Arboretum, a lush botanical garden in the city. The city has a humid subtropical climate, modern healthcare facilities, and an efficient public transportation system. On average, the monthly cost of living for an individual retiree is $1,170; which includes $402 spent on rent.

7. Gwangju

Insider Monkey Score: 6

Embraced by majestic mountains and scenic landscapes, Gwangju is one of the best places to retire in South Korea for outdoor enthusiasts. The city is also often regarded as the country’s cultural hub, having hosted world-class festivals such as the Gwangju Biennale and Design Biennale, the Gwangju World Kimchi Culture Festival, and the Gwangju Fringe Festival. The city is home to several educational institutions as well, has modern healthcare facilities, and even a well-developed transportation network. On average, the monthly cost of living for an individual retiree is $1,200, which includes $438 spent on rent.

6. Jeju Island

Insider Monkey Score: 7

Jeju Island is undoubtedly one of the best places to retire in South Korea from the USA. Also known as South Korea’s Hawaii, the island is home to a diverse topography; featuring lush rainforests, beautiful waterfalls, pristine beaches, and majestic volcanic craters. Nature lovers and adventure-seeking retirees are going to have the time of their lives here. The island also features a temperate climate, clean air, and a pollution-free environment ideal for healthy living. The island people even have their own dialect, and the local culture and historical sites are interesting explorations. On average, the monthly cost of living on Jeju Island is $1,679, which includes $818 spent on rent.

Click to continue reading and see the 5 Best Places to Retire in South Korea

Suggested Articles:

Disclosure: none. 12 Best Places to Retire in South Korea is originally published on Insider Monkey.

AI, Tariffs, Nuclear Power: One Undervalued Stock Connects ALL the Dots (Before It Explodes!)

Artificial intelligence is the greatest investment opportunity of our lifetime. The time to invest in groundbreaking AI is now, and this stock is a steal!

AI is eating the world—and the machines behind it are ravenous.

Each ChatGPT query, each model update, each robotic breakthrough consumes massive amounts of energy. In fact, AI is already pushing global power grids to the brink.

Wall Street is pouring hundreds of billions into artificial intelligence—training smarter chatbots, automating industries, and building the digital future. But there’s one urgent question few are asking:

Where will all of that energy come from?

AI is the most electricity-hungry technology ever invented. Each data center powering large language models like ChatGPT consumes as much energy as a small city. And it’s about to get worse.

Even Sam Altman, the founder of OpenAI, issued a stark warning:

“The future of AI depends on an energy breakthrough.”

Elon Musk was even more blunt:

“AI will run out of electricity by next year.”

As the world chases faster, smarter machines, a hidden crisis is emerging behind the scenes. Power grids are strained. Electricity prices are rising. Utilities are scrambling to expand capacity.

And that’s where the real opportunity lies…

One little-known company—almost entirely overlooked by most AI investors—could be the ultimate backdoor play. It’s not a chipmaker. It’s not a cloud platform. But it might be the most important AI stock in the US owns critical energy infrastructure assets positioned to feed the coming AI energy spike.

As demand from AI data centers explodes, this company is gearing up to profit from the most valuable commodity in the digital age: electricity.

The “Toll Booth” Operator of the AI Energy Boom

  • It owns critical nuclear energy infrastructure assets, positioning it at the heart of America’s next-generation power strategy.
  • It’s one of the only global companies capable of executing large-scale, complex EPC (engineering, procurement, and construction) projects across oil, gas, renewable fuels, and industrial infrastructure.
  • It plays a pivotal role in U.S. LNG exportation—a sector about to explode under President Trump’s renewed “America First” energy doctrine.

Trump has made it clear: Europe and U.S. allies must buy American LNG.

And our company sits in the toll booth—collecting fees on every drop exported.

But that’s not all…

As Trump’s proposed tariffs push American manufacturers to bring their operations back home, this company will be first in line to rebuild, retrofit, and reengineer those facilities.

AI. Energy. Tariffs. Onshoring. This One Company Ties It All Together.

While the world is distracted by flashy AI tickers, a few smart investors are quietly scooping up shares of the one company powering it all from behind the scenes.

AI needs energy. Energy needs infrastructure.

And infrastructure needs a builder with experience, scale, and execution.

This company has its finger in every pie—and Wall Street is just starting to notice.

Wall Street is noticing this company also because it is quietly riding all of these tailwinds—without the sky-high valuation.

While most energy and utility firms are buried under mountains of debt and coughing up hefty interest payments just to appease bondholders…

This company is completely debt-free.

In fact, it’s sitting on a war chest of cash—equal to nearly one-third of its entire market cap.

It also owns a huge equity stake in another red-hot AI play, giving investors indirect exposure to multiple AI growth engines without paying a premium.

And here’s what the smart money has started whispering…

The Hedge Fund Secret That’s Starting to Leak Out

This stock is so off-the-radar, so absurdly undervalued, that some of the most secretive hedge fund managers in the world have begun pitching it at closed-door investment summits.

They’re sharing it quietly, away from the cameras, to rooms full of ultra-wealthy clients.

Why? Because excluding cash and investments, this company is trading at less than 7 times earnings.

And that’s for a business tied to:

  • The AI infrastructure supercycle
  • The onshoring boom driven by Trump-era tariffs
  • A surge in U.S. LNG exports
  • And a unique footprint in nuclear energy—the future of clean, reliable power

You simply won’t find another AI and energy stock this cheap… with this much upside.

This isn’t a hype stock. It’s not riding on hope.

It’s delivering real cash flows, owns critical infrastructure, and holds stakes in other major growth stories.

This is your chance to get in before the rockets take off!

Disruption is the New Name of the Game: Let’s face it, complacency breeds stagnation.

AI is the ultimate disruptor, and it’s shaking the foundations of traditional industries.

The companies that embrace AI will thrive, while the dinosaurs clinging to outdated methods will be left in the dust.

As an investor, you want to be on the side of the winners, and AI is the winning ticket.

The Talent Pool is Overflowing: The world’s brightest minds are flocking to AI.

From computer scientists to mathematicians, the next generation of innovators is pouring its energy into this field.

This influx of talent guarantees a constant stream of groundbreaking ideas and rapid advancements.

By investing in AI, you’re essentially backing the future.

The future is powered by artificial intelligence, and the time to invest is NOW.

Don’t be a spectator in this technological revolution.

Dive into the AI gold rush and watch your portfolio soar alongside the brightest minds of our generation.

This isn’t just about making money – it’s about being part of the future.

So, buckle up and get ready for the ride of your investment life!

Act Now and Unlock a Potential 100+% Return within 12 to 24 months.

We’re now offering month-to-month subscriptions with no commitments.

For a ridiculously low price of just $9.99 per month, you can unlock our in-depth investment research and exclusive insights – that’s less than a single fast food meal!

Space is Limited! Only 1000 spots are available for this exclusive offer. Don’t let this chance slip away – subscribe to our Premium Readership Newsletter today and unlock the potential for a life-changing investment.

Here’s what to do next:

1. Head over to our website and subscribe to our Premium Readership Newsletter for just $9.99.

2. Enjoy a month of ad-free browsing, exclusive access to our in-depth report on the Trump tariff and nuclear energy company as well as the revolutionary AI-robotics company, and the upcoming issues of our Premium Readership Newsletter.

3. Sit back, relax, and know that you’re backed by our ironclad 30-day money-back guarantee.

Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity! Subscribe now and take control of your AI investment future!


No worries about auto-renewals! Our 30-Day Money-Back Guarantee applies whether you’re joining us for the first time or renewing your subscription a month later!

A New Dawn is Coming to U.S. Stocks

I work for one of the largest independent financial publishers in the world – representing over 1 million people in 148 countries.

We’re independently funding today’s broadcast to address something on the mind of every investor in America right now…

Should I put my money in Artificial Intelligence?

Here to answer that for us… and give away his No. 1 free AI recommendation… is 50-year Wall Street titan, Marc Chaikin.

Marc’s been a trader, stockbroker, and analyst. He was the head of the options department at a major brokerage firm and is a sought-after expert for CNBC, Fox Business, Barron’s, and Yahoo! Finance…

But what Marc’s most known for is his award-winning stock-rating system. Which determines whether a stock could shoot sky-high in the next three to six months… or come crashing down.

That’s why Marc’s work appears in every Bloomberg and Reuters terminal on the planet…

And is still used by hundreds of banks, hedge funds, and brokerages to track the billions of dollars flowing in and out of stocks each day.

He’s used this system to survive nine bear markets… create three new indices for the Nasdaq… and even predict the brutal bear market of 2022, 90 days in advance.

Click to continue reading…