Living in Busan as an expatriate

Visa requirements

Foreigners looking to settle in Busan must obtain a valid visa or permit. The most widely sought-after visa is the E-2 Investor visa, which is issued for a period of two years and is renewable. An E-7 Partner or Spouse visa is granted to marry foreigners with a valid E-2 visa. In addition, foreigners with a valid employment contract in Busan, excluding part-time or seasonal positions, are eligible for the E-1 Employment visa.

Language resources

Busan offers several language learning resources for expats. The Busan Metropolitan Office, as well as various language institutes in the city, offer free or low-cost Korean language classes for foreigners. In addition, there is a wide range of publications, apps, and online resources available to help expats navigate Korean culture and conversations.

Housing

The cost of housing in Busan ranges depending on location, lifestyle, and preferences. A room in a shared house (kwanri) costs approximately 200,00 to 400,00 won (US$170 to 340) per month. A one-bed apartment can be rented for around 700,00 to 1,000,00 won (US$600 to 870) per month, while a two-bedroom apartment costs around 1,200,00 to 1,600,00 won (US$1,000 to 1,340) per month. Three-bedroom houses range from 1,800,00 to 3,000,00 won (US$1,500 to 2,600) per month.

Groceries

The cost of grocery shopping in Busan is affordable, with local markets offering fresh produce and seafood at reasonable prices. A week's worth of groceries for two people can cost approximately 200,00 to 300,00 won (US$170 to 260) depending on the quality and quantity of the products purchased.

Transportation

Transportation costs associated with subways, buses, and taxis are reasonable, with a single-ride subway ticket costing approximately 1,250 won (US$1), and a one-day subway ticket (T-money, Interchangeable Card) being slightly less at around 1,100 won (US$0.94). A monthly subway ticket costs 11,350 won (US$98). Taxi fares are relatively inexpensive, with a minimum fare being approximately 3,500 won (US$3.00) and a standard fare for traveling within the city being around 5,000 won (US$4.30) according to the distance.

Busan's climate is classified as humid subtropical, marked by mild winters, hot and humid summers, and frequent typhoons during the wet season. The average temperature hovers between 4.2°C in January and 27.3°C in August.

Busan's economy is evolving rapidly, particularly in technology and finance. Major employers include POSCO, Samsung, Hyundai, and Daewoo. The Busan Innovation City provides a thriving business environment that fosters innovation and entrepreneurship. As such, job seekers looking for positions in technology, IT, finance, or education have a favorable employment outlook.

Busan boasts a world-class healthcare system, with modern hospitals and clinics staffed with skilled English-speaking physicians. The National Medical Center and Busan Paik Hospital are notable institutions, providing specialized care in a range of medical fields. Expats have access to healthcare services through national health insurance, private insurance options, and employer-sponsored health insurance coverage.

Busan's public transportation system is efficient and extensive, with extensive bus and subway lines covering the entire city. The subway system comprises 10 lines, and buses provide additional coverage to more remote areas. Fares are relatively low, with an Interchangeable Card payment system entailing minimal administrative expenses.

Busan is widely regarded as a safe city, and the crime rate is low compared to other major urban areas. Elements of danger are associated primarily with petty theft incidents, which expats can mitigate through basic precautionary measures, such as securing their belongings while traveling through crowded areas and avoiding displaying valuables openly.