That depends on where you stay and how you spend. Some expats find South Korea affordable, with cheap public transport, affordable street food, and no tipping culture. Others feel that the high rent in Seoul and the high cost of imported goods make life costly.
On average, a single person spends ₩1.2M–₩2.5M (₹75K–₹1.6L) per month, while a family of four needs around ₩3M–₩6M (₹2L–₹4L). Seoul is the most expensive city, while Busan and Daegu offer lower rent and daily expenses. Groceries, healthcare, and public transport are reasonably priced, but international schools, high-end restaurants, and foreign products push up costs.
This guide covers rent, food, transport, utilities, and entertainment to help you understand the real cost of living in South Korea. Whether you're moving for work, study, or long-term stay, budgeting wisely can make life comfortable and stress-free.
Thinking of studying in South Korea? Check out the best universities and student cities before you plan your move.
Cost of Living in South Korea for Indian Students in 2025: Full Breakdown
The cost of living in South Korea has risen due to inflation, increasing rents, and higher transport costs. The Bank of Korea reports that inflation in 2025 is at 3.8%, slightly lower than last year but still impacting student expenses. Rent, food, and public transport have seen noticeable price increases, especially in Seoul.
According to the Korean Ministry of Education, international students in South Korea spend ₩10M–₩15M (₹6.5L–₹10L) per year, depending on their city and lifestyle.
Here’s how student expenses have changed between 2024 and 2025:
Expense
2024 Cost (KRW/INR)
2025 Cost (KRW/INR)
Increase (%)
Rent (Shared Apartment)
₩300,000–₩600,000 (₹19K–₹38K)
₩350,000–₩700,000 (₹22K–₹45K)
10%
Goshiwon (Small Room)
₩180,000–₩400,000 (₹11K–₹25K)
₩200,000–₩500,000 (₹12.5K–₹32K)
8%
Groceries
₩250,000–₩350,000 (₹16K–₹22K)
₩270,000–₩400,000 (₹17K–₹25K)
7%
Public Transport
₩50,000–₩75,000 (₹3.2K–₹4.8K)
₩55,000–₩80,000 (₹3.5K–₹5K)
6%
Utilities
₩90,000–₩180,000 (₹5.8K–₹11.5K)
₩100,000–₩200,000 (₹6.5K–₹12.5K)
7%
Monthly Cost of Living in South Korea for Indian Students
How much is the cost of living in South Korea for an Indian student? Expenses vary based on city, university, and lifestyle. Seoul is the most expensive, while cities like Busan, Daegu, and Daejeon offer lower living costs.
On average, an Indian student in South Korea spends ₩800,000–₩1.8M (₹50K–₹1.2L) per month on rent, food, transport, and other expenses.
Expense Category
Cost (KRW per Month) (INR Equivalent)
Rent (Shared Apartment)
₩350,000–₩700,000 (₹22K–₹45K)
Goshiwon (Small Room)
₩200,000–₩500,000 (₹12.5K–₹32K)
University Dormitory
₩400,000–₩800,000 (₹25K–₹50K)
Groceries
₩270,000–₩400,000 (₹17K–₹25K)
Eating Out
₩150,000–₩300,000 (₹9.5K–₹19K)
Public Transport
₩55,000–₩80,000 (₹3.5K–₹5K)
Utilities & Internet
₩100,000–₩200,000 (₹6.5K–₹12.5K)
Health Insurance
₩100,000 (₹6.5K, mandatory)
Entertainment & Misc.
₩50,000–₩150,000 (₹3.2K–₹9.5K)
Total Estimated Cost
₩800,000–₩1.8M (₹50K–₹1.2L)
Saving Tip: Living in shared apartments, cooking at home, and using student discounts can save you ₩200,000–₩500,000 (₹12.5K–₹32K) per month.
Cost of Accommodation in South Korea: Apartments vs. Goshiwons
Accommodation takes up the largest share of student expenses. Most Indian students stay in university dorms, goshiwons, or shared apartments. Seoul has the highest rents, while Busan, Daejeon, and Gwangju offer more budget-friendly options.
Types of Student Accommodation in South Korea
Accommodation Type
Monthly Rent (KRW + INR Equivalent)
Pros
Cons
University Dormitory
₩400,000–₩800,000 (₹25K–₹50K)
Close to campus, utilities included
Limited space, strict rules
Goshiwon (Small Room)
₩200,000–₩500,000 (₹12.5K–₹32K)
Cheapest option, no deposit needed
Tiny rooms, shared kitchen/bathroom
Shared Apartment (Off-Campus)
₩350,000–₩700,000 (₹22K–₹45K)
More space, shared rent/utilities
Requires security deposit
One-Room (Studio Apartment)
₩500,000–₩1.2M (₹32K–₹75K)
Privacy, independent living
Expensive, separate utility bills
Goshiwons: The Cheapest Housing Option
A goshiwon is a tiny, single-room accommodation with basic furniture, often used by students. Many include a bed, desk, chair, and Wi-Fi. Some even provide free rice, ramen, and kimchi, helping students save on food costs.
Best for: Budget-conscious students who don’t mind small spaces.
Drawbacks: Lack of personal space and shared bathrooms.
University Dorms vs. Off-Campus Apartments
University Dorms: Managed by universities, affordable and convenient but have curfews and strict rules.
Off-Campus Apartments: More independence but require a big security deposit (₩3M–₩10M or ₹2L–₹6.5L) and monthly maintenance fees.
Saving Tip: Renting in cities outside Seoul, like Incheon or Suwon, can reduce costs by 20–30%.
Cost of Living in South Korea: Food Habits and Grocery
South Korea offers a mix of affordable local food and expensive imported groceries. Eating out is convenient, but frequent restaurant meals can increase your monthly food budget by 30–40%. Cooking at home is the best way to save money, especially for expats who prefer international cuisine.
According to the Korea Consumer Agency, grocery prices have increased by 5.2% in 2025 due to inflation. However, fresh produce and Korean staples remain relatively affordable. Indian groceries, dairy products, and meat are more expensive.
How Much Does Food Cost in South Korea?
A single expat in South Korea spends ₩250,000–₩400,000 (₹17K–₹25K) per month on groceries, while those who eat out frequently may spend over ₩600,000 (₹38K) monthly. The cost of food depends on whether you prefer local or international cuisine.
Expense
Cost (KRW + INR Equivalent)
Groceries (Monthly, Cooking at Home)
₩250,000–₩400,000 (₹17K–₹25K)
Budget Meal (Street Food, Fast Food)
₩6,000–₩10,000 (₹400–₹650) per meal
Mid-Range Restaurant Meal
₩15,000–₩30,000 (₹1K–₹2K) per meal
Fine Dining (Western/International Food)
₩40,000–₩100,000 (₹2.5K–₹6.5K) per meal
Grocery Shopping in South Korea
Expats can shop at large supermarkets like E-Mart, Lotte Mart, and Homeplus for everyday groceries. Traditional markets (like Namdaemun or Gwangjang Market in Seoul) are cheaper for fresh produce, seafood, and meats.
Grocery Item
Average Price (KRW + INR Equivalent)
Rice (5 kg)
₩12,000 (₹800)
Milk (1 liter)
₩3,000 (₹200)
Eggs (10 pcs)
₩4,500 (₹290)
Chicken (1 kg)
₩10,000 (₹650)
Tomatoes (1 kg)
₩7,500 (₹480)
Potatoes (1 kg)
₩4,000 (₹250)
Cooking Oil (1 liter)
₩6,000 (₹380)
Saving Tips for Expats:
Shop at traditional markets for fresh produce and seafood at lower prices.
Buy in bulk from discount stores like Costco for rice, lentils, and cooking essentials.
Look for expat-friendly supermarkets (like Itaewon Foreign Mart) for Indian groceries, but expect a 20–30% markup on imported products.
Try Korean alternatives to imported brands—local brands for milk, spices, and snacks can be 50% cheaper than imported ones.
Eating out is convenient, but cooking at home can save up to ₩200,000 (₹12,500) per month.
Public Transport vs. Private Transport: What’s Cheaper for Expats?
Public transport in South Korea is fast, affordable, and highly efficient. The Seoul Metro covers the entire city, and buses connect even the most remote areas. Owning a car in South Korea is expensive due to high fuel prices, insurance, and parking fees.
Most expats, including students and professionals, prefer public transport over private vehicles. A monthly transport pass costs around ₩60,000 (₹3,800), while maintaining a car can cost ₩500,000+ (₹32,000) per month.
How Much Do Expats Spend on Transport in South Korea?
Transport Option
Monthly Cost (KRW + INR Equivalent)
What’s Covered?
Public Transport (Bus/Metro Pass)
₩50,000–₩80,000 (₹3.2K–₹5K)
Unlimited city-wide subway & bus travel
Taxi Fare (Short Ride – 3–5 km)
₩4,000–₩6,000 (₹250–₹400)
Standard taxi fares
Car Rental (Long-Term Lease)
₩500,000–₩800,000 (₹32K–₹50K)
Monthly lease for personal vehicle
Fuel (Per Liter)
₩1,700–₩2,200 (₹110–₹140)
Petrol or diesel costs
Car Insurance (Yearly)
₩1.5M–₩3M (₹1L–₹2L)
Required for car owners
Public transport is the most cost-effective option for expats. A subway ride in Seoul costs only ₩1,400 (₹90), and buses charge ₩1,200–₩1,500 (₹75–₹95) per ride.
Pros and Cons: Public vs. Private Transport
Factor
Public Transport
Private Car
Cost
₩50K–₩80K/month (₹3.2K–₹5K)
₩500K–₩800K/month (₹32K–₹50K)
Convenience
Metro & buses are well-connected
Requires parking & maintenance
Flexibility
Fixed routes & schedules
Travel anywhere, anytime
Time Efficiency
Faster in big cities (Seoul, Busan)
Traffic congestion in urban areas
Long-Distance Travel
KTX trains (cheaper & faster)
Fuel + tolls add costs
When Does Owning a Car Make Sense?
If you live outside major cities where public transport is limited. If your job requires frequent travel to rural areas. If you prefer comfort and privacy over public transport convenience.
Best Ways to Save on Transport:
Use a T-Money Card—this prepaid card reduces bus and subway fares and is accepted across South Korea.
Apply for a monthly metro pass in Seoul, which Take high-speed KTX trains for long-distance travel instead of domestic flights or rental cars.
Use Kakao Taxi or shared taxis for cheaper late-night rides.
Is Public Transport or a Private Car Better for Expats?
For most expats, public transport is the smarter choice—it’s affordable, reliable, and avoids the hassle of parking fees, insurance, and traffic fines.
However, owning a car makes sense if you need frequent travel to smaller towns or rural areas where buses and subways don’t reach.
Cost of Living in South Korea: Health Insurance and Medical Services
Health insurance is mandatory for all expats in South Korea, including students and professionals. The National Health Insurance (NHI) system covers most medical expenses, but private health insurance can provide faster access to specialists and additional coverage.
As of July 2021, all foreign residents staying in South Korea for more than six months must enroll in the National Health Insurance (NHI). The monthly premium depends on income and visa type, but the average cost of living in South Korea for expats is ₩140,000–₩160,000 (₹9K–₹10K) per month.
Healthcare Costs for Expats in South Korea
Healthcare Type
Cost (KRW + INR Equivalent)
Coverage
National Health Insurance (NHI)
₩140,000–₩160,000 (₹9K–₹10K) per month
Doctor visits, hospital stays, tests, emergency care
Private Health Insurance
₩500,000–₩1.5M (₹32K–₹96K) per year
Faster specialist access, dental, alternative medicine
General Doctor Visit
₩20,000–₩50,000 (₹1.3K–₹3.2K) per visit
Consultation fee
Specialist Visit
₩40,000–₩100,000 (₹2.5K–₹6.5K) per visit
Dermatology, ENT, etc.
Dental Checkup & Cleaning
₩80,000–₩200,000 (₹5K–₹13K)
Not covered by NHI
Hospital Stay (per night)
₩100,000–₩300,000 (₹6.5K–₹19K)
Ward bed + treatment
Emergency Room (ER) Visit
₩150,000–₩500,000 (₹9.5K–₹32K)
Immediate medical care
Who Needs Private Health Insurance?
Foreigners on short-term visas (less than six months) since they cannot enroll in NHI.
Expats who want faster access to specialists without long waiting times.
Individuals who need dental, optical, or alternative medicine coverage, as these are not covered under NHI.
How to Register for Health Insurance?
Students and professionals must apply through the National Health Insurance Service (NHIS).
Monthly NHI payments are automatically deducted from salaries for working expats.
Self-employed expats must register and pay directly to NHIS.
Saving Tip: Using public hospitals and clinics instead of private hospitals can reduce medical costs by 30–50%.
Which Cities in South Korea Are Most Affordable for Expats?
The cost of living in South Korea varies depending on the city. Seoul is the most expensive, while Busan, Daegu, and Gwangju offer lower rent, food, and transport costs.
A single expat in Seoul spends ₩1.5M–₩2.5M (₹96K–₹1.6L) per month, while in smaller cities like Gwangju, the cost is ₩800,000–₩1.5M (₹50K–₹96K).
Cost of Living Comparison by City (2025)
City
Monthly Cost for Expats (KRW + INR Equivalent)
Rent (1BHK Apartment, KRW + INR Equivalent)
Pros
Cons
Seoul
₩1.5M–₩2.5M (₹96K–₹1.6L)
₩700,000–₩1.5M (₹45K–₹96K)
Best job opportunities, great transport
High rent, crowded
Busan
₩1M–₩1.8M (₹64K–₹1.1L)
₩500,000–₩1M (₹32K–₹64K)
Coastal city, lower rent, good lifestyle
Fewer job options
Daegu
₩900K–₩1.5M (₹58K–₹96K)
₩450,000–₩800,000 (₹29K–₹51K)
Affordable, less crowded
Fewer expat communities
Incheon
₩1M–₩1.7M (₹64K–₹1.1L)
₩600,000–₩1.2M (₹38K–₹77K)
Close to Seoul, good transport
Fewer international schools
Daejeon
₩900K–₩1.4M (₹58K–₹90K)
₩400,000–₩750,000 (₹25K–₹48K)
Affordable, major tech & science hub
Colder winters
Gwangju
₩800K–₩1.5M (₹50K–₹96K)
₩350,000–₩700,000 (₹22K–₹45K)
Low rent, slower-paced life
Smaller expat community
Best Cities for Expats Based on Budget & Lifestyle
For High-Paying Jobs & Networking: Seoul, Incheon For Coastal Living & Lower Rent: Busan For Affordable Living & Quiet Life: Daegu, Daejeon, Gwangju
Saving Tip: Renting in Suwon or Incheon (near Seoul) can cut rent by 30–40% compared to living in central Seoul.
Unexpected Expenses You Should Budget for While Living in South Korea
Even with careful planning, expats in South Korea often face unexpected costs that can add up over time. Hidden expenses like visa renewals, deposits, service fees, and medical costs can increase your monthly budget by ₩200,000–₩500,000 (₹12.5K–₹32K).
Unexpected Cost of Living in South Korea
Expense
Cost (KRW + INR Equivalent)
Why It Matters
Visa Renewal
₩100,000–₩150,000 (₹6.5K–₹9.5K)
Every year or two for long-term expats
Security Deposit for Apartments
₩3M–₩10M (₹2L–₹6.5L)
Most rentals require a large lump sum deposit
Service Fees (Internet, TV, Phone Setup)
₩50,000–₩100,000 (₹3.2K–₹6.5K)
Installation fees for Wi-Fi, cable, or new phone contracts
Textbooks & Course Materials (Students)
₩100,000–₩300,000 (₹6.5K–₹19K) per semester
Some university courses require expensive books
Flight Tickets (Round Trip to India)
₩600,000–₩1.5M (₹38K–₹96K)
Prices depend on season and booking time
Unexpected Health Costs
₩50,000–₩200,000 (₹3.2K–₹12.5K)
Dental, prescriptions, or extra medical care not covered by insurance
Hiking Utility Bills (Winter & Summer)
₩100,000–₩250,000 (₹6.5K–₹16K) extra per month
Heating in winter and air conditioning in summer increase electricity costs
Social & Entertainment Expenses
₩50,000–₩150,000 (₹3.2K–₹9.5K) per month
Eating out, clubbing, concerts, and weekend trips
Hidden Apartment Cost of Living in South Korea
Most expats focus on rent but forget about extra charges. Apartments in South Korea require a deposit (jeonse) which can be ₩3M–₩10M (₹2L–₹6.5L) upfront. Additionally, monthly maintenance fees for utilities, security, and trash collection add ₩50,000–₩200,000 (₹3.2K–₹12.5K) per month.
Saving Tip: Always ask your landlord or realtor about maintenance fees and deposits before signing a lease.
How Expats Can Save Money While Living in South Korea
With smart planning, expats can reduce their monthly expenses by ₩300,000–₩700,000 (₹19K–₹45K) without sacrificing comfort.
Best Ways to Save Money as an Expat in South Korea
Category
How to Save Money
Housing
Live in goshiwons or share apartments to save 30–50% on rent. Consider renting in Incheon, Suwon, or Daejeon instead of Seoul.
Food & Groceries
Buy local Korean brands instead of imported goods. Shop at traditional markets like Gwangjang Market for fresh produce. Use discounts at E-Mart and Costco.
Transport
Get a T-Money Card for discounted subway and bus rides. Use KTX trains instead of domestic flights for long-distance travel. Avoid taxis for daily commutes.
Utilities
Use public bathhouses (jjimjilbangs) to reduce heating bills in winter. Set AC timers in summer to cut electricity costs.
Healthcare
Choose public hospitals and clinics instead of private hospitals. Buy medicine from local pharmacies instead of international drug stores.
Entertainment
Get membership discounts at gyms, cinemas, and theme parks. Visit free cultural festivals, parks, and public events.
Shopping
Use Korean second-hand apps like Carrot Market (당근마켓) for furniture, electronics, and clothes instead of buying new.
How Much Can Expats Save?
Expense
Without Budgeting (KRW + INR Equivalent)
With Smart Planning (KRW + INR Equivalent)
Savings
Rent (1BHK in Seoul)
₩900,000 (₹58K)
₩500,000 (₹32K, in shared housing)
₩400,000 (₹26K)
Groceries & Eating Out
₩700,000 (₹45K)
₩450,000 (₹29K, home cooking + market shopping)
₩250,000 (₹16K)
Transport
₩100,000 (₹6.5K, taxis + random trips)
₩60,000 (₹3.8K, public transport only)
₩40,000 (₹2.6K)
Entertainment & Shopping
₩300,000 (₹19K)
₩150,000 (₹9.5K, discount shopping + free events)
₩150,000 (₹9.5K)
Total Monthly Savings
₩2M (₹1.3L)
₩1.1M (₹70K)
₩900,000 (₹58K per month)
With smart budgeting, expats in South Korea can save over ₩10M (₹6.5L) per year.
Can You Work While Studying in South Korea? Rules and Earnings Explained
You can work part-time while studying, helping you cover daily costs and gain work experience. However, the Korean government has strict rules about student employment, and not all jobs are open to international students.
So, how many hours can you work? How much can you earn? What jobs are best for students? Let’s break it down.
Part-Time Work Rules for International Students in South Korea
Only D-2 (degree) and D-4 (language) visa holders can work.
Undergraduates can work up to 20 hours per week (Monday–Friday).
Postgraduates can work up to 30 hours per week (Monday–Friday).
Weekends and holidays allow unlimited work hours.
Restricted jobs: No work in bars, nightclubs, casinos, or adult entertainment.
University permission is required before starting any job.
Tip: Many students start with on-campus jobs as they are easier to get and don’t require Korean language skills.
How Much Can You Earn?
South Korea’s minimum wage in 2025 is ₩9,860 per hour (₹630), meaning students working part-time can earn up to ₩1M (₹64K) per month if they work the maximum allowed hours.
Job Type
Hourly Pay (KRW + INR Equivalent)
Max Monthly Earnings
On-Campus Jobs (Library, Office Assistant, Cafeteria)
Best-paying jobs? Private English tutoring, freelancing, and part-time work in offices pay more than convenience stores or restaurant jobs.
Where to Find Part-Time Jobs?
Job Type
How to Find It?
On-Campus Jobs
Check university job boards & international student office.
Convenience Stores & Cafés
Apply directly at stores (GS25, CU, Paris Baguette).
English Tutoring
Post ads on expat Facebook groups or websites like Craiglist Korea.
Freelance Work
Use Upwork, Fiverr, or local Korean job platforms.
Pro Tip: The best jobs get filled fast—start looking early in the semester!
How upGrad Abroad Can Help You Study in South Korea
Thinking about studying in South Korea but unsure where to start? upGrad Abroad provides expert guidance on everything—from choosing the right university to visa processing, scholarships, and career support.
Why Choose upGrad Abroad for Studying in South Korea?
Feature
With upGrad Abroad
University Selection
Get expert advice on top South Korean universities.
Is South Korea more expensive than Japan for expats?
South Korea is generally cheaper than Japan, especially for rent and food. However, imported goods, transportation, and luxury items can be costly.
How much does a student need per month to live comfortably in Seoul?
A student in Seoul typically needs ₩900,000–₩1,500,000 (₹55K–₹92K) per month, covering rent, food, transportation, and personal expenses. Costs vary by lifestyle.
Are there government subsidies or financial aid for Indian students?
Yes, Indian students can apply for Global Korea Scholarships (GKS) and university-specific grants, which cover tuition and provide living stipends.
How does the Korean rental system (Jeonse/Wolse) affect expats financially?
Jeonse (lump-sum deposit) requires ₩50M–₩300M (₹30L–₹1.8Cr) upfront but no monthly rent. Wolse (monthly rent) has lower deposits but higher rent, making it easier for students.
Is it possible to live in Seoul on a low budget as a student?
Yes, students can lower costs by living in goshiwons (₩200K–₩500K per month), using university cafeterias, and relying on public transport.
Do students have to pay taxes on part-time job earnings in Korea?
Yes, students must pay 3–5% income tax on part-time earnings. Some jobs may deduct taxes automatically, while others require annual tax filing.
What are the hidden costs of setting up a new apartment in Korea?
Moving costs include security deposits, agent fees, maintenance charges, and furniture purchases, which can add up to ₩1M–₩3M (₹60K–₹1.8L) initially.
Are mobile plans and internet expensive in South Korea?
Yes, mobile plans cost ₩40K–₩70K (₹2.5K–₹4.5K) per month, but cheaper prepaid SIMs and student discounts are available. Wi-Fi is widely accessible.
How do foreigners pay for bills and utilities in South Korea?
Most bills (rent, utilities, mobile) are paid via bank transfers, apps like KakaoPay, or auto-debit from Korean bank accounts. Some landlords accept cash.
Is it cheaper to eat Korean food or cook at home as an expat?
Eating at university cafeterias and local eateries can be cheaper than cooking, as groceries like meat and dairy are expensive. Street food is also affordable.
How expensive is winter clothing, and where can expats buy it affordably?
Winter clothes can cost ₩100K–₩300K (₹6K–₹18K) for good quality. Affordable options include Namdaemun Market, Uniqlo, and second-hand stores.
Do supermarkets offer discounts or memberships for students and expats?
Yes, large stores like E-Mart and Lotte Mart offer discount cards. Some universities provide student discounts for groceries and household items.
Are there free or low-cost entertainment options for students in Korea?
Yes, free cultural festivals, university events, museums, and hiking trails make entertainment affordable. Public parks and libraries are also good options.
Is South Korea affordable compared to European countries for students?
Yes, tuition and living expenses in South Korea are lower than in Europe, but rent in cities like Seoul can be expensive compared to smaller European towns.
What financial mistakes should new expats avoid in South Korea?
Avoid expensive long-term mobile contracts, high-interest credit cards, and costly foreign remittances. Budgeting and using student discounts help save money.
We are a dedicated team of study-abroad experts, ensuring intensive research and comprehensive information in each of our blogs. With every piece written, we aim at simplifying the overseas education process for all. Our diverse experience as journalists, content writers, editors, content strategists, and marketers helps create the most relevant and authentic blogs for our readers.
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