BUSAN FOR DIGITAL NOMADS​
Best time to visit
Going to Busan in either the Spring or Fall season is still recommended for the best leisure weather. However, Summer in Busan is the game changer. The months of May to June in Busan are another option because of the nightlife, festivals, and beach parties that take place! The humidity during these times may be a bit overwhelming to some, so make sure you really like the steamy weather!
Cost of Living
Being another major city, the average cost of rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center of Busan is approximately $400 USD to $600 per month. While food, transportation, and entertainment expenses are approximately the same as Seoul’s. The only catch is that your entertainment expenses in Busan may be a bit higher because Busan is well known for their beach parties and nightlife! Overall, the average monthly cost of living in Busan also ranges up to $2000 but can cost as low as $1000 per month.
Finding Accommodation
The recommendations for finding accommodations are the same in Seoul. Search for places online that are in close proximity to commercial areas/co-working spaces, look for discounts if possible, and book it before arriving in the country! Airbnb and hostelworld are very reliable.
Where to Live in Busan?
Here are the three places I believe are best to live in Busan.
1. HaeundaeÂ
Haeundae is a popular neighborhood in Busan, with most of its population consisting of foreigners and tourists. It has many great entertainment and shopping options.Â
There are multiple restaurants and bars, and the nightlife is fantastic. Plus, it is closest to the beach.Â
However, Haeundae is quite expensive to live in, and your interaction with Korean locals would be minimal. Therefore, if you want to experience proper Korean culture, this may not be the best fit for you.Â
2. Seomyeon
The city’s main downtown area is located right in the center of Busan, Seomyeon. It contains everything from financial to educational opportunities. Being the center of the city, public transport is the most elaborate here.Â
Living in Seomyeon comes with a higher price tag. However, you’ll save some money (and time) on travel. There are many shopping malls here and constant entertainment and leisure facilities.Â
The Seomyeon Market also offers a wide variety of local delicacies, ranging from Kalguksu to Dwaeji Gukbap. Street food options are multiple and much more affordable here.Â
3. Nampo-Dong
If you want to experience Busan in all its authenticity and beauty, Nampo-Dong is your place. This neighborhood has a wide variety of food and entertainment options. Tourists and locals love making their way here, so communicating in English should not be a hassle.
Due to its popularity, it is essential to note that Nampo-Dong remains crowded throughout the week. Therefore, this may not be ideal for you if you want a more peaceful setting.Â
Top 2 Coworking Spaces in Busan
1. The Cave Busan
The Cave provides the perfect opportunity to work in a highly productive environment. Although, their main focus is to maximize productivity while maintaining social interactions.Â
The space comes with an onsite cafe and all basic office amenities. It is also a 10-minute walk from local transport. Desks at The cave start at 230 USD a month.
2. Pathfinder
Pathfinder is located between Choryang Station and Busanjin station and provides a much cheaper coworking alternative. Monthly desk prices at pathfinder start at as low as 77 USD.Â
The space still comes fully equipped with all office amenities and free coffee. It is also open 24 hours, so don’t be afraid to put in those extra late-night hours.Â
Getting around busan
- South Korea’s Metropolitan Subway System is still the main mode of transportation here in Busan. Use the same apps in order to navigate easier!
- Buses. Compared to Seoul, the buses here are not as convenient and frequent. You may even find yourself waiting for a bus that won’t arrive for hours, so taking the bus is optional but not highly recommended.
- Taxis. Taxis are your alternative instead of buses. It may cost a bit more, but it is also more reliable than the buses in Busan. But be sure to prepare your destination typed or written in Hangul or just show the directions to your destination through the apps because not all taxi drivers can understand English!
(Thrift-Tip: Purchase T-Money Cards online or in convenience stores. This can be topped up, and used as a tap-to-pay card in all modes of transportation, convenience stores, and even attractions, and even hotels & restaurants! Another advantage is that it gives a discount on several purchases!)
10 THINGS TO DO IN Busan
Coming soon
Final Thoughts
Busan is just one major city in South Korea, that is great for digital nomads, check out Seoul and Jeju Island’s guides. Better yet, check the South Korea digital nomad guide to prepare for your whole trip.
COMMON QUESTIONS ABOUT guide to busan, south korea
The best time to visit Busan is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) seasons when the weather is pleasant and mild, with blooming cherry blossoms or colorful foliage.
 Busan is known for its beautiful beaches, such as Haeundae Beach and Gwangalli Beach. Other popular attractions include Gamcheon Culture Village, Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, and the vibrant Jagalchi Market.
Busan has an efficient public transportation system with buses, subway lines, and taxis. The subway is a convenient way to get around the city, while buses offer extensive coverage. Taxis are also readily available.
Busan is famous for its seafood dishes. Don’t miss trying the local specialties like Jagalchi fish market’s freshest sashimi, milmyeon (spicy cold noodle soup), and dwaeji gukbap (pork soup with rice).
 Busan has a temperate climate, with hot and humid summers and mild winters. Summer temperatures range from 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F), while winter temperatures average around 0°C (32°F), sometimes dropping below freezing.
 Yes, there are several day trips you can take from Busan. Popular options include visiting Tongyeong, a picturesque coastal town, and exploring the UNESCO-listed Gyeongju, known for its ancient temples and historic sites.
Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase.
Start Planning Your south korea Trip Now!
Book Your Flight:
Use Skyscanner to find a cheap flights. A travellers favorite way to book flights, as it searches websites and airlines around the world with one click.
Book Your Bus or Transportation Within South Korea:
There are two ways to book your transporation, ask your hotel or hostel, go to the local bus terminal, or book online, for a less stressful trip using EasyBook or 12go.asia
Book Your Accomodation:Â
Find the best hotels or hostels at HostelWorld, Booking.com, Agoda.com. Perks include with no upfront payment. Pay when you check out and Free cancellations.
Dont Forget Your Travel Insurance:
Two popular choices are SafetyWing and WorldsNomads. A traveler should buy traveler’s insurance to protect themselves against unexpected events such as trip cancellations, medical emergencies, and lost or stolen baggage. It provides peace of mind and financial protection in case of unforeseen circumstances.
Useful Apps?
KaokaoBus /K-Eta- Local Transportation
NaverMaps, KaoKaoMaps – GPS
Baemin and Yogiyo  – Food Delivery
T-Money : Payments and Transporation
Papago – Translation
Whatsapp/KaoKao- Communication
Want More Information On South Korea?
Be sure to check out my nomad travel guide on the South Korea for even more tips.
Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase.
