International Schools in Seoul: Where to Live
For families moving to Seoul, the choice of neighborhood often starts with the school run. This guide maps Seoul's main international schools to the districts where expat families live, so you can shortlist homes within an easy commute.
Where international families cluster
Three areas dominate: Yongsan-gu (Hannam and Itaewon), Seodaemun-gu (Yeonhui-dong), and southern Seoul (Gangnam and Seocho). Each is anchored by schools and a strong international community.
Yongsan-gu — Hannam & Itaewon
The heart of expat Seoul. Yongsan International School of Seoul (YISS) and the German School (Deutsche Schule Seoul International) are both in Hannam-dong, alongside embassies, international supermarkets and a large foreign community. Hannam and the neighbouring Itaewon and UN Village areas are premium, but unbeatable for proximity to school, the international scene and Han River parks.
Seodaemun-gu — Yeonhui-dong
Seoul Foreign School (SFS), one of the oldest international schools in the world, sits in leafy Yeonhui-dong. The surrounding area is quieter and more residential — popular with families who want a calmer setting and a short school commute.
Gangnam & Seocho — for schools south of the city
Korea International School (KIS) runs its early-years to Grade 5 campus in Gaepo-dong, Gangnam-gu. Many families whose children attend schools just south of Seoul — such as KIS's main campus in Pangyo, or Seoul International School in Seongnam — choose Gangnam, Seocho or Gaepo to keep the commute manageable while staying inside the city.
How to choose your neighborhood
- Live near the school. Seoul traffic and long bus routes make proximity the single biggest quality-of-life factor for families.
- Check the bus catchment. Most international schools run bus routes; confirm your building is on one before committing.
- Balance space and budget. Hannam and Gangnam are premium; nearby pockets with good transit can offer more space for the money.
Renting or buying near a school
Most relocating families rent first, usually on wolse or jeonse (see our jeonse-vs-wolse guide). Buying a home in Seoul now involves a foreigner permit and a two-year residency rule, so many families rent until they are settled. Whichever you choose, a verified Seoul Homes realtor can filter by neighborhood and school catchment.
How Seoul Homes helps
Tell your realtor which school you need to be near and they will shortlist English-friendly listings within the right commute — and arrange viewings, including video tours from overseas.
Browse verified Seoul listings with English-speaking realtors.
PropertiesFrequently Asked Questions
Which Seoul neighborhoods are best for international-school families?
Three areas dominate: Yongsan-gu (Hannam and Itaewon), Seodaemun-gu (Yeonhui-dong), and Gangnam/Seocho in the south. Each is anchored by international schools and a strong expat community.
Where is Yongsan International School of Seoul (YISS)?
YISS is in Hannam-dong, Yongsan-gu — alongside the German School (Deutsche Schule Seoul International) and many embassies, in the heart of expat Seoul.
Where is Seoul Foreign School?
Seoul Foreign School is in Yeonhui-dong, Seodaemun-gu, a quieter and leafier residential area popular with families wanting a calm setting and a short commute.
Are there international schools in Gangnam?
Korea International School runs an early-years to Grade 5 campus in Gaepo-dong, Gangnam-gu. Families whose children attend schools just south of the city — such as KIS Pangyo or Seoul International School in Seongnam — often live in Gangnam or Seocho for the commute.
Should we rent or buy near a school?
Most relocating families rent first, usually on wolse or jeonse. Buying a home in Seoul now involves a foreigner permit and a two-year residency obligation, so many families rent until they are settled.
How do I find a home near a specific international school?
Tell a Seoul Homes realtor which school you need to be near, and they will shortlist English-friendly listings on the bus route or within an easy commute, and arrange viewings.
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Last updated: 2026-06-15