Where do most foreigners live in Seoul?

Yongsan-gu — especially Itaewon, Haebangchon and Hannam-dong — has been Seoul's international hub for decades, with the most diverse dining and the largest expat community. Gangnam and Seocho are popular with professionals and families, Mapo (Hongdae) with students and young professionals, and Songpa and Seongdong with families wanting newer apartments.

What is the best neighborhood in Seoul for families?

Seocho and Songpa are popular with families for their parks, newer apartments and calmer feel, while Gangnam offers top amenities at a premium. If your children attend an international school, choose your home around the school first — see our international schools guide.

Which area of Seoul is best for expats on a budget?

Mapo (Hongdae, Yeonnam) and the northern and outer districts generally offer better value than Gangnam, Seocho and Yongsan. A larger deposit also lowers your monthly rent. Check the Seoul home prices guide to compare districts.

Is Itaewon a good place to live in Seoul?

Yes, if you want an international community. Itaewon and neighbouring Haebangchon and Hannam-dong in Yongsan-gu have Seoul's most diverse dining, nightlife and English-friendly services, plus premium residential streets in Hannam. It is the traditional first choice for many foreigners.

How do I choose where to live in Seoul?

Start with your school (if you have children), then your commute (pick a neighborhood one subway line from work), then lifestyle and budget. A verified realtor can shortlist neighborhoods and homes to match all four.

Where to Live in Seoul: Best Neighborhoods for Foreigners

The most popular Seoul neighborhoods for foreigners are Yongsan (Itaewon & Hannam) for the international community, Gangnam and Seocho for business and families, Mapo (Hongdae) for students and young professionals, and Songpa and Seongdong for newer, family-friendly living. The right one depends on your commute, school, lifestyle and budget — here is how they compare.

How to choose

Four questions narrow it down fast:

School run — if your children attend an international school, choose your home around the school first. See international schools in Seoul & where to live.
Commute — most foreign professionals work in or near Gangnam, Yeouido or the city centre; pick a neighborhood one subway line from your office.
Lifestyle — international dining and an established expat community, or a quieter, more local Korean setting.
Budget — central and southern districts cost the most; northern and outer districts stretch further. See the Seoul home prices guide.

Yongsan — Itaewon & Hannam (the expat heart)

Yongsan-gu has been Seoul's international centre for decades. Itaewon and Haebangchon (HBC) offer the city's most diverse dining and nightlife, while Hannam-dong is its premier address — embassies, designer flagships and quiet, leafy streets. It suits diplomats, executives and anyone who wants an English-friendly community within walking distance. Browse homes in Yongsan.

Gangnam (business, prestige, convenience)

Gangnam-gu — including Apgujeong, Cheongdam and Daechi — is Seoul's upscale business and shopping core: glossy apartments, top hospitals, and unmatched subway access. It suits professionals working south of the river and families who want prestige addresses and excellent amenities, at the city's highest prices. Browse homes in Gangnam.

Seocho — family-friendly, with a French enclave

Seocho-gu sits just west of Gangnam with a calmer, greener feel — Banpo's riverside parks and the famous Seorae Village (서래마을), Seoul's long-established French community. It suits families who want Gangnam-level convenience with more breathing room. Browse homes in Seocho.

Mapo — Hongdae, Yeonnam & creative Seoul

Mapo-gu is younger and more affordable, anchored by Hongdae, Yeonnam-dong and the Sangam (DMC) media district. Cafés, live music, universities and a fast commute to the centre make it the favourite for students, creatives and young professionals. Browse homes in Mapo.

Songpa — newer apartments and big parks

Songpa-gu — home to Jamsil, Lotte World Tower and Olympic Park — is known for newer high-rise apartment complexes, green space and family amenities, with strong transit on the city's southeast. A great fit for families who want modern flats and room to breathe. Browse homes in Songpa.

Seongdong — trendy and rising

Seongdong-gu, centred on Seongsu-dong, is one of Seoul's fastest-rising areas: converted warehouses, design studios and riverside cafés, with quick access to both Gangnam and the centre. It suits younger professionals who want character and a short commute. Browse homes in Seongdong.

A quick shortlist

International community & dining: Yongsan (Itaewon, Hannam).
Business & prestige: Gangnam.
Families, quieter, French school community: Seocho.
Students & young creatives, better value: Mapo (Hongdae).
Newer family apartments & parks: Songpa.
Trendy, up-and-coming: Seongdong.

How Seoul Homes helps

Tell your verified, English-speaking realtor your school, commute and budget, and they will shortlist the right neighborhoods and homes for you. Compare renting and buying as a foreigner, or browse all homes in Seoul.