Retiring in South Korea in 2026: Cost of Living, Healthcare, and Expat Guide

Introduction

South Korea remains on many retirees' radar due to lifestyle affordability tradeoffs, housing variation, and healthcare access in urban centers. This refresh is marked limited-data because web_search was unavailable in this run.

Cost of Living in South Korea (2026)

Food Costs

Recent price snapshots show meaningful savings for local-market shopping versus imported goods and frequent restaurant dining.

Rent and Housing

Housing costs vary sharply between capital areas and secondary cities; retirees often improve budget fit by choosing outside prime downtown zones.

Healthcare

Public and private systems differ by country; expats typically evaluate private insurance and city-level hospital access before committing.

Standard of Living

Internet, transport, and service quality are strongest in major hubs, with lower costs but fewer amenities in smaller regional markets.

Regional Highlights

Capital metros provide convenience and specialist services, while regional cities can lower recurring monthly housing and food expenses.

Retirement Visa / Legal Considerations

Residency and visa requirements can change; confirm current income thresholds, stay limits, and documentation directly with official authorities.

Conclusion

South Korea can be viable for retirement depending on preferred lifestyle tier, healthcare expectations, and tolerance for local market variability.

Citations

Numbeo cost-of-living dataset (South Korea)
South Korea country reference overview
Official/government entry or immigration reference