Every year, thousands of Indian students choose South Korea for higher education. But once the excitement settles, the biggest concern begins: “Is Seoul more expensive than Busan?” With rising living costs worldwide, comparing the Seoul vs Busan cost of living for Indian students has become more important than ever.
While Seoul offers unmatched career and academic opportunities, Busan attracts students with its cheaper lifestyle and relaxed environment. But which city truly fits your budget, lifestyle, and academic goals?
This comprehensive guide breaks down the cost of living in Seoul for Indian students, the cost of living in Busan for international students, transportation, food, hostels, part-time jobs, and more—so you can make a confident decision for 2026.
Why This Comparison Matters in 2026?
According to KOSIS and Study in Korea reports, South Korea has seen a 27% rise in international students since 2023, with Indians among the fastest-growing groups. Despite this boom:
Seoul’s average rental cost increased by 6–9% in 2025
Food prices rose across major cities
Part-time job availability shifted from tourist zones to service industries
With budgets tightening, comparing affordable cities in South Korea for foreign students has become essential.
Cost of Living Overview — Seoul vs. Busan (2026)
Here is a quick comparison of monthly expenses for Indian students:
Expense Category | Seoul (₹) | Busan (₹) |
Student Housing | 30,000–55,000 | 22,000–40,000 |
Food Expenses | 20,000–28,000 | 15,000–23,000 |
Transportation | 4,500–6,000 | 3,000–4,500 |
Utilities | 4,000–6,000 | 3,500–5,000 |
Miscellaneous | 8,000–12,000 | 6,000–10,000 |
Average Monthly Total:
Seoul: ₹70,000–1,05,000
Busan: ₹50,000–75,000
Clearly Busan is one of the affordable cities in South Korea for foreign students, but Seoul provides unmatched exposure.
Accommodation & Hostel Rentals in Both Cities
Housing is the biggest factor affecting the Seoul vs Busan cost of living for Indian students.
Hostel and Rental Prices in Seoul vs Busan (2026)
Accommodation Type | Seoul | Busan |
University Dorms | ₹18,000–30,000 | ₹12,000–22,000 |
Goshiwon | ₹25,000–35,000 | ₹18,000–28,000 |
One-room studio | ₹35,000–55,000 | ₹25,000–40,000 |
Seoul university area living cost is higher due to demand in Sinchon, Hongdae, Itaewon, and Gangnam.
Busan student dormitory fees remain lower near Haeundae, Centum City, and Kyungsung University areas.
Tools to check rentals:
Ziptoss
Dabang
Zigbang
Transportation, Food & Daily Expenses
Public Transportation Cost Seoul vs Busan
Both cities use T-money cards, but Seoul’s subway system covers more zones—making it slightly costlier.
Seoul: ₹1,000–₹1,400 per ride
Busan: ₹800–₹1,100 per ride
Food & Grocery Costs
If you rely partly on Indian food imports, Seoul is more expensive.
Average Monthly Food Cost:
Seoul: ₹20,000–28,000
Busan: ₹15,000–23,000
Part-Time Jobs, Student Life & Savings Potential
Many students depend on part-time jobs to manage South Korea study abroad expenses.
South Korea part-time jobs for international students
Common roles:
Convenience store helper
Café staff
Restaurant server
Delivery packing
English conversation tutor (if fluent)
Hourly wage (2026):
Approx. ₩9,860–12,000 (₹650–₹850 per hour)
Which City Helps You Save More?
Seoul: More job availability but higher expenses
Busan: Fewer jobs but significantly cheaper lifestyle
Which City Is Better for Indian Students in 2026?
Choosing between Seoul and Busan depends on priorities—not just cost.
Decision Framework
Category | Seoul | Busan |
Cost of Living | Higher | Lower |
Job Opportunities | Higher | Moderate |
Education Quality | High | High |
Lifestyle | Fast-paced | Relaxed |
Safety | High | High |
Exposure | Excellent | Good |
If your priority is lower South Korea student living cost 2026, Busan wins.
If your goal is exposure, networking, and career growth, Seoul is ideal.
Tips for Indian Students
Do’s
Choose goshiwons for first 1–2 months
Learn basic Korean for part-time job eligibility
Use university cafeterias—very affordable
Buy groceries from local markets, not marts
Don’ts
Don’t sign housing contracts without checking hidden utility charges
Don’t depend entirely on Indian food supplies—they’re expensive
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is Busan cheaper than Seoul for students?
Yes, Busan is 20–35% cheaper overall.
2. What is the monthly budget for Indian students?
₹50,000–75,000 in Busan, ₹70,000–1,05,000 in Seoul.
3. Can Indian students find part-time jobs easily?
Yes, especially in Seoul’s café and service sectors.
4. Are dorms better or goshiwons?
Dorms are cheaper; goshiwons offer privacy.
5. Which city is best for placements?
Seoul due to major companies located there.
Choosing between Seoul and Busan ultimately depends on your budget and goals. The Seoul vs Busan cost of living for Indian students shows that Busan is more affordable, while Seoul offers superior opportunities.
If you need personalized guidance on universities, budget planning, scholarships, or admissions—
Contact Overseas Education Lane today and get expert support for your Korea study journey.
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