South Korea's cost of living and travel expenses are relative and depend heavily on your spending habits and lifestyle. While it's possible to travel and live in South Korea on a budget, it's not universally considered "cheap."
Factors Affecting Cost:
- Accommodation: Budget accommodations like hostels or cheap hotels in Seoul can be found for around $80 per night (Reddit r/koreatravel). However, costs increase significantly for higher-end hotels or apartments in major cities.
- Transportation: South Korea boasts an affordable and extensive public transportation system, making it relatively inexpensive to get around.
- Food: A wide range of dining options exists, from affordable street food to more expensive restaurants. Budgeting wisely allows for cost-effective eating.
- Activities and Attractions: Many free or low-cost activities and attractions are available, offsetting the costs of pricier tourist destinations.
- Comparison to Other Countries: Compared to other East Asian cities, South Korea can be considered relatively inexpensive (TripAdvisor). However, compared to some Southeast Asian nations, it is more expensive. For middle-class Indians, South Korea is generally seen as expensive (Quora). The cost is also higher compared to some Southern European countries (Quora).
Conclusion:
While South Korea offers budget-friendly options for travel and living, its overall cost is relative to individual spending and comparisons to other countries. Post-pandemic, prices have increased, making it slightly more expensive than before (Neverending Footsteps). For English teachers, housing can be a significant cost factor (Reddit r/teachinginkorea). The statement that it's cheap is also context-dependent; for example, housing, healthcare, and transportation offer good value. Ultimately, South Korea is not inherently cheap or expensive but presents a spectrum of costs based on individual choices.
