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South Korea is currently one of the top destinations in Asia for digital nomads. It has emerged as a major soft power in recent years, following the export of K-pop, doramas and other art forms, and is popular for its high quality. quality of life and relative affordability.
That said, most nomads who land in the East Asian country stay in Seoul, the vibrant capital and largest metropolis, and end up spending most of their time there, ignoring secondary destinations that are just as incredible.
As it turns out, Seoul is not Korea’s only nomad hotspotas an equally strong competitor on the southeastern coast has become increasingly popular lately:
Everyone, meet Busan
When it comes to South Korea’s digital nomad scene, Seoul often gets all the attention, and understandably so.
After all, it is the largest city, boasting high-speed internet access, excellent transport links and an unparalleled entrepreneurial atmosphere, but it is certainly not the only Korean metropolis or world-class creative hub.
Busanon the southeastern coast, is of the land second largest city and a busy port with more than 3.4 million inhabitants, it is as well equipped for a nomadic destination as Seoul, except that it is on the ocean. It’s smaller and can feel a lot less chaotic.
Here you will find the same world-class urban infrastructure, with an excellent public transport system that will take you anywhere you want within the metropolitan area. pedestrian area central districts, affordable housing and a wide choice of coworking centers.
Why is Busan unique?
Busan is unique in that it is a sprawling metropolis bordered by both mountains and the sea. winding through narrow valleysin the course of the historic Nakdong and Sueyong rivers, and also along the ocean.
In terms of infrastructure it may be similar to Seoul, but it has a completely different character. Because it is surrounded by nature, it can feel more relaxed, and not as hectic as the 10 million strong domestic capital.
The aforementioned Nakdong River is the longest in Korea, and one of the most popular activities in Busan is walking the Nakdonggang Riverside Trail, a multi-lane promenade for pedestrians and cyclists.
The path actually covers most of the river, which is 230 kilometers long, connecting Busan to Andong, a city in the north of South Korea, but within Busan itself it provides a quiet promenade from the city center to the suburbs.
Busan has beautiful beaches
Busan is also highly sought after for its beaches, surrounded by long, soft, golden sand crescents, and home to the iconic Haeundae Beach, South Korea’s largest and most visited beach.
During the summer months Haeundae is full of life and sun worshipers who want to tan under the brutal East Asian sun.
Out of season, especially in spring and autumn, it is ideal for early afternoon contemplative walks on the sands and admiring the sweeping views of Busan Seaport, further in the distance, one of the largest and economically most important in the world. world.
Needless to say, the ocean is a big part of Busan’s appeal for long-term visitors. The city’s economy is heavily dependent on ocean trade, and as a result the coast is highly developed.
In addition to beaches, nomads can also spend their free time enjoying seaside parks such as Taejongdae, where hiking trails and viewing platforms offer unique perspectives of the rugged coastline, marvel at historic bridges – including Korea’s second largest – and carve gorges on some delicious seafood.
Busan is demonstrably so The culinary capital of South Koreaand there’s no way you can end your nomadic sojourn without sampling classics like seafood porridge, soy-marinated raw crabs or sliced raw fish from local fish markets.
Another reason why Busan is popular with nomads is its cultural weight.
Busan is an underrated cultural hotspot
Yes, it is a modern seaport and financial center, but beneath the surface lies a much older, more traditional Korean settlement that has not yet been completely eradicated by the rapid industrialization of the Korean coast.
One of Busan’s most important cultural attractions is Gamcheon Villagea hilltop neighborhood where the small, clumped houses are painted in bright colors and the narrow alleys are lined with vibrant street art and other whimsical installations, in a similar manner to the underdeveloped South American neighborhoods.
Busan houses too Beomeosa Templea picturesque Buddhist complex located in a hilly, forested area, away from the clusters of skyscrapers and towering apartment buildings.
It is an ancient jewel of Korea and was founded as early as 678 AD. It is among the most easily recognizable Korean architectural masterpieces in the world.
Nomads are charmed by Busan because it is a city that is fair radiates creativity, and public transport is solid proof of that.
Busan’s creative atmosphere is second to none
No visit to Busan is complete without a beautiful trip on one Haeundae Sky Capsulea four-seater retro tram with a colorful appearance – usually electric blue, deep red, pale yellow and green, which runs on a 2.3 km elevated railway line connecting the beach areas of Mipo and Cheongsapo.
Its colors mimic those of the accompanying Haeundae Beach Train, which runs along the scenic ocean between Mipo and Songjeong, and it is the world’s first battery-powered and perhaps one of the most environmentally friendly modes of transportation.
Busan’s numerous monorails are another fun way to travel around and exploreas you travel up through the hilly cityscape, revealing breathtaking panoramas of the vibrant streets below.
One of the main reasons why nomads flock to Busan is, of course, affordable living.
Busan is cheaper than Seoul
Rent in Busan can be up to 71.2% lower than in Parisa major hotspot for digital nomads in the western world, as seen on Numbeoand the estimated monthly expenses of a single person are $919.70 excluding rent.
You should expect to find street food as cheap as $6.07 on average, and a restaurant bill for two people at a mid-range restaurant should be around $31.29.
These often reflect prices for locals and long-term visitors.
According to BudgetYourReisthat short-term travelers spend average US$88 per day in Busan, with an average of $26 for meals and $21 for public transportation, making it a relatively affordable destination for working remotely for a limited period.
Seoul can be significantly more expensive, with estimated daily spending for tourists averaging $109 per day.
Although South Korea has not yet launched a Digital Nomad Visa, US passport holders can enter the country and remain visa-free for up to three months.
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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com
