Travel
Top 5 best places to live in Busan
Haps Magazine Korea
May 26, 2025
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As South Korea’s second-largest city and a thriving coastal hub, Busan offers a dynamic mix of urban convenience, scenic landscapes, and vibrant local culture.
Whether you’re a longtime resident or a newcomer searching for a place to settle, here are five of the best neighborhoods to live in Busan, each with its own unique appeal.
Haeundae-gu
Haeundae is one of the most popular and upscale areas in Busan, known for its iconic beach, luxury apartments, and international vibe. It’s ideal for expats and professionals, offering proximity to marine leisure, cafes, top schools, and premium shopping centers like Shinsegae Centum City. The area also hosts numerous cultural events and festivals year-round.
Suyeong-gu
Located between Haeundae and Busanjin-gu, Suyeong is a quieter, more residential area with excellent access to public transportation via Suyeong Station and the Centum area. Gwangalli Beach, with its laid-back atmosphere and nighttime bridge views, provides a more relaxed alternative to Haeundae, making it perfect for families and young couples.
Nam-gu
Nam-gu combines affordable housing, coastline access, and a strong educational environment. It’s home to several universities and features walkable parks like Igidae Coastal Trail. Residents enjoy a slower pace of life with easy connections to central Busan through Daeyeon Station and Munhyeon Expressway.
Busanjin-gu
As Busan’s commercial and transportation hub, Busanjin-gu is packed with shopping, entertainment, and restaurants. Seomyeon, its busiest district, is a favorite among young professionals. Apartments here range from modern high-rises to older units with character, offering choices for all lifestyles. Despite the bustle, it provides fast access to every part of the city.
Yeonje-gu
Centrally located and well-connected by subway lines 1 and 3, Yeonje is popular with civil servants and families. The area balances residential comfort with convenience, offering green spaces like Geumgang Park, a large library, and reliable infrastructure. It’s also close to major interchanges and the Busan Sports Complex.
Each of these districts caters to different preferences, whether it’s seaside luxury, urban energy, or suburban peace, making Busan a diverse and livable city for all.