South Korea is one of the most developed countries in the world, with its top research centers and technical innovations. This country is also known for its high population, ranking 29th among the most populated countries with 51,717,590 residents. Most of its population resides in urban areas, and big cities like Busan, Seoul, and Incheon have denser populations than others. 

Also, this country is a top figure in the world for its research centers and international trading. It is getting first-mover advantages with its technical innovations and leading the world in IT. The tourism industry is also growing to offer multiple recreational activities, culture, and historical heritage to worldwide tourists. The percentage of international students in its provinces is also growing, with more scholarships and student visa grants. All these factors contribute to its population growth.

List of Top 8 Most Populated Cities in South Korea

Here is the list of the top 8 most populated cities in South Korea:

• Seoul
• Busan
• Incheon
• Daegu
• Gwangju
• Daejeon
• Suwon
• Goyang-si

1. Seoul

Seoul is the number one city in South Korea based on its high population, with around 10,349,312 residents. As the country’s capital, it is recognized for its economic and technological advancements. Also, the ratio of worldwide tourists is high due to its rich cultural and historical heritage. 

It is the fourth biggest metropolitan economy after Tokyo, New York City, and Los Angeles. Not only in this era, but it was also an important place in ancient times. During the Joseon dynasty, Seoul worked as the capital and managed and supervised neighborhoods. During the occupation of the Japanese Empire, too much destruction occurred here, collapsing its mega infrastructure and other economic advancements. 

After the end of the Japanese occupation, it went through rapid urbanization, and now it is one of the strongest cities in the world. Along with a powerful economic position, it offers enriched historical assets and pop culture to its residents and tourists. It has multiple natural places for hiking, swimming, and other recreational activities. Seoul also gives a chance to see different UNESCO World Heritage Sites, like Jondeokjeong Pavilion, Jongmyo, Royal Tombs of the Joseon dynasty, etc. That is why the number of foreigners visiting its major attractions is high. 

Gangnam and Digital Media City are two major names behind its technological innovations in the world. The population over here is increasing every year. More people are migrating to this dynamic environment to avail themselves of endless growth opportunities. 

2. Busan

With 3,678,555 residents, Busan is second on the list of the most populated cities in South Korea. Like Seoul, it has a robust economic position due to its massive trade and other industries. Busan port is ranked the sixth busiest port in the world. This city is also remarkable for its hosting services for multiple world sports tournaments. It was the host for the 2002 Asian Games and also for the APEC Summit 2005.

It has remarkable marine science services, with institutes like the Korea Maritime Institute (KMI) and the National Fishery Products Quality Management Service. Busan also has multiple prestigious finance institutes, such as the Korea Asset Management Corporation, Korea Housing & Urban Guarantee Corporation, Korea Securities Depository, etc. It is behind the growth of unlimited investment opportunities and plays a significant role in the country’s economic prosperity.

This city is also famous for its attractive landmarks, natural places, historical assets, etc. People from various regions of the world come here to spend their vacations. Tourists and locals shop for world-top brands by exploring its shopping hubs, such as Seomyeon, Gwangbok-dong, Centum City, etc. 

The educational facilities here are top-notch and offer professional degrees. Local and international students go to institutes like Dongseo University, Rui University, and Kosin University National University (PKNU), etc. This city is famous for its beaches, lush green mountains, amusement parks, and multiple prestigious temples.

Also Read: Top Most Populated Cities in Australia

3. Incheon

With a population of 2,954,955 people, Incheon is on the 3rd number and is located in the northwestern regions of South Korea. This coastal city is behind the country’s economic development since the opening of its port to the world. Also, in 2003, it declared specific areas as free economic zones to attract worldwide investments. After that, the world sees rapid industrialization in this city. Multiple mega-international conferences were held at this place, like the Incheon Global Fair & Festival 2009 and the 17th Asian Games Incheon 2014. 

Both the Incheon International Airport and Incheon Port interconnect worldwide regions and generate high revenue for the country. This commercial hub also offers world-top educational institutes like Incheon National University, Jaineung College, Anyang University Ganghwa campus, Seongsan Hyo University, etc. That is why the ratio of international students is high. After getting a student visa, foreigners come to pursue their career goals with admission to professional degrees. 

Along with education, this city has multiple shopping centers, top-notch healthcare units, and sports activities. Incheon also grabs the attention of international tourists with its multiple attractions and top hotels with maximum amenities. Some famous spots for vacation tours are  Cheongna Lake Park, Jeongjo Sanseong Fortress, Oktokki Space Center, Incheon Grand Park Arboretum, Orange Dunes Yeongjong Golf Club, etc. 

Also Read: Top Spoken Asian Languages

4. Daegu

Daegu, with its 2,566,540 population, is fourth on this list for urbanization and infrastructure. It comes after Seoul and Busan in terms of GDP contribution through its textile industry and machinery. This city is famous for its fashion exhibitions, such as the Daegu Fashion Fair and Preview. It is also where Samsung was founded and where many other mega companies’ headquarters are located. 

Daegu offers multiple natural spots for tourists, including its mountains, Palgongsan, and Biseulsan. Some other popular landmarks that are attracting locals and foreigners are Donghwasae, Haeinsa, Pagyesa, Yangnyeongsi, Buinsa, etc. Also, Woobang Land is widely visited by tourists for having multiple recreational activities. 

Multiple traditional and cultural festivals are held here all year around, showcasing the local art and offering educational programs. Top festivals with worldwide recognition include the Daegu International Opera Festival (DIOF) 2003, Daegu International Bodypainting Festival (DIBF), Colorful Daegu Festival, etc. Other than art, people get insight into its historical events and cultural heritage with its multiple museums. Some are Daegu Bangjja Yugi, Kyungpook National University Museum, Museum for Daegu National University of Education, etc. 

With their high standards, educational institutes are preferred by both locals and foreigners. The number of foreign students is high, especially in medical institutes. There are also multiple colleges, along with universities and secondary and private schools, including international ones.

5. Gwangju

Gwangju is the fifth-most populated city in South Korea, with 1,490,092 residents. It is famous for its historical heritage, sports activities, and cultural festivals. Residents rely on public transportation, like buses, to navigate to various regions. This transportation facility is suitable for both locals and foreigners, as all information is available in English as well. Gwangju Subway is also one of the cheapest and fastest means of travel.

Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology and Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology are two major institutes behind its research work. The educational facilities are top-notch and consist of multiple schools, colleges, universities, etc. Chonnam National University, Gwangju Education University, Honam University, Gwangju University, Nambu University, etc., are some of its notable institutes for higher education.

It is also famous for its authentic food, and both locals and tourists explore its food streets to enjoy traditional recipes. Some notable names for checking out Korean cuisine are Mudeungsan Boribap Street, Duck Cook Street, Kotgejang Baekban Street, etc. Other attractions of this city are its temples, museums, and cultural centers. Residents and visitors prefer places like Mudeungsan National Park, Gwangjuho Lake Eco Park, and Yudalsan Mountain for recreation and thrilling activities. 

6. Daejeon

With 1,469,543, this city is the 6th rank in the list of top-populated cities. Daejeon is situated between the Sobaek Mountains and the Geum River and is well-connected with the neighborhoods. The means of transportation are up to the mark with massive road and rail networks. People living here can easily navigate to Seoul city within just 50 minutes of travel. This city is famous for its well-known universities like Chungnam National University, Daejeon Chungnam University, Hanbat National University, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), etc. 

Daejeon is notable for its contribution to research and innovation, and it is revolutionizing various fields of life. Some of the research fields for which Daejeon is leading the world are nuclear fusion, telecommunications, nanofabrication, nuclear and hydropower, mechanical engineering, etc. Korea Aerospace Research Institute (KARI), Korea Fusion Energy Research Institute (KFERI), Korea Institute of Machinery and Materials (KIMM), and Korea Institute of Science and Technology Information (KISTI) etc. are some of its prestigious research institutes.

This city is also famous for its amusement parks, such as Bomunsan Mountain Park and East Garden. Buddhist temples like Daejeon Jagwangsa Temple and Haedong Yonggungsa Temple are worth visiting. Due to its natural attractions and technological worth, the ratio of foreign tourists is also high. 

7. Suwon

Suwon secured 7th position with its 1,241,311 population in the list of the most populated cities in South Korea. It is the capital of the Gyeonggi Province, which is the most populated province in South Korea. This city is recognizable by Samsung Electronics, one of the leading companies in the world. Samsung’s research center and headquarters are located in eastern Suwon.

This city offers professional degrees through its notable universities, such as Sungkyunkwan University, Kyonggi University, Ajou University, Gukje Cyber University, and Ajou University. Many international students apply for student visas to get admission here, so its population is composed of both locals and foreigners. 

Also, this city offers major attractions to spend quality time while enjoying local cuisine. Some of the key places that tourists usually explore are Hwaseong Fortress, Hyanggyo, Adams Memorial Hall, etc. The National Map Museum of Korea and the National Agricultural Museum of Korea are two excellent places to explore the country’s historical heritage. 

Taxis, trains, subways, etc., are available for navigation. This city is near Seoul, and it takes just 32 minutes to move from Suwon to Seoul. The living costs are also lower than those of other major cities like Busan and Seoul. That is why the rate of migrants is high in this location. Also, the overall environment of this place is family-friendly and offers multiple shopping and food points for entertainment. 

8. Goyang-si

With 1,073,069 residents, Goyang-si is on the 8th number.  In the Seoul Capital Area, this is the largest city, with its location in the Gyeonggi Province of South Korea. This place offers multiple shopping units like MBC Dream Center, SBS Broadcasting Center, Western Dorm, etc., including local Korean and international brands. It has a rich cultural heritage and authentic local cuisines with its number of cafes, restaurants, etc. High-speed railways, buses, subways, etc., are the most commonly used public transportation means connecting both the inside regions and the neighborhoods. 

This city is famous among tourists for its art and flower festivals held at various times of the year. Some of these celebrations are the Haengjusanseong Fortress Sun Rise Festival, the Goyang International Flower Festival, and the Goyang Lake Art Festival. These festivals are perfect for family entertainment with their colorful decorations and cultural performances. They give deep insights into the pop culture of South Korea. 

This city has many other notable attractions, including two UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Seosamneung and Seooreung Royal Tombs. Locals and foreigners explore its beauties for hiking or close-to-nature experiences, such as Jeongbal Mountain, Go Bong Mountain, Lake Park, etc. Also, the healthcare facilities are up to the mark, adding more comfort to the overall lifestyle. 

A Table Comparison of the Most Populated Cities in South Korea

No.	Name of City	Total Population
1	Seoul	10,349,312
2	Busan	3,678,555
3	Incheon	2,954,955
4	Daegu	2,566,540
5	Gwangju	1,490,092
6	Daejeon	1,469,543
7	Suwon	1,241,311
8	Goyang-si	1,073,069

Bottom Line

South Korea, the fourth-largest economy in Asia, is behind mega-developments, including infrastructure imports, exports, and technological innovations. This country is gaining attention from a tourism perspective and also welcoming international students by offering top-notch educational degrees. People are migrating here to grow their businesses and careers and to pursue professional studies. That is why this population is growing each year with a high number of migrants. This article highlights all the top-populated cities of South Korea in detail. 

Frequently Asked Questions

How Much of an Urban Population Is There in South Korea?

According to 2024 reports, the urban population in various regions of South Korea is around 42 million. This figure includes around 75,963 migrants.

What Is the Population Density in South Korea?

Population density is the comparison between the population and the land area and represents the population per unit area. In South Korea, this density is around 532 per Km2.

What Is the Percentage of the Rural Population in South Korea?

Only 18 percent of its population lives in rural areas, and around 82 percent live in urban areas. 

What are South Korea’s Official Languages?

Korean is the only official language of South Korea; however, English and Japanese are widely spoken and understood.

What Are the Top Exports in Korea?

Mechanical appliances and their components, electrical machines, motor vehicles, mineral fuels, oils, etc., are some of Korea’s top exports. 

Is Korea More Expensive than the United States?

No, South Korea is much cheaper than the US in terms of living costs and rental expenses. Here, living expenses are 5.6% less than in the US, and rental expenses are 59.7% less than in the US.