South Korea is one of the world’s strongest economies due to its technological advancements, innovation, global trade, etc. Multiple mega tech companies, such as KT Corporation, Samsung, Naver, Daum Kakao, Woowa Brothers, etc., originate in this country.

Along with high internet connectivity, robotics advancement, and telecommunication growth, this country is among the top tourist destinations. Its pop culture, historical heritage, and breathtaking natural beauty are behind the high revenue generated by the tourism industry. However, the safety of any place is a genuine question that arises in the mind before moving out or planning any vacation trip.  

Multiple factors determine a place’s safety score. The most prominent ones are the crime ratio and the conditions of law enforcement. After personal security, many other factors label a city as safe to visit or live in, such as digital security and infrastructure security. The safest cities in South Korea are listed here, considering all such parameters.

List of Top Safest Cities in South Korea

Here is the list of the top 10 safest cities in South Korea:

• Seoul
• Wonju-si
• Namyangju-si
• Jeju 
• Sokcho
• Daejeon
• Gwangju
• Sinchon
• Suwon
• Hongdae

1. Seoul

The list starts with the capital city of South Korea, which is one of the safest cities in the world based on its economic and technological development. This city is also an ideal destination for vacation trips and is often visited by international tourists throughout the year. Here, you can see grand palaces, mesmerizing natural parks, temples, and multiple World UNESCO Heritage sites like Jondeokjeong Pavilion, Jongmyo, Royal Tombs of the Joseon dynasty, etc

From a safety point of view, Seoul has a minimal crime rate with its strict law enforcement. In 2019, The Economist Intelligence Unit published a report named The Safe Cities Index 2019. This report analyzed around 57 indicators covering security factors like personal security, digital security, etc., to rank cities. Seoul got the 8th position, making it one of the safest cities. This means this city is perfect for having solo trips and exploring its various attractions all alone. 

Security officers roam various points in the city to maintain law and order. They are highly cooperative in resolving public issues and also guide tourists. However, living costs are higher than elsewhere, so you need to determine the available resources before finding a place to live.

2. Wonju-si

Covering an area around 867.6 km², this is the most populous city in the Gangwon Province. Living in this city will give you access to multiple entertainment means, such as theaters, festivals, sports, etc. It has multiple shopping spots covering both local crafts and international brands. Likewise, hotels and restaurants are top-notch with online booking facilities. 

Wonju-si is also famous for its religious perspective, with temples like Sangwonsa and Guryongsa Temple. Tourists and locals visit them for meditation or to attend religious ceremonies. Other places contributing to this city’s significance are Oak Valley Snow Park, Ganhyeon Tourist Area, Wonju Joonang Market, Museum SAN, etc. 

It offers multiple recreational activities, including sports, with attractions like Nambu Table Tennis, Wonju Hanji Theme Park, Chiaksan Recreational Forest, etc. There is no chance of getting threatened by criminals like thieves, pickpockets, thugs, scammers, etc. So you can roam around with complete peace of mind. 

Also Read: Places to Visit in South Korea

3. Namyangju-si

This is another place to safely enjoy your free time while exploring natural, cultural, and shopping spots. Namyangju-si is one of the tourist destinations for its theme parks, temples, art museums, galleries, etc.  Some of its historical and religious assets are Myojeoksa Temple, Bongseonsa Temple, Hongneung Yureung Royal Tombs, etc. 

Here, the Water Garden and the Ungilsan are two natural beauties that are equally famous among locals and foreigners. The hotels available for tourists are top-notch, offering world-class amenities and beautiful neighborhoods. Some famous names you can book for your visits are Namyangju Benikea JD Hotel, Namyangju Reina Hotel, Just Sleep Hotel Dasan New City, etc. 

Moreover,  facilities like healthcare, education institutions, etc, are also satisfactory, offering a good lifestyle with complete security. This city is best for having a family-friendly environment with a minimal crime ratio. However, for nightlife, it is not recommended, so people often navigate to Seoul on weekends for fun and entertainment. Overall, it is a pretty nice place to start your secure life with all the facilities. You may also visit it as a tourist destination to enjoy all its major attractions

Also Read: Which Are the 10 Safest Countries in Europe?

4. Jeju

Another name on the list of safest cities in South Korea is Jeju, which is famous for its beautiful beaches, shopping hubs, hiking spots, etc. It is the capital of Jeju Province, and around 10 million tourists come here every year. This high stat depicts the safety standards of this beautiful location. This city is safe to walk around and explore its delightful cuisines with its top-notch cafes and restaurants.  

Jeju is well-connected with other cities and the world with its Jeju International Airport. Moreover, inside the city, there are multiple means of transportation, such as the subway, buses, taxis, etc. Navigating to various regions is quite easy with proper road networks. This city plays a significant role in exports and imports, with Jeju Port contributing to the economic growth of South Korea. 

People who are fond of water sports, sand sculptures, and mesmerizing sunsets visit Woljeong Beach, Geumneung Beach, Iho Beach, etc. Also, the police officers, including the locals, are highly cooperative. If you are unaware of the local language, then no worries. You are in safe hands.

5. Sokcho

This city is located in Gangwon Province and is one of the top destinations among worldwide tourists for its natural beauty and historical and cultural assets. Seoraksan National Park and Ulsanbawi Rock are two famous spots visited by natural enthusiasts and those who want to try some adventurous activities. Sokcho also offers multiple shopping places to buy valuable local and international brands. Its Sokcho Central Market is famous for its variety of seafood.  

Key attractions that are behind the high percentage of international tourists in this city are Yeonggeumjeong and Gwongeumseong Fortress. It also offers various religious sites where people can understand Buddhism, like Seoraksan Sinheungsa Temple and Naksansa Temple.

The crime rate is low, and people freely use government or private transportation. Also, the basic living facilities are satisfactory. So, it is one of those cities where you can get a safe place to start living your dream life.

6. Daejeon

This city is behind the technological advancements of South Korea in the world with its multiple research centers and other institutes. Daejeon is known as Asia’s Silicon Valley and a hub of the world’s famous institutes like the Korea Advanced Institute of Science, Daedeok Research Complex, etc. More than 20 universities offer top-notch educational degrees to locals and foreigners. That is why the percentage of international students is high in this city. 

Daejeon is also recognized for its rich cultural heritage, with attractions like the Eung-no Lee Museum, the Daejeon Museum of Art, the Asia Museum, etc. Also, festivals by the Daejeon Culture and Arts Center, the Woosong Arts Center,  the Jeongsimhwa Culture Center, etc., attract worldwide tourists. 

This city has much more to offer, including multiple recreational activities like hiking, boating, swimming, etc., along with complete security features. The law enforcement is pretty good, and there is no issue roaming in the city late at night. 

7. Gwangju

This city is located in the southwest regions of the country and is another famous name for its multiple educational institutes and rich cultural heritage.  Here, every year in October, a Kimchi festival is held that attracts worldwide tourists and offers a variety of local food, especially cabbage with specific seasoning. 

Other cultural assets that contribute to the promotion of tourism are the Gwangju Biennale and the Gwangju National Museum. This city is well-connected with nearby regions with its local and international airports. Other transparent means, such as trains and subways, are also up to the mark and offer easy navigation.

Along with tourism, this city has all the necessary facilities, including top education and healthcare units, and proves to be one of the best living places in the world. Crimes are under control, and rules and regulations are strictly enforced. 

Also Read: Top 10 Most Dangerous Borders in The World

8. Sinchon

This Seodaemun District is one of the attractive locations that offer top-notch restaurants, cafes, and food stalls. Also, you can shop for various products that are available at affordable prices. The Hyundai Department Store is the best place to shop for fashion brands. Some of the available bands over here are The Face Shop, Etude House, The Saem, Aritaum, Memebox, etc. 

Sinchon is famous for its nightlife, and tourists from nearby regions prefer it for hanging out late. You don’t need to rush to your hotel in fear of robbery or any other risks. People are also cooperative and provide guidance. The traffic police keep a strict check on the maximum speed limit and the implementation of all traffic rules. Also, this place is well-connected with the neighborhoods, and you can use buses or the subway for quick navigation.

The education standards are also high, with multiple institutions, including universities, offering higher degrees. Likewise, the overall prices are affordable compared to other cities. That is why many tourists prefer this city: its peaceful and energetic environment allows them to enjoy local cuisines and hanging out with friends.  

9. Suwon

It is the capital of the most populated province of South Korea, Gyeonggi-do. Suwon’s name is recognised worldwide by Samsung Electronics, which has its headquarters in this city. The company has developed its own city, Samsung Digital City, within Suwon, which includes all the major facilities, such as health care, transportation, etc. 

Another factor behind Suwon’s popularity is its ancient historical sites, including the Hwaseong Fortress. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is famous among locals and foreigners and provides deep insights into past events. Other attractions that are making this city among tourist destinations are Hwaseong Haenggung Palace, Suwon Hwaseong Museum, Suwon I’Park Museum of Art, etc. 

Also, the hotels are top-class accompanied by maximum amenities for the comfort of the tourists. Some big names for having a memorable trip are Ramada Plaza by Wyndham Suwon and Novotel Ambassador Suwon. It also has many authentic food points, restaurants, and cafes offering both local and Asian cuisines. People can freely walk around in its streets even late at night without any risk. 

10. Hongdae

This place is located in the Mapo District, Western Seoul, and is famous for its cheap rental properties.  Expats prefer this place for its affordable living costs, and it is also well-connected with the neighborhoods. Students of Hongik University, which is located nearby, find it easy to stay in Hongdae because of its facilities and high security. The majority of this place’s population comprises young adults. 

Check out its restaurants and cafes to enjoy a variety of food, including Asian and Korean cuisines. Also, Hongdae Street offers everything to shop for, from apparel to books to cosmetics. Prices are affordable, and living costs are lower than in other regions. Here, nightlife programs and other entertainment means are available, and you can explore its clubs without fear of being harassed late at night. So, this place is quite suitable for living or spending quality time during vacation. 

Conclusion

South Korea is one of the most developed economies in the world. It has revolutionized the technology industry with research and innovation. This country has a rich cultural and religious heritage that is attractive to tourists from worldwide regions. The safety conditions are also up to the mark,  offering a peaceful environment to the locals and foreigners. 

According to a report conducted in 2022, the overall crime ratio in the 100,000 population is around 3,051 crimes. This ratio also fluctuates from one city to another. Some locations are safer than others in terms of law enforcement, personal security, etc. All the safest cities in South Korea for personal living or tourism are listed in this article. 

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Best Time to Visit South Korea for a Vacation?

The best time to enjoy your vacation trip to South Korea is during the spring and autumn seasons. Most of the festivals occur during October and November. Also, you can enjoy cherry blossoms during spring. From a weather perspective, these seasons are also perfect, with moderate temperatures for both indoor and outdoor activities.

Is Namyangju Close to Seoul?

Yes, you can travel from Namyangju to Seoul in just 23 minutes, and the distance between these cities is around 24 kilometers. Also, various means of transportation are available, such as taxis, buses, subways, etc. 

Are the Costs of Living in South Korea Lower Than in Canada?

Yes, Canada is expensive compared to South Korea. The cost of living, excluding the rent, in South Korea is around 1.2% less than in Canada. If we include the rental amount in the costs, then the overall cost is around 14.9% lower than in Canada.

Is South Korea Good for International Students?

Yes, South Korea offers a very safe environment for international students. Here,  multiple Korean universities, like Yonsei University, Korea University, Seoul National University, etc., offer high degrees, including professional ones. Different institutes have scholarships for deserving students. That is why the ratio of such students is quite high in the Gyeonggi and Gyeongsangbuk provinces.

What Are the Top 5 Industries in Korea?

In Korea, the top 5 industries are the following:

• Textile
• Steel
• Car manufacturing 
• Shipbuilding
• Electronics