Seoul and Delhi are two major Asian cities in terms of population, industrial growth, trade, etc. Seoul is the capital of South Korea and is recognisable for its world-leading research centres, educational units, economic developments, etc. It has a vast cultural heritage, which you can learn about from its historic sites and a number of museums and temples.
Delhi, the capital of India, is an economic hub that covers both trade and commerce and contributes to India’s prosperity. It is one of the diverse cultures offering multiple monuments, mosques, temples, etc. In this article, these two cities are compared using different parameters to help you understand their true worth.
Comparative Analysis of Seoul and Delhi
Economic and Industrial Analysis
Seoul is playing a key role in attracting investments from worldwide regions and boosting the country’s economic growth. Manufacturing, information technology, electronics, textiles, food processing, beverage production, printing, etc., are some of the key industries. The country’s GDP is around $779.3 billion, which keeps increasing yearly.
Delhi is ranked second as the most productive metropolis in India, with a nominal GDP of around $272.603. Its GDP growth recorded a 9.18% increase in 2024 compared to 2023. Some of the key industries behind its stable position are IT, finance, banking, trade, commerce, manufacturing, etc. It contributes 4% to India’s gross domestic product and is key to its economic excellence.
Also Read: Top 10 Richest Cities in India
Healthcare Facilities
Seoul has the most advanced and latest medical facilities with its private and public institutes. All the healthcare units work with a single-payer system, which is under the supervision of the National Health Insurance Service (NHIS). Here, public medical services are not free but affordable. Seoul National University Hospital, Samsung Medical Center, Severance Hospital, and Ajou University Hospital are some of its top-notch healthcare units.
Delhi’s healthcare facilities are top-notch, with multiple private and government institutes available. Most of its public units are free of cost and provide various treatments. All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Max Healthcare, Apollo Hospital, Fortis Hospital, Deen Dayal Upadhyaya, etc., are some prestigious units behind Delhi’s high reputation in the healthcare sector.
Transportation
Seoul is well-connected with the neighborhoods, and you can travel inside the city by using buses, taxis, subways, etc. All transportation means are comfortable and offer basic facilities. For the convenience of the tourists, information is available in both English and Korean languages at the bus stops and railway stations. T-money and Cash-bee are two transportation cards that give access to all public transport. These cards are also applicable to the affiliated shopping stores.
Delhi is famous for its affordable travel expenses and offers a variety of transportation means, such as buses, auto rickshaws, cycle rickshaws, taxis, etc. The Municipal Corporation of Delhi, the Public Works Department, and the Delhi Development Authority are some key organizations behind its extensive road network. Other than roads, its railway networks, Indira Gandhi International Airport, and Hindon Domestic Airport are behind its high connectivity with nearby and worldwide regions.
Demographics
Delhi has a higher population than Seoul. According to the 2024 analyses, Seoul’s population is around 9.62 million, and Delhi’s is 33.81 million. The population density in Seoul is around 9340 people/km². The proportion of females is high in this city. Christianity and Buddhism are two major religions that most Seoul residents follow.
The population density in Delhi is around 16000 people/km². 40% of the population is Punjabis, and the ratio of males to females is higher. In Delhi, 80% of the population follows Hinduism.
Weather
Seoul and Delhi both have four distinct seasons, covering summer, winter, spring and autumn. In Seoul, April, May, and June are moderate months that offer multiple spring festivals. During the summer, the air is humid, and the temperature remains high at around 24°C. Again, in September, October and November, the weather becomes moderate and pleasant for both indoor and outdoor fun. In this autumn season, multiple visitors come to explore its major landmarks. December and January are significantly colder when the temperature drops to -4°C.
Delhi is hotter than Seoul and has an extreme climate. The winter starts in December and lasts until February. In these months, the air becomes pleasant, and the temperature drops to 8° C. After that, a hot summer begins, and the temperature remains high until the monsoon begins in July. Temperature variations during its hotter months may vary form from 25oC to 45oC. October and November are moderate in terms of humidity and temperature. Temperature variation during winter months varies from 22oC to 5oC.
Food
Seoul is famous among tourists for its diverse food options, and it is best to try out traditional and international dishes. Flavors, Han-gong-gan, Tamayura, Daol Charcoal Grill, Gouga Gwanghwamun, Gowooga Yeouido, etc., are popular restaurants and food points for Korean cuisine. Here, Kimchi, Sundubu Jjigae, Bulgogi, Tteokbokki, Japchae, Kan poong gi, etc., are some of the key dishes that are worth-trying. These traditional dishes are full of flavors and nutrition and provide a delightful experience.
Delhi is famous for its diverse food dishes, which are filled with herbs and different spices. Some key places where you can get authentic Indian cuisine are Old Delhi, Gali Paranthe Wali, Khan Market, Pandara Road, and Nizamuddin. Etc. Here, you can enjoy snacks, curries, meat-based dishes, etc. Some of the food items that tourists must try are Chhole Bhature, Butter Chicken, Momo, Kebabs, Jalebis, Chaat, etc. Other than local dishes, multiple restaurants offer Chinese and other international cuisines, such as The Imperial Spice, Food Exchange, International Cuisine House (ICH), etc.
Average Salaries
Delhi and Seoul are two major cities with high growth opportunities. People from nearby regions prefer these marketplaces in pursuit of a better career. However, people come to Seoul from various regions around the world on different visa categories to get jobs in various fields. The salaries are higher with a better lifestyle and health care. This city’s most demanding job posts are Digital Communication Coordinator, Human Resources Executive, Data Analyst, Communication Manager, Business Planning Manager, etc.
In Delhi, job opportunities are unlimited because of the large number of private and public organizations. Here, different businesses and multiple industries are working with their headquarters. Delhi is highly recommended for getting a dream job in India. Some attractive job posts in this city that offer high salaries are Accounts Executive, Customer Service Executive, Accountant, Front Desk Executive, etc.
Tourism
Seoul is also a famous Asian tourist destination, attracting visitors from various regions. There are multiple temples, museums, amusement parks, historic spots, etc., to add to the to-do list during your trip. Some famous temples among locals and foreigners are Jogyesa Temple, Yeonghwasa Temple, Bongwonsa Temple, and Samgaksan Doseonsa Temple. Other must-see attractions are N Seoul Tower, Bukchon Hanok Village, Cheonggyecheon, War Memorial of Korea, and Bukhansan National Park.
Delhi is not as famous as Seoul, but it is still an excellent place to observe India’s cultural and historical heritage. If you are a foreign visitor aiming to see the authentic colors of this cultural hub, then explore places like India Gate, Lotus Temple, Lodhi Garden, Gurudwara Shri Bangla Sahib, Jantar Mantar, Qutub Minar, Chandni Chowk, etc. Don’t forget to add its UNESCO World Heritage Sites, which are Qutub Minar, Humayun’s Tomb, and the Red Fort, to your list. Another good news is its cheap transportation, which you can use while navigating from one location to another. So, it is budget-friendly and offers memorable experiences with its indoor and outdoor recreational facilities.
Also Read: Safest Cities in India
Cost of Living
One of the major differences between Seoul and Delhi is their cost of living. Seoul is quite expensive in terms of accommodation, rental costs, transportation expenses, etc. 1,578,264.6₩ is the cost of living as a single person, and rent is excluded from it.
The cost of living in Seoul is 210.1% greater than in Delhi. If we include the rent, Seoul’s living cost is 219.8% higher than Delhi’s. To have a basic lifestyle in Seoul, you need around 510,838.9₹. On the other hand, you can enjoy the same perks and amenities for just 160,000.0₹ in Delhi.
Bottom Line
Seoul and Delhi are progressing towards economic growth and scientific innovation, bringing prosperity and more investment opportunities to their respective countries. Each place has its perks and associated challenges.
Seoul is better regarding amenities, economic advancements, higher education facilities, etc. Delhi is recognised worldwide for its affordable accommodation, cheap travel means, and diverse cultural environment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Place Is Cheaper, Seoul or Delhi?
Delhi is cheaper than Seoul in terms of living, transportation expenses, rent, etc. In Seoul, the rental costs are 256.5% higher than in Delhi.
Are Salaries Higher in Seoul or Delhi?
Seoul offers higher monthly salaries than Delhi. The average monthly salary after tax in Delhi is around $1050, compared to $3018 in Seoul.
Is the Air Pollution Higher in Seoul or Delhi?
In terms of air pollution, Delhi is ahead of Seoul, the fourth-most polluted city in the world and the most polluted city in India.
Which City Is Safer, Seoul or Delhi?
Delhi has a higher crime rate and corruption problems than Seoul. Seoul’s crime rate is lower, and it is safer to walk around late at night.
Is Seoul Bigger Than Delhi in Terms of Population?
No, Seoul has a smaller population than Delhi. Delhi residents are 6 percent higher than Seoul’s residents.
