Why I love digital nomading in Seoul

Why I Love Seoul As A Digital Nomad

1. Fast wifi and endless cafés to work from

Seoul makes working online feel effortless because the internet is fast and reliable almost everywhere. Tonnes of cafés sit on nearly every corner, most with free wifi, plenty of seating, and a strong laptop culture, so it is completely normal to settle in and work for a few hours.

2. Seoul’s metro system is so easy and convenient to use

Seoul’s metro system is clean, efficient, and very straightforward, even if you are new to the city. It makes it simple to live in one neighbourhood and explore many others so long as you book an accommodation that's strategically placed within walking distance to multiple metro lines.

3. So much good food to try

From quick kimbap and dumplings to Korean BBQ, stews, and street snacks, there is always something new and delicious to eat. It is easy to grab a simple solo meal between calls, or treat yourself to a bigger dinner after a long workday, and the variety keeps everyday life feeling exciting.

4. Big city energy and late nights

Seoul is a big, fast paced, trendy city, which gives it an energy that can be really motivating if you are young or have lots of stamina. Many places stay open late at night, so you can finish a late shift or meeting, step outside, and still find cafés, restaurants, and streets buzzing with life.

5. Everyday convenience

Convenience stores, pharmacies, and late night spots are everywhere, which makes last minute errands and small needs very easy to handle. That level of convenience means you spend less time worrying about logistics and more time actually enjoying the city and focusing on your work.

6. Exercising is a breeze

Exercising in Seoul is so easy because there are so many beautiful parks, paved walking and biking paths, and countless outdoor gyms where you will often see Korean uncles and aunties working out.

My favourite running paths are the ones next to the Han River, where you can literally run for kilometres, passing picnickers, convenience stores, galleries, and riverside restaurants. There is always something to look at, which makes every run feel like sightseeing instead of exercising.

A few things to keep in mind if you are remote working in Seoul

1. Dining solo can be tricky sometimes

Some restaurants serve dishes that are meant to be shared, like jokbal or big plates of fried chicken, so it can be harder (and more expensive) to try certain meals on your own. You may need to look for spots that offer single portions or set menus for one.

2. The fast pace can feel intense

Seoul is a busy, fast paced city and if you are not used to that rhythm, you might find people seem rushed, impatient, or blunt at times. It helps to remember this is often about the city’s pace, not you personally, and to always respect the local culture, stay kind, and remember you are a visitor at the end of the day.

3. Apps for daily life are all different

Many of the main apps you will use, like Naver Map (Navigation), Kakao Talk (Messaging) or Coupang (Shopping/Food Delivery), are in Korean and work quite differently to what you might be used to, so it can take a while to relearn how to do simple things like searching, ordering, or navigating.

4. Generally higher costs than other parts of Asia

Seoul is still cheaper than many Western cities, but compared with places like parts of Thailand, accommodation, eating out and some lifestyle costs will be more expensive, especially if you want your own apartment in a central neighbourhood. Consider booking accommodation that includes a kitchen so you can cook some of your own meals.

I have now digital nomaded in Seoul twice and I know I will keep coming back. The city is so big and ever changing I know I'll never get bored. Did I also mention I love the shopping, amazing visual design and cherry blossom season? Yeah I'll be back soon.