Seoul vs Busan vs Daegu: Where to Teach English

South Korea is one of the most popular destinations in the world for English teachers—and for good reason. It offers a reliable job market, solid pay, modern infrastructure, and a lifestyle that blends tradition with fast-paced innovation. But where you decide to live and teach can shape your entire experience.

Seoul, Busan, and Daegu represent three very different slices of Korean life. Seoul, the capital, offers unparalleled professional opportunities and a nonstop urban buzz. Busan brings a coastal lifestyle with great food and a slower rhythm. Daegu, often overlooked, stands out for its low cost of living and authentic local charm.

Each city comes with its own advantages—and tradeoffs. Whether you're drawn to the energy of the capital, the beaches of the south, or the calm streets of the heartland, this guide compares the key factors to help you decide which city fits your teaching goals and lifestyle best.

Teaching Jobs and Hiring Opportunities

When it comes to job volume, Seoul leads the pack. The capital has more schools, more students, and more variety—ranging from cram schools (hagwons) to public school positions through EPIK, plus rare but coveted roles at international schools. The competition can be stiff, especially for positions with better hours or higher pay, but the sheer number of opportunities makes it the most accessible city for those looking to get a foot in the door or level up.

Busan offers a strong teaching market too, especially in the private sector. Hagwons are everywhere, and there’s a consistent need for new teachers due to high turnover. Public school roles through EPIK are available, although more limited in number than Seoul. The upside? There’s slightly less competition, and the vibe is generally more relaxed.

Daegu has a smaller ESL market, but it’s also less saturated. Many teachers stay longer, creating fewer openings each term—but that also means schools tend to be more stable and selective. Most positions are through EPIK or smaller hagwons, and jobs may take a bit more effort to find. However, for those looking for a quieter, more immersive teaching experience, Daegu delivers.

Salary Expectations and Cost Efficiency

Seoul offers the highest average salaries, especially for teachers working in international schools or with experience in the public sector. Entry-level hagwon teachers can expect around 2.1 to 2.4 million KRW per month, while seasoned educators or those in more specialized roles can earn significantly more. But with those higher wages comes a higher cost of living—rent, food, and entertainment can quickly eat into your savings if you’re not careful.

Busan’s salaries are generally on par or slightly lower than Seoul’s, with similar base pay for hagwon and EPIK roles. However, the cost of living is noticeably more affordable. Rent is cheaper, dining out is less expensive, and daily life—especially outside the tourist hotspots—is easier on your wallet. Many teachers find they can save just as much (or more) in Busan than in Seoul, even with a lower salary.

Daegu offers the most budget-friendly lifestyle of the three. Salaries are comparable to Busan, but expenses are even lower—rent is remarkably cheap, groceries cost less, and entertainment tends to be more local and affordable. For teachers who prioritize saving or living comfortably without stretching their paycheck, Daegu is arguably the best value.

School Culture and Classroom Experience

In Seoul, the classroom environment often reflects the city’s high-energy culture. Students are under pressure to succeed, especially in academic subjects and English proficiency. That means classrooms can be structured, disciplined, and heavily curriculum-driven. Teachers may need to adjust to fast pacing, rigorous standards, and high expectations from both parents and school administrators.

Busan, while still academically motivated, tends to offer a more balanced teaching atmosphere. Students are generally respectful and focused, but the environment allows for a bit more flexibility and creativity. Teachers often report more relaxed expectations and a greater ability to connect with students on a personal level.

In Daegu, the teaching culture often feels more traditional. Schools are usually close-knit, and you may be treated more like a member of the community than just a temporary foreign teacher. Students can be a bit shy at first but are usually warm and engaged once rapport is built. Teachers here often enjoy more autonomy in the classroom, and the slower pace allows for deeper relationships with students and coworkers alike.

Living Environment and Daily Rhythm

Living in Seoul means you’re in the heart of one of Asia’s most dynamic cities. There’s constant movement—trains, people, trends—and everything is fast, modern, and hyper-connected. Convenience stores never close, cafes are always full, and new experiences are around every corner. But with that energy comes crowds, noise, and a certain sense of hustle that never really stops.

Busan is more laid-back, with a strong seaside identity. The pace is slower, the neighborhoods more spacious, and the vibe more relaxed. While it still has all the conveniences of a major city, Busan feels less chaotic and more grounded. You’re never far from a beach, mountain trail, or seafood market, and life has a natural rhythm that suits many teachers looking for balance.

Daegu offers a different kind of calm. As a smaller inland city, it has fewer international distractions and more traditional character. The streets are wide and orderly, the cost of living is low, and daily life feels manageable. It’s not sleepy—but it’s not trying to be trendy either. That stability and simplicity appeal to teachers who want a consistent, less frantic living experience while still enjoying urban comforts.

Transportation and Navigating the City

Getting around in Korea is famously efficient, but each city offers a different commuting experience.

In Seoul, the subway system is vast, clean, and operates like clockwork. You can get almost anywhere in the city without needing a car or scooter. Buses fill in the gaps, and the KTX high-speed rail connects you to nearly every corner of Korea in a few hours or less. While rush hour can be intense, the convenience outweighs the crowding for most teachers.

Busan’s transport system is smaller but still well-developed. The subway network covers the city’s major areas, and trains connect you easily to cities like Ulsan, Daegu, and even Seoul. What sets Busan apart is how easily you can move from work to beach or mountain. For teachers who crave quick escapes into nature after class, the commute can become a daily perk.

Daegu offers the most relaxed urban navigation of the three. The subway has just a few lines, but they’re efficient and rarely overcrowded. Buses cover the rest without much hassle. Commute times are short, traffic is light, and the city layout is simple—making Daegu ideal for teachers who prefer a stress-free daily routine and don’t need a packed metro system to get around.

Social Life and Expat Community

The social side of teaching abroad can make or break your experience, and each city offers a different kind of community.

In Seoul, the expat scene is massive and constantly evolving. Whether you’re into language exchanges, live music, or themed meetups, there’s always something happening. It’s easy to meet new people—but because the scene is so big and transient, forming lasting friendships can take more intention.

Busan has a mid-sized, more grounded expat community. Many teachers stay for several years, so the social groups tend to be more stable. Events are frequent but more intimate, and the city’s relaxed vibe encourages deeper connections. If you want a balance between meeting new faces and building meaningful friendships, Busan delivers.

Daegu is smaller and less internationally flashy, but that’s part of the charm. The expat groups here are tight-knit, supportive, and consistent. New teachers are often welcomed quickly, and the slower pace helps relationships grow naturally. It’s ideal for those who prefer depth over breadth in their social life and don’t mind a quieter scene.

Nature, Getaways, and Weekend Freedom

Free time matters—and how easily you can recharge on weekends might shape your teaching year more than you expect.

Seoul is surrounded by mountains, has riverside bike paths, and plenty of public parks. The city’s central location means you’re just a KTX ride away from coastal towns, ski resorts, or historical villages. If you like a mix of culture and convenience, Seoul offers endless weekend variety without long travel times.

Busan shines when it comes to nature-meets-city living. Beaches like Haeundae and Gwangalli are local staples, while coastal walks, hot springs, and island day trips are just a bus or ferry away. If weekend recharging means ocean air and seafood with a view, Busan has it built in.

Daegu doesn’t have the beach, but it’s surrounded by mountains and peaceful countryside. Hiking trails, Buddhist temples, and natural hot springs are all within easy reach. It’s less touristy, which makes the getaways feel more authentic and less crowded. Perfect for teachers who value quiet time and cultural immersion on their days off.

Long-Term Viability and Career Growth

Thinking beyond your first year? Some cities support long-term goals better than others.

Seoul is the best option for upward mobility. It’s where you’ll find the most international schools, university jobs, and private tutoring clients. If you’re planning to build a teaching career—or leverage your experience into a future in education—Seoul has the most doors to open.

Busan doesn’t offer quite as many top-tier jobs, but it’s a fantastic long-term base for those seeking comfort, community, and steady teaching roles. Many teachers stay for years without burning out. If your goal is lifestyle balance, not chasing promotions, Busan hits the sweet spot.

Daegu may not offer flashy titles or six-figure jobs, but it’s one of the easiest places to live cheaply, save consistently, and fully immerse in Korean life. It’s a strong choice for teachers who value simplicity, want to improve their Korean, or plan to stay multiple years without stress.

Summary: Choosing the Right City for You

Here’s a quick breakdown to help clarify which city fits your goals:

Seoul might be your best bet if…

• You want maximum career opportunities
• You thrive in a fast-paced, high-energy environment
• You’re looking for a globally connected city with endless things to do

Busan could be right for you if…

• You love the idea of city living with beach access
• You want a strong community and balanced lifestyle
• You’re happy with steady teaching roles and fewer crowds

Daegu may suit you if…

• You value peace, savings, and a strong local identity
• You’re looking for a more immersive Korean experience
• You want to keep life simple, affordable, and sustainable

Wherever you land, South Korea offers one of the most rewarding paths for teachers abroad. Choose the city that fits your rhythm—and build a life that works for you.