Living in Busan as a Foreigner: Best Housing Options in 2025
Why Is Busan the Ideal City for Long-Term Foreign Residents?
Busan is South Korea’s vibrant second city and a modern global lifestyle hub, renowned for its energetic coastal vibes, international communities, stunning beaches (Haeundae, Gwangalli, Songdo), excellent public transit, and cost-effective living.
Urban Culture & Convenience:
A magnet for exchange students, working holiday makers, digital nomads, business professionals, and expats from around the world.Atmosphere:
A seamless blend of traditional markets, fishing towns, and city skylines—perfect for work-life balance and the workation trend.Effortless Transportation:
KTX trains, international ferries, Gimhae Airport, and a top-rated subway system make navigating Busan simple and fast.Accommodation Choices:
Compared to Seoul, Busan offers more spacious rooms, panoramic views, and a rich selection of affordable, quality rentals.Real Resident Testimony:
“A year in Busan let me enjoy both beach life and dynamic city living—all without breaking my budget!”
For Anyone Seeking Long-Term Housing in Busan
Total privacy, even when living solo
Global networking and workation infrastructure—all in one place
Full access to beaches, downtown amenities, transport, and daily conveniences
Stay Korea hand-selects the five best verified long-term accommodations in Busan—real listings, photos, and resident-approved quality for your peace of mind.
Types of Long-Term Housing in Busan
In Busan, you can find a wide variety of accommodation options suitable for solo foreigners staying for 1–12 months or more.
Goshiwon (고시원)
Affordable, compact solo housing across central Busan, university areas, and even beachfront neighborhoods.
- No or Low Deposit – Perfect for budget-conscious residents
- Move-in Anytime, Extend Daily – Great for short-to-mid stays
- Free Food Basics – Many offer free rice, ramen, and kimchi
- Women-Only Options Available – Safe, secure options for solo travelers
- Beachfront Locations Exist – Rare goshiwons near Haeundae & Gwangalli offer sea views
Busan goshiwons offer a more relaxed layout than Seoul, often with lower monthly rent and rare perks like oceanfront access. They’re ideal for students, budget travelers, and short-term expats looking for flexibility and convenience.
Apartment / Villa Housing
Spacious, self-contained living for families, couples, or long-term foreign residents in Busan.
- Private Kitchen & Bathroom – Full independence and comfort
- Quiet, Residential Layout – Many villa units offer entire-floor privacy
- Ideal for Long-Term Stay – Monthly or yearly lease options
- Fully Furnished Units Available – Ready-to-live options with flexible terms
- Great for Families or Remote Workers – Peaceful space, personal freedom
Compared to studios or officetels, apartments and villas in Busan offer larger square footage and a homey feel—perfect for those seeking stability, privacy, and a true residential experience.
👉 Looking for a deeper dive into Seoul goshiwon options and how they differ from Busan?
Check out our full guide here
Recommended Stay Korea Verified Listings in Busan
Explore 5 handpicked accommodations in Busan, exclusively verified by Stay Korea. Each property is inspected, foreigner-friendly, and ready for long-term stays—from affordable goshiwon to spacious apartments.
Premium Independent Livingtel in Downtown Busan
- Location: Central Busan—subway, buses, business, and shopping at your doorstep
Room & Features:
Fully furnished (bed, desk, wardrobe, AC, refrigerator, Wi-Fi)
Private bathroom and kitchen; some rooms with in-unit laundry
Outstanding soundproofing for optimal privacy
Shared Amenities & Security:
24/7 CCTV, keycard access, dedicated manager on-site
Immaculately maintained common kitchen, lounge, laundry, storage
Lease & Move-In:
Move-in ready, flexible from 1 week to 1 year
Utilities included, English/Korean support available
Best For: Foreign professionals, digital nomads, and students wanting true independence, great community, and city-center convenience
Practical, Affordable Mini Studios in the Heart of Busan
Location: Central, walkable to transport, universities, shops, dining
Room & Features:
Compact studio, fully equipped (bed, desk, wardrobe, AC, fridge, microwave, Wi-Fi)
Private bathroom and kitchenette; modern decor
Optional washer; designed for light and ventilation
Shared Amenities & Security:
24/7 CCTV, keycard access, communal laundry
Clean, quiet common spaces
Lease & Move-In:
Immediate move-in, terms from 1 month to 1 year
Utilities/internet included; English and Korean support
Best For: Students, trainees, short-term visitors, and working holiday makers seeking affordable independence and easy city access
Women-Only, Private Studios Steps from Gwangalli Beach
Location: Moments from Gwangalli Beach; near cafes, transit, and shopping
Room & Features:
Secure, private studios for women; en-suite, large windows, smart locks, modern décor
Some with mini kitchen, all bright and stylish
Shared Amenities & Security:
Strict access, 24/7 CCTV, cozy social lounge
Regular networking/social events just for residents
Lease & Move-In:
Short and long-term contracts; ultra-clean and safe
Best For: Female expats, interns, foreign students seeking privacy, security, and a vibrant women’s community near the beach
Affordable, Flexible Goshitel Near Haeundae Beach
Location: 5–7 minutes’ walk from Haeundae Beach; excellent access to transit, food, and shopping
Room & Features:
Studio and traditional rooms; private bath, bed, desk, wardrobe, some with mini fridge
Shared Amenities & Security:
Well-kept kitchen, laundry, high-speed Wi-Fi
24/7 CCTV, on-site management
Lease & Move-In:
From 1 week to 1 year; open to all foreigners, students, working holiday residents
Best For: Long-term students and budget-minded travelers who want city and beach living without sacrificing privacy
Modern Apartment: Private & Big Rooms
Location: Downtown, near major transport, cafes, and business clusters
Room & Features:
Private en-suite rooms, fully furnished, AC, fast Wi-Fi
lounges, kitchen, washing machine, working spaces
Security:
High security with smart locks and CCTV
- Two or more people—cheaper than Seoul. Mixed-gender stays allowed.
Lease & Move-In:
Ultra-flexible: monthly, or longer; cleaning and full service included
Best For: Expats, interns, digital nomads
Why Choose Stay Korea?
100% Real, Verified Listings: Every property is professionally inspected and photographed, with real-time availability and reviews
Bilingual, Personalized Support: 1:1 English, Korean (and Chinese) guidance for all steps—consultation, viewing, contract, and moving in
Modern, Safe, Flexible: Optimal security, thorough cleaning, flexible lease terms, and comprehensive aftercare for any stay length
No-Stress Experience: From matching you to the right room to handling paperwork and move-in, Stay Korea makes your Busan adventure simple and secure
Healthy Global Community: Meet locals and internationals in curated communities—network, collaborate, and thrive in Korea’s best coastal city
Busan long-term accommodation for foreigners, livingtel Busan, coliving in Busan, verified rental, premium studio, and women-only apartments—all keywords naturally integrated throughout for top search visibility.
With Stay Korea, your journey to a new, comfortable, and exciting life in Busan starts smarter and smoother!
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