🇰🇷 Seoul · KRW salary guide
Is ₩12,000,000 enough in Seoul?
A full breakdown of whether ₩12,000,000/month covers the cost of living in Seoul — including take-home pay after tax, monthly costs, your savings rate, and how long until financial independence.
💡 At a 69% savings rate, you could reach financial independence in approximately 8 years — retiring with a portfolio of ₩870,000,000 covering all your Seoul costs indefinitely at a 4% withdrawal rate. IRP + ISA accounts for tax benefits. Kiwoom Securities or Samsung Securities for ETF investing.
Key facts about Seoul
Growing FIRE movement (파이어족). Strong tech and entertainment industry salaries. High housing costs in central Seoul are the main headwind.
Tax situation
Income tax + local tax effective roughly 22% for mid-range. National Pension (NPS) on top.
Best investment accounts
IRP + ISA accounts for tax benefits. Kiwoom Securities or Samsung Securities for ETF investing.
Your path to financial independence in Seoul
FIRE number for SeoulBased on average costs of ₩2900000/month, your financial independence number is ₩870,000,000 — the portfolio that covers your costs indefinitely at a 4% annual withdrawal.