Where do the affluent in South Korea reside? From the trendy Cheongdam-dong neighbourhood to the prestigious Seongbuk-dong area, these are some of the most covetable addresses in Seoul; you might just become neighbours with your favourite Korean celebrities in these districts!
In South Korea, owning a property—especially in a highly sought-after area in Seoul, the country’s bustling capital—is an indication of your material success in life. The South Korean metropolis is made up of 25 districts, which have a suffix of -gu; each district is further subdivided into neighbourhoods, which often have a suffix of -dong as an indication.
While each district and neighbourhood boasts its individual charm and history, some are more highly regarded than others. These prestigious neighbourhoods are where the rich—including popular Korean celebrities—flock to. If you’re seeking to make an investment in the country’s most exclusive areas, or simply desiring to find out where you can perhaps spot your favourite stars, we’ve rounded up some of the most prosperous neighbourhoods to know.
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1. Cheongdam-dong in Gangnam district
Nicknamed the Beverly Hills of South Korea, Seoul’s Gangnam district gained even more recognition after Korean singer Psy’s international hit Gangnam Style was released in 2012. The Cheongdam-dong neighbourhood is a particularly affluent area that’s home to a number of celebrities and tycoons.
Boasting some of the most expensive real estate in the country, the upscale neighbourhood also features a stretch of luxury fashion boutiques, high-end restaurants and bars, as well as galleries and beauty salons. Celebrities such as K-pop soloist and actress IU reportedly spent US$11.7 million for a penthouse flat in the neighbourhood.
Cheongdam-dong is also home to the headquarters of multiple K-pop management companies, including SM Entertainment and Cube Entertainment.
