FIRE Number for Seoul, South Korea

A studio or small 1-bedroom officetel in Mapo-gu, Seodaemun, or outer Gangnam. Eating mostly at street food stalls and kimbap shops, with Korean BBQ once or twice a week at local spots. Getting around on Seoul's excellent metro and bus system. Korea's National Health Insurance provides strong coverage at very low cost. The apartment will be small, but the transit, food, and internet are genuinely world-class. English is moderate — expect some friction with daily errands.

A large apartment in Gangnam, Seocho, or a luxury officetel in Yongsan. Regular dining at Michelin-starred restaurants, premium Korean BBQ, and omakase sushi. An owned or leased car for daily use with regular KTX travel. Premium private health insurance with VIP access at Samsung Medical Center or Asan. Golf, skiing in Pyeongchang, and luxury spa retreats as regular activities. This is a genuinely affluent lifestyle in Seoul, where high-end dining rivals Tokyo at lower prices.

A penthouse in Hannam The Hill or a luxury villa in UN Village overlooking the Han River. A housekeeper, a cook a few times a week, a personal assistant, and a dedicated driver. First-class international flights. VIP concierge medicine at JCI-accredited hospitals with global coverage. Regular fine dining and travel as routine. Seoul is a major, expensive city, so this budget delivers a very high quality of life rather than a feeling of limitless wealth — but the city's safety, technology, and cultural depth make it a strong base.