Retire in South Korea vs France: The 2026 Freedom Comparison

Geo-arbitrage is the strategy of earning a strong currency (like USD or EUR) while living in a country with a lower cost of living. In 2026, this is the fastest way to achieve FIRE, allowing you to reduce expenses by 40-60% without lowering your quality of life.

The Freedom Clock calculates your exact 'Freedom Date' based on your savings, income, and the real-time cost of living in your target country. It accounts for 2026 inflation rates and tax laws to give you a precise timeline for early retirement.

Applicants must earn at least double Korea’s GNI per capita from the previous year, which in 2026 is approximately $70,000 USD (₩100M) annually.

The visa is granted for 1 year and can be renewed for an additional year, allowing a maximum stay of 2 years.

The pilot program primarily targets employees of foreign companies; freelancers must provide extensive proof of contracts and 1+ years in the industry.

Yes, South Korea has a world-class healthcare system. Visa holders must have private insurance covering at least ₩100 million for hospital treatment.

It is one of the safest countries globally with very low crime rates. Most public areas are monitored, and walking alone at night is common.

Seoul consistently ranks as having the fastest internet in the world, with fiber and 5G availability nearly everywhere.

No, you are strictly prohibited from local profit-making activities or being hired by a Korean entity.

Once arrived, you must register for an Alien Registration Card (ARC) to access local services like banking and phone plans.

English is common in business and major areas of Seoul, but learning Hangeul and basic phrases is essential for daily life elsewhere.

A 1-bedroom in central Seoul (like Gangnam or Mapo) averages $800–$1,300 USD, often requiring a high 'Key Money' deposit.

A tax on net real estate assets exceeding €1.3 million. Financial assets (stocks/cash) are excluded from this tax.

The 'Prélèvement Forfaitaire Unique' is a flat 30% tax on most capital gains, dividends, and interest.

If you spend 183+ days in France, or if your primary 'center of economic interest' is in France, you are a tax resident.

After 3 months of residency (PUMA), expats can join the public healthcare system; supplemental 'mutuelle' insurance is highly recommended.

Yes, there are no restrictions on foreigners buying real estate in France.

Generally safe, but large cities have issues with petty crime (scams/pickpockets); rural France is exceptionally safe.

Yes. While younger people in Paris speak English, all official business and daily life in the provinces require French.

For the IFI wealth tax, you can reduce the taxable value of your primary residence in France by 30%.

Very affordable; a couple can live a high-quality life in regions like Limousin or Auvergne for under €2,500/month.

A Long-Stay Visa that acts as a residence permit; it's the standard route for retirees and remote workers.