Relocate IndexJapan vs South Korea for Relocation 2026
Japan scores 66.8 overall vs South Korea's 67.4. Japan leads on rule of law, safety, warmth, school culture, healthcare, climate, religious freedom. South Korea leads on purchasing power, infrastructure, english proficiency.
Both countries are in East Asia. See all countries in East Asia.
Score comparison
| Dimension | Japan | South Korea | Delta |
|---|---|---|---|
| Purchasing Power | 58 | 63 | -5 |
| Rule of Law | 81 | 73 | +8 |
| Safety | 89 | 80 | +8 |
| Warmth | 38 | 31 | +6 |
| School Culture | 61 | 59 | +1 |
| Healthcare | 80 | 80 | +0 |
| Infrastructure | 75 | 86 | -11 |
| Climate | 87 | 78 | +10 |
| Religious Freedom | 81 | 75 | +6 |
| English Proficiency | 18 | 49 | -30 |
Frequently asked questions
Is Japan or South Korea better for relocation?
South Korea scores 67.4 overall compared to Japan's 66.8 across 10 relocation dimensions. South Korea leads on 3 dimensions while Japan leads on 7.
Which is safer, Japan or South Korea?
Japan scores higher on safety: Japan 89 vs South Korea 80, based on homicide rates (UNODC) and residents' crime reports (Numbeo).
What is the biggest difference between Japan and South Korea?
The largest gap is in english proficiency: South Korea scores 30 points higher (49 vs 18).