Seoul ranked ninth in Time Out's "Best Cities in the World 2026," the British global lifestyle publication announced.
According to Time Out on the 15th, Seoul jumped 33 spots from last year's 42nd place to enter the top 10. Melbourne, Australia claimed the top position, followed by Shanghai, Edinburgh, London, and New York in second through fifth places. Cape Town ranked sixth, Mexico City seventh, Bangkok eighth, Seoul ninth, and Tokyo tenth. Among Asian cities, Shanghai led, with Bangkok ranking one spot above Seoul and Tokyo following immediately behind.
Time Out cited Seoul's year-round variety of activities and vibrant lifestyle as key strengths. The publication noted that Seoul has emerged as a global "bread capital" amid a baking boom fueled by television programs. Distinctive cafes, dessert culture, and entertainment including K-pop, concerts, and exhibitions were also mentioned as competitive factors. Time Out designated 2026 as Korea's "Year of Art," highlighting seven major cultural facilities set to open, with the Centre Pompidou's May opening at the 63 Building as the centerpiece.
In the survey, 79% of Seoul respondents said "the city makes me happy," and the city tied for third place in Time Out's expert evaluation.
The survey, marking its 10th anniversary this year, covered 150 major cities worldwide. Researchers surveyed approximately 24,000 local residents in 42 languages and compiled assessments from about 100 urban experts, analyzing 44 categories including food, nightlife, cultural activities, affordability, and happiness. This year's evaluation expanded to include intimate aspects of urban life such as love, romance, and community bonds.
Seoul has consistently ranked high in major global city assessments, including sixth place among 48 cities in the Global Power City Index published by Japan's Mori Memorial Foundation last year. Seoul Mayor Oh Se-hoon stated: "We will continue to discover and develop city infrastructure and cultural and tourism content to build a 'hexagonal city' equipped with both hardware and software power."