Jinju, South Korea

With a population just over 341,545, Jinju is a relatively small city by Korean standards, and its slow annual growth of 0.4% since 1995 reflects a stagnant economy. The local bureaucracy is a persistent headache, with the city only recently merging its urban and rural districts in 1995. On the plus side, Jinju boasts a rich cultural heritage, hosting an array of festivals that celebrate its role in the Imjin War. However, the harsh climate - with long, cold winters - may be a deterrent for some. Overall, Jinju seems best suited for those seeking a quieter, more traditional Korean lifestyle, rather than the bright lights and fast pace of the country's megacities.