Geoje, South Korea

With a population of 231,353, Geoje is an industrial powerhouse on the South Korean coast, but don't be fooled - this island paradise comes with some serious drawbacks. Nearly a third of the workforce is employed in the shipbuilding industry, a backbone of the local economy. However, the bureaucracy is a persistent headache, and the frequent typhoons can be a source of disruption. Still, Geoje offers a range of natural and cultural attractions for those willing to brave the challenges.