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Housing Types
Students in Korea typically choose between dorms, one-rooms (μλ£Έ), goshiwons (κ³ μμ), or shared housing β each with very different trade-offs.
- βΈUniversity dorms: Easiest and safest option for your first semester. Apply early β spots fill up fast, especially at competitive schools.
- βΈOne-room apartments (μλ£Έ): Your own private studio, usually 10β20γ‘. Most common choice for students after their first year. Typically requires a deposit of 1,000,000β5,000,000 KRW plus monthly rent of 300,000β600,000 KRW depending on location.
- βΈOfficetel (μ€νΌμ€ν ): A mix between a residential apartment and an office space. More expensive, but often newer and better equipped. Usually needs a higher deposit.
- βΈGoshiwon (κ³ μμ): Very small private rooms (often just a bed and desk) in a shared building with communal bathrooms and sometimes kitchens. Cheapest option β around 200,000β400,000 KRW/month β but limited space and privacy.
- βΈShared housing (μμ΄νμ°μ€): Rent a room in a shared apartment. Cheaper than a private one-room; often comes with furnished common areas. Popular among students wanting a social environment.
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Do not choose housing based on price alone. Factor in commute time, safety of the neighborhood, and building condition before deciding.