🏫 University Dormitories

• What you get: Shared rooms (commonly 2–4 beds), security, dining halls, study lounges, and laundry facilities.
• Why choose it: Affordable, safe, and right on campus with a built-in community.
• Trade-offs: Limited privacy, visitor rules, fixed application periods.
• Costs (example): At some universities, a semester-long single room may cost around ₩2.4M–₩2.6M (about 4 months, including utilities).
• Best for: Exchange or degree students who want structure and low cost.

🛏️ Goshiwons (고시원)

• What you get: A small private room with bed, desk, and storage. Shared kitchen and bathroom. Utilities usually included; some provide free rice or kimchi.
• Why choose it: Extremely low upfront cost, no deposit, flexible weekly or monthly contracts, immediate move-in.
• Trade-offs: Very small rooms, thin walls, variable maintenance, little English support.
• Best for: Short stays, exam prep, or anyone on a tight budget.

🍚 Hasukjibs & 🏡 Sharehouses

• Hasukjib (하숙집): A boarding house that often provides meals. Rooms are small but slightly larger than goshiwons. Good for language students wanting convenience.
• Sharehouse (쉐어하우스): Private bedroom + shared kitchen/living room, usually furnished, with utilities included. Many houses are international-friendly and provide weekly cleaning.
• Why choose it: Social life + affordable cost + predictable bills.
• Trade-offs: Shared facilities, compatibility with housemates.
• Best for: Students and young professionals who value community.

🏠 Studios & Officetels (원룸/오피스텔)

• Studio (원룸): Private unit with kitchen and bathroom, often semi-furnished.
• Officetel (오피스텔): A mixed-use building type combining office and residential functions, popular with singles and professionals.
• Why choose it: Full privacy, independence, ability to cook and live on your own schedule.
• Trade-offs: Higher monthly rent and deposit, contracts often 6–12 months, more paperwork.
• Typical cost: Studios in Seoul average ₩700k–₩1.2M+ monthly, plus a deposit of 1–2 months’ rent or more.
• Best for: Professionals, couples, or long-term residents.

🏢 Company Residences & Serviced Apartments

• What you get: Dorm-style or serviced apartments arranged by employers, often with kitchenettes and cleaning services.
• Why choose it: Minimal paperwork, low cost, stable management.
• Trade-offs: Only available through certain employers; tied to job and location.
• Best for: Interns, corporate transferees, and expats with HR support.

💰 Typical Cost Ranges (2025)

• Dormitory: ₩200k–₩450k per month (semester billing)
• Goshiwon: ₩300k–₩500k per month (utilities included, no deposit)
• Hasukjib: ₩400k–₩700k per month (often includes meals)
• Sharehouse: ₩400k–₩900k per month (utilities included, small deposit)
• Studio/Officetel: ₩700k–₩1.2M+ per month (deposit usually 1–2 months’ rent)
• Company residence: Often subsidized or free, depending on employer

📝 Application Timing & Documents

• Dorms: Apply 6–10 weeks before semester through your university’s international office.
• Goshiwon/Sharehouse: Can be arranged 1–4 weeks before move-in; some allow same-week entry.
• Studios/Officetels: Allow 2–4 weeks for viewings, negotiation, and contract signing.
• Company housing: Ask HR as soon as you accept an offer.

Common documents: Passport, visa/ARC (or pending), student ID or employment proof, Korean phone number, and sometimes a local bank account.

⚠️ Hidden Costs to Check

• Management fees (관리비): Ask what’s included—sometimes water, internet, or heating.
• Utilities: Goshiwons/sharehouses often include them, but studios usually don’t.
• Furniture & appliances: Sharehouses and goshiwons are usually furnished; studios vary.
• Noise & insulation: Older buildings may be noisy—inspect before signing.
• Deposit refund terms: Always confirm conditions in writing.

✅ Korea offers a wide range of housing options, from ultra-budget goshiwons to modern officetels. The best choice depends on your budget, lifestyle, and how long you plan to stay. Compare costs, check contracts carefully, and visit in person when possible—you’ll avoid most of the common mistakes new arrivals make.