🎓 How International Students Are Finding Housing in Korea

Studying abroad in Korea is exciting, but there’s one thing that trips up nearly every international student: finding a place to live.

From unfamiliar housing types to confusing contracts and high deposits, navigating the Korean rental market can feel overwhelming. Whether you’re moving to Seoul for language school, undergrad, or a master’s program, here’s how students are finding housing that fits their needs and budget.

🏠 What housing options are available for international students?

Let’s break down the most common types of housing international students in Korea choose:

1. Goshiwon (고시원)

Tiny private rooms typically 3-5 square meters in size. These are affordable (300–500k KRW/month) and often don’t require large deposits. You get a small bed, desk, sometimes a private bathroom, and access to shared kitchens. Ideal for short stays or budget-conscious students. However, they can feel cramped and lack privacy.

2. Studio Apartments (원룸)

These are one-room units with a small kitchen and bathroom, suitable for longer stays and students seeking independence. Costs range from 500,000 to 1.2 million KRW/month, depending on the area. They usually require a deposit (보증금) of 5 to 10 million KRW.

3. Shared Housing (쉐어하우스)

Growing in popularity, shared homes offer a room in a larger apartment or house with shared living spaces. You get more space and social interaction at a lower cost. These are often managed by companies catering to foreigners, which means English support and flexible terms.

4. University Dormitories

Dorms are cheaper but harder to get into and may have strict curfews or rules. Not all schools offer dorm spots to international students, and most only offer them in the first semester.

📍 Where do most international students live in Seoul?

Some neighborhoods are naturally more student-friendly because of their proximity to universities, affordable food, and great public transit. Here are a few favorites:

• Sinchon & Ewha – close to Yonsei, Sogang, Ewha, and Hongik; packed with cafes, cheap eats, and subway Line 2

• Hongdae – vibrant, artsy, and social; ideal for younger students and creatives

• Anam & Sungshin – Korea University, Sungshin Women’s University

• Cheongnyangni – underrated and cheaper, with good transit access

• Hoegi & Hankuk Univ. of Foreign Studies area – quiet, affordable, student-heavy

• Hapjeong & Mangwon – slightly more residential but trendy

• Jamsil & Songpa – for those studying in southeastern Seoul (e.g., Konkuk or Kyunghee)

What if I need help with everything?

You’re not alone. Many students:

• Aren’t sure if they’re getting scammed

• Can’t read the contract

• Don’t know how to transfer money from abroad

• Don’t want to spend hours searching listings they can’t understand

That’s why we created Settle in Korea.Want to volunteer, co-organize, or design race-day tees? We’re looking for help across logistics, hydration stations, and media.

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