Finding an Apartment

LIVING IN KOREA

Unless you're buying the place you're planning to stay at, there are two main ways of renting an apartment.

  • 월세(wolse) - Paying a smaller deposit but a higher monthly fee

  • 전세(jeonse) - Paying a larger deposit and a lower monthly fee

When scouting an area for the price range you're after, it is most efficient to check through apps like Zigbang(직방) or Dabang(다방). Here you can set your preferred price range and see all available rooms on a map. These are great for getting an idea of what you're looking for, but always check any potential rooms in person before signing anything.

  • 직방

  • 다방

When looking in person, you want to visit a real estate agency (부동산) in the area of where you want to live. They will then show you in person what is available depending on what you're after.

Some of the most common choices among students are:

  • 원룸/두룸 - One or two room studios

  • 고시원 - Small room with only bed,desk and maybe a bathroom. Relatively cheap but very small (avoid if possible)

If you're trying to save money while studying, the dormitory will probably be the best option.

GKS students require TOPIK level 3 or above to be able to live outside campus during the Korean course, otherwise it is mandatory to live at the school dormitory.