How to Find Accommodation in Korea: A Practical Guide for Foreign Residents
Moving to Korea is exciting—but finding a place to live can quickly become overwhelming. Between unfamiliar housing systems, large upfront deposits, and language barriers, many foreigners feel lost during their first housing search.
If you’ve just arrived and don’t know where to start, you’re not alone. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about finding accommodation in Korea, including short-term options, sharehouses, and useful apps.
Understanding the Korean Housing System
1. Jeonse (Key Deposit System)
Jeonse is a unique Korean system where you pay a large lump-sum deposit and live rent-free for 2 years.
- No monthly rent
- Deposit is returned at the end
- Requires significant upfront capital
2. Monthly Rent (Wolse)
This is the most common option for foreigners.
- Deposit: ₩5,000,000 – ₩20,000,000
- Monthly rent: ₩400,000 – ₩1,500,000+
3. Goshiwon
Small, affordable rooms with shared facilities.
- ₩250,000 – ₩600,000/month
- Utilities often included
- Very limited space
4. Officetel
Modern studio apartments popular among foreigners.
Short-Term Accommodation Options
If you’re staying in Korea for a short period, short-term housing is often the best choice. These options avoid large deposits and long contracts.
1. Airbnb
- Fully furnished apartments
- No large deposit
- Flexible duration
Example: Many newcomers stay in Airbnb for a few weeks while searching for long-term housing.
2. SamSamM2 (33m²)
- Korean short-term rental platform
- Often cheaper than Airbnb for monthly stays
- More local-style listings
Shared Housing (Sharehouses)
Sharehouses are a popular option for students and young professionals. You rent a private room and share common areas like the kitchen and living room.
Why Choose a Sharehouse?
- Lower deposit (₩500,000 – ₩2,000,000)
- Monthly rent: ₩400,000 – ₩900,000
- Utilities often included
- Great for social interaction
Real-life example: Many international students live in sharehouses near university areas like Hongdae or Sinchon.
Things to Check
- House rules
- Number of roommates
- Bathroom sharing
- Guest policies
Online Real Estate Apps
Before visiting real estate offices, you can browse listings online.
1. Zigbang
- Map-based apartment search
- Wide variety of listings
2. Dabang
- Similar to Zigbang
- Useful for price comparison
Important: Listings may not always be accurate. Always confirm with a real estate agent.
Step-by-Step: How to Find Housing
Step 1: Set Your Budget
- Deposit
- Monthly rent
- Maintenance fees
Step 2: Choose Location
- Near subway
- Safe neighborhood
- Convenient facilities
Step 3: Visit Real Estate Agents
Walk into a local agency and explain your needs.
Step 4: Visit Apartments
- Check mold, noise, water pressure
- Visit multiple places
Step 5: Sign the Contract
- Review carefully
- Confirm terms and dates
Cost Breakdown
- Deposit: ₩5M – ₩50M+
- Rent: ₩400K – ₩1.5M+
- Maintenance: ₩50K – ₩200K
- Agent fee: ₩100K – ₩500K+
Required Documents
- Passport
- Alien Registration Card (ARC)
- Proof of income
- Bank statement
Common Mistakes
- Not understanding deposit system
- Skipping apartment visits
- Ignoring maintenance fees
- Not checking contracts
- Choosing only based on price
Cultural Tips
- Keep noise levels low
- Remove shoes indoors
- Follow strict recycling rules
- Learn how floor heating works
Useful Korean Words
- Deposit – Bojeunggeum (보증금)
- Monthly Rent – Wolse (월세)
- Maintenance Fee – Gwanlibi (관리비)
- Real Estate – Budongsan (부동산)
- Contract – Gyeyak (계약)
FAQ
1. Can foreigners rent easily?
Yes, especially with an ARC and stable income.
2. Can I rent without a deposit?
Rare, but possible with short-term options.
3. How long are contracts?
Usually 1–2 years.
4. Can I negotiate rent?
Sometimes, especially with higher deposits.
5. What is included in maintenance fees?
Water, cleaning, and security.
Conclusion
Finding accommodation in Korea may seem difficult at first, but with the right knowledge, it becomes much easier. Start with short-term housing if needed, explore sharehouses, use apps like Zigbang and Dabang, and work with local real estate agents.
Take your time, compare options, and always check details carefully. With patience and preparation, you’ll find a place that truly feels like home in Korea.