One of the first questions students preparing to study in Korea ask is:
“Where should I live?”
Korea offers a wide range of housing options, and the right choice depends on your budget, length of stay, and lifestyle preferences.
In this guide, we will explain the differences between apartments, multi-family houses (villas), studio apartments, goshiwons, and goshitels, as well as why many international students are choosing goshiwons and goshitels in recent years.
Apartment
Apartments are the most common type of housing in Korea. They are usually part of large residential complexes with strong security and well-managed facilities.
✔ Features
Security office and CCTV surveillance
Elevators and parking facilities
Comfortable and well-maintained environment
Relatively high deposit and monthly rent
💰 Average Cost (Seoul 기준)
Deposit: 10+ million KRW
Monthly rent: 1,000,000 KRW or more (varies by location)
📌 For international students living alone, the initial cost can be quite high.
Multi-family House (Villa)
Multi-family houses are small residential buildings, typically 2–4 stories tall. In Korea, they are commonly called “villas.”
✔ Features
Lower monthly rent than apartments
Relatively smaller deposits
Often no elevator
Management quality varies by building
📌 Suitable for students who want a private space while keeping costs lower.
Studio Apartment (One-room)
A studio apartment combines the bedroom, kitchen, and living space into one room. This is the most popular housing type among Korean university students and single residents.
✔ Features
Fully private living space
Usually a one-year contract
Utilities paid separately
Many options near universities
💰 Average Cost
Deposit: 5–10 million KRW or more
Monthly rent: 400,000–700,000 KRW
📌 A stable choice if you plan to stay in Korea for one year or longer.
Goshiwon
Goshiwons were originally designed as small rooms for students preparing for exams. Today, they are widely used as short-term housing for international students.
✔ Features
Small private room (approximately 6–13 m²)
Bed, desk, and mini refrigerator included
Shared kitchen and laundry facilities
Utilities included
Little to no deposit required
💰 Average Monthly Rent
250,000–500,000 KRW
📌 A budget-friendly option for students who have just arrived in Korea.
Goshitel
A goshitel is an upgraded version of a goshiwon.
Many rooms include a private bathroom, which is the main difference.
✔ Features
Many rooms include a private bathroom
Recently renovated and cleaner facilities
Monthly contracts available
Utilities included
📌 One of the most popular housing options among international students today.
Why Do International Students Choose Goshiwons and Goshitels?
When searching for “student housing in Korea,” goshiwons and goshitels are frequently recommended. Here’s why:
1️⃣ Lower Initial Costs
Apartments and studio apartments require high deposits, while goshiwons usually require little to none.
2️⃣ Flexible Short-Term Contracts
Contracts can match language program terms (3–6 months).
3️⃣ Utilities Included
Electricity, water, and internet are typically included in the rent, making budgeting easier.
4️⃣ No Furniture Purchases Needed
Basic furniture is provided, reducing moving costs.
5️⃣ Convenient Locations
Most are located near universities, making commuting easy.
Choosing accommodation is one of the most important decisions when preparing to study in Korea.
Apartments, villas, studio apartments, goshiwons, and goshitels each differ significantly in terms of cost, contract length, and living convenience.
Recently, many international students prefer goshiwons and goshitels because they require lower deposits, allow short-term contracts, and include utilities in the rent.
However, there is no single “right” choice for everyone.
It is important to carefully consider your length of stay, budget, and personal lifestyle before deciding.
Your first home in Korea is not just a room — it is the space that will support your new beginning.
Compare your options carefully, check safety conditions, and choose wisely.
The right accommodation will make your study experience in Korea more stable, comfortable, and enjoyable.