Moving to Korea is exciting—but let’s be honest, finding your first home here can be a bit overwhelming.
With unfamiliar terms like jeonse, officetel, and gosiwon, and an entirely new rental system, it’s easy to feel lost.
I’ve seen many of my foreign friends struggle at first, so I decided to put together this guide based on real experience.
Whether you're a student, a digital nomad, or relocating for work, here’s your step-by-step guide to finding a place to live in Korea—from choosing the right neighborhood to signing your lease.
🏡 1. Types of Housing in Korea
✔️ One-room (Studio Apartment)
Perfect for solo living. Usually includes a small kitchen, bathroom, and sometimes comes fully furnished (“officetel-style”).
✔️ Officetel
A modern studio/loft-style apartment, often used as both living and working space. Offers good security and amenities like elevators. Popular among foreigners.
✔️ Apartment (Family-style)
Larger and more expensive, but great for families. Well-secured, clean, and often located near schools and parks.
✔️ Goshiwon
Small, budget-friendly rooms, often with shared kitchens and bathrooms. Suitable for short-term stays or ultra-budget living.
✔️ Share House
Popular for those who want a social experience and lower rent. You’ll have your own room but share kitchen and living areas.
💰 2. Korean Rental Systems: Monthly Rent vs. Jeonse vs. Ban-Jeonse
Korea’s rental system is different from what you might be used to.
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Monthly Rent (Wolse): Deposit + monthly payment. Most common for foreigners.
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Jeonse: No monthly rent, but a large lump-sum deposit is required (can be 50,000–300,000 USD).
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Ban-Jeonse: A hybrid: moderate deposit + small monthly rent.
💡 Most foreigners prefer monthly rent or ban-jeonse due to lower upfront costs.
📍 3. Best Areas in Seoul for Foreigners to Live
Here are some areas my international friends love:
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Itaewon / Hannam-dong – International vibe, English-friendly, diverse food options
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Hongdae / Yeonnam-dong – Trendy, youthful, close to universities
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Jamsil / Songpa-gu – Clean, family-friendly, close to the Han River
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Gangnam / Yeoksam – Business hub, top infrastructure, but pricey
✨ Tip: Public transport in Seoul is amazing, so don’t worry too much about long commutes.
🔍 4. Where to Find Listings (Apps & Websites)
🇰🇷 Korean-language platforms:
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Zigbang (직방)
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Dabang (다방)
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Naver Real Estate (네이버 부동산)
These are the most used in Korea. Some basic Korean helps, but layout is intuitive.
🌍 English-friendly platforms:
Craigslist Seoul (for short-term options)
💬 Many English-speaking agents also advertise on expat Facebook groups!
📝 5. What to Check Before Signing a Contract
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✔️ English version of the lease (ask if unsure)
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✔️ Breakdown of deposit / rent / utilities / maintenance fees
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✔️ Is Wi-Fi included? Heating system?
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✔️ Take photos of the room condition before moving in
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✔️ Get a “registered contract” with a confirmed date (확정일자) at the local office to protect your deposit
🔧 6. What Is ‘Maintenance Fee’ in Korea?
This monthly fee usually covers:
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Building maintenance, cleaning, security, elevator
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Sometimes includes water or heating (but not always!)
⚠️ Ask upfront what’s included in your rent and what’s not.
Internet, gas, and electricity are usually extra.
🔥 7. Check the Heating System!
Korea gets very cold in winter, so make sure:
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Heating works properly (test the boiler!)
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Ask if it’s individual or central heating
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Old boilers = higher bills
🔇 8. Noise Sensitivity: Be Mindful of Korean Apartment Culture
Koreans value peace and quiet at home. You may want to avoid:
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Loud music at night
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Stomping or dragging furniture
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Barking dogs (some buildings restrict pets!)
🐾 9. Have a Pet? Check Before Signing!
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Not all apartments allow pets
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Always ask explicitly and request written confirmation in your lease
👯 10. Moving in With a Roommate? Read This First
If sharing a place with a friend:
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Decide whose name is on the contract
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Agree on cost-splitting rules
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Plan what happens if someone moves out early
📦 11. Moving Checklist for Foreigners in Korea
Before Moving In:
☐ Get your alien registration card or passport ready
☐ Confirm deposit, rent, and move-in date
☐ Ask about utility setup
☐ Take photos of existing damage
On Moving Day:
☐ Bring cleaning supplies
☐ Check electricity/water/gas meters
☐ Find trash/recycling area in the building
After Moving In:
☐ Register your address at the local community center
☐ Apply for the “contract confirmation date” (확정일자)
☐ Set up utilities and Wi-Fi
✅ Final Thoughts
Finding a home in a new country isn’t easy, but once you get through the process, it feels like such a victory.
Don’t be afraid to ask questions, compare options, and take your time.
I hope this guide helps make your house-hunting journey in Korea a little smoother and less stressful.
