Where to Live In Korea
I know that many of you are interested in visiting Korea for a while, have a long trip, or even living in Korea for a long period of time. I remember that I was having a rough days looking for right place in California as an international student. As I know a bit better than those of you who plan to visit Korea for a long period of time, please feel free to scroll down and ask any questions regarding this post :) (1) Korean Style Villa This is cheaper (than apartments), low level (usually under 5th floor) apartment in Korea. These kind of apartments are concentrated near by colleges, and cities with many students. There are people who purchase this apartment, but normally people rent this place instead because it's not a perfect place to live for a long period of time. This place is slightly expensive in deposit than Gositel as it is a private place. (2) Gositel If you are willing to stay in Korea with a short budget, then you can choose this place. This place is usually located in the populated areas with many students. This place can be rented with low deposit + low rent fees. Usually around $5000-$10,000 depost/$200-300 rent fees. But you need to be aware that this place isn't a private place. There's always a secretary that will govern over your floor.. and you share bathroom, kitchen, and all other facilities. 3. Studio (Called "One Room" in Korea) --> You ask the landlords or real estate and say "Hi, I would like to see one rooms!" Studios are mostly located in the villas, or in houses where the landlords rent out their places. When it is located in the villas, it's usually private places, while it is not when it's located in the houses. Studios are usually built in because many students, foreign workers, and international students live for a short period of time without any belongings. I think it's a bit more pricy than gositel - maybe similar range as the villas. It really depends on the size and location. (3) Apartments Unlike other big western countries, most capital cities have apartments. Living in houses is just too luxurious at least in Korea - HAHA. I don't think you will be living in apartments while you travel or stay as a worker in Korea...... or even as a student or whatever. Especially, the apartments in the capital cities have surging prices (like every day..?) so It's not a good way to live in the apartments. Monthly rental fees are around $500-5000 (it varies on how much deposit you paid). Usually, if you pay around $100,000 deposit, the rental fee is around $300-500. (4) Officetel According to the Wikipeida, an officetel (Korean: 오피스텔, a portmanteau of 'office' and 'hotel'), is a multi-purpose building with residential and commercial units. This is a type of studio apartment or studio flat. The difference between the apartment is that it's optimized for nuclear families or singles. They usually have one or less room, formulate very clean, hotel-like environment. (5) Homestay I think all of you know what homestay is. Many international students choose this option when they study abroad with many reasons: security, home sick, meals, etc. Korea also has this option for you too! Like any other homestays, you live in an ordinary apartments, houses, villas and the home owners live with you. It might be uncomfortable living with the owners but they normally provide everything for you. How was it? Questions are always welcomed!
