Goshiwon: Affordable Housing for Temporary Stay in Seoul

If you are planning to travel, work, or study in South Korea, finding affordable accommodation in Seoul can be a major challenge. This is where goshiwons come into play. These simple yet functional rooms offer an economical and practical housing solution for those looking to settle temporarily in the South Korean capital. In this article, you will discover everything you need to know about goshiwons in Seoul, including the types of rooms available, the neighborhoods where you can find them, prices, tips for choosing the right accommodation, and much more.

What is a goshiwon?

Goshiwons are small-sized accommodations, generally consisting of a single room with a bed, a desk, a chair, a wardrobe, and sometimes a small private bathroom. They are designed to offer a simple and low-cost living space, mainly for students preparing for exams or foreign workers in South Korea.

The term "goshiwon" comes from the Korean "goshi," meaning "exam," and "won," meaning "house." Originally, these accommodations were intended for students preparing for university entrance exams or civil service exams in Korea. Today, they have become popular among a variety of tenants, including long-term travelers and foreign residents seeking affordable housing in Seoul.

Finding a goshiwon in Seoul

There are many goshiwons in Seoul, spread across different neighborhoods of the city. Some neighborhoods are particularly popular for their concentration of goshiwons and their accessibility to public transport, shops, and universities. Here are some of the most popular neighborhoods to find a goshiwon in Seoul:

Hongdae

Hongdae is a lively neighborhood located near Hongik University, known for its art scene, shops, restaurants, and nightlife. There are many goshiwons here, offering easy access to public transport, shops, and other amenities. The average monthly rent for a goshiwon in Hongdae ranges between 300,000 and 600,000 won (approximately 250 to 500 euros).

Sinchon

Sinchon is another highly sought-after student neighborhood, located between Yonsei, Ewha, and Sogang universities. This neighborhood is also known for its restaurants, cafes, and vibrant nightlife. The average price of a goshiwon in Sinchon varies between 350,000 and 600,000 won (approximately 290 to 500 euros) per month.

Gangnam

Gangnam is a chic and modern neighborhood south of the Han River, famous for its luxury shops, skyscrapers, and lively nightlife. Goshiwons here are generally more expensive, with monthly rents ranging from 400,000 to 800,000 won (approximately 330 to 660 euros).

Jongno

Jongno is a historic neighborhood located in the heart of Seoul, where you will find many cultural sites, traditional markets, and restaurants. Goshiwons are quite abundant here, and prices generally range between 300,000 and 500,000 won (approximately 250 to 415 euros) per month.

Prices and conditions of goshiwons

The rent of a goshiwon in Seoul depends on several factors, such as the neighborhood, room size, available amenities, and proximity to public transport. On average, you can expect to pay between 300,000 and 800,000 won (approximately 250 to 660 euros) per month for a goshiwon. Goshiwons are often rented monthly, but some establishments offer weekly or daily rates for short stays.

Most goshiwons provide access to a shared kitchen where you can prepare your meals. The equipment varies from one establishment to another but generally includes a refrigerator, microwave, stovetop, and basic cooking utensils. Goshiwons often also offer services such as Wi-Fi connection, laundry, and cleaning.

Generally, goshiwons do not require a deposit or agency fees, making them more accessible for people on a limited budget. However, it is important to read the rental contract carefully before committing, as some specific conditions may apply, such as rules about visitors or additional fees for using common facilities.

Tips for choosing a goshiwon

When looking for a goshiwon in Seoul, it is important to consider several factors to ensure you find accommodation that meets your needs and budget. Here are some tips to help you in your search:

1. Determine your priorities: Think about the most important criteria for you, such as room size, proximity to public transport, quality of the establishment, and available amenities.

2. Do your research: Check websites and online forums to learn about different goshiwon options in Seoul. You can also ask for recommendations from friends, colleagues, or members of the local community.

3. Visit several goshiwons: To get an accurate idea of the available accommodations, it is advisable to visit several goshiwons before making a decision. This will allow you to compare prices, amenities, and rental conditions.

4. Negotiate the price: If you are willing to commit to a longer rental period, you can try to negotiate a lower price with the owner. Some goshiwons also offer promotions or discounts for students and foreign workers.

5. Read the contract carefully: Before signing the rental contract, make sure you fully understand the general conditions, the establishment’s rules, and any potential fees.

In conclusion, goshiwons represent an affordable and practical housing option for those wishing to settle temporarily in Seoul. By considering the criteria mentioned above and exploring the different possibilities, you can find a goshiwon suited to your needs and budget. So, do not hesitate to explore this housing option during your stay in South Korea.

Living in a goshiwon: advantages and disadvantages

Living in a goshiwon accommodation has several advantages and disadvantages, which are important to consider before settling in this type of housing in Seoul, South Korea. Here are some points to consider:

Advantages

1. Affordable price : Goshiwons are an economical housing option, with rents often lower than those of traditional apartments in Seoul. Moreover, the absence of rent deposit and agency fees makes these accommodations even more accessible for people on a limited budget.

2. Flexibility : Goshiwons generally offer flexible rental contracts, with monthly, weekly, or even daily rates. This can be particularly convenient for students, temporary workers, or long-term travelers who do not want to commit to a long period.

3. Location : Goshiwons are often located near universities, public transport, and lively neighborhoods, which facilitates commuting and access to shops and activities.

4. Shared kitchen : Most goshiwons have a shared kitchen where you can prepare your meals, which can help you save money by avoiding eating out. Some goshiwons also offer free meals, such as rice and kimchi.

Disadvantages

1. Limited space : One of the main disadvantages of goshiwons is their small size. Rooms are generally small, with little space for personal belongings and limited living space. If you are used to more spacious accommodation, this can be a difficult adjustment.

2. Restricted privacy : Since goshiwons often consist of a one room and sometimes a shared bathroom , privacy can be limited. Additionally, some rules regarding visitors or quiet hours may restrict your freedom.

3. Quality of facilities : The quality of facilities varies considerably from one goshiwon to another, and some rooms may be less well maintained or equipped than others. It is important to visit several goshiwons before making a decision to ensure you find accommodation that meets your expectations.

4. Living in a community : Although living in a goshiwon can be an interesting social experience, it can also be difficult to adapt to community life, especially if you prefer a quieter and more private environment.

Integration and adaptation to life in a goshiwon

Settling into a goshiwon in Seoul may require an adjustment period, especially if you are used to a different lifestyle. Here are some tips to help you integrate and adapt to life in a goshiwon:

1. Learn some basic Korean phrases : Although many Koreans speak English, knowing a few basic Korean phrases can facilitate communication with your neighbors and goshiwon staff.

2. Participate in events and activities organized by the goshiwon : Some goshiwons organize events and activities for their residents, which can be a great opportunity to meet people with similar interests and integrate into the community.

3. Respect local rules and customs : Each goshiwon has its own rules and customs, which may include quiet hours, visitor restrictions, or use of common spaces. Be sure to respect these rules to avoid conflicts and facilitate your adaptation to goshiwon life.

4. Use social networks and online forums to connect with other expatriates : Join Facebook groups, forums, or blogs dedicated to expatriates and travelers in South Korea to share your experiences, ask for advice, and make connections.

5. Be patient and open-minded : Adapting to a new lifestyle and a different culture can take time. Be patient and keep an open mind to fully enjoy your experience in a goshiwon in Seoul.

In conclusion, goshiwons offer an affordable and practical housing solution for people wishing to settle temporarily in Seoul. By weighing the advantages and disadvantages, actively searching for the right goshiwon, and adapting to goshiwon life, you can enjoy this unique experience in South Korea.