How to Find Long-Term Housing in Korea: Guide for Foreigners, Students, and Digital Nomads

 

Looking for long-term housing in South Korea as a foreigner? Whether you're a student, traveler, digital nomad, or expat moving to Korea, finding a place to live can be confusing — especially if you don’t speak Korean. This complete Korea housing guide will help you understand your options and avoid common problems when renting in Korea.

 

We also offer a housing support service for foreigners in Korea — so if you need help, we're here for you.

 

  • What it includes:

    • Help finding listings that match budget, location, and needs

    • Contacting landlords or agents on behalf of the client

    • Advice on lease agreements, contracts, and payment

 

  • Price range: €50 – €100 per person (depending on number of listings and effort).

Types of Housing in Korea for Foreigners

 

There are many housing options in Korea, depending on your budget and how long you plan to stay. Here's an overview of the most common rental types in Korea:

 

1. Goshiwon (고시원) – Cheap and simple rooms

A popular option for students and short-term travelers. A goshiwon is a very small room that usually includes a bed, desk, Wi-Fi, heating, and sometimes even free rice and kimchi. No long contracts.

2. One-Room Apartments (원룸) – Small studios

One-rooms are private studio apartments that are perfect for single people or couples. You’ll find them in most Korean cities, especially near subway stations and universities.

3. Officetel (오피스텔) – Modern and convenient

These are often more modern than one-rooms and may be fully furnished. Many expats and digital nomads choose officetels for long stays.

4. Coliving or Shared Housing in Korea

Ideal for digital nomads, remote workers, or travelers who want community. You get your own room and share common spaces.

5. Apartments (아파트) – Larger homes for families or long-term stays

These can be expensive and may require a large deposit. Some use the jeonse system (key money), while others allow monthly rent (wolse).

Common Problems for Foreigners Renting in Korea

 

 

  • Language barrier when contacting landlords or reading contracts

  • High deposits (millions of won upfront)

  • Scams or unclear rental conditions

  • No foreigner support from agents

  • Difficult paperwork without a Korean bank account or phone number

 

 

 

Our Housing Support Service in Korea

We help students, expats, digital nomads, and travelers find safe, comfortable housing in Korea — with support in English.

 

Our service includes:

  • Finding housing in Seoul, Busan, Daegu, and other cities

  • Communication with landlords (in Korean, for you)

  • Help with rental contracts and deposits

  • Recommendations based on budget, location, and lifestyle

  • Support with one-room, goshiwon, officetel, coliving, or apartment rental

  • English-language support from people who live in Korea

Where Do We Help?

 

We work in all major Korean cities, including:

  • Seoul: Hongdae, Itaewon, Gangnam, Sinchon

  • Busan: Haeundae, Seomyeon, Gwangan

  • Daegu, Gwangju, Daejeon, and more

 

 

Who Is This For?

 

 

  • International students in Korea

  • Digital nomads or remote workers in Korea

  • Expats moving to Korea for work

  • Travelers staying for a few months

  • People attending language schools in Korea

 

 

Need Help Finding Housing in Korea?

We make finding a place to live in Korea easy — even if you don't speak Korean.

No more stress, scams, or overpriced rentals.
Send us a message today and get personal support to find your new home in Korea.