📌 How to Find a Short-Term or Long-Term Rental in Korea
Whether you’re coming to Korea for a few weeks, a semester, or a full year, finding the right place to live is key to a great stay. Korea’s rental system can be a bit different from what you're used to — especially when it comes to deposit amounts and contract terms. In this guide, we’ll cover the types of rentals available, useful websites, tips for foreigners, and essential Korean phrases to help you navigate the process smoothly.
📚 Table of Contents
1. Types of Rentals in Korea
- 고시원 (Goshiwon): Small, affordable rooms with shared facilities. Great for budget travelers.
- 원룸 (One-room): Studio apartments with a private kitchen and bathroom. Most popular among students and foreigners.
- 오피스텔 (Officetel): High-rise, modern studios with security and elevator — more expensive but convenient.
- 전세 / 월세: Traditional long-term contracts: Jeonse (large deposit, no monthly rent) and Wolse (monthly rent + smaller deposit).
2. Where to Find Short-Term Rentals
Popular platforms that offer short stays (1 week to 6 months):
- Airbnb – Widely available in Seoul and major cities
- Goshipages – Goshiwon and share house listings (English interface)
- Ziptoss – Foreign-friendly, with agents who speak English
- Visit Korea Stay (hostel directory)
3. How to Find Long-Term Rentals
For stays over 6 months, you may need a Korean real estate agent (부동산) or use local platforms:
Note: Many listings are in Korean and may require local contacts or Korean speakers to assist. Ziptoss and LivingKorea also offer bilingual support.
4. Understanding Key Money and Deposits
💰 Wolse (월세): Deposit ₩1–₩10 million + monthly rent ₩300k–₩1M
Most landlords require a deposit (보증금). Always check if it’s refundable, and have a contract translated if you're unsure.
5. Useful Korean Phrases
- “방을 구하고 있어요.” – I'm looking for a room.
- “보증금이 얼마예요?” – How much is the deposit?
- “계약 기간은 몇 개월이에요?” – How long is the contract?
- “가구가 포함돼 있어요?” – Is furniture included?
6. 🤔 Did you know?
In Korea, it's common for landlords to require in-person visits before signing a lease. Also, apartments often come empty — no bed, no fridge — so many foreigners opt for furnished officetels or share houses when staying under 1 year.
Additionally, many Koreans live with their parents until marriage, so solo rentals are often built for students or foreigners.
7. Practice Rental Vocabulary on italki
👉 Book a Korean real estate vocabulary lesson with me on italki to gain confidence before your move!
