South Korea has become one of Asia’s most popular study destinations thanks to its high-quality universities, modern cities, affordable tuition, and strong job opportunities. But before starting your academic journey, the most important part is finding the right accommodation.
This complete 2025 guide explains the types of student housing, costs, best cities, how to apply, safety tips, and the best websites to find rooms — perfect for international students.
1. Types of Student Accommodation in South Korea (2025)
1. University Dormitories (Most Affordable)
Most Korean universities offer on-campus dormitories for international students with shared or single rooms.
Features:
- Fully furnished
- Meal plan or shared kitchen
- Lower cost than private housing
- Strict rules (curfew in some universities)
Average Cost:
- -Shared Room: KRW 600,000 – 1,200,000 per semester
- -Single Room: KRW 900,000 – 1,800,000 per semester
Great for: freshers, budget-focused students.
2. Goshiwon (Popular for International Students)
Goshiwons are small private rooms — popular for their low cost and no-deposit requirement.
Features:
- Small but private room
- Shared kitchen
- No contract needed (month-to-month)
- No deposit
Average Cost:
KRW 300,000 – 550,000/month
Great for: students who want private, budget-friendly rooms.
3. One-Room Studio Apartments
These are small private studios with attached bathrooms and a kitchenette.
Features:
- Complete privacy
- Long-term contract
- Furnished or semi-furnished
- Higher cost than goshiwon
Average Cost:
Rent: KRW 400,000 – 800,000/month
Deposit: KRW 3 million – 10 million
Great for: working students, couples, upper-year students.
4. Off-Campus Apartments (Two-room, Villa Apartments)
Larger living spaces usually shared with friends.
Average Cost:
Rent: KRW 600,000 – 1,200,000/month
Deposit: KRW 5 million – 20 million
Great for: students wanting more space.
5. Homestay
Live with a Korean family.
Features:
- Meals provided
- Private furnished room
- Cultural experience
Average Cost:
KRW 700,000 – 1,200,000/month (including meals)
Great for: new students wanting a support system.
2. City-Wise Accommodation Costs (2025)
Seoul (Most Expensive)
- Dorms: KRW 600,000 – 2,000,000/semester
- Goshiwon: KRW 400,000 – 600,000/month
- Studio: KRW 550,000 – 900,000/month
Top Areas: Sinchon, Hongdae, Gangnam, Dongdaemun
Busan
- Dorms: KRW 500,000 – 1,200,000/semester
- Goshiwon: KRW 300,000 – 450,000/month
- Studio: KRW 350,000 – 650,000/month
Best for: seaside lifestyle + affordable cost.
Daegu
- Goshiwon: KRW 250,000 – 450,000/month
- Studio: KRW 300,000 – 550,000/month
Daejeon, Gwangju, Incheon
- Goshiwon: KRW 250,000 – 450,000/month
- Studio: KRW 300,000 – 600,000/month
Lower costs compared to Seoul.
3. Monthly Cost of Living for Students
Total Estimated Monthly Cost: KRW 700,000 – 1,500,000/month (USD 500 – 1,100)
| Expenses | Monthly Cost (KRW) | Notes |
| Accommodation | 300,000 – 800,000 | Depends on city & room type |
| Food | 250,000 – 400,000 | Meal prep reduces cost |
| Transport | 60,000 – 70,000 | Subway + bus |
| Phone/Internet | 30,000 – 40,000 | Student plans |
| Miscellaneous | 100,000 – 200,000 | Personal expenses |
4. How to Apply for Accommodation in South Korea
For University Dorms
- Apply after receiving university acceptance
- Submit required documents
- Pay dorm deposit or first semester fee
- Wait for room confirmation
For Goshiwon / One-Room
- Search online (see websites below)
- Contact owner/agent
- Visit room (or virtual tour)
- Sign contract
- Pay deposit + 1 month rent
5. Best Websites to Find Student Accommodation in South Korea
For Goshiwon & Studios
- Goshiwon Korea
- Zigbang (직방)
- Dabang (다방)
- Naver Real Estate
- BangBang (방방)
- Facebook Groups (Expat Housing Seoul, Seoul Goshiwon Rooms)
For University Dorms
- University website
- International Office portal
6. Safety & Living Tips for International Students
South Korea is safe, even at night- Learn basic Korean phrases
- Check contract carefully before signing
- Avoid high-deposit (Jeonse) contracts
- Stay close to public transport
- Keep emergency contacts saved
- Universities offer 24/7 campus security
7. Common Mistakes Students Should Avoid
Choosing a room far from campus- Not checking for hidden utility bills
- Paying deposit without contract
- Ignoring noise rules in dorms
- Signing long contracts without checking neighbors
- FAQs
Is goshiwon safe for international students?
Yes, very safe. Most buildings have CCTV and secure entry.
Can I work part-time while living in a dorm?
Yes. Many universities allow it as long as you follow visa rules.
Which city is cheapest for accommodation?
Daegu, Gwangju, and Daejeon are the most affordable.
Conclusion
Finding accommodation in South Korea is easy if you understand the options, compare prices, and plan early. Whether you prefer low-cost goshiwon, university dormitories, or private one-room studios, South Korea offers choices for every budget and lifestyle.With this complete 2025 guide, international students can confidently choose the best and safest housing option and enjoy comfortable student life in Korea.
