A Complete Guide for Exchange & Language Students
Planning to study in Korea for just one semester or a few months?
Finding <short-term housing in Korea> can feel confusing at first — contracts, deposits, unfamiliar housing types… it’s a lot.
Don’t worry. This guide breaks down <everything international students need to know> about finding safe, affordable, and convenient housing in Seoul and other university cities.
📌 What Does “Short-Term Housing” Mean in Korea?
In Korea, most apartments are rented for long contracts (1 year or more) with large deposits.
But for exchange students and language learners, short-term housing usually means 1 to 6 months.
Good news: There are flexible options made just for students who are staying one semester or less — you just need to know where to look.
🛏 Best Housing Types for Short Stays in Korea
1. Goshiwon (고시원) – Budget & Easy Move-In
What it is: A very small private room with a bed, desk, and sometimes a private bathroom. Kitchen and laundry are shared.
💰 Cost: approx. $250–$450 USD per month
Pros
✔ No big deposit
✔ Very flexible contracts (1 month possible)
✔ Utilities usually included
✔ Near universities and subway stations
Cons
✖ Very very small rooms
✖ Thin walls / less privacy
✖ Shared facilities
👉 Best for: Students on a tight budget or staying only a few months.
2. Share House – Social & International
What it is: You get a private bedroom and share the kitchen and living room with other students (often from different countries).
💰 Cost: approx. $400–$750 USD per month
Pros
✔ Meet other international students
✔ Larger space than goshiwon
✔ Fully furnished
✔ Bills usually included
Cons
✖ Less privacy than a studio
✖ House rules may apply
👉 Best for: Exchange students who want friends and a community.
3. Short-Term Studio (One-Room)
What it is: A small private apartment with your own kitchen and bathroom.
💰 Cost: approx. $700–$1,200 USD per month
(Some require a small deposit)
Pros
✔ Full privacy
✔ Quiet and comfortable
✔ Feels more like “real living” in Korea
Cons
✖ Higher cost
✖ May require deposit
✖ Bills sometimes separate
👉 Best for: Students who value privacy and can afford a higher budget.
4. Airbnb or Short-Term Rentals
What it is: Furnished apartments rented by the month.
💰 Cost: varies widely ($800+ USD per month in Seoul)
Pros
✔ Easy booking from abroad
✔ No Korean contract needed
✔ Good for first 1–2 months
Cons
✖ More expensive
✖ Not ideal long-term
✖ Fewer local student vibes
👉 Best for: Students who want temporary housing before finding something else.
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✈️ How to Find Housing Before You Arrive in Korea
Many students worry:
“Can I book housing before getting to Korea?”
Yes — and it’s actually smart to do so.
🔎 Where to Search
Students usually find <student housing in Seoul> through:
* Student housing platforms that support foreigners
* University international student offices
* Facebook groups like “Seoul Student Housing” or “Exchange Students in Korea”
* Share house company websites like <42SHARE😊>
⏰ When Should You Book?
Korea’s semesters start in March and September — housing fills up fast.
Best timeline:
* 2–3 months before arrival → Start searching
* 1–2 months before arrival → Reserve your room
* Last minute = fewer choices + higher prices
💡 Tips to Secure a Room Safely
✔ Ask for real photos or a video tour
✔ Confirm what’s included (Wi-Fi? utilities? bedding?)
✔ Never send money without a written contract or confirmation
✔ Check distance to your university on Naver Map or Kakao Map
✔ If unsure, ask your university’s international office for advice
Your room in Korea isn’t just a place to sleep —
it’s where your study abroad memories begin ✨🇰🇷