Korean Goshiwon or Share House? How to Decide on Your Next Stay
Planning a trip to South Korea is exciting, whether you are here for an exchange program, language studies, work, or a working holiday adventure. But one question always comes up quickly: where should you stay? Among the most popular options for international travelers, two choices often stand out: the Korean goshiwon and the share house.
So, how do you decide which is right for you? Let’s break it down so you can find the best place to stay in Seoul, Korea, based on your lifestyle, budget, and preferences.
What is a Goshiwon?
A Korean goshiwon (or “gositel”) is a small, private room originally created for students preparing for national exams. But today, they are used by a wide range of residents, from international students to remote workers on working holiday visas. Over the years, it has evolved into one of the most popular forms of cheap accommodation Seoul has to offer.
What is Inside a Korean Goshiwon?
- A compact private room (usually 3.5–10 square meters) with a bed, desk, chair, and wardrobe.
- Many goshiwons include mini-fridges and TVs, while upgraded units may have private bathrooms (known as “goshitels”).
- Shared kitchens and laundry areas, often stocked with free rice, kimchi, and noodles—a great bonus for budget-conscious residents.
Why Choose a Goshiwon in Korea?
- If you are looking for a long-term stay in Seoul or Hongdae, a goshiwonis an ideal option in terms of contract. It is because goshiwoncontractsrequire a minimum stay of one month with no maximum duration.
- There is typically no or very low deposit, unlike traditional Korean apartments that require a hefty lump sum.
- Different room types are available, from very compact, low-cost units to larger, fully equipped rooms. For example, you can even find a goshiwon for a 2-person stay if you are traveling with a friend.
- Goshiwons are available in all popular areas, like goshiwons in Hongdae and goshiwons in Seoul city center, where cultural attractions and nightlife are within walking distance.
Who Stays in a Goshiwon?
Goshiwon in Korea is best for:
- Exchange students
- Language school students
- Digital nomads
- Solo travelers
- Budget-conscious residents
Looking for your own private space in Korea? Chat with us on WhatsApp now for available goshiwon for rent options!
What is a Share House?
A share house is a large apartment or house where each tenant has their own private bedroom, but common spaces, like the kitchen, living room, and bathrooms, are shared. It is similar to a coliving house in Seoul, but usually smaller with 4–10 tenants.
Why Consider a Share House in Korea?
- Larger private rooms than goshiwons and bigger shared living spaces.
- Strong social atmosphere where you can meet people from around the world, share meals, and form a community.
- Often comes with extra amenities like a spacious kitchen, laundry facilities, and sometimes even cleaning services.
While share houses in Korea are still more affordable than renting your own apartment, they are generally pricier than a goshiwon room rent option.
Comparing Goshiwon and Share House
Choosing between a Korean goshiwon and a share house in Korea depends on several factors:
1. Budget & Deposit Requirements
- Goshiwon: Ideal if you need cheap accommodation in Seoul, Nakseongdae, Sinchon, or Bongcheonwith no large deposit. Rent is lower, and utilities are often included. You can find goshiwon for rent starting from ₩200,000 to ₩800,000 per month (roughly $150–$600 USD).
- Share House: Requires a security deposit (often 1–2 months of rent) and usually costs more monthly. However, the shared living experience and amenities can justify the price for those who value space and community. You can find a share house in Seoul starting from ₩600,000 to ₩800,000 per month (roughly $400–$600 USD).
Want to know today’s average goshiwon price in Korea? Chat with us now. We will send you up-to-date room listings and prices via WhatsApp.
2. Privacy vs. Community
- Goshiwon: Offers more privacy because you have your own lockable room. Great if you prefer a quiet space for studying or working.
- Share House: Perfect if you want to socialize, cook with others, or experience more of a community lifestyle.
3. Space & Comfort
- Goshiwon: Space is minimal but functional. It is great for light travelers or those who embrace minimalism. You can also have options like goshiwon for 2-person stays if you need more room.
- Share House: Typically offers larger private rooms and more common areas, making it easier to host friends or relax outside your bedroom.
4. Location & Convenience
- Goshiwon: Available in prime areas like goshiwon in Hongdae and other central neighborhoods, perfect for students and travelers who need a residence close to major universities, cafes, and nightlife.
- Share House: Usually located in residential areas like Itaewon, Mapo, or even shared villas near the Han River. These are ideal if you want to be immersed in expat hubs, nightlife, or the creative scene.
Who Should Choose a Goshiwon?
We highly recommend goshiwon in Seoul for:
- Exchange and language school students needing affordable, flexible housing.
- Digital nomads looking for a private space to work and sleep without distractions.
- Travelers on a short stay rent in Seoul plan but needing stability for at least one month.
- People who want cheap housing in Seoul without the hassle of big deposits and lengthy contracts.
Ready to book your own goshiwon? Message us on WhatsApp for personalized options!
Who Should Choose a Share House?
A share house in Seoul might be better if:
- You enjoy a social atmosphere and want to make new friends quickly.
- You don’t mind paying a higher deposit and slightly higher monthly rent.
- You want more space, especially in the kitchen and living room areas.
Still unsure which housing option suits you best? Send us a WhatsApp message now. We will match you with the perfect room based on your needs, budget, and stay duration!
Find Your Perfect Stay with Stay Korea
At Stay Korea, we connect international visitors with the best place to stay in Seoul, Korea, based on their lifestyle and budget. Whether you are looking for a short stay on rent in Seoul, planning a long-term stay in Seoul, or need a Korean goshiwon near your university, we have got you covered.
Why You Should Use Stay Korea
There are many ways to find a Korean goshiwon or share house, but few are truly designed with international visitors in mind. Stay Korea is a platform built for people just like you: students, travelers, and working professionals coming from abroad.
When you book through Stay Korea, you get:
- Verified and updated listings
- Multilingual support in English, French, and Japanese
- Housing options tailored for international students and travelers
- 1:1 WhatsApp support for instant inquiries & fast booking
How to Reserve a Goshiwon or a Share House with Stay Korea
We know how challenging it can be to search for accommodation in a foreign language. That is why Stay Korea simplifies everything:
- All listings are available in English
- Verified photos so you know exactly what to expect
- Friendly English-speaking support team ready to help
- Easy online booking—no Korean bank account required
- Specialized options including private bathrooms, women-only floors, and more