Global Major Cities Guide

Sections

Comprehensive Guide to Student Housing in Daejeon, South Korea

Daejeon, often referred to as South Korea's "Silicon Valley," is a hub for education and research, home to prestigious institutions like KAIST (Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology), Chungnam National University, and others. As a student in Daejeon, finding suitable housing is a critical step in ensuring a comfortable and productive stay. Below is a detailed guide to help you navigate the process.

1. Types of Student Housing in Daejeon

a. University Dormitories

Most universities in Daejeon offer on-campus dormitories, which are the most convenient and affordable option for students.

Features: Shared or single rooms, communal facilities (kitchens, bathrooms, laundry rooms, study areas), and sometimes cafeterias.
Cost:
- Shared rooms: KRW 300,000–600,000 per semester (3–6 months).
- Single rooms: KRW 600,000–1,000,000 per semester.
Pros: Proximity to campus, affordable, and a great way to meet other students.
Cons: Limited privacy, strict rules (e.g., curfews, no cooking in rooms), and high demand.

b. Goshiwon (고시원)

Goshiwons are small, budget-friendly rooms often used by students and exam takers.

Features: Tiny private rooms with basic furniture (bed, desk, chair, wardrobe), shared bathrooms, and sometimes shared kitchens. Some goshiwons provide free rice, kimchi, and instant noodles.
Cost: KRW 200,000–500,000 per month.
Pros: Affordable, no deposit required, and flexible rental terms.
Cons: Very small spaces, limited privacy, and basic facilities.

c. Off-Campus Apartments (One-Room or Studio Apartments)

One-room apartments are popular among students who prefer more independence.

Features: A single room with a private bathroom and kitchenette. Some may include basic furniture and appliances.
Cost:
- Monthly rent: KRW 300,000–700,000.
- Deposit (jeonse or wolse): KRW 3,000,000–10,000,000 (refundable at the end of the lease).
Pros: Privacy, independence, and better facilities.
Cons: Higher costs and the need for a significant deposit.

d. Hasukjip (하숙집)

Hasukjips are boarding houses where landlords provide meals and a room.

Features: Private or shared rooms, with meals (usually breakfast and dinner) included in the rent.
Cost: KRW 400,000–800,000 per month.
Pros: Home-cooked meals, a family-like environment, and no need to cook.
Cons: Limited privacy and less independence.

e. Shared Housing (Share Houses)

Shared housing is becoming increasingly popular among students and young professionals.

Features: Shared living spaces (kitchen, living room, bathroom) with private or shared bedrooms.
Cost: KRW 300,000–600,000 per month, depending on the location and room type.
Pros: Social environment, affordable, and better facilities than goshiwons.
Cons: Shared spaces may lead to conflicts or lack of privacy.

2. Approximate Costs of Living in Daejeon

In addition to rent, students should budget for the following monthly expenses:

Utilities (electricity, water, gas, internet): KRW 50,000–100,000.
Food: KRW 300,000–500,000 (cheaper if you cook or eat at university cafeterias).
Transportation: KRW 40,000–60,000 (Daejeon has an efficient bus and subway system).
Miscellaneous: KRW 100,000–200,000 (entertainment, personal items, etc.).

3. Application Procedures

a. University Dormitories

Check eligibility: Most universities prioritize international students and first-year students.
Apply online: Applications are typically submitted through the university’s housing portal.
Submit required documents: Passport copy, admission letter, and sometimes a health certificate.
Pay the fees: Payment is usually required upfront to secure your spot.
Wait for confirmation: Dormitory spots are limited, so apply as early as possible.

b. Goshiwon, Apartments, Hasukjip, and Share Houses

Search online: Use platforms like Naver Real Estate, Zigbang, or local Facebook groups for housing.
Visit in person: If possible, visit the property to inspect the condition and location.
Sign a contract: Ensure the contract is in English or translated if you don’t understand Korean.
Pay the deposit and rent: For apartments, deposits are higher, while goshiwons and hasukjips usually require only the first month’s rent.

4. Things to Consider When Choosing Accommodation

Proximity to Campus: Choose housing within walking distance or near public transportation to save time and money.
Budget: Factor in rent, utilities, and transportation costs when setting your budget.
Facilities: Check for essential amenities like Wi-Fi, laundry, and heating (important during winter).
Safety: Ensure the neighborhood is safe, especially if you’ll be returning home late at night.
Language Barrier: If you don’t speak Korean, look for landlords or housing options that cater to international students.
Cultural Norms: Be aware of rules regarding noise, cleanliness, and waste disposal (Korea has strict recycling regulations).

5. Local Tips and Cultural Considerations

Recycling and Waste Disposal:
- Daejeon, like the rest of Korea, has strict waste separation rules. You’ll need to buy designated garbage bags (종량제 봉투) for general waste and separate recyclables (plastic, paper, glass, etc.).
- Food waste must be disposed of separately in special bins.
Heating and Cooling:
- Many apartments use ondol (underfloor heating) during winter, which can be expensive. Be mindful of your gas usage.
- Air conditioning is not always included, so check if it’s available in your housing.
Public Transportation:
- Daejeon’s subway system is limited compared to Seoul, so buses are the primary mode of transport. Get a T-money card for convenient travel.
Cultural Etiquette:
- Be respectful of noise levels, especially in shared housing or apartments.
- Shoes are always removed indoors, so ensure you have indoor slippers.
Housing Scams:
- Be cautious when dealing with landlords or agents. Always request a written contract and avoid paying large sums of money without proper documentation.
Student Communities:
- Join student groups or forums (e.g., Facebook groups for international students in Daejeon) to get housing recommendations and advice.

6. Useful Resources

University Housing Offices: Contact your university’s international office for assistance with dormitory applications or housing recommendations.
Online Platforms:
- Zigbang: Popular for finding apartments and goshiwons.
- Naver Real Estate: Comprehensive listings for apartments.
- Goshiwon Korea: Specialized in goshiwon listings.
Facebook Groups: Search for “Daejeon International Students” or similar groups for housing leads and advice.

By carefully considering your options and planning ahead, you can find comfortable and affordable housing in Daejeon that suits your needs. Good luck with your studies and enjoy your time in this vibrant city!