Seoul

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Temporary Housing

Options for temporary accommodations such as serviced apartments for those who may need flexible short-term stays before securing permanent housing.

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Comprehensive Guide to Temporary Housing in Seoul, South Korea

Seoul, as a bustling metropolis and a hub for business, tourism, and education, offers a wide range of temporary housing options to suit different budgets and preferences. Whether you're visiting for a few days, weeks, or months, you’ll find accommodations ranging from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxurious serviced apartments. Below is a detailed guide to help you navigate your options.

1. Types of Temporary Housing in Seoul

a. Short-Term Rentals (Airbnb, Monthly Rentals, One-Room Apartments)

  • Description: Short-term rentals are private apartments or rooms rented out for a few days to several months. These are ideal for travelers or professionals who want privacy and a home-like environment.
  • Average Costs:
    • Studio/One-room apartment: ₩1,000,000–₩2,500,000 per month (USD $750–$1,900), depending on location and size.
    • Airbnb: ₩50,000–₩150,000 per night (USD $40–$115), with discounts for longer stays.
  • Booking Platforms:
    • Airbnb: Popular for short-term stays with a wide range of options.
    • Zigbang (직방) and Dabang (다방): Korean apps for finding short-term and long-term rentals. These apps are in Korean but can be navigated with translation tools.
    • Stayes: A platform catering to foreigners for short-term and long-term rentals.
  • Amenities:
    • Fully furnished apartments with kitchen facilities, Wi-Fi, and laundry machines.
    • Utilities may or may not be included in the price—confirm with the host.
  • Proximity to Public Transportation: Most short-term rentals are located near subway stations or bus stops, as Seoul is highly transit-oriented.
  • Cultural Considerations:
    • Quiet hours are typically observed after 10 PM in residential areas.
    • Shoes must be removed inside the apartment.
  • Tips:
    • Always check reviews and ratings on platforms like Airbnb.
    • Confirm the exact location and proximity to public transport before booking.

b. Guesthouses and Hostels

  • Description: Guesthouses and hostels are budget-friendly options, often with shared facilities. They are popular among backpackers, students, and budget-conscious travelers.
  • Average Costs:
    • Dormitory beds: ₩15,000–₩30,000 per night (USD $11–$23).
    • Private rooms: ₩40,000–₩80,000 per night (USD $30–$60).
  • Booking Platforms:
    • Booking.com, Agoda, and Hostelworld are reliable platforms for finding guesthouses in Seoul.
    • KoreaStay: A government-certified platform for guesthouses and homestays.
  • Amenities:
    • Shared kitchens, bathrooms, and common areas.
    • Free Wi-Fi and sometimes breakfast.
    • Some guesthouses offer cultural experiences like cooking classes or tours.
  • Proximity to Public Transportation: Many guesthouses are located in popular areas like Hongdae, Itaewon, and Myeongdong, all of which are well-connected by subway and buses.
  • Cultural Considerations:
    • Respect shared spaces and keep noise levels low.
    • Some guesthouses may have curfews or lockout times.
  • Tips:
    • Look for guesthouses with high ratings and reviews from international travelers.
    • Confirm if the guesthouse provides lockers for securing valuables.

c. Serviced Apartments

  • Description: Serviced apartments are fully furnished units with hotel-like amenities, ideal for business travelers or families staying for a few weeks to months.
  • Average Costs:
    • Studio apartments: ₩2,000,000–₩4,000,000 per month (USD $1,500–$3,000).
    • Larger apartments: ₩4,000,000–₩8,000,000 per month (USD $3,000–$6,000).
  • Booking Platforms:
    • Oakwood Premier Coex Center and Fraser Place Central Seoul are reputable serviced apartment providers.
    • The Classic 500 and Somerset Palace Seoul are other popular options.
  • Amenities:
    • Housekeeping, concierge services, fitness centers, and sometimes swimming pools.
    • Fully equipped kitchens, laundry facilities, and high-speed internet.
  • Proximity to Public Transportation: Most serviced apartments are located in central areas like Gangnam, Jongno, or Yongsan, with easy access to subway lines.
  • Cultural Considerations:
    • These accommodations cater to international guests, so cultural expectations are minimal.
  • Tips:
    • Book well in advance, as serviced apartments are in high demand.
    • Check if the price includes utilities and taxes.

d. Co-Living Spaces

  • Description: Co-living spaces are shared housing arrangements where residents have private rooms but share common areas like kitchens and lounges. These are popular among young professionals and digital nomads.
  • Average Costs:
    • Private rooms: ₩500,000–₩1,500,000 per month (USD $375–$1,125).
  • Booking Platforms:
    • Ziptoss: A platform specializing in co-living spaces for foreigners.
    • Hive Arena and Mangrove: Popular co-living providers in Seoul.
  • Amenities:
    • Fully furnished rooms, shared kitchens, and community events.
    • Utilities and Wi-Fi are usually included in the rent.
  • Proximity to Public Transportation: Co-living spaces are often located in trendy neighborhoods like Gangnam, Hongdae, and Itaewon.
  • Cultural Considerations:
    • Respect shared spaces and clean up after yourself.
    • Participate in community events to build connections.
  • Tips:
    • Visit the property in person if possible before committing.
    • Ask about the house rules and community culture.

2. Booking Procedures

  • Online Booking: Most platforms allow you to book online with a credit card or PayPal. Some Korean platforms may require a local bank account or payment through Korean apps like KakaoPay.
  • Deposit Requirements: Many accommodations require a deposit, especially for monthly rentals. Deposits can range from ₩500,000 to ₩5,000,000 (USD $375–$3,750), depending on the property.
  • Cancellation Policies: Check the cancellation policy carefully, as some accommodations have strict no-refund policies.

3. Proximity to Public Transportation

Seoul’s public transportation system is extensive and efficient. When choosing temporary housing, prioritize proximity to subway stations or major bus routes. Key subway lines to consider:

  • Line 2 (Green Line): Circles the city and connects major areas like Gangnam, Hongdae, and Jamsil.
  • Line 4 (Blue Line): Connects Myeongdong, Dongdaemun, and Itaewon.
  • Line 9 (Gold Line): Convenient for access to Gangnam and the airport.

4. Cultural Expectations

  • Noise Levels: Koreans value quietness in residential areas. Avoid loud conversations or music, especially at night.
  • Cleanliness: Keep your accommodation clean and dispose of trash according to local recycling rules. Seoul has strict waste separation policies.
  • Shoes Off: Always remove your shoes when entering a home or guesthouse.

5. Tips for Avoiding Common Issues or Scams

  • Verify Listings: Use reputable platforms and avoid deals that seem too good to be true.
  • Communicate Clearly: If you don’t speak Korean, confirm that the host or landlord can communicate in English.
  • Inspect the Property: If possible, visit the property before making a long-term commitment.
  • Avoid Cash Payments: Use secure payment methods to protect yourself from fraud.

6. Popular and Reputable Platforms

  • Airbnb: Best for short-term stays with a wide range of options.
  • Booking.com and Agoda: Reliable for guesthouses and serviced apartments.
  • Zigbang (직방) and Dabang (다방): Best for finding local rentals, though primarily in Korean.
  • Stayes: Tailored for foreigners looking for short-term housing.
  • KoreaStay: Government-certified platform for guesthouses and homestays.

By understanding the options and following these tips, you can find comfortable and convenient temporary housing in Seoul that suits your needs. Enjoy your stay in this vibrant city!