Finding Your Home Away From Home

2025.1.24

A Student's Guide to Housing in Seoul

Imagine stepping off the plane in Seoul, ready to start your adventure as an international student. One of your biggest questions might be: “Where am I going to live?”

Well, you’re not alone! More and more international students are breaking away from traditional dorm life to explore Korea’s diverse housing landscape, and I’m here to guide you through your options.



Let’s Talk About Sinchon
If you’re heading to universities like Yonsei, Ewha, or Hongik, you’re in luck! Sinchon is basically student paradise. Picture this: streets buzzing with young energy, cafes perfect for studying, and housing options to fit any budget. Whether you’re looking for a cozy goshiwon (think minimal but affordable) or a trendy co-living space, Sinchon has got you covered.

The Real Talk: Housing Challenges
Here’s the thing – finding housing as an international student can feel like solving a puzzle. In 2022, Korea saw a massive 87% jump in foreign arrivals as COVID-19 restrictions eased. Great news for cultural exchange, but it also means more competition for housing! One particularly tricky aspect is the jeonse system – imagine having to put down a huge deposit upfront. It’s enough to make anyone’s head spin, especially if you’re new to Korea.

 


What’s Hot in Student Housing?

Staycations: The Budget-Friendly Explorer’s Choice
Here’s a secret weapon for budget-conscious students: staycation programs. Often backed by local governments, these programs let you experience different parts of Korea without breaking the bank. Think of it as a cultural deep-dive with your accommodation covered – a pretty sweet deal, right?

The “One Month Adventure” Option
Want to test the waters before diving in? Many students are trying out month-long stays in different parts of Korea. Imagine spending a month in beachy Busan or scenic Gangwon-do before your semester starts. It’s like a preview of life in Korea, helping you figure out where you’ll feel most at home.

 

Want to experience life in Seoul the easy way? Mangrove Stay is the perfect place to start!
Book a Stay at Mangrove Sinseol
Book a Stay at Mangrove Dongdaemun


Coliving: Your Home Away From Home
Think of coliving as the best of both worlds – your private space plus awesome shared areas. Take Mangrove, for example. It’s like a mini international community, with about a quarter of residents being international students. The best part? They truly get what students need: flexible leases, English-speaking staff, and a prime location with easy access to the city center. Plus, you might find yourself cooking Korean food with your neighbors or joining a weekend hiking group – talk about cultural immersion! If you need help finding a place, Mangrove’s got you covered!

 


Curious about Mangrove Coliving?
Explore Our Room Types

As Korea continues to welcome more international students, the housing market is evolving to meet their needs. Whether you’re dreaming of a vibrant co-living community or a quiet studio in Sinchon, there’s a perfect spot waiting for you. The key is knowing your options and being prepared for the adventure ahead.

 

Remember, finding housing might seem overwhelming at first, but it’s also your first step toward making Korea your second home. So take a deep breath, explore your options, and get ready for an unforgettable experience in one of Asia’s most exciting cities!


Written by | Jihye Seong, Wonseok Jeong
Photos by | Seokhyeon Lee, Lakyeom Yi
Edited by | Juneha Park