Mold on the Walls?! How to Find a Good Student House Near University in Korea.

Vyacheslav Pak
Jan 30
3 min read

Finding the right place to live as a student in Korea can be challenging, especially if you're unfamiliar with the housing market. From high deposits to hidden issues like mold, there are many factors to consider before signing a lease. This guide will help you navigate the process and find the best housing option near your university.

1) Understanding the Different Types of Housing in Korea

Before diving into the search, it's essential to understand the various types of housing available:

아파트 (Apartment Complexes): Large residential buildings, usually with multiple rooms, but rarely available for short-term student rentals near universities.

빌라 (Villa): Small apartment complexes (3–6 floors), typically with 2–3 rooms.
원룸 (One-Room): A studio-style apartment with a single room, ideal for students.

오피스텔 (Officetel): A small unit that sometimes includes a loft or second floor.

고시원 (Goshiwon): A dormitory-style room with shared bathrooms, often the most budget-friendly option.

If you're looking for housing in Seoul, 아파트 is generally not an option if you are a student because the monthly contracts are very rare. Your best choices are 빌라, 원룸, or 오피스텔—but keep in mind that they require a significant deposit. If you’re on a tight budget, 고시원 may be your best bet.

2) Understanding the Korean Rental System: 월세 vs. 전세

Korea has two main rental systems:

월세 (Monthly Rent): This system requires both a deposit and monthly rent payments. The deposit amount is significantly higher than in many other countries. For example, when I moved near Korea University, I paid 400,000 KRW per month plus a 2,000,000 KRW deposit. Currently, a standard deal is 10,000,000 KRW deposit with 600,000 KRW monthly rent—just for a one-room apartment! Since housing near universities is in high demand, prices remain steep.

전세 (Lump-Sum Deposit): Instead of paying monthly rent, you deposit around 70% of the property's value and receive the full amount back when you move out—assuming no damages. While this system can save money in the long run, it requires a large upfront investment. If any damage occurs, the landlord may deduct repair costs from your deposit.

For most students, 전세 is not a feasible option, but if you can afford it (or have family support), it’s an excellent way to reduce long-term housing costs. To secure a lower-end 전세 property, you should budget at least 100,000,000 KRW, while a spacious and new apartment could require 400,000,000 KRW. Additionally, ensure that you sign a deposit guarantee to protect your money. You can learn more about the deposit guarantee here.

3) Tips on Finding a House in Korea

1. Start Searching at Least One Month Before the Semester Begins

Housing near universities is highly competitive, so start early! This applies not only to Korea University but also to Sinchon (for Yonsei, Ewha, Sogang, and Hongdae students). The earlier you begin, the more options you'll have.

2. Consider Living 15–20 Minutes Away

Apartments slightly further from campus tend to be cheaper, allowing you to either save money or upgrade your living space. However, factor in the additional commute time and transportation costs before making a decision.

3. Inspect the House Carefully!

Korea’s humid climate makes mold a common issue, especially in:

Bathrooms (due to high moisture levels)
Floors and walls
반지하 (Semi-Basement Apartments), which are dark and damp, making them prime locations for mold growth

If you’re considering a 반지하 unit to save money, be prepared to clean frequently. Some landlords even charge mold removal fees, which can be deducted from your deposit.

4. Read and Translate the Contract

Before signing, make sure to:

Translate the contract into English and understand every clause.
Ask questions—don’t be afraid to clarify terms with the landlord or realtor.
Check for hidden fees (e.g., maintenance, utilities, or repair costs).

Final Thoughts

Finding housing near your university in Korea requires careful planning, but with the right approach, you can secure a comfortable and affordable place to live. Start your search early, explore different rental options, and be thorough when inspecting properties. By following these steps, you'll avoid common pitfalls and find a home that suits your needs. If you are still not sure and want to get some help looking for a house and signing a contract on the best terms for you, check out our services. Good luck!