Korea Goshiwon introduces affordable lodging options in South Korea.
Korea goshiwon will post about cheap accommodation facilities in South Korea. In Korea, there are lodging facilities called goshiwon. Goshiwon were originally used by people preparing for difficult exams like the civil service exam, where they ate, slept, and studied. Because of their low prices, goshiwons are now the most affordable accommodations in Korea, attracting many Koreans.
The photo above shows a goshiwon room. Everything else is shared.
A characteristic of Korean goshiwons is that they are very small. With just one bed and one desk, all the space is available. At best, they only have a bathroom. Because of their small size, they are among the most affordable accommodations in Korea.
From here on, I'll explain how to choose a Korean goshiwon.
1. Look for a goshiwon with a bathroom.
A bathroom might only have a toilet and a shower, but that's usually all you need. Without one, you'll have to share a communal toilet with dozens of people, which is unsanitary. Even if it's a bit more expensive, choose a gosiwon with an attached bathroom.
2. If you can afford it, choose a room with a window that opens to the outdoors.
Rooms with windows are usually slightly more expensive. However, there's a big difference between having one and not. A window lets in some sunlight and provides ventilation. A room with a window that opens to the outdoors is beneficial not only for your physical health but also for your mental health.
3. Avoid gosiwons located in areas with a high concentration of entertainment districts.
Gosiwons with many entertainment districts nearby are likely to be used by people who work in those districts. These entertainment industry workers can also be part of gangs. Sharing a gosiwon with gangs is not recommended. Foreigners, who may be more vulnerable to crime, should be especially cautious.
4. I recommend a gosiwon with individual air conditioning.
Temperature is important. A separate air conditioner is essential for staying cool in the summer. In the winter, if your gosiwon is too cold, you can simply purchase an electric blanket.
Gosiwons typically have private rooms and communal kitchens. Cooking is prohibited in the rooms. There's no cooking equipment, and cooking is prohibited. Therefore, people living in gosiwon often eat canned food, which doesn't require cooking. Many gosiwon provide rice for free. Some don't, but if you find one that does, you can still enjoy a decent meal.
Some gosiwons are more expensive, but they offer a variety of side dishes. If you have the money, these options are a good option. If your gosiwon only provides rice, you can buy side dishes online, at a market, or at a supermarket.
Gosiwons are generally designed for single occupancy. While there are double rooms, they're primarily designed for single occupants, so conversations can be noisy for other occupants. Therefore, if you're staying with more than two people, check with the gosiwon owner about the level of conversational capacity before moving in.
Below is a website introducing Korean goshiwon (traditional Korean goshiwon). It's available in both Korean and English.
Korea goshiwon posted about cheap accommodation facilities in South Korea. Goshiwon are the cheapest accommodations in Korea, so I recommend them to anyone looking to save money. Aside from not having private kitchen access, I think everything is fine. You only pay monthly, so you can move in and out freely. I recommend them to anyone looking to save money while staying in Korea for a short period of time. Also, finding a goshiwon close to your hometown is convenient in many ways, so please consider this as well.
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