Living Alone in Korea! A Thorough Comparison of Jeonse and Wolse Housing Options in Korea

Living Alone in Korea

For those planning to live in Korea for study, work transfer, or a working holiday, finding a place to live is an unavoidable and important topic.
While there are some similarities to Japan, there are also many cultural differences, so knowing them in advance can help avoid trouble and stress.

This time, we’ll explain the differences between Jeonse and Wolse housing in Korea and their Japanese counterparts in an easy-to-understand comparison!

1. Types of Jeonse and Wolse & Typical Contract Methods

🏠 Japan: Monthly Rent is Standard
In Japan, rental agreements are generally “monthly rent + management fees.”

• Initial costs (deposit, key money, agency fees) tend to be high
• Monthly rent is fixed, making it suitable for long-term residents

🏢 Korea: Two Main Types — Jeonse and Wolse

• Jeonse (전세): No monthly rent; instead, a large deposit (10–50 million KRW or more) is paid upfront and fully refunded at move-out
• Wolse (월세): Similar to Japan’s system, rent is paid monthly, often with a deposit

💡 Key Point:
The deposit is very important in Korea. Even if the monthly rent is low, deposits can still be several million KRW.

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2. Room Types and Layouts

🇯🇵 Japan

• 1R, 1K, 1LDK, etc.
• Typical size: 20–30㎡
• Separate bathroom and toilet preferred, but unit baths are common

🇰🇷 Korea

• Officetel (오피스텔): Often furnished, popular for single residents
• One-room (원룸): Small units with kitchen and shower
• Goshiwon (고시텔): Ultra-budget, shared bathroom/shower

💡 Note:
Korean one-rooms often have combined bath and toilet, so floors may get wet after a shower — a common surprise for Japanese renters.

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3. Initial Cost Comparison

Item	Japan	Korea
Deposit	1–2 months’ rent	Jeonse deposit: 50–100 million KRW or more
Key Money	~1 month (sometimes 0)	None (basic)
Agency Fee	~1 month’s rent	0.5–1 month’s rent
Insurance	Recommended	Optional, depends on landlord
Furniture & Appliances	Often none	Usually included, especially in officetels

💡 Furnished Korean apartments make moving in much easier.

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4. Facilities & Living Infrastructure

🔌 Korea

• Ondol (floor heating) is standard
• Washing machine, refrigerator, microwave often included
• High internet coverage and fast speeds

🇯🇵 Japan

• Air conditioner and lighting may be absent
• Mix of electric and gas housing
• Wi-Fi usually requires personal contract

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5. Lease Term & Renewal

• Japan: Typically 2-year contract; renewal fees may apply
• Korea: 1–2 years common; renewal often requires negotiation with landlord
• Many contracts are in Korean, which can be a barrier for Japanese tenants

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6. Security & Safety Culture

• Korea: Auto locks, CCTV common
• Japan: On-site managers and local community support
• Safety measures for single women include receiving parcels at management office and registering under male names

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7. Handling Issues & Landlord Relations

• In Japan, repairs are usually requested through the management company
• In Korea, tenants often communicate directly with landlords
• Clear and direct communication is important as indirect expressions may not be understood

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8. Move-Out & Deposit Refund

• Japan: Restoration costs may be deducted from the deposit
• Korea: Full deposit refund is standard (unless disputes arise)
  💡 Tip: Finalize electricity, gas, water, and internet bills properly to avoid affecting the deposit refund

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Summary: Which is Better? Comparing Japan and Korea

Aspect	Japan	Korea
Initial Cost	High but stable	High deposit
Furniture Included	Usually none	Mostly furnished
Room Size	Slightly larger	Compact
Lease System	Clear and secure	Language & negotiation matter
Living Infrastructure	Self-arranged	Often fully equipped from the start

Finally: Key Points for Finding a Home in Korea

• Always check a Japanese translation of any Korean lease contract
• Verify the deposit amount through a trusted real estate agent
• Maintain good manners with landlords, as they are often nearby

Compared to Japan, some aspects may feel uncertain at first, but once you get used to it, Korea offers a convenient and comfortable living experience.
Experience affordable monthly rent, convenience, and the fast pace of city life — a residential style you won’t find in Japan!