Tips for Studying or Living Alone in Korea
For Japanese students studying in Korea or those living alone in one-room apartments, saving on living expenses is a crucial concern.
In the past, Korea had the image of “cheap markets” or “affordable dining compared to Japan”, but the situation has changed significantly as of 2025.
Considering rising prices, a weaker yen, and differences in lifestyle habits, we’ve carefully selected 7 of the most effective, up-to-date money-saving tips.
These are must-reads not only for students but also for those on working holidays or long-term stays in Korea!
① Market vs. Supermarket: Which Is Cheaper? → Timing & Apps Can Make Supermarkets Win!
In the past, markets were considered cheaper, but now large supermarkets (E-Mart, Homeplus, Lotte Mart, etc.) frequently run app-based discount campaigns, often making them more advantageous in terms of price and quality.
Money-Saving Tips:
- Install official supermarket apps (E-Mart Mall, Homeplus Mall, Coupang) and sign up for instant discounts.
- Check 1+1 (Buy 1 Get 1 Free) events.
- Frozen or instant foods are very convenient and affordable with Coupang’s Rocket Delivery.
- Using credit cards or payment apps with coupons/points (NAVER Pay, Kakao Pay) can give an extra 5–10% off.
② Eat Out Smartly: Balance Price and Satisfaction
Korea has a developed dining culture, so even single-person households can enjoy eating out. However, relying on delivery every time is not recommended.
Recommended Cost-Effective Options:
- Hansot Dosirak: Hearty portions for 3,500–5,000 KRW.
- Gimbap Cheonguk / Gimbap Nara: Under 5,000 KRW including soup.
- Takeout from restaurants: Say “포장해 주세요” (please pack) to avoid delivery fees.
- University cafeterias: Accessible to students for 2,800–4,000 KRW.
③ Save Over 10,000 KRW/Month with a Low-Cost SIM
Major carriers (SKT, KT, LG U+) are convenient but expensive. Low-cost SIMs are highly recommended for students or short-term residents.
Popular Plans in 2025:
- KT M Mobile: 11,000 KRW/month (1GB + calls + SMS)
- U+ Mobile Lite: 15,000 KRW/month (5GB + unlimited calls)
📝 Most services can be contracted with a foreign registration card, and online applications are available. Japanese-language guides are widely available.
④ Save on Electricity & Gas: Choose Appliances Wisely
In Korea, ondol heating in winter and air conditioning in summer are essential. Usage can make a 50,000 KRW/month difference.
Tips:
- Run ondol at low temperatures for long periods.
- Use electric blankets or heat packs to keep your feet warm.
- In summer, use dehumidifier mode + fan instead of full AC.
💡 Studying in cafés more often naturally reduces household utility bills.
⑤ Household Goods: Daiso + Online Price Comparison
Korean Daiso offers products in 1,000–2,000 KRW ranges with good quality and value.
Saving Tips:
- Trash bags are often cheaper at Daiso than supermarkets.
- Detergents, storage containers, power strips — mostly 1,000 KRW range.
- Compare prices and read reviews with Danawa, Korea’s “Price.com” equivalent.
⑥ Start and Sell Secondhand: Use Danggeun Market
Buying all furniture and appliances new is expensive. Use the local secondhand app Danggeun Market.
Usage Tips:
- Cut initial costs by 50–70%.
- Active use by foreigners in Seoul and Busan.
- Selling is quick — 3 minutes to register, negotiate via chat.
💡 Adding “I’m a Japanese student; thank you if you offer a discount” can often get a friendly price reduction.
⑦ Exchange & Remittance: Use WISE or Revolut
Previously, exchanging at Myeongdong or Insadong was common, but online international services offer better rates and lower fees.
Recommended Services:
- WISE (TransferWise): Real-time exchange rates + transparent fees.
- Revolut : Prepaid card usable in Japan and Korea, convenient for ATM withdrawals.
💡 One transfer can save thousands of yen, making it worth using even for short-term residents.
Finally: 3 Small Money-Saving Actions You Can Start Today
- Sign up for supermarket apps and check today’s 1+1 deals.
- Save ~1,000 KRW by choosing takeout instead of eating out once a day.
- Look for a secondhand desk on Danggeun Market.
Life in Korea can become much richer and more comfortable with small efforts and smart ideas.
Start putting these tips into practice from today!
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