Korean Housing Terms Foreigners Should Know
If you have ever tried searching for an apartment in Korea and felt like you were decoding a secret language, welcome to the club. Korean housing comes with its own dictionary, full of terms that can confuse even long term expats. As a Korean local, let me translate everything into clear, simple English so you can navigate the rental market without sweating over unfamiliar words.
Whether you are planning to study, work, or live your K drama life dream, these terms will save you from misunderstandings and accidental decisions like renting a rooftop room during monsoon season.
Jeonse(전세)
The legendary Korean lump sum deposit system. Instead of monthly rent, you hand over a large deposit for the duration of the contract, usually two years. No monthly rent, but you need serious upfront cash. The deposit is given back at the end of the contract. Foreigners often say it sounds like magic, and honestly, it kind of is.
Wolse(월세)
This is the closest to typical Western renting. You pay a smaller deposit plus a monthly rent. Most foreigners choose wolse because it is more accessible and less financially intimidating.
One Room(원름)
A compact studio apartment with a private bathroom and kitchenette. Perfect if you are living solo, studying, or practicing minimalism. Not so perfect if you have two giant suitcases and zero organizational skills.
Officetel(오피스텔)
A mix between office and hotel. These units often come in modern buildings with security and sometimes parking. Officetels are popular with both Koreans and foreigners because the layouts tend to be newer and more comfortable.
Villas(빌라)
Do not let the name fool you. Korean villas are not luxury mansions but small low rise buildings with cozy apartments. They are usually cheaper than officetels and can give you more space for your money.
Studio Type Labels(오픈형/분리형)
If you see terms like open type or separate type, here is what they mean.
Open type means the entire room is one open space.
Separate type means the bedroom and kitchen are divided by a sliding door, folding door, or simple partition. If you cook often, separate type is your best friend.
Maintenance Fee(관리비)
Also called 관리비. This includes building maintenance, cleaning, and sometimes water, internet, or heating. It is very important to ask exactly what is included because a cheap rent can hide a surprisingly high maintenance fee.
Loft(복층형 계단)
Some one room apartments have a small loft area accessible by a ladder or stairs. It looks cute, feels spacious, and is great for storage or sleeping. Every foreigner loves a loft until they bump their head at 7 a.m.
Rooftop Room(옥탑방)
Called 옥탑방. These can be charming, cheap, and great for city views. They can also be cold in winter and hot in summer. If you enjoy adventure or rooftop sunsets, go for it. Otherwise, consider other options.
Real Estate Agent(부동산 중개인)
In Korea, you almost always rent through a licensed agent called 공인중개사. They show apartments, verify documents, and finalize contracts. Their fee is regulated by law, so there is no guessing game.
These terms will help you understand listings, communicate with agents, and avoid surprises like discovering your new home has no elevator and your apartment is on the fifth floor. Once you learn the language of Korean housing, searching becomes easier, smarter, and yes, a lot less stressful.