Korea University Dorm Costs and Conditions (The Insider’s Guide)
You’ve secured your admission to Korea University (고려대학교, Goryeo Daehakgyo)—one of the nation’s prestigious SKY universities! Congratulations! Now that you’re preparing for life in Seoul, the crucial question is: where will you live, and how much will it cost?
Korea University offers several excellent dormitory options (Gisuksa), but securing a spot, understanding the fees, and navigating the living conditions requires insider knowledge. The cost is high because you’re in central Seoul, but the convenience is often worth the price.
As a local, I’m here to give you the honest breakdown of what life is like in KU’s dorms, what the key facilities are, and the realistic budget you need per semester.
Part 1: The Main Dormitories and Costs
Korea University’s main dormitories are located both on and off the Anam campus, with costs reflecting the prestige and location in Seoul. Fees are typically charged per semester (about four months).
1. CJ International House (CJ I-House)
The Vibe: Modern, popular with international students, and generally well-maintained.
Cost Range (4 Months): Expect to pay approximately ₩1,500,000 – ₩2,500,000 KRW (approx. $1,150 – $1,900 USD).
Room Type: Mostly double occupancy rooms with a shared bathroom (suite-style), though single rooms are occasionally available at a higher rate.
What to Know: Meals are usually not included in the base fee, but there are excellent dining facilities nearby.
2. Anam Hall (안암학사) – New and Old Buildings
The Vibe: The largest complex, primarily housing domestic students but also offering some international spaces.
Cost Range (4 Months): Slightly more affordable, typically ₩1,200,000 – ₩1,800,000 KRW (approx. $900 – $1,370 USD).
Room Type: Overwhelmingly double occupancy, with shared communal bathrooms/showers on each floor (in the older sections). Newer sections offer private bathrooms.
What to Know: Fees usually include a mandatory meal plan (two meals per day), which is a great budget saver!
Local Insight: Dormitory admission at Korea University is highly competitive, even for international students. You must meet application deadlines and be prepared with all required documents (often including a tuberculosis test/health check) well in advance.
Part 2: Living Conditions and The “Three No’s”
Living in a Korean Gisuksa is highly regulated, prioritizing discipline, safety, and academic focus.
1. The Security and Efficiency
KU dorms are safe, using secure key card access and 24/7 security staff. Facilities are generally modern and clean, including communal kitchens, laundries, study rooms, and fitness centers. The convenience of being on campus, or a short walk away, is unbeatable.
2. The Strict Rules (The Three No’s)
Be aware that Korean dorm life is not like living off-campus. You must abide by strict rules:
No Curfew Breakers: Curfews (often between 11 PM and 1 AM) are usually strictly enforced. Repeated late entries can lead to disciplinary action.
No Visitors (Especially Opposite Gender): Having guests, especially those of the opposite gender, inside your room is strictly prohibited. Common areas and lounges are available for meeting friends.
No Drinking/Smoking: Alcohol and smoking are banned inside the dormitory buildings and often on the entire campus grounds.
Part 3: Budget Comparison (Dorm vs. Off-Campus)
Dorm Advantage: While seemingly expensive upfront, the dorm offers unmatched safety, convenience, and a fixed cost (especially with meal plans). You avoid the complex Korean Key Money (deposit) system, which often requires millions of won upfront.
Off-Campus (One-Room): Renting a One-Room near campus (around Anam or Jeongneung) might offer more freedom, but you’ll pay a deposit of ₩5,000,000 – ₩10,000,000 KRW plus ₩400,000 – ₩600,000 KRW monthly rent.
For your first semester in Korea, the stability and built-in community of the Korea University dorms are highly recommended!