Teacher Housing in Korea: What to Expect and How to Prepare
What to expect from school-provided teacher housing in Korea. Covers furnished apartments, utilities, the jeonse/wolse system, housing allowances, and what to bring from home.
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Kang & Kriel Recruitment
Everything about teacher accommodation in Korea, from school-provided housing to finding your own apartment, understanding key money, and dealing with landlords.
Most ESL positions include free single housing or a housing allowance (300,000-500,000 KRW). School-provided apartments vary widely in quality and location. ESL365 verifies housing details before matching teachers with schools.
Common questions about housing for ESL teachers in Korea
Yes, most ESL positions provide single housing (furnished studio/one-room) or a housing allowance (300,000-500,000 KRW monthly). Public school positions always include housing. Hagwon housing quality varies significantly, so ask for photos and details.
Jeonse is a large deposit (often 50-100M KRW) in exchange for no monthly rent. Wolse is a smaller deposit (5-20M KRW) with monthly rent. Teacher housing typically uses wolse with the deposit covered by the school.
Sometimes. Schools often have set apartments, but you can ask about alternatives or request a housing allowance instead. Location near work is important given Korea's commute culture. Ask about proximity to subway stations.
Typically: bed, desk, wardrobe, refrigerator, washing machine, stove/hot plate, and air conditioning. Internet and utilities may or may not be covered. Apartments are usually studios (10-15 pyeong / 33-50 sqm).
Document issues with photos immediately. Communicate concerns professionally to your school. Many contracts allow housing allowance conversion. If safety issues exist, know your rights under Korean tenant law. ESL365 can help mediate housing disputes.
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