Korea University Anam Campus Housing Guide 2026: Sharehouse vs. Goshiwon vs. One-room

Surviving in Anam-dong: A Housing Guide for Korea University Students

The area surrounding Korea University's Anam Campus is one of Seoul's premier university districts, packed with diverse housing options tailored to students' needs. However, you might find yourself torn between the bustling commercial district around Anam Station and the quieter residential areas near Korea University Station.

Reflecting the latest 2026 market trends, we provide a comprehensive comparison of the three most popular housing types for Korea University students: Sharehouses, Goshiwons, and One-rooms.

1. Korea University Housing Types at a Glance (2026 Standard)

2. Regional Features: Where Should You Live?

The area around Korea University is divided into three main zones. Choosing a zone that fits your lifestyle is crucial.

📍 Anam Station & Chamsari-gil (The Active Center)

• Features: The heart of the university district, packed with restaurants, cafes, and pubs.

• Pros: Best accessibility to the school and bright, safe streets late into the night.

• Cons: If you are sensitive to noise, weekend nights can be challenging. Many sharehouses and premium 'one-roomtels' are located here.

📍 Korea University Station & Jegi-dong (Quiet & Flat Residential Area)

• Features: More residential buildings than commercial hubs, making it quieter.

• Pros: Mostly flat terrain makes moving around easy, and access to Subway Line 6 is very convenient.

• Cons: It can be somewhat dark late at night, and there are fewer dining options.

📍 Behind the Law School & North Gate (Budget-friendly Area)

• Features: High elevation, but quiet as it is behind the campus.

• Pros: Monthly rent is slightly cheaper than around Anam Station.

• Cons: You will personally experience the 'Anam Hill.' It can be difficult to get around in summer or winter, so definitely walk the area before deciding.

3. Detailed Analysis by Housing Type

🏠 Sharehouse: "Supportive Living Together"

Currently the most popular option among international and female students. Since you share a regular apartment or villa, the kitchen and living room are spacious, improving your quality of life.

• Tip: There are many privately operated sharehouses around Korea University. Highly recommended if you want to live with international friends and learn languages.

🍱 Goshiwon/One-roomtel: "For Budget Efficiency"

Suitable for students needing short-term (1~3 months) stays without the burden of a deposit. As of 2026, the 'one-roomtel' format, which includes a private bathroom and shower inside the room, is the standard.

• Caution: Areas in Anam-dong 5-ga are currently seeing discussions regarding redevelopment and station-area revitalization projects. It is best to avoid overly dilapidated buildings.

🚪 One-room: "My Own Independent Space"

If you have the financial flexibility and plan to live long-term (1 year or more), a one-room is the best choice.

• Market Price: Newly built units near Anam Station can go up to 10 million KRW deposit / 700k KRW monthly rent.

4. Checklist for International Students at Korea University

1. Beware of Hills: When looking at maps, definitely check the 'topography.' Areas near the North Gate or behind the school have much steeper slopes than they appear.

2. Check Maintenance Fees: Recently, many places set higher maintenance fees than the rent itself. Make sure to specify 'items included in the maintenance fee (internet, water, gas, etc.)' in the contract.

3. Real Estate Fees: Brokerage fees apply to one-room contracts, but sharehouses and goshiwons usually have no brokerage fees.

4. Trash Disposal: Anam-dong (Seongbuk-gu) and Jegi-dong (Dongdaemun-gu) are different districts, so trash bags are different. Make sure to check the administrative district of your residence.

🔍 Korea University Housing Q&A Guide

1. How much is the rent difference between sharehouses and goshiwons near Anam Station?

As of 2026, sharehouses typically require a deposit of 13 million KRW, with monthly rent for a single room around 550k750k KRW. Goshiwons (one-roomtels) have almost no deposit; premium facilities range from 500k~650k KRW, while budget options are in the 400k KRW range. Prices are higher closer to Chamsari-gil, the center of Anam Station.

2. Which location is the most convenient for commuting?

• Anam Station (Chamsari-gil) area: Ideal for Liberal Arts and Business students.

• Korea University Station & Jegi-dong: Close and quiet for Science and Life Sciences students.

• Behind the Law School: Close for Law and Political Science students, but requires enduring steep slopes.

3. Is the 'Anam Hill' really that hard?

Yes, housing near the back or north gates is at a very high elevation. Even if it looks close on a map, climbing it daily consumes a lot of energy. Especially for international students with luggage, prioritize housing on the flat land near Korea University Station or Chamsari-gil at Anam Station.

4. Privacy is important; is a goshiwon better?

If having your own space is critical, goshiwons (one-roomtels) are advantageous. Although the room is small, you use a private bathroom and shower exclusively. Sharehouses involve sharing the living room and kitchen, so they are better for those who enjoy interacting with housemates.

5. I'm worried about deposit scams as an international student.

For one-room contracts with high deposits, you must check the building registry. If you are worried, it is safer to choose a sharehouse or goshiwon with low or no deposits. HANISEOUL selects only foreigner-friendly partner accommodations to assist with safe contracts.

6. Are short-term (under 3 months) stays possible?

If you are visiting for vacation language programs or as an exchange student, goshiwons are the most advantageous as they usually allow monthly contracts. Sharehouses often require a minimum of 6 months, so check in advance.

7. Is it secure? I'm worried about safety.

Recently, one-roomtels and sharehouses around Anam-dong are well-equipped with fingerprint door locks, 24-hour CCTV, and female-only floors. Always check the building entrance security and room door lock status before signing.

8. Which housing type helps save on food costs?

Goshiwons often provide free rice, kimchi, ramen, and coffee, which can significantly save on food costs. Sharehouses have the advantage of a spacious kitchen, making it easy to cook for yourself.

9. Are maintenance fees and utilities separate?

In goshiwons, all costs are usually included in the rent with no extra expenses. Conversely, sharehouses often charge operating maintenance fees and actual utility usage (split by N) separately, so factor this into your monthly budget.

10. When should I start looking for a room?

Good rooms disappear quickly right before the semester starts (February, August). It is recommended to shortlist online at least one month in advance and book an on-site visit through a HANISEOUL consultation.

Conclusion

When looking for a room around Korea University's Anam Campus, first decide whether you prefer the 'convenience of the commercial district' or 'quiet rest.' If you want to save on initial costs, a sharehouse is recommended; if privacy is key, a one-room; and if you need a place for a short stay, a one-roomtel.

HANISEOUL supports your successful Anam life!

➡️ Consult for Recommended Accommodations near Korea University