A studio — in Korean a one-room (원룸) — is a single open living space combining bedroom, living area and kitchenette, and it is the most affordable way to live in Seoul. The category also includes 도시형생활주택 (urban-lifestyle housing), purpose-built small units for singles and couples. Studios are the default first home for students, young professionals and foreigners arriving on a budget: compact, often furnished, move-in ready and close to transit. Every Seoul Homes studio listing is handled by an English-speaking, verified realtor.
A 원룸 ("one room") is a studio: one open space holding the bed, living area and a small kitchen, with a separate bathroom. 도시형생활주택 is a newer, purpose-built form of compact urban housing aimed at single and two-person households. Both are the smallest and cheapest homes on the market.
Studios (원룸) are usually the most affordable option and may sit in low-rise villas or dedicated small buildings. Officetels are studios too, but in serviced high-rises with security, an elevator and management — more convenient and central, at a higher price. If budget is the priority, a one-room studio wins; if you want amenities and a central address, compare officetels.
Most studios are rented on wolse (월세) — a deposit plus monthly rent — which is the easiest, lowest-commitment way for a foreigner to move in; some are available on jeonse (전세) or to buy. If you do buy residential property, the 2025 foreign-buyer permit rules apply in every Seoul district. Our realtors can explain the deposit, the contract and the move-in process in English.
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A 원룸 (one-room) is a studio apartment: a single open space combining the bedroom, living area and a kitchenette, with a separate bathroom. It is the smallest and most affordable home type in Seoul, popular with students, young professionals and foreigners on a budget.
Both are compact single-room homes. A studio (원룸) is usually the cheapest option and may be in a low-rise villa or small building. An officetel is a studio in a serviced high-rise with security, an elevator and management, which is more convenient and central but more expensive.
Many studios, especially officetel-style and 도시형생활주택 units, are offered furnished and move-in ready, which is why they suit foreigners arriving on short notice. Each listing states whether it is furnished — check the details or ask the realtor.
Most studios are rented on wolse (월세) — a deposit plus monthly rent — which is the easiest, lowest-commitment option for newcomers. Some are available on jeonse (a large refundable deposit). Our English-speaking realtors handle the contract and move-in for you; send an inquiry on any listing to start.
