During conversations with my students, I’ve noticed that descriptions of residential buildings in Korea differ from those in English-speaking countries. If you’re planning to live in Korea, understanding these housing types can be very helpful. Let’s dive into six common housing options you’ll encounter!
아파트 (Apartment)
In Korea, 아파트 refers to high-rise residential buildings designed for urban living. Unlike individual apartments in English-speaking countries, Korean apartments are often part of large complexes with parks, gyms, and security services. Each building and unit is numbered for easy identification, such as 101동 (building) and 101호 (unit).
빌라 (Villa)
In Korea, 빌라 describes a small, low-rise building with only a few units, typically 4–5 stories high. While the word 'villa' sounds luxurious in English, Korean 빌라 are generally modest and affordable options. Luxury villas do exist, but they are rare and not the default meaning.
오피스텔 (Officetel)
An 오피스텔 combines 'office' and 'hotel,' providing a space suitable for both living and working. Similar to a studio apartment or serviced apartment, officetels are popular among young professionals for their convenience and central locations in business districts.
원룸 (One-room)
원룸 refers to a small studio unit where the bedroom, kitchen, and living area are all combined into one space. It's a popular choice for students and young workers. If there’s an extra room, it’s called a 투룸 (two-room). One-rooms are commonly found inside 빌라 or 오피스텔 buildings.
주택 (House)
A 주택 is a standalone house where one family lives independently. When specifically talking about a detached single-family home, the term 단독주택 is used. These houses are more common outside dense cities, offering larger spaces but usually fewer shared amenities compared to apartments.
펜션 (Pension)
In Korea, a 펜션 is a vacation rental, usually located near beaches or mountains. Unlike the 'pension' concept in Europe, Korean pensions are cozy private lodges ideal for weekend getaways. They are a popular choice for couples, families, and groups looking for a relaxing trip in nature.
➤ Korea’s unique housing terms reflect how urbanization, culture, and lifestyle have shaped residential life. While the words might sound familiar, their meanings are often very different from English. Knowing these differences will help you better understand Korean society—and maybe even find your next home!
