How are you living in Korea right now? What type of home do you live in? Last time I introduced you to one-room and two-room, but I think some of you might be wondering, "Is there another type of living?"
You may have seen a building called 'Gositel' while walking on the streets of Korea. However, it is expected that many people will be curious about what type of residence a 'gositel' actually is. What kind of people choose Gositel? Why are there so many goshitels in Korea? What are the pros and cons of using Gositel?
Therefore, this time, I would like to introduce you to gositels, a type of residence unique to Korea!
Introduction to Gositel
Briefly, Gositel is an inexpensive and convenient accommodation facility in Korea. It's similar to a gosiwon, but it's a bit more convenient and pleasant because it's equipped with a separate toilet or shower room.
Since gosiwons are classified as quasi-housing rather than housing, cooking and laundry must be done in separate public facilities. It can be said that Goshitel was renamed for marketing purposes to change the negative perception of goshiwon. Gositels are mostly used by students or office workers for long-term residence. The price of a gositel varies depending on the location or facility, but if you are in Seoul, it is usually between 300,000 won and 500,000 won.
Evaluation of Gositel
Each person's evaluation of Gositel will be different, but when I looked it up on the Internet, there were some common pros and cons.
Source: Noryangjin Gosiwon Goshitel BEST 4 : Naver Post (naver.com)
Advantages include:
1. The price is low and the management fee is included, so there is little burden. The monthly rent ranges from 300,000 won to 500,000 won, which is much cheaper than a one-room apartment, and you do not have to pay separate maintenance fees such as internet or electricity.
2. It is convenient and hygienic because there is an individual toilet or shower room. Unlike goshiwon, you don't have to use a public bathroom, and you don't have to notice when you take a shower. Toilets and showers are cleaned regularly and are clean.
3. It is safe because it is well secured. A door lock is installed at the door or door of the building to prevent outsiders from entering. CCTV is also in operation, which helps prevent crime.
Disadvantages include:
1. The room size is small and there is not enough storage space. The room can only fit a bed, desk, and closet, and you can't bring a lot of luggage. It can be stuffy due to poor soundproofing and poor ventilation.
2. Cooking or washing is not possible or limited. Since goshitel is classified as semi-housing rather than housing, gas stoves or washing machines cannot be installed in the rooms. You may need to use a shared kitchen or laundry room, which may have set hours or be noticed.
3. Meals are not provided or monotonous. Gositels often do not provide meals, and even if they do, they may be as simple and tasteless as kimchi or rice. You may have to order takeout or eat out.
In conclusion, goshitels are affordable and convenient accommodations, but you need to consider that the living space may be small and not very comfortable. I felt that it would be nice to make a choice based on personal inclinations and priorities.
