Inside Korea’s Micro-Apartments: A Look at Seoul’s Gosiwon Housing
A growing number of residents in South Korea are living in incredibly small spaces, and a recent video from American travel YouTuber Drew Binsky is bringing renewed attention to this often-overlooked aspect of urban life. Binsky’s exploration of gosiwon, a uniquely Korean housing option, reveals a world of compact living born from economic necessity and intense academic pressure.
The Rise of Seoul’s Smallest Apartments
The phenomenon of gosiwon initially emerged to serve students diligently preparing for the notoriously difficult gosi law exams. These accommodations offered affordable lodging close to cram schools, allowing students to maximize their study time. However, over time, gosiwon have evolved into a housing solution for a much broader demographic, encompassing individuals from all walks of life seeking budget-friendly options in the expensive city of Seoul.
Binsky’s video, titled “Inside Korea’s smallest apartment” and released on February 1, has already garnered over 1.9 million views, sparking international conversation about the realities of living in one of the world’s most technologically advanced cities.
A Space-Saving Solution: Life Inside a Gosiwon
The defining characteristic of a gosiwon is its size. Entrances are often remarkably narrow – barely 61cm (24 inches) wide – requiring residents to turn their shoulders to navigate the doorway. Inside, rooms are typically minimalist, offering just enough space for a bed, desk, and basic storage.
Despite the limited square footage, gosiwon offer a surprisingly comprehensive set of amenities. Rent typically averages around 360,000 won (approximately US$250) per month, which usually includes utilities like wireless internet and air conditioning. Residents also benefit from shared access to essential food items such as rice, instant noodles, and kimchi.
“Behind the bright lights and advanced technology, many people are building their lives in rooms smaller than a closet,” Binsky observed after visiting a tour guide residing in a gosiwon in Seoul’s Eunpyeong district.
The Numbers and Personal Experiences
Approximately 150,000 people in Seoul currently live in gosiwon, according to figures cited in Binsky’s video. This highlights the significant role these micro-apartments play in addressing the city’s housing challenges.
Binsky’s own experience living in South Korea in 2013 as an English teacher further illuminates the unique design considerations of these spaces. He vividly recalls a bathroom where the sink and shower were combined into a single fixture – a clever space-saving solution that occasionally resulted in unexpected, and soaking, consequences.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YOUR_YOUTUBE_VIDEO_ID
Drew Binsky’s video offers a detailed visual tour of several gosiwon facilities across Seoul.
The prevalence of gosiwon underscores the ingenuity and adaptability of Seoul’s residents in the face of high housing costs and limited space. While not a conventional living arrangement by Western standards, gosiwon represent a pragmatic solution for a significant portion of the population, offering affordability and community in a bustling metropolis.
