Introduction
In Korea, the terms for housing can often be a source of confusion for foreigners due to the unique use of Konglish, a blend of Korean and English. It's common for Koreans to discuss their type of housing, which can include Officetel, Villa, Apartment, House, One Room, Hanok and so on. Each of these terms has a specific meaning in the Korean context, often differing from their English counterparts.
The country's unique terms for various types of housing can leave foreigners scratching their heads. In this blog post, we will explore the various types of housing in Korea. We will also delve into how these terms differ from their English counterparts due to the influence of Konglish, the blend of Korean and English language.
Read my previous comprehensive Guide on “How to Find Housing in Korea”
One Room
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One Room is another common term in the Korean housing market. Despite the name, One Rooms often include a small kitchen and bathroom in addition to the single room. They are typically small, affordable units that are ideal for individuals or couples.
Officetel
An Officetel in Korea is a mix of the words 'office' and 'hotel', referring to units that serve both residential and commercial purposes. Contrary to what the term might suggest in English, an Officetel is not a traditional office space nor a hotel. These are compact, fully furnished units often located in high-rise buildings, designed to accommodate the live-work lifestyle of young professionals and students. They are usually located in city centers or near universities, making them a popular choice for convenience and accessibility.
Apartment
In the Korean context, an Apartment refers to a large residential complex with multiple units, not just a single unit within a building as understood in English. Korean Apartments are often high-rise buildings with a multitude of amenities like playgrounds, parking lots, and security systems. These complexes are more than just a collection of living spaces; they are self-contained communities often equipped with convenience stores, fitness centers, and sometimes even schools.
Villa
Villas in Korea differ greatly from the luxurious single-family homes or holiday properties the term usually denotes in English. In Korea, a Villa refers to a low-rise residential building that houses multiple units. They are typically 4 to 5 stories high and do not have elevators. Villas are a popular choice for those seeking a quieter, more neighborhood-like atmosphere compared to the bustling Apartment complexes.
House
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In Korea, a House, or Jutak, typically refers to a detached housing unit, similar to what one might imagine when thinking of a house in a Western context. However, Korean Houses often vary significantly in size and layout, ranging from small, one-story homes to larger, multi-story dwellings. Some houses even have traditional Korean architectural elements, such as the Hanok, which features a distinctive tiled roof and a courtyard.
Hanok
A Hanok is a traditional Korean house, distinguished by its unique architectural features such as a tiled roof, wooden structure, and a courtyard. Hanoks are designed to harmonize with their surrounding environment, making use of natural materials and allowing for efficient heating and cooling. Although more common in rural areas, Hanoks can also be found in urban settings as a nod to Korea's rich history and cultural heritage.
Conclusion
Understanding the unique housing terminology in Korea is an essential step when planning to live or work in the country. While the Konglish terms might seem confusing at first, with a bit of insight, you will find that they are quite descriptive of the housing style they represent. Whether you prefer the convenience of an Officetel, the community feel of an Apartment complex, the quieter setting of a Villa, the individuality of a House, or the simplicity of a One Room, Korea offers a range of options to suit different lifestyles and preferences.
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Kim Ninja (Huy-Kim Nguyen)
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