My Korean Apartment: New Apartment vs Old Shack On The Roof!

As I wound my way around the final flight of steps, I pushed open a humble door that granted me access to the top of the roof.  I panted frantically as I was exhausted from hauling my two suitcases chock full of all the belongings I packed from home that I deemed necessary just 24 hours ago prior to departing from Canada.

I looked at the structure my Korean director was eagerly waving me towards and immediately thought internally, “No way.  This can’t be it.”

What was directly in front of my eyes was nothing more than a makeshift shack, a temporary housing structure situated on top of this residential roof.  Its crumbling white siding led way to a sliding door that was caked with dirt.

As I dropped my suitcases off and finally caught my breath the reality of the situation was finally starting to sink in.

I will be living in this place for an entire year while teaching English in Korea.

What on earth have I gotten myself into?

My most recent apartment in Korea (Not the shack on top of the roof)

Aaaaah, it sure can be fun to look back in hindsight to laugh at yourself.  What I described above was my Korean apartment (er…Shack on top of the roof) that I lived in during my first ESL teaching stint way back in 2005-06.  On days when my morale was high and I was in a peppy positive mood I would consider it to be my crumbling artists loft; however, on days that weren’t quite as rosy and stellar the reality was that I was living in a shit tin can on top of a roof.  Korea, with its brutal winters and impossibly hot and humid summers, nearly did me in that year as I often resorted to extreme measures (electric blankets & heat fans in the winter; 3-4 cold showers & wearing nothing but my undies in the summer) to cope with the predicament I was in.

I’ve learned a lot since that time.  First and foremost, I’ve requested; NO, I’ve demanded  since that initial teaching contract to actually ‘see a photo’ of the place I’m signing my life away before putting my signature on paper. The truth is that I’ve loved all of my apartments in Korea since that initial debacle of a place has long since been in the rear-view mirror.  Having my own free apartment and sense of autonomy and space has been one of the main reasons I’ve loved living in South Korea over the years.

With all of the jobs I’ve had in Korea over the years my apartment has always been provided for me as part of my contract.  I’ve lived on top of a roof, on the 17th floor of a high rise apartment & in an officetel.  Each experience has been radically different aside from one unifying factor:  they’ve always been tiny places compared to apartments back home.

Shack On Top Of The Roof In South Korea

My Korean apartment on top of a roof – circa 2005-2006

More views from the humble shack on top of the roof 🙂

In this video I’m giving your a tour of my most recent Korean apartment.  From views of the rice fields from the entrace of my front door to an up close and intimate encounter with my bathroom, nothing is spared 😛  You’ll notice my bedroom that is surprisingly bare.  I take you into my kitchen where I’m running low on condiments, bread and orange juice.  Not exactly the bounty of Korean food you likely expected from a high rolling ESL teacher eh?  Normally I head out to grab a bite at a local Korean kimbap places or occasionally a Korean fast food joint.   Finally you’ll get to see what a typical ‘wet’ Korean bathroom looks like; however, not without first putting on flip flops.  Come check out Audrey’s apartment in Korea for a completely different tour of an officetel.

Some of my friends and family have been truly shocked by my the size of my apartment.  What do you think?  Could you live in a place like this?  It’s where I’ve called ‘my home’ for the last 10 and a half months.  It’s humble and certainly nothing special but in some ways I’ll be sad to leave when I pack up my bags six weeks later and head home to Canada for the holidays.

How To Avoid Getting A Bad Apartment In South Korea

Renting an apartment in South Korea can be a daunting task, especially for those who are unfamiliar with the local rental market. To avoid getting a bad apartment, it is important to take certain steps to ensure that you are renting a safe and comfortable living space. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

Firstly, conducting thorough research is key to finding a good apartment. You can start by looking for online reviews or asking locals for their opinions on the neighborhood and the building. By doing so, you can identify any potential red flags such as reports of crime, poor maintenance, or noise complaints. It is also advisable to inspect the apartment carefully to ensure that everything is in working order. Checking the plumbing, electrical, heating, and cooling systems and looking for signs of water damage or pests can prevent problems from arising later on.

Secondly, it is important to understand the terms of the lease agreement. Make sure you read and understand the lease agreement thoroughly, and look for any hidden fees or restrictions. This includes limitations on guests or pets, which can be deal-breakers for some renters. Clarifying any questions or concerns with the landlord or real estate agent before signing the lease can prevent misunderstandings and disputes down the line.

Thirdly, understanding the payment terms is crucial. This includes the amount of the security deposit, rent, and any other fees. Make sure you have a clear understanding of when payments are due and how they should be made to avoid any late payment fees or disputes with the landlord.

Fourthly, communication with the landlord is essential. Good communication can help you address any issues that may arise with the apartment or the building promptly. Make sure you have their contact information, and that they are responsive to your inquiries or concerns. If you encounter any issues with the apartment, communicate them to the landlord promptly.

Fifthly, using a reputable real estate agent can be helpful, especially for those who are not familiar with the local rental market or language. A reputable agent can provide you with valuable advice and assistance throughout the rental process, including negotiating lease terms and addressing any issues with the apartment.

In conclusion, finding a good apartment in South Korea requires thorough research, understanding of lease terms, payment conditions, good communication with the landlord and/or agent, and inspection of the apartment. By following these tips, you can increase your chances of finding a comfortable and safe living space that meets your needs and preferences. Remember that renting an apartment is a significant commitment, so it is important to take the time to research and consider all the relevant factors before making a decision.

Different Styles Of Apartments In South Korea

South Korea is a country that is renowned for its unique and diverse architecture, and the same is true when it comes to apartments. The country boasts a range of different styles of apartments, each with their own distinct features and design elements. Understanding the various styles of apartments in South Korea can help you choose the best type of living space that suits your needs and preferences.

Officetel apartments are a popular style of apartment in South Korea that is designed to combine residential and commercial purposes in one unit. These apartments are often located in high-rise buildings and come equipped with amenities such as a small office or studio. Officetel apartments are typically smaller than regular apartments, but they offer the convenience of having a workspace within the same unit.

Villa apartments, on the other hand, are a type of apartment that is designed to resemble individual homes. These apartments are often standalone buildings or part of a small cluster of buildings and feature private entrances and outdoor spaces such as balconies or gardens. Villa apartments are often larger and more spacious than other types of apartments, making them popular among families.

Rooftop apartments are another type of apartment in South Korea that is designed to offer a unique living experience. These apartments are located on the top floor of a building and often come equipped with an outdoor terrace or rooftop garden. Rooftop apartments offer panoramic views of the surrounding area and provide a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Studio apartments are a popular choice among young professionals who prefer a simple and minimalist living space. These apartments typically consist of one large room that serves as the living, sleeping, and dining area, with a separate bathroom and kitchenette. Studio apartments are often located in urban areas and are designed for individuals or couples who do not require a lot of living space.

Duplex apartments are another type of apartment that is popular among families or those who work from home. These apartments are spread over two floors, with a staircase connecting the two levels. Duplex apartments offer the convenience of having separate living and sleeping areas, making them ideal for families or those who need to work from home. They often have large windows and high ceilings, providing a sense of space and openness.

Serviced apartments are a type of apartment that is similar to a hotel room. These apartments offer daily housekeeping services and amenities such as a gym, swimming pool, and laundry facilities. Serviced apartments are designed for short-term stays and are popular among travelers and expats who need temporary accommodation.

South Korea offers a diverse range of apartment styles, each with its unique features and design elements. From Officetel and Villa apartments to Rooftop and Studio apartments, there is a wide variety of options to choose from. By understanding the various styles of apartments in South Korea, you can choose the best living space that suits your needs and preferences.