How to Live in Korea for Over a Month Without a Security Deposit
A Practical Guide for Foreigners Planning a Long-Term Stay
In Korea, renting an apartment often requires a large security deposit, sometimes reaching thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars.
For foreigners who want to stay one month or longer, this system can feel unrealistic and overwhelming.
The good news is:
👉 You can live in Korea for over a month without paying a security deposit.
This guide explains realistic, legal, and foreigner-friendly options that many long-term visitors actually use.
1️⃣ Why Are Security Deposits So High in Korea?
Most traditional housing in Korea (studios, officetels, apartments) operates under:
Monthly rent with a large deposit
Long-term contracts (usually 1 year or more)
Korean-only contracts and strict requirements
For foreigners staying 1–6 months, this system is often impractical.
That’s why many long-term visitors choose alternative housing options.
2️⃣ 5 Realistic Ways to Stay in Korea Without a Deposit
① Monthly Hotels
❌ No security deposit
Fully furnished
Cleaning and utilities included
Easy contracts
Cons:
More expensive than regular rent, limited availability in some areas
👉 Best for: 1–2 month stays, first-time visitors
② Residence Hotels / Serviced Apartments
❌ No deposit
Kitchen and laundry available
Very foreigner-friendly
Cons:
Higher prices in central Seoul
👉 Best for: 2–6 month stays, business travelers, families
③ Goshiwon / Goshi-tel (Foreigner-Friendly)
❌ No deposit or very small deposit
Monthly contracts
Utilities included
Cons:
Small room size, basic living conditions
👉 Best for: Students, language learners, budget-focused stays
④ Share Houses (Monthly Rent)
Low or no deposit
Furnished rooms
Popular with international residents
Cons:
Shared kitchens and common areas, less privacy
👉 Best for: Young professionals, digital nomads
⑤ Foreigner-Focused Long-Term Stay Platforms ⭐
❌ No deposit
English contracts
Monthly stays available
Designed specifically for foreigners
Platforms like StayKorea.org:
Curate verified foreigner-friendly housing
Eliminate language and contract barriers
Reduce the risk of scams
Help transition from short-term to long-term stays
👉 Best overall option for most foreigners
3️⃣ Common Mistakes Foreigners Make When Renting in Korea
❌ Signing Korean-only contracts without understanding the terms
❌ Visiting local real estate offices and getting rejected
❌ Being forced into 1-year leases for short stays
❌ Losing deposits due to unclear rules
That’s why deposit-free housing is often the safest and simplest choice.
4️⃣ What to Check Before Staying Over One Month
✔ Visa type (Tourist, D-4, D-2, E-7, etc.)
✔ Address registration availability (important for ARC applications)
✔ Whether utilities are included
✔ Internet, laundry, and kitchen access
✔ English contract support
5️⃣ Who Is This Option Perfect For?
Foreigners planning to live in Korea for 1–6 months
Digital nomads and remote workers
Language students and exchange students
Job seekers preparing to work in Korea
Travelers who want to “test living in Korea” before committing long-term
6️⃣ Final Thoughts: Living in Korea Without a Deposit Is Possible
A large security deposit is not required to live in Korea for over a month.
What truly matters is:
✔ Choosing housing that matches your stay length
✔ Using foreigner-friendly contracts
✔ Working with reliable long-term stay platforms
👉 With StayKorea.org, you can start your life in Korea
without a deposit, without stress, and without complicated procedures.
