During conversations with my students, I’ve noticed that the way residential buildings are described in Korea differs somewhat from English-speaking countries. Learning about these housing types can be useful, especially if you ever have the chance to live in Korea. Let's dive in and explore the most common housing options!
아파트 (Apartment)
In Korea, the most common form of housing is the '아파트' (apartment), referring to high-rise buildings designed for densely populated areas. Given the limited land space and the fact that half of the population lives in the Seoul metropolitan area, these high-rise apartment complexes have developed extensively. Rather than just one building, apartments in Korea are often grouped into several buildings, forming a mini-community with various facilities like parks and gyms. Each building is numbered (e.g., 101동), and each unit is designated by a specific number (e.g., 101호).
빌라 (Villa)
While 'villa' English often refers to luxury vacation homes, in Korea, a '빌라' is a modest, low-rise residential building, usually 4-5 stories high, with fewer than 10 units. Villas typically lack the amenities of apartments and are more affordable. Although there are luxury villas for the wealthy, they are not the norm.
오피스텔 (Officetel)
An '오피스텔' is a blend of 'office' and 'hotel,' describing a space that combines work and living areas. It’s similar to a 'studio apartment' or 'serviced apartment' in English, but '오피스텔' can be used for both commercial and residential purposes. They are often located in commercial districts and are popular with single professionals or newlyweds due to their convenient location near workplaces.
원룸 (One-room)
This term refers to small studio apartments found in '빌라' or '오피스텔'. A 'one-room' combines the bedroom, kitchen, and living room into one space. These are popular with students and young professionals, especially in urban areas where efficient use of space is key. If the unit has an additional small room, it's called a '투룸' (two-room).
주택 (House)
In Korea, a '주택' refers to a detached home where one household lives independently, similar to the English concept of a 'house.' When referring specifically to a single-family home, the term '단독주택' (detached house) is used. These houses are more common in suburban or rural areas and tend to have fewer amenities compared to apartments, making them less common in densely populated cities. People often have mixed feelings about houses due to their differences in infrastructure and maintenance compared to apartments.
펜션 (Pension)
In Korea, a '펜션' is a vacation rental, usually located in natural settings such as by the sea or in the mountains. It’s a private, cozy space for weekend getaways. The English word 'pension' originates from French, meaning a long-term, budget accommodation. However, Korean pensions are scenic retreats and are popular with families or couples looking for a relaxing escape. If you visit Korea, consider staying at a '펜션' instead of a hotel for a different experience!
➤ Korea's housing types have evolved rapidly with urbanization, leading to unique building names and housing styles. Even when similar housing concepts exist in English-speaking countries, the terminology and meaning can differ. For instance, apartments in Korea are often more luxurious and well-equipped compared to those in English-speaking countries, while the concept of a villa is entirely different. Understanding these differences will give you a deeper insight into Korean housing culture.
