Missed the Namsan Residence Hall? Housing Guide for Dongguk University Students
Missed the Namsan Residence Hall? Housing Guide for Dongguk University Students
So, you applied for Dongguk University’s Namsan Residence Hall (Namsan Haksa), but you didn't get a room.
It happens. The competition is fierce, and space is limited. But now you are left with a challenge: Finding a place to live in central Seoul (Jung-gu) without breaking the bank.
Dongguk University is located on the slopes of Namsan Mountain. This means two things: beautiful views and steep hills. Choosing the right neighborhood is critical if you don't want to hike before every class.
Here is your survival guide to finding housing near Dongguk.
1. The "Back Gate" Area: Pil-dong (필동)
Best for: Students who want a quiet life and a short walk to the Namsan Residence area.
The Vibe: Pil-dong is a quiet, older residential neighborhood. It sits right at the foot of the mountain.
Pros: It is the closest you can get to the campus. You can roll out of bed and be in class in 10 minutes.
Cons: It is hilly. Also, the buildings are older.
Housing Type: You will find many Goshiwons (tiny budget rooms) and older studios here.
2. The "Main Gate" Area: Chungmuro Station (충무로)
Best for: Students who love movies, food, and city life.
The Vibe: Busy and commercial. This is the cinema district of Seoul.
Pros: Incredible transportation (Line 3 & 4). Tons of restaurants and cafes.
Cons: Expensive. Because it is central Seoul, "Officetels" here have high rents and very high deposits.
Goshiwon vs. Studio: What Should You Choose?
If you walk around Pil-dong, you will see signs for "Goshiwon" (고시원).
Goshiwon: Very cheap ($300-$400/month), but the room is the size of a closet, and you might have to share a bathroom. Walls are paper-thin.
Studio (One-room): Private kitchen, private bathroom, and space to breathe. But landlords usually ask for 10 million KRW ($7,500) deposits.
The Solution: Studio Life with Goshiwon Prices?
You don't have to suffer in a tiny Goshiwon just to save money. LiveAnywhere bridges the gap.
Low Deposit: Get a private, fully furnished studio in Chungmuro or Pil-dong with a deposit as low as 200,000 KRW ($150).
No "Hill" Surprise: Our map shows you exactly where the house is, so you know if you need to climb Namsan to get home.
Short-Term Friendly: Perfect for exchange students who only need a room for one semester (4 months).
Don't let the dorm rejection ruin your semester. Find a comfortable, private room near Dongguk University today.