South Korea is known for its modern skyline, vibrant culture, and world-renowned technology. However, photographer Sim Kyu-Dong offers a unique perspective on the country’s lesser-seen side by documenting life in “Goshiwon,” a form of minimal, affordable housing that many South Koreans, including those with limited means, call home. Originally built for students preparing for demanding exams, Goshiwon rooms have become a low-cost living option for those struggling to afford Seoul’s high rental prices. This housing provides a lifeline for individuals who might otherwise face homelessness or those dealing with personal challenges, offering them a secure place to live and start fresh.
In an interview, Sim shared insights into the purpose of Goshiwon housing, the challenges and rewards of living in such compact spaces, and why people often choose these tiny rooms as a temporary refuge. Although Goshiwon units are typically modestly equipped with a bed, desk, and small closet, the community provides shared amenities like bathrooms and kitchens, allowing residents to keep costs low. According to Sim, these rooms are “pretty small, only for sleeping and studying,” yet they’ve evolved beyond that purpose to accommodate those looking for an affordable, deposit-free housing option.
Goshiwon living has a mix of advantages and disadvantages. On the one hand, it enables residents to adopt a minimalist lifestyle, which can be liberating for some. Sim noted that his own experience living in a Goshiwon for the first time was unexpectedly positive: “I could live a simple life with few pieces of clothing and luggage in a small room. It was a place that made me feel the charm of a minimalist life unintentionally.” This way of life encourages simplicity and, for some, can be a way to save money without the distractions that come with larger living spaces.
However, Goshiwon living also has significant downsides, particularly regarding privacy and comfort. Rooms are generally tiny, with just enough space for a small bed, a desk, and a few personal items, which can make residents feel confined. Additionally, while the rooms have doors for privacy, the thin walls and busy corridors mean that noise is a frequent challenge. “Even if you close the door and stay alone, you don’t feel like you’re alone,” Sim explained. Despite the limitations, for those on a tight budget, this housing provides a much-needed sense of independence.
Beyond a basic place to stay, Goshiwon housing has become a valuable starting point for young people moving to Seoul from smaller towns. For those just beginning their careers, it’s an affordable option that allows them to save for a more permanent home. “Some young people, who have just taken their first step into the real world, live in Goshiwon until they save up enough money to rent a house,” Sim explained. In this sense, Goshiwon serves as a bridge to self-sufficiency for those who may not have the means to afford a traditional apartment immediately.
The cost of Goshiwon housing varies depending on the location and quality of amenities. According to Sim, the most basic rooms, like the ones in his photographs, cost about $200 a month. However, rooms with additional amenities, such as private bathrooms, can cost around $500. Some units even come with small windows, which can be a rare luxury in this type of housing.
The rent tends to increase if the window faces outside rather than an indoor corridor, offering residents a connection to the world beyond the walls of their small room.
Through his photography, Sim Kyu-Dong brings attention to the resilience and adaptability of Goshiwon residents who make the best of these compact spaces. His work highlights how people create homes in unexpected places, emphasizing the need for affordable housing options in a city as expensive as Seoul.
