Calculate all the initial costs you'll need when starting to live alone in South Korea. From housing deposit and rent to appliances, furniture, and moving costs.
Enter a budget to see if your total exceeds it
Check the items you need for living alone. Default selections are based on typical needs for first-time solo living.
Enter the estimated amount for each item in units of 10,000 KRW. Adjust to match your local prices and preferred brands.
Enter your total budget to instantly see whether your initial costs are within or over budget.
Click Calculate to see subtotals by category and your total initial cost at a glance.
Excluding the security deposit, expect 3–5 million KRW. Including a typical deposit, the total often ranges from 10–20 million KRW or more, depending on the area and your choices.
No. Refrigerators, washing machines, and air conditioners are available in great condition on used-goods platforms. Buying used can cut appliance costs by 40–60%.
For monthly rent (wolse), the fee is typically 0.4–0.9% of the deposit/rent base (with a legal cap). For jeonse, it's 0.3–0.9% of the deposit. Always confirm the fee with your agent in advance.
If you have few belongings, a small van rental (damas) or help from friends is the cheapest option. For larger moves, compare quotes from multiple moving companies.
Kitchenware (pots, plates, utensils), laundry detergent, toilet paper, hangers, and curtains are commonly overlooked. Make a checklist before move-in day.
Yes — goshiwon (capsule rooms), dormitories, and some monthly-rent rooms have zero or very low deposits. However, monthly rent tends to be higher, so weigh the pros and cons.
• This calculator is a reference tool for planning your initial living costs.
• Actual costs vary significantly by region, brand, and timing.
• Default amounts are based on general market prices and may differ from actual costs.
• The security deposit is refundable when you move out, so adjust it to your situation.
Starting to live alone involves more expenses than you might expect. From security deposits and rent to appliances, furniture, and daily essentials, planning ahead helps you start solo life on solid financial footing.
Initial costs for living alone fall into five main categories: housing (deposit, rent, agent fee), appliances, furniture, daily essentials, and moving expenses. Housing dominates the total, with Seoul studio deposits typically ranging from 5–10 million KRW or more. Appliances like a refrigerator, washing machine, and air conditioner are non-negotiable essentials, but buying used versions can save 1–2 million KRW. Basic furniture — bed, desk, and wardrobe — can be sourced affordably from IKEA or second-hand sellers.
The most effective ways to cut initial costs are: buying used appliances and furniture, purchasing items in stages, and deferring non-essential purchases. Platforms like Daangn Marketplace offer quality used appliances at 40–60% below retail. Curtains, decorative lighting, and other extras can wait until you're settled in. Take advantage of carrier bundle plans for internet, and use credit card installment promotions to spread out large purchases without interest.