by Hellynn Jung

If you’re planning on undergoing IVF or egg freezing treatments in Seoul, Korea, you might be wondering about your living arrangements during this crucial time. While hotels and Airbnbs are available, they can be costly, potentially stretching your IVF budget thin. Finding the perfect place to stay during your fertility treatments is essential, considering factors such as proximity to the hospital, dining options, and recreational activities. A comfortable neighborhood can greatly contribute to your overall well-being and peace of mind.

Seoul boasts a variety of rental options, each with its own unique fee structure. Understanding these options can empower you to make an informed decision that aligns with your lifestyle and financial situation. Let’s explore the different types of short term rentals and fee structures you can expect in Seoul, whether you’re staying for a couple of weeks or several months.

Fully Furnished, Short-Term Stays

In Korea, rental contracts typically last for a year. However, for those of us who are visiting for medical treatments and need flexibility along with fully furnished accommodations, short-term stays are an excellent choice due to their 3 month leases (which often can be negotiated down to one or two months if needed). These rentals often come fully furnished, although you may need to purchase some essentials like kitchen utensils and towels. While this can be a bit of a hassle, it’s still a more cost-effective option compared to hotels and Airbnbs, especially if you’re planning a stay of over a month.

Short-term rentals in Seoul come in various forms, including ‘villas’, ‘officetels’ and ‘apartments’. Villas are smaller buildings usually located in quieter alleys away from the hustle and bustle of busy streets. They typically offer one to three room units, and require a security deposit of one to two months’ rent. Officetels, on the other hand, are high-rise buildings with studio apartments. Apartments usually have a few rooms but are totally worth it if you’re traveling with family or friends. While both officetels and apartments may offer better construction and security, they can be much pricier in terms of utility fees than villas.

Co-Living Spaces: The New Trend

Co-living spaces have become increasingly popular in Korea, offering furnished studio apartments with shared amenities like coworking spaces, rooftop areas, and small gyms. These spaces foster a sense of community and often come with dedicated community managers to ensure fun community activities and a comfortable living experience. While the rooms may be smaller than traditional studios, the benefits of community living and larger amenities can outweigh this drawback. If traveling alone for egg freezing, or you and your partner require remote work space, this can be a great option.

Now, let’s break down the fee structures you might encounter:

• Maintenance Fees (관리비): Covers building upkeep, cleaning, and sometimes utilities.
• Utilities (공과금): May be included in rent or charged separately for electricity, gas, water, and cable / internet.
• Key Money (보증금): A significant upfront deposit returned at the end of the lease term.
• Agent Fees (중개수수료): Typically paid when renting through a real estate agent.

For IVF patients, fully furnished short-term stays and co-living spaces offer flexibility and peace of mind. Contracts can be extended easily (unlike hotels and Airbnbs), providing stability during this uncertain time. Navigating rental options and fee structures in Seoul may seem overwhelming, but with a clear understanding of your preferences and budget, you can find the perfect housing arrangement for your IVF journey. Whether you prefer the stability of traditional rentals or the community vibe of co-living spaces, Seoul has something to offer for every lifestyle so that you can live and enjoy while getting your fertility treatments.

For more information on getting IVF abroad in Korea, contact us.