How can you set up a new room in Korea without spending a fortune? 

When you move into a new room in Korea, setting it up doesn't have to be expensive. By purchasing daily essentials at Daiso and finding high-quality secondhand furniture and appliances on Karrot (Danggeun), foreigners can fully furnish their apartments for under 100,000 KRW. Here is exactly how you can navigate these two budget-saving lifesavers to comfortably settle into your new home in Korea.

What is Daiso and what household items should you buy there?

Daiso is Korea’s ultimate dollar store, where almost every item costs between 1,000 and 5,000 KRW. It is the first place you should visit after moving in. For foreigners living in a one-room or officetel, Daiso is perfect for buying daily necessities. You should prioritize buying bathroom supplies (toilet paper, shower curtains, bath mats), kitchen basics (plates, utensils, sponges), cleaning tools, and storage boxes. Spending just 30,000 to 50,000 KRW here will cover 90% of your basic daily needs.

How can foreigners use the Karrot (Danggeun) app for furniture?

Karrot, known locally as "Danggeun Market," is a hyper-local secondhand marketplace app. Because the app connects you with sellers within your specific neighborhood, it is incredibly easy to pick up items. To use it, you need to verify your local neighborhood using your smartphone’s GPS. Even if your Korean isn't fluent, you can use built-in translation tools to communicate with sellers. This is the best place to find cheap (or even free!) items like microwaves, desk lamps, small tables, and chairs left behind by graduating students or moving professionals.

How much does it actually cost to set up a basic room in Seoul?

 Based on typical university neighborhood data in Seoul (like Sinchon or Hongdae), setting up a basic room is highly affordable if you combine these two platforms.

• Daiso Essentials: ~30,000 KRW (Cleaning, bathroom, and kitchen basics)
• Karrot Furniture: ~50,000 KRW (A used microwave and a small desk/chair)
• Total: Under 100,000 KRW. Compared to buying brand new items, you can easily save hundreds of dollars.

Where can you find the right home before setting up your room?

Before you can decorate your room, you need to find the right place to live! Whether you are an international student, a working professional, or here on a working holiday, securing a safe and comfortable home is the first step.

👉 [Explore our Monthly Rental and Room Listings tailored for foreigners]