Good morning from Hongik University

Yesterday was my first day inside a goshiwon. What is a goshiwon? It is another superb Korean creativity to the max fusing the needs of students yet accomplishing a "system" that is Korean and not easily replicated elsewhere partly due to the very strong family values, respect for elders and society and law, if you asked me.

A goshiwon is a little room that you can rent to live in for a much lower cost than a regular apartment, house, room. For instance an apartment may cost 800 000 KRW plus key-money (large cash deposit that is usually about 1-2 years rental anyway, which is ANOTHER unique Korean style creation). A goshiwon could be had for 250 000 KRW to 500 000 KRW.

There is usually some cabinets, wardrobe, a TV, fridge, single bed, high-speed internet (10Mbps anyone?!), shower/toilet, and amazingly there is a basic staple served (self-service): there is a huge fridge with 2 large boxes of kimchi vegetable, and daily cooked pots of rice. Some even offer basic coffee, tea, and even ramyun (noodles) and eggs.

The goshiwon caters essentially for students who need an affordable place to live nearby the university, thus saving on precious commute time. Each floor there are perhaps 20 rooms. The rooms may look small but it fits all your needs as a student perfectly and minimise distraction anyway.

Here is a basic montage. There's a desk with TV.
Fridge beneath it.
Large mirror, single bed, wardrobe.
Emergency alarm and torch.
Will put in more photos soon.

Hong'ik University main entrance