South Korea often dazzles the world with its vibrant pop culture, cutting-edge technology, rich traditions, and sleek urban architecture. Search for images of Korea online, and you’ll likely be greeted with a flood of breathtaking temples, bustling cityscapes, and tantalizing cuisine. But beneath this gleaming surface lies a reality far less romantic—a side of Korea that rarely makes it to glossy travel brochures.
Photographer Sim Kyu Dong is changing that narrative with his poignant photo series capturing life inside Goshiwon, one of Korea’s most controversial housing solutions.
What Is Goshiwon?
Goshiwon refers to extremely compact living quarters in Korea, typically measuring just around 43 square feet per unit. Originally designed to accommodate students preparing for competitive exams (called goshi saeng), these rooms have evolved into havens for those on the fringes of society—low-income workers, the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and those experiencing temporary financial hardship.
With a bed, a small desk, and perhaps a closet, a Goshiwon provides only the bare essentials. Bathrooms, kitchens, and other amenities are usually shared among residents. Despite their minimalism, Goshiwons offer a unique value: a safe, warm space at an affordable price, especially in cities like Seoul where housing costs continue to rise.
A Lens on Life in Tiny Spaces
Sim Kyu Dong’s photography brings us face-to-face with this side of Korean life. His images aren’t just snapshots—they’re windows into stories of resilience, solitude, and survival. From dimly lit hallways to cluttered desktops, his compositions capture not only physical spaces but also the emotional weight of living small.
In an interview, Dong revealed that his motivation came from wanting to document parts of Korean society that are often ignored or hidden. His work shows the vast range of people who turn to Goshiwon housing—not just the destitute, but also students, freelancers, and even young professionals trying to make ends meet in an expensive city.
Why Goshiwon Still Matters
In a country where traditional housing is often out of reach for many, Goshiwons represent more than just cheap rent—they symbolize hope, transience, and in some ways, dignity. Most of these units don’t require a hefty deposit, making them accessible to people in crisis or transition. For some, it’s a temporary solution; for others, it’s home.
Prices range from roughly $200 a month for the most basic units to slightly more for rooms with windows or private bathrooms. This sliding scale allows residents to choose based on their means, though even the best-equipped Goshiwon rooms remain minimalist at best.
Living Small, Living Real
Life in a Goshiwon isn’t glamorous, but it fosters a kind of disciplined simplicity. With limited space, residents are forced to prioritize what truly matters. It’s a lifestyle that challenges our assumptions about comfort and necessity—less about what’s missing, and more about what’s essential.
Sim Kyu Dong’s work serves as both art and advocacy. His photos urge us to look closer—not just at Korea, but at our own cities, our own margins. Who lives there? Why? And what can we learn from them?
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