Cramped life in 'gosiwon', Korea's smallest, cheapest homes

Have you ever heard of ‘gosiwon’? Gosiwon refers to a form of dormitory-style single room accommodation common in South Korea that first appeared around the 1980s, mostly near universities in Seoul.
These facilities provided cheap accommodation, mostly small in size - between 3 and 6 square meters - and intended for students preparing for state-run exams to be lawyers or senior government officials.
But nowadays, gosiwons are more associated with poverty, having become a symbolic residential facility for socially disadvantaged people who cannot afford more comfortable accommodation.

[@Re_Go]

thanks for watching this video! i'm the man who interviwed in this video and living the room for the first, plz forgive my english skill (try to learn but not well ^^;;) My story may not be able to fully represent the current situation of young people in Korean society. but for Now, Young people in Korea are a generation in which it is difficult to find dreams or hopes in the society. In addition, I have a personal opinion that it is not wise to view the lifestyles of all countries as standardized because the situation in each country is different. Of course, the situation in other countries is different, but this is the situation in our country. and i'm sure the other foreigners look us with more interesting and empathy My only wish is that the people who are living so hard in each country do not give up and further cheer up as each together As much as we Koreans try to understand the history and lifestyle of people of other countries, once... What I was able to do was to pray for blessings towards them, as much as I was able to get to know the circumstances of the foreigners while learning their cultural lifestyle and history. Either way, they and I did not give up and lived our lives. I hope that we will respect those people, get to know each other through exchanges, and create a culture together. And I hope that we will continue to create a culture of meeting and interacting with them, getting to know each other and communicating together. I hope that you will be interested in the stories of people living in Korea. as we people try to learn the other countries Thank you for your interest in Korea! :)

[@containedhurricane]

Thanks for sharing. Hopefully you land a programming job soon

[@Re_Go]

@@containedhurricane thanks so much! even if i get a job at least about few years, i'm doing even now for learning! thanks again and be cheer up!! :)

[@psgiraffe9185]

Keep your spirit bro. Good luck for your dreams. I wish your dream come true

[@Re_Go]

@@psgiraffe9185 plz pray that i dont lose the first mind always ^^! 🙏

[@NAMAHE]

better times will come! 화이팅! 💪

[@danwithguitar]

Dude looked like he was going to burst into tears at any minute. I really hope he gets a decent job and nicer place soon.

[@MrNajibrazak]

he will. hard time makes strong men and good times makes weak men. a strong man would go very far while the weak would only blame everything and everyone but themselves.

[@MisfitGl]

​@@MrNajibrazakhe probably served in the army and I think he should get a nice home and job in return. I don't know why SK is hard on young men's mental health.

[@shakirabenjimin7249]

@@MrNajibrazakthat’s contradicting asf? You’re saying good times make men weak but you’re wishing for this man to get in a better position. So by him getting into a better position, that makes him weak? So tired of all these expectancies of men having to showcase a certain mentality to be seen as strong. Let them be weak when need to be and let them be strong when to be. They’re humans at the end of the day.

[@Blackiriskun]

@@CatsEverywhere33 Being weak to an extent? Not even in terms of physique, but soft skills and knowledge. Toxic masculinity has apparently become an umbrella term for any voice that counters one's own views. It's not even about man (male), but man (human). Going through unfortunate episodes both gives and takes: you lose some happiness, feeling of comfort, gladness - but in turn you become more versatile, resistant to more occurances of such events, and your sense of self becomes much stronger and unyielding. It's neither good, nor bad, it just is as such. It's also shown in many studies in Lancet's Psychology that not having gone through tough times make one proportionally more likely to completely fall under the arising situation. BUT ideally you want to never have to go through such times, and never need to grow accustomed to the world's hissy fits. That hardly ever happens though. So a dose of despair does indeed make men (human) better versions of themselves - you've lost some, you've gained some, but the net positive experience is outside the equation. Especially in times where most everything makes others offended, touching someone's arm falls under sexual harassment, criticizing is of course mobbing, stating one's opinion is quite obviously toxic masulinity, and the societal structure has turned into a squeamish sloppily-spun iteration of itself. So no need to be offended: being weak is worse than being strong.

[@seferino]

​@@MrNajibrazak don't you see that he is trying hard to improve his life. 💯

[@madic15]

He is NOT worthless! Nobody deserves to feel that way! He is working on himself and bettering his situation and for that I’m very proud of him!

[@szvqorwnpstahskypfwmp9821]

Very well said my friend!!

[@SatabdiKundu07]

Our modern world is very hard on people.

[@lemon2524]

I think what he meant was that the room makes you feel depressed

[@rebeccaspratling2865]

Amen. No one is worthless. I feel so sad that he believes that about himself. 💔

[@rebeccaspratling2865]

​@@SatabdiKundu07so true. 😔

[@aestheticslimdown2584]

Lived in a gosiwon for 6 months. Whilst it was cramped, I appreciated having my own space and bathroom during a rough time, and there was free rice, kimchi and noodles. The owner was also very kind. I would do it again if I was ever in such a position.

[@VirrealWorld]

Yeah, me too. It doesnt look awful at all. Im sorry, it just doesnt.

[@kattodoggo3868]

@@VirrealWorld you say that because you didn't live in one long enough. People need natural light aka windows. You ant really own much things because where you gonna keep them? Just basic stuff. You can't invite friends over. It would be recommended to spend as much time as you can outside and just come back to sleep. It's unfortunate but what other things Koreans can do?. There's not really space there for people

[@thecook8964]

Well, if you have to live on the street, you have plenty of natural light. Many homeless people in U.S would be grateful for a safe place to sleep at night

[@aestheticslimdown2584]

@@VirrealWorld Not all gosiwons are created equal. If you're in a higher socio-economic area or one with a prestigious university within moderate proximity, they can be decent and clean with good neighbours. However the opposite is if you're in the downtown area of a city close to a transit hub or entertainment district, it will quite literally be like living in a box. No windows, bed bugs, screaming 24/7.

[@KantoCafe715]

​@@VirrealWorldi agree

[@kiyk7273]

The fact that he kept smiling while saying all this. I wish you all the best and I really do hope you become a programmer. You’re very ambitious and hardworking. (I KNOW IT ISN’T A GENUINE SMILE, but some people would have started crying talking about a similar situation or this exact situation. He’s choosing to see the brighter side and work on his dreams)

[@qwerty6789x]

unfortunately He doesn't look like has the drive and focus to pursue that. being ambitious and hardwork alone won't cut it. You need focus on your plans and drive to execute them. seems he has gambling addiction thru games microtransactions. that's why he is on that situation

[@momochi536]

@@qwerty6789x How did you get to the conclusion that he doesn't have the drive and focus to pursue that ? I have seen people that say I will do this and I will do that, but they never take even one step to do anything. This guy has enrolled in an online course to learn programming. He is already doing something concrete to reach the goal he set for himself. Another thing that I observed is that he takes accountability for his own actions. He didn't say, oh, poor little me, I left home when I was very young and I have a very bad family situation, it is all their fault, if only God would have blessed me, I would have been so much better off. He admits his gambling addiction and recognizes that it is one of the reasons for his financial struggle. Not blaming others and taking responsibility for your actions is the foundation on which drive and focus build on.

[@ZaylaaZiaa]

@@qwerty6789x thats a hell of a reach, assuming a persons motivation from an 8 minute video

[@Sanyu-Tumusiime]

@@qwerty6789x he is in a college so i think he can do it.

[@KillerKotHD]

That smile makes me think he's depressed

[@Random-by2zy]

I’ve never seen a more painful smile in my life.. you can tell there’s a complex story behind every single resident living in a goshiwon.. would make an eye opening show for sure

[@salsichalivre5401]

seems like u never saw somebody living on the streets. He is in poverty line, those people are much below the line

[@Random-by2zy]

@@salsichalivre5401 actually I have seen an abundance of people living on the street random person on the internet 💀 regardless something ab his smile stuck with me

[@cosmoray9750]

The Toll of Hate kzbin.info/www/bejne/jnumoJx4nNJofpo

[@simp2234]

Still better than hk housing

[@user-zi7mq6xw5l]

Feeling so sad God bless you

[@paintedbysaren]

Sometimes we all forget how tough society can be on certain individuals. We’re so focused on our own ambitions we forget how to be humane. I can’t stand to hear anyone say that they “feel worthless “. I hope he knows how admirable he is to many of us who have watched this for we cannot endure what he has endured.

[@Yellow-Rose]

Well said. I didn't notice them mentioning his youTube channel.

[@SeudXe]

“Certain individuals” you mean the poor? Seems like you got no clue how hard it is.

[@exlesoes]

@@SeudXe the username "thebookofnailart" Tells me something...

[@cameronschyuder9034]

@@SeudXe not just the poor, so I’m guessing they didn’t want to list all the groups of disadvantaged folks

[@katerynafedoruk8723]

When I was an exchange student in Korea I lived in gosiwon and it was as bad as you imagine. Our ajuma also didn’t allow us to use the kitchen. Shower drains were always full of hair. My window was covered with metal sheets and my friend had no window at all. I wish I could afford better at that time. Lack of sunlight was the worst

[@nerd26373]

South Korea is very much romanticized all around. Some people have this tendency to think that Korean society is a utopia, when in reality, it isn’t. It has its fair share of flaws or imperfections-much like any other society across the globe. Anyway, this isn’t my first time watching a gosiwon tenant telling his/her personal life experiences. I hope this man succeeds in pursuing his goals. He may be struggling right now to make ends meet, but in due time, he will be able to make a name for himself. I can see how much hard work and effort he invests into everything that he does for a living. Life isn’t easy, and we all know that, but there’s always a light at the very end of the tunnel. You just have yo believe in yourself that you can make it.

[@MrAresxy07]

Unless you are a foreign 😏 because you can get a comfy job and live a somewhat comfortable life

[@sahirygnobehi6448]

.. Using their dramas to make us Africans look bad. While this is their reality. I can stop but just stare.

[@kiki-dt7md]

@@sahirygnobehi6448 i understand and the most annoying part is that the dude visited a certain country in Africa but he still doesn't know the name of the country which is so dumb for a person to describe the country as Africa and the so called pity which makes them think we desperately need water from them. But still i don't hate them i just hate the fact that their ignorant about Africa as a continent and not a country. It's not their fault it's mostly their teachers fault for not educating some of them but it doesn't mean i hate Korea, infact i want to visit there some day and spend some few weeks there

[@sahirygnobehi6448]

@@kiki-dt7md .. I do too. But i still feel this uneasiness.

[@takenby_cj]

agree.. also, with majority of lifestyle, God...the pressure.

[@KuchisabishiiYo]

Even though ran away from his house, he's actually putting in effort and determined and I hope he gets a decent job

[@SweetUniverse]

I was homeless this past spring & living at a shelter until my time ran out (1 month but I got a brief extension). I feel blessed to have found a home for my pets and myself. The price of everything is going way up, except for wages.

[@tusmarcann687]

May your blessings continue to flow and may there be more success to your future endeavors. Lets keep fighting! 💪

[@exlesoes]

They let you have pets at a homeless shelter?

[@thomas.thomas]

@@exlesoes some allow it

[@Plum_s]

This broke my heart, wish I could help somehow. He seems like a really nice person and I hope he makes well in life and gets to travel without a care.

[@live688]

You can help, his comment is pinned so you can go to his channel

[@jasmin5858]

I'm living in a goshiwon right now. It really is small but it seems like I got lucky when picking the room. I got a window, my own bathroom, very quiet neighbors and the room in itself is pretty clean. Living here for a few months is alright for me. However, the space is small af so it is hard to find a place for all the items I own and I can barely move around

[@deltahomicide9300]

but many places in South Korea is open 24 hours a day and is safe. As far as outside entertainment you have many options. Just consider your goshiwon a place to sleep and do some light work

[@jasmin5858]

@@deltahomicide9300 yeah that's true. I'm usually out all day so it isn't that much of a problem to me

[@nathanielmills4678]

Are you Korean?

[@skyazullopez6726]

You are still lucky. I just saw a video of people in the USA sleeping on the streets. It breaks my heart but this is reality. I would still consider a roof over my head a blessing. I will offer prayers for you. Ms. Jasmin. TC and stay safe.

[@jasmin5858]

@@nathanielmills4678 No

[@NicoleSantos-nv5lw]

I hope he is fine mentally! Takes a lot of strength to say what he’s said out loud

[@AgentSmith911]

This reminds me a bit of myself. Alone, young, poor and living in a small apartment/flat without a job and with mental health issues. But there's always a light at the end of the tunnel. I am currently working on improving my health and getting a job. It's tough being stuck in poverty, especially when watching other people your own age getting a degree, a good job, a nice house, lots of friends and so on 😔

[@fletcherhamilton3177]

I _did_ get the degree. But I’m not much better of than this in spite of it . . . 😅

[@MinadR92]

Good luck on your journey 🙏🏻❤ Don't give up

[@fletcherhamilton3177]

@@randomnessuwu6489 - one from an accredited university so I could work in and eventually migrate to Japan (if I chose to) - needed a degree to qualify for the initial ‘working holiday visa’ (that isn’t a stipulation in every jurisdiction but it was / is between Japan and New Zealand) . . . History, to be specific . . .

[@whirlwindofmemories]

You know, I do notice that in Korean society it’s very academic based. Some of my friends who came to the U.S. still trying to figure out how some people here who didn’t go to college became millionaires. I do feel lucky living in a country where if you hustle hard you can achieve a comfortable life. I mean we still get a lot stacked against us, but at least we get to roll the dice maybe once or twice in this game of life. Some people live in places where they never even get an opportunity to roll the dice.

[@youknowkbbaby]

​@@whirlwindofmemoriesBut you cannot even renounce U.S citizenship unless you are rich. They charge $2,300+ taxes to give up U.S citizenship. You also need permission from the state department overseas. America is not a free country and it traps poor people inside to stop the from cutting ties with the country.

[@fathead3381]

This is really how hopelessness starts. This poor guy seems to be battling to keep his head above water. Hoping he can dig himself out of his situation before one thing goes wrong(health issue, job loss, etc) pushes him out of his apartment and into homelessness. It happens in every country, and these people are casted away in society. I respect his perseverance and hope this guy makes it.

[@trustytrest]

For every one that makes it, theres three who don't. Society doesnt give a shit about losers.

[@liambrannelly45]

I wish this young man the BEST of luck!!! He's clearly intelligent and studious, and a hard worker; it's so unfair that life has dealt with him so roughly, :( But I love his optimism, even in these circumstances, he remembers to smile and keep up hope for a brighter future, :) Thanks for the video!

[@sopekookie7]

I know he’s one of many but I hope he gets to move soon. His nervous laugh breaks my heart because you can tell there’s so much behind it. I hope less fortunate people are treated better. No one should have to live like that no matter what their salary is

[@BeverlyTalley]

This needs to be addressed ASAP or it's going to cause a spiral. Most times it amazes me greatly how I moved from an average lifestyle to earning over $63k per month, Utter shock is the word. I have understood a lot in the past few years that there are lots of opportunities in the financial market. The only thing is to know where to invest.

[@Florencecoxx]

I agree with you and I believe that the secret to financial stability is having the right investment ideas to enable you earn more money, I don’t know who agrees with me but either way I recommend either real estate or bitcoin and stocks

[@izagdlife]

I keep wondering how people earn money in financial markets, i tried trading bitcoin on my own made a huge loss and now I'm scared of investing more.

[@BeverlyTalley]

@@izagdlife That won't bother you if you trade with a professional like *Sarah Alma Martinez* my consultant. I found her on a CNBC interview where she was featured and reached out to her afterwards. She has since provide entry and exit points on the securities I focus on. I basically follow her trade pattern and haven’t regretted doing so..

[@izagdlife]

@@BeverlyTalley You allow people to trade for you? that's interesting, I would love to learn, hope it’s safe.?

[@zombie15ish]

@debbie765 This is the Fourth time I'm seeing someone talking about Sarah Alma as there are lot of testimonies about her, do you know her ? if yes , did you invest with her.?

[@homelessman3483]

295$ for a month of rent without a deposit is amazing.. places like this could have a giant effect on homelessness in the United States. The only monthly rent options here are hotels that cost 50$ a night or 1000$ for a month

[@DTRE42795]

The ymca used to do something like this in my town 5 dollars a day got you a bed from 8pm to 5am. The homeless in my town could make that by pan handling if they had to or doing day laborer work. Unfortunately my town started getting gentrified and the ymca got priced out the neighborhood(property taxes). I believe the powers that be thought it would improve the homeless problem in town becuase it would mean the Y would move and Take the homeless with them. However it made it infinitely worse because suddenly the people were sleeping in the streets, parks, outside the library. And the ymca and all it’s benefits to the community died with it. (After school programs, arts classes, cheap gym and most importantly a place to keep the homeless people at night) It made me sad to see it becuase suddenly the people who lived there got mixed in with the ones who weren’t good for the the neighborhood and predated on them. Stealing from them, giving them access to drugs, encouraging them in with gangs, So it aggravated the issues that come with the homeless population.

[@Hlebka]

295 may seem amazing but only for US citizen, we pay 300€ for 3 room apartment in EU with size of 72 square meters

[@ionokiero5141]

I wish him the best! The strength this man has to admit and push himself out of his addiction, and try to turn his life around is admirable. Kudos for his resilience. Being in debt is so mentally exhausting. I hope he gets a better paying job soon, pays his debt and gets a well deserved vacation.

[@olishiz]

That’s it. A well deserved vacation from all that small place to stay all year long.

[@asolaris6470]

If one compares it to the Hong Kong's cage homes, this is still far better.

[@pv1149]

Correct, way beTter. I could live here actually just that I want to have AC in the room.

[@DonS90]

Hongkong cage room is the worst ever

[@chonulgwiin5051]

Life in HK is chocking . Every HKers leave there

[@Kristenm28]

Better than the street. Most Americans don't even have this option. From someone who's been homeless, this doesn't look bad at all.

[@christinezafiris4777]

Best wishes to the young man. He is impressive. Life is difficult when this is little support, but he has motivated himself to get out of his poverty.

[@amandataebby]

I am so thankful that I came across this video today (I clicked out of curiosity because I am a fan of the Strangers From Hell drama). I have been feeling extremely low about my own situation too. I'm 28 and have very little going for me, other than my job but it doesn't pay much (but I am working hard and hope to get promoted). I have been feeling very alone in my struggles and left behind compared to my peers. Sometimes I feel like there is no way out. It brings me comfort to hear that someone else understands how I feel, even when they are on the opposite side of the world. Thank you sir for telling your story because I needed to hear it today. I believe in you and I believe that life can get better for all of us. There is always hope. Always keep fighting! Love and support from the US.

[@isabellanicolebianca]

I believe in you! Better days are coming, I'm sure!

[@Francis_UD]

Virtual hugs man

[@NikiAllen]

Remain Strong. You Got This!!!

[@varshabhardwaj6275]

I am at the same situation as you. Hope we will achieve what we desire for.

[@leigh7507]

I dont have advice but know there are millions like you and there are many who do escape it all

[@monodrama6771]

As a working person living in a goshiwon seems unbearable. But as a student they are very efficient. I lived in a goshiwon for 4 months and it was, for the most part, really good. As long as you find a place that has a good size window, it's really not that depressing. The only thing that bothered me is when other tenets talk loudly in the common areas since it can be heard everywhere....

[@jaraza323]

What if you suffer from claustrophobia?

[@monodrama6771]

@@jaraza323 as someone who doesn't suffer from claustrophobia, I don't think I'm the best judge of that unfortunately.

[@chonulgwiin5051]

Oh Hell~ Goshiwon is for tagrag people!!!

[@lenas6246]

apparently you live in a world where student dont work

[@doujinflip]

Right, if all you do in the room is sleep, hygiene, and store a few items, a goshiwon is a convenient and cheap accommodation. When I lived there I primarily did my eating, studying, and socializing elsewhere especially in cafes that stay open overnight into first train around 6am (I did afternoon classes).

[@bangkokadventures298]

Seems like a nice guy who can still keep a positive attitude, despite his situation. Wishing him the best

[@jodyjohnsen]

This young man is no different from anyone who comes from nothing and decides to make something of him/herself. I was born on a farm and hated the thought of raising pigs and children for the rest of my life. So I ran. Things were much like this young man’s life for a long time. When I finished school and started working things improved. When I started climbing the ladder they improved some more. I took advantage of other people’s advice, lifestyle habits, even their choices until my life changed completely. Many years later I’m still very careful with money though I could spend much more. I save for retirement, I plan to work until I’m 70, I invest my retirement account. I am a lifelong learner. When people ask me how I changed my life so much I tell them I started with nothing. It was change or accept a life of misery. Pain is a great motivator. I wish you well my friend. I think you are already on the right path. The wonderful thing about being self made (that’s what we call this process) is that it can never be taken from you. You will always be successful no matter what happens to the world around you.

[@cjwhite2631]

Humble yourself

[@hadesmcfadden2982]

know that you are an exception, not a rule. many people in your situation could do everything right...and still fail. I'm not being dismissive of your effort and struggle, but your words slide into romanticizing the fable of "I had one dollar to my name and now I'm a....." perhaps humanity would be better suited to asking why we inflict misery upon ourselves and others out of some sense of hustle? I'm all for self-improvement but self-improvement doesn't always and perhaps shouldn't be, monetarily driven.

[@petrahabaskova8938]

I lived in Goshiwon for about 4 months when I was studying in Korea. I basically used Goshiwon only for sleeping. I couldn´t imagine myself being in that room for more than a few hours a day. It was so ....how to put it... depressing. When I had to study for an exam I tried to stay in my room for a whole day, but after few hours I just panicked and I needed to go out. It felt like I can´t breathe. However, I have to say that I was a lucky one since I had a room with a small window facing the street. Some of the rooms next to me had no windows. It was simply just a box without any daylight. That was depressing. Some people living next to me lived there for months, even years. I just can´t imagine that ...some of them even didn´t leave the room for days ...how is that even possible? I know that Goshiwon is one of the cheapest ways how to live in Korea, since the prices for housing is just ridiculous, but the mental pain you have to endure to live there (In Goshiwon) is just incomparable. On the other hand, I have to say that I had a great experience with our Goshiwon manager. He was extremely nice and he tried to make my stay as pleasurable as possible. Thanks to him I was able to endure every inconvenience living in the Goshiwon and from time to time I have to say that I had a blast living next to other students from all around the world. There was a striking difference - one of my neighbors was an elderly Korean man who lived in Goshiwon for months - he was a typical grumpy Korean uncle, who was complaining about every small sound that I might have done inside my small room. I couldn´t even put a cup with water on my table with him banging on my wall and swearing in Korean. (I understand that the walls are paper-thin, but....really?) and the other neighbor next to me was a foreign student and he was super chill. He even claimed that he didn´t hear any sounds coming from my room. So, where is the truth? :-D In conclusion .... If someone is traveling to Korea and know that he/she needs just a simple place for a sleep than Goshiwon is a good place to stay in for a short period of time. Always make sure to read reviews online!! :)

[@Clover_9777]

Despite his condition, this guy is very positive. That what makes him successful later.

[@MM523]

I loved his spirit. The big fact that he mentioned twice - reach out for help. He is learning online, getting certifications. Solid guy! Wish him all success. There are many Govt programs that can help. Govts should run awareness programs so that people can benefit and move on and not just sit around waiting for dole, unless they are incapacitated in a big way.

[@ladydusk1]

Such humility. He brought tears to my eyes. I pray that some day soon you are able to lift yourself out of this situation and your life changes for the better.

[@moonhuskygirl8284]

There are many here that want his KZbin channel to keep in touch with him and support him whether it's by messages or financial.Please don't leave us hanging and help us find a way to help him, someone you spent time with, and he was brave enough to share his story with you and us, and he hasn't given up on himself.

[@peefrimgar14]

somehow found his youtube channel for anyone that wants it 다시가리 re_go kzbin.info/www/bejne/jqmto4dpeMp3ors edit: nvm i didnt even realize they pinned his comment -___-

[@lynxthecreator]

He has a pinned comment now.

[@yunalee13]

I admire this man. He looks so mature.. Difficulties always unfortunately force us to be mature.. His voice is so clear, honest and sweet. His face looks so pure.. I wish him from the bottom of my heart all the best.. I lived in Goshiwon only for 2 months when I traveled to Korea. It was no hard because I was out the whole day. I wish I could tell this msn to stay strong, he is healthy and that's the most important! Soon or later everything will be fine as long as he is healthy. Actually I've lived 1 year in korea and left it because of my bad health.. Right now I can't walk..Please everyone, appreciate your health! I wish I could turn back the time and be healthy even if I had to live in Goshiwon. So please everyone, be happy right now with what you have :) As long as you are healthy, all your dreams can be true :)

[@ms_cartographer]

Honestly, I wish something like this were an option in the U.S. for $350 a month, or less in the U.S. Then, many of us could afford housing and be able to pay down our debts faster and save money without having to work two full-time jobs.

[@littlesongbird1]

Boarding houses?

[@ms_cartographer]

@@littlesongbird1 boarding houses are almost non-existent now.

[@supercal3944]

Cheapest options in the US is probably either live with your parents or go find a roommate.. I wish we had something like this too.

[@ms_cartographer]

@@supercal3944 I live with four roommates. My parents are out of the state I live in. I also want a house of my own, so that's what I'm doing for 4 years to get there.

[@RandomPlaceHolderName]

@@ms_cartographer Yep. Another issue is the lack of good public transport. Rent + car = very little left over. I'm seeing too many people with a decent job or often two barely staying afloat in the US. It's insanity. A gosiwon in Seoul isn't ideal but it seems decent short term.

[@truegrit7697]

I wish him the best. He's a focused, hard worker. So many Americans would be selling or doing drugs in his position. Kudos to him.

[@athapa01]

Appreciate the reference to Strangers from Hell! It truly shows the dark side of goshiwon living and why people have to sacrifice and have no choice but live in such places. This is so similar to coffin living in Hongkong. And both are really miserable conditions but people who can't afford regular housing have no option otherwise. He reminds me of another guy who lived in a goshiwon and ran a you tube channel after his episode was aired he eventually moved out to a larger space and was doing better. Wish him the same!

[@allenk6373]

but in korea only poor people or struggling people living in such place and korea is offering everyone a place to live depend on your wallet like in LA or SF these people would be homeless any young people live with their parents anyway in Asia until they are like 35 become they cant even use washing machine

[@crystalstar927]

He seems like a good and humble person! I hope he can reach his goals and do much better in the future!

[@leveticus5721]

The fact that this is poverty level but the room and building isn’t trashed says a lot. In America, that place would be a cesspit. The problem wouldn’t be the small size or shared facilities. It would be your fellow humans.

[@kingkwad129]

Very true. Even nice places in the usa are kind of trashy.

[@jamesfranko1568]

​@@kingkwad129 of course cuz korea tries to replicate japan but only in big city landscapes, countryside of korea even the suburbs are much worse than in US.

[@danitestalkr]

India?

[@mialene9240]

Or he tidied it up because there'll be an interview. . . . That's me in a nutshell.

[@PozzaPizz]

You guys have a weird romanticized view of the world.. How odd to just make a general statement based on what? TV series you watch? Lmao

[@solitarelee6200]

These sorts of video are always enlightening because not only do they highlight the struggles of poverty abroad, they also hold up a mirror to the struggles of poverty here. After all, the accommodations are clearly insufficient for a person to live, and yet it's treated with envy or gratitude by a lot of people here who've had it even worse. I hope that's also eye opening due to the empathy stirred up by this video. I know it makes me think of group living situations and past homelessness and be very grateful that I'm able to have my own space now... It also reminds me of how precarious it all is

[@northyorksimonkim]

I lived in these places, the huge difference is if there's a window or not, I was in one without a window it was miserable and when I moved to another one with a window, it was pretty fun. Internet is fast, you can go anywhere you want, come home and sleep. Your mental and financial state is also a factor, but you can be miserable in a mansion if that is the problem.

[@charlottesmom]

Agreed, a window that is openable for some fresh air and outdoor sounds would make a huge difference in how happy I would be in something so small.

[@Ostatebuckeye11]

This is a very touching, emotional well made video. Important story to tell. Thank you for this kind of material.

[@randomgaffer3328]

Interesting to see an honest account of what it is like to live in a goshiwon. I hope his hard work will bring the brighter future it deserves. All the best

[@VAltoFH]

Que triste saber das dificuldades em que cada um tem em seus países. Nessas horas vejo o quanto sou abençoado... Desejo tudo de bom e força para este rapaz, que possa quitar as dívidas, conseguir um bom emprego e um dia, viajar para o exterior. É um grande vencedor, pelo fato de não ter abandonado a vida e continuar lutando.... Vai dar tudo certo!!

[@charlottesmom]

This guy is really inspiring, he is so positive now after such a hard past. Everything he is doing now is great because it will help him in the long run, I wish him great success in life. Wish I could throw him some money.

[@uokay9428]

Such a painful smile,... really broke my heart. I really pray to God that he gets every bit of happiness and success that he deserves. God bless him with abundance.

[@anne-mariemetcalfe6490]

I have just watched your story, it broke my heart. I'm so sorry you had to run away from home, I can't imagine the hardships you have faced ( I many, many years ago ran, then home, ran again, but I'm in the UK so easier times for me & my situation) . You have such a beautiful soul, I believe you will go far and live the life you deserve. I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers. You are a very strong young man. Sending love, happiness and many blessings from the UK. 🇬🇧 I watched the tragedy in Itaewon and I'm devastated at the horrendous loss, sending peace and strength to everyone there. 🙏

[@miscuitae]

I relate to him. I've never been in this situation but I'm so moved by his optimism. He is doing his best, i hope he gets a good job soon. May he travel to Japan and find a better place to live. He moved me to tears even though he stayed strong. I admire his resilience and strength. He has an ability to admit his mistakes and learn from them. So nice to see, i wish i can do that too. Thank you for sharing this with us. Please take care.

[@LifeOfTheParty323]

I honestly wouldn't mind living in something like this but I need more than 1 bathroom and if anyone tells me I can't turn on the A/C on a hot day, I'll break a window. The one this man is living in seems run down and just the bottom of the barrel. I hope he can eventually move out of there and move into something bigger/better.

[@jackedkerouac4414]

and my nephew is complaining about a 24 sqm modern apartment in Seoul during college prep. It's true what they say - poverty is a great motivator

[@lenas6246]

no it is absoöutely not, the cycle of poverty makes people frsutrated and not motivated. He is still young and had his troubles anyway. There are a lot of people who were in his situation and didnt make it even to the point where he is now. Stop blaming structural poverty on "motivation" and other bs.

[@jackedkerouac4414]

​@@lenas6246 Are you ok man?

[@violinfire24]

This young man is very self- aware and hard- working! I believe that he will surpass his goals with that type of work ethic and mentality. Thank you for being so willing to share your experience living in a gosiwon, and I hope that you can move to a more comfortable place very soon!

[@tabby73]

For a short while I lived in a tiny flat in London. It had a room about 9 sq m with a window, a tiny kitchen and a tiny bathroom, about 2 sq m each. So it was slightly larger than these goshiwons. But I felt very cramped and unhappy there, it was depressing for me. The walls were also paper thin and the room bordered the next flat's bathroom. I could clearly hear everything going on in there. I can't imagine living like this for longer than a few months. I wish this chap good luck! Hopefully he gets a windfall and can pay off his debts quickly and travel!

[@RichFlemingRealtor]

Great interview and appreciate this man's willingness to share his story!

[@BlaNeon]

I really hope he will be mentally well and that he will find a decent job so that he can get enough money to rent an apartment and to go travel ❤️ I'll be living in a goshiwon for a few months soon, and I think that will be fine, but of course it's very different if it's more permanent and you can't afford another option.

[@Kyla94934]

Thank you for sharing your story, i hope you still doing well!

[@myrandavano7470]

my heart goes out to you, hope you can achieve your goals quickly.

[@UnaRose]

Korea needs to deal with its poverty. It should start a basic income program.

[@tinadurrell2943]

What an amazingly truthful video so honest and humble I hope he achieves his goals.

[@DCpounder]

First response appears to be his. I’ll subscribe and hopefully his views go up. He has a great outlook and I pray fortune finds him.

[@ThrillingSugar]

I pray and hope things get better for this man and any other people who are going through the same thing as him. ❤

[@Katcom111]

I don't understand it but that man is living up his dream and saving money despite things can be difficult. I would say everybody is struggling. There's no need to be ashamed.

[@betealvarez]

He’s so nice and humble! I hope he gets everything he wishes for 🙏

[@NinoGucciani2021]

Smiling through all the pain 😌 I salute you my brother and friend. Same struggle different parts of the world 🌎

[@brunetka_361]

This was heart-breaking and heart-warming story at the time...I understant what you meant when said that game is helped to you feel better. I did the same. It helped a lot when I lost my brother and his wife, also I can't see now my neece. Game was the thing that helped me to keep living and not crying all the time. But in the end it ate all my time, all my energy, my years of life. People must to be prepared to such unexpected thing I wasn't. I wish you good luck, stay strong, hope we'll be fine someday. ♥

[@QueenXKnit]

Thank you for sharing your experience! Wishing you the best

[@jcbtwang88]

I admire him for being honest, sharing your not so good experiences and his challenges take a lot of courage. He is still positive. One step at a time bro.

[@timpratten2258]

The pain in his eyes is that of realisation and hope. Knowing how and why he got to where he is, but having a goal to strive for. Good luck and I hope you get where you see yourself happy and prosperous

[@janiceguico2857]

i feel blessed and now more appreciative after watching this. im filipina and i live in a 150 sq comfortable house, not rich but working hard to support my fam.. this guy seems optimistic. youl get thru this bro.🙏🙏🙏

[@sothickitssickk]

Are you in the phillipines?

[@apark8787]

I tried living in these when I first moved to Korea. Lasted just 4 days before calling it quits.

[@apark8787]

@Mad Max more expensive place, totally worth the extra 200,000won (~$200) per month if one can afford it.

[@ladygodiva1950]

He said he has a KZbin channel, what is it? Let's support him!

[@pv1149]

You know what is his KZbin channel?

[@johnl8528]

kzbin.info%EB%B9%9A%EC%B6%98%EB%8B%A4ChoonLight is his channel

[@sapilaut4262]

This channel has pinned their comment now!

[@mg9823]

Hoping for the best for this man. Rooting for his success in life!

[@andr386]

Very inspiring man. I wish him all the success he deserves.

[@marcie557]

I wish him the best of luck. He works really hard and I can only hope he’ll pay off his debt, move out to a better place and achieve his dreams.

[@paultidd]

America could use something like this. We have such a terrible homeless problem. $280 a month for somewhere to live is really not that bad at all. Even somebody working a minimum wage job in the USA could afford that easily.

[@DonS90]

With 280 a month you can rent good apartments in Malaysia..

[@thestingyham1188]

Many of the homeless in America choose to be that way, or are stuck in a rut and can’t get out after making bad choices. So many want to live in a place like California as homeless, rather than move to another place where jobs are available (although not necessarily easy ones). We have immigrants and illegal immigrants who can willingly find work.

[@SL-lz9jr]

@@thestingyham1188 Not everything is by choice. Sometimes it’s by design. I’m an American, born and raised. My parents are immigrants. You are absolutely right that I would never ever choose the jobs they had to take. I would never ever work a job that paid me less than minimum wage, or work for a boss who discriminated against me and treated me differently than white employees. I would never ever choose a hard physical labor job. But there is a huge difference between our circumstances. My parents had no choice. They left their impoverished country to make a better life here. They did what they did out of necessity. The life they have now is far more comfortable than the life they would’ve had back in the home country. I’m fortunate to have attended a top university and have been afforded many more career options than my parents will ever have. It is these options that prevent me from ever having to take the same terrible jobs my parents took. However, there have been moments in my life when I needed to do things I didn’t want to do out of necessity. In order to live the life that I want, I work extra hours. I take on extra side jobs. I’m not afraid of hard work, although it’s certainly not my first choice. But is it ever anyone’s first choice? On the matter of homelessness, as someone who used to work at a homeless shelter, I’ve seen firsthand the many types of people who come through the facility. Yes, it’s true, many homeless people become used to the lifestyle. It’s the same way prisoners become used to living in a prison and don’t know how to re-integrate into society after they are let go. We see that when homeless people are provided an apartment but find themselves back on the streets. You may need to study psychology and sociology to better understand these dynamics. And, yes, some homeless residents at the shelter are the types who didn’t want to work and just like to live off the government. But here are some of the sadder situations. One of the youngest residents was a former foster child. Once a foster child turns 18, the government no longer provides for them. They are on their own. With no one to support them or teach them how to be an adult, Manuel end up homeless. I also had at least two women who must’ve been raped or sexually abused or other trauma because they exhibited strong signs of some sort of disassociative disorder (not sure if I’m saying it correctly). They were have awful night terrors and many times they weren’t really “here”. They’d say weird things like aliens are coming for them. I had to find ways to calm them down and reassure them they would be protected. It’s incredibly humbling to experience this as an employee at a homeless shelter. You cannot generalize an entire population of people. Anyone can become homeless. Do you see how many GoFundMe pages there are for things like high medical bills? Most of us are one bad disaster away from homelessness. Those of us who aren’t are fortunate.

[@chonulgwiin5051]

@@DonS90 Malay's GDP per capita is around 10000$ but SK is 33000$ over 3 times bigger size! so your 280$ means 900$ of SK.

[@skyazullopez6726]

@@smaugthemagnificent _So true. Things are not always what they seem and there is always twos sides in a coin.

[@bigbarkingdog2010]

Beautiful story telling. Heart breaking.

[@user-tm6hg9xu2v]

You got this bro! keep working at it god is already blessing you

[@zee3e]

woah i didnt know they had such bad connotations, when i went to seoul for 6 weeks in 2019, i was thinking of living in a gosiwon bc they were $300-500 (and much cheaper than the university dormitory). in the end i went will a 6-bunk airbnb for the same price and had a great time making friends with the owners and other travelers who passed by. i didnt have my own room or bathroom but i did have a locked cubby space and it was comfortable enough.

[@oceanstaiga5928]

I’m glad I got a scholarship so I could live in a one room while in Seoul. But many of my friends lived in goshiwons or underground rooms cause that’s all they could afford. So many people, especially students and elderly folks live in tiny and badly ventilated spaces. It’s not good for health. I saw lots of moldy places. It can literally make you sick living there.

[@jessl1106]

All the best wishes for you, my friend. What doesn't kill you makes you stronger...One day you'll live a much better life and be proud of yourself for being able to overcome all the difficulties. Stay healthy, stay safe and stay happy. God bless you.

[@Nyctophora]

I hope you are doing better now! You are really trying to better yourself, and I admire that and your persistence!

[@ToadyWoods]

Better than living on a the street. But they should provide hot and warm water. What a scam.

[@umeshutan6959]

South Korea is a hard place to live in. It was a shock to me when i first arrived in Seoul. The reality of the place is so different from the movies. I see homeless people sleeping on the streets

[@Beresunablle]

Thats kinda unavoidable even in japan and singapore there are still homeless people.

[@romyoliax6624]

@@Beresunablle Homeless people are evrywhere even in richest cowntries

[@M.N.Baxter]

Man, I wish their was something like this in the United States.

[@bandit_queen]

Fr. There are some really nice goshiwons too. if youre a minimalist and use it just like a bedroom to sleep in at night while studying in cafes, libraries, and getting out into nature/fresh air at every chance, its not bad

[@M.N.Baxter]

@@bandit_queen Yeah I have hit hard times and had to live at my 24 hour gyms and my car, sleeping at friends and family houses when ever possible. Working 7 days a week to stay busy. It would have been nice to have had a bed i could call my own. I’m sure the rest of the world will get there it will just take time.

[@nai1729]

this would be good for homeless people

[@joefer5360]

You'd need to get an investor on board to make complexes of these on residential property lots in America. That's the beginning.

[@user-wu6hk6jk5x]

I'm a Korean. In the photo at 00:13, if there are no monitors, it is 100% the same as the goshiwon where I lived!! A small closet, a shelf above the desk, an iron door and a mirror, and even a bed! I studied 6-7 days a week from 9:00 am to 11:00 pm for a year and a half. I failed the test I prepared for, but I have no regrets. I'm still 30 years old and I'm preparing to get a job at a bio company using my major. and I want to date a girl, but it's not easy lolllllllllll

[@MrNajibrazak]

頑張ってください!

[@sunnisideup444]

I am wishing you the best and am cheering for your success!!

[@soggymoggytravels]

I spent three years living in different goshiwons. I could have gained a PhD on the subject of goshiwons from my experiences there.

[@DonS90]

Haha

[@evlyn3442]

@KungZoo Hahahahahahahaha.....you might start to write your experiences & the places you've been then...lol

[@soggymoggytravels]

@Mad Max I'm not Korean. I stayed in goshiwons because the deposit fee to get an apartment was too high and it was difficult to commit to minimum 12-month rental contracts because my jobs were very unstable.

[@solarwind907]

I hope he gets a decent job soon. Also hope he yes able to get a little bigger apartment, maybe with a bigger window and a little more space so he’s got more privacy and room to move around. If I could speak to him, I would tell him he’s doing great and to stay strong!

[@kathejohnson4241]

What a truly thoughtful and articulate young man. I hope he is able to accomplish his goals, move out and travel.

[@Thehonestruth]

I really hope life improves for this sincere man. I hop;e you get a well paid job you like. I am glad you have a roof over your head and food and are safe. Keep going you will get there

[@krishnaslove792]

He will have a great future ahead All the best champ 👍👍👍👍💫💫💫✨✨☄️🌠

[@paquitaketchatcham3916]

Remarkable young man with a lot of resilience. I just want to wish him the best in this life. We all learned from our mistakes and he will make it. Good luck!

[@alee4347]

Thank you for sharing your stories here. Know that your hardest times times often lead to the greatest moments of your life. Keep going! Tough situation build strong people in the end. Praying that you will achieve your goals in life soon. Good luck and fighting!😇

[@lequinntessential]

Thank you for sharing this free short feature Korea Times

[@dmmaknae]

The gosiwons are like the typical boarding houses in the Philippines. We also share a bathroom and rooms are tiny sometimes has no windows.

[@doujinflip]

In Indonesia they're called kost. Similar range of features and location desirability depending on how much you're willing to spend.

[@user-lvqk2wdp8sjn]

The "gosiwon" would be a good addition to the housing market in California, which consists of either big, really expensive villas, or run-down tenements in seedy neighborhoods, or . . . the streets.

[@alexl0890]

California has these but it's like renting only a bunk bed and it's like 1800/month in LA and SF. Crazy.

[@chonulgwiin5051]

No. You can't! Homogeneous society only can make this weird places!!! Living Goshiwon with Multicultural will make culpable homicide

[@craigbiore2766]

This man is a fighter and I feel he will succeed. With everything he's endured he is virtually bulletproof to anything that is thrown at him in the future. Good luck man and I know you will land an amazing job...attitude is everything!! Fighting!!

[@Cab895]

great content, subscribed

[@aly6192]

The space wouldn't be a problem for me. But the noise and "paper" walls..... I get so irritated with noise, specially at night, that I think I wouldn't last for more than 2 days in this

[@babymetalpink]

I hope and wish the best for the individual in this video. May he become a successful programmer.

[@AlexMakler]

Best of luck to the interviewed tenant, you seem like a really nice person, hope life gets better for you!!

[@icegiant1000]

I am also a self-taught computer programmer, a position I have had now for over 35 years. Something that isn't talked about very much is the amazing potential for upward mobility just because of a computer. Just think about how this guy can use a simple computer, to teach himself a skill, that could yield him ultimately a six figure salary. Cheap computers and the internet, allow almost anyone, if they work hard, to create a very successful career. Without a computer and the internet, you would be forced to learn skills in person, physically, which makes it nearly impossible to build a successful career. Good luck to this guy.

[@chrismannile354]

Yet here he is complaining about being broke. Does his laptop and extra keyboard look cheap