Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Apartment complexes house most of South Korea's population and dominate the landscape
in most areas. Typically consisting of a dozen or so towering blocks, from the outside
some of these have all the charm and aesthetic value of filing cabinets, but don't be put
off—on the inside they're often surprisingly roomy and pleasant. Newer complexes are
more design-conscious and often incorporate features such as walking paths and landscaped
gardens. Playgrounds, small grocery stores, and laundries are common facilities, but pools
and exercise rooms are rare. Apartments also usually have security guards and management
offices that help in the day-to-day running of the complex.
A typical apartment consists of a few rooms, separated by sliding doors, with wood
or linoleum floors—South Korea's muggy summers make carpets impractical—that can
be heated in winter. Kitchens often function as dining rooms as well and will usually
have a small stove, but ovens and dishwashers are relatively rare. Many units have an en-
closed patio with a washer-dryer that functions as a laundry area. Toilets are almost al-
ways Western-style, but bathtubs are uncommon in smaller units. Garbage generally must
