Setting Up Your First Home in Korea: Appliance & Furniture Checklist
Just moved into a Korean apartment or officetel? Here's a practical, room-by-room checklist of what most foreign residents set up first — and which items are ideal to rent instead of buy.
Kitchen essentials
- Water purifier — a top priority; rental includes filter maintenance. See options.
- Refrigerator — if your place didn't come with one.
- Dishwasher / food waste dryer — nice-to-have, popular as rentals.
Living & comfort
- Air conditioner — essential for humid Korean summers; wall-mounted models are common.
- Air purifier — helpful in spring dust season.
- Massage chair — a popular rental you don't want to buy outright.
Laundry & cleaning
- Washing machine / dryer — check if your unit already includes one.
- Robot vacuum — a convenient rental for busy schedules.
Furniture & bedroom
A good bed and mattress matter for daily comfort. Furniture rental spreads the cost and is easy to set up when you arrive. See furniture.Smart tips for foreigners
- Prioritize items with included maintenance (water purifier, bidet, air care).
- Check card-discount prices to lower monthly cost — how it works.
- If your stay is uncertain, ask about shorter contracts before signing.
- Not sure where to start? Use the 30-second Finder or ask Moongae in your language.
Frequently asked questions
What should I rent first when moving to Korea?
Most people start with a water purifier and an air conditioner, then add laundry, cleaning, and furniture based on their apartment and budget.
Is it worth renting furniture too?
Furniture rental spreads the upfront cost and is convenient when you arrive. It's especially useful for limited stays.
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SETKORA is a rental brokerage (통신판매중개자), not the contracting party. Prices assume a contract term and, where noted, card-spending conditions; final terms are confirmed during consultation.