# Setting Up Your First Home in Korea: Appliance & Furniture Checklist

> A move-in checklist for foreigners in Korea. The essential appliances and furniture to rent first, by room, with budget-friendly tips.

Canonical: https://setkora.com/guides/first-home-setup-korea-appliance-checklist (also in 13 languages: https://setkora.com/guides/<lang>/first-home-setup-korea-appliance-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](https://setkora.com/products?cat=env).
- **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.
[Browse living appliances](https://setkora.com/products?cat=living).

## 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](https://setkora.com/products?cat=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](https://setkora.com/guides/card-discount-rental-korea).
- If your stay is uncertain, ask about **shorter contracts** before signing.
- Not sure where to start? Use the [30-second Finder](https://setkora.com/finder) or ask **Moongae** in your language.

## FAQ

**Q: What should I rent first when moving to Korea?**
A: Most people start with a water purifier and an air conditioner, then add laundry, cleaning, and furniture based on their apartment and budget.

**Q: Is it worth renting furniture too?**
A: Furniture rental spreads the upfront cost and is convenient when you arrive. It's especially useful for limited stays.