Study room meets hotel

Here’s this week’s tip on Korean language and customs:

Q:
In university neighborhoods around Seoul, many buildings have signs in Korean saying “Gosiwon” or “Gositel.” What does that mean?

A:
These residential facilities, popularly known as gosiwon in Korean, were originally made for young adults preparing for the civil service or bar examinations, called gosi in Korean.

Because of the exam’s stiff competition, serious or self-disciplined students often preferred to live alone while studying, in small rooms containing only a bed and a desk, with shared bathroom and/or kitchen. These rooms for students were clustered near universities and could be rented on a weekly or monthly basis.

Because of their low rent and convenience, gosiwons have grown popular among young adults who aren’t necessarily studying for exams.

To meet the rising demand, an upgraded version of the gosiwon was born, known as gositel. For an average of 200,000 won ($170) per month, gositel offers small furnished rooms with added features, such as rest areas, Internet access and laundry.