Korean Job Discussion Forums

[MoneyMike]

Hey folks.

I'm just over halfway through my second year here, and I'm pretty much sure I'm going to renew in August. I'm thinking about taking the housing allowance for my third year and finding my own place. Rents seem to be very low in my area (I live in Gwangju), and for the 400k we get as an allowance I could either get a really nice place, or get a pretty ok place and bank the difference.

My question is, is it possible to find apartments that are partially furnished? I don't mind buying the small stuff, like a gas range, tv, and microwave, but I'd hate to have to buy a fridge or washing machine. Is it possible to find places that have full sized fridges and washing machines included? Would looking for these things in an apartment cause the rent to be much higher?

Also, does anyone have any experience renting in Gwangju? I'm wondering how much key money to expect to be paying. If I'm paying 300k a month in rent, what is normal for key money? Can I get away with 2 million, or am I gonna have to suck it up and pay like 5 million? And how far in advance do the landlords need the key money? If I'm going to be looking for the end of August, when will I need my key money for?