Planning an extended stay in South Korea? Whether you are a digital nomad, a language student, or a slow traveler spending a few weeks exploring Seoul, finding budget-friendly accommodation is usually your biggest challenge.
For years, platforms like Airbnb were the default choice for international travelers. However, rising service fees, hefty cleaning charges, strict cancellation policies, and legal uncertainties around unregistered studio apartments (officetels) have left many visitors feeling frustrated and overcharged.
Note: If you are traveling solo for just a few days and prefer the classic budget-friendly vibe, make sure to read our freshly updated [2026 Guide to Seoul’s Best Guesthouses & Hostels] before booking!
But for stays longer than a week, there is a new player in town. Enter 33m2 (삼삼엠투)—South Korea’s number-one short-term rental app that is rapidly taking over as the ultimate "Airbnb alternative" for savvy expats and long-term tourists.
By allowing tenants to rent fully furnished apartments and officetels on a flexible weekly basis, 33m2 lets you live like a local at a fraction of hotel or Airbnb prices. Here is everything you need to know about how this K-app works, why it saves you money, and how to use it for your next trip.
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| A two-bedroom apartment listed on 33m2. |
Part 1. Why Foreigners Are Switching from Airbnb to 33m2
Why are travelers who stay in Korea for more than a week deleting their traditional booking apps and downloading 33m2? It boils down to three massive advantages: price, flexibility, and security.
1. Rent by the Week (No Months-Long Commitments)
Standard Korean residential leases usually require a rigid 1-year or 2-year contract. On the flip side, hotel rates stack up quickly if you stay more than a few days. 33m2 bridges this gap perfectly by offering weekly rentals (1 week, 2 weeks, or more). You pay only for the exact weeks you need.
2. Up to 30%–50% Cheaper Than Airbnb
Traditional vacation rental platforms charge high host and guest commissions, plus compulsory cleaning and management fees. Because 33m2 connects renters directly with local landlords operating short-term units, the platform fees are significantly lower. A fully furnished studio in popular areas like Hongdae or Gangnam that might cost $1,800/month on Airbnb can often be rented for $900 to $1,200 via 33m2!
3. Low, Fixed Security Deposit (Flat 330,000 KRW)
In South Korea, real estate rentals traditionally require astronomical cash deposits (Jeonse or key money ranging from 5,000,000 to 10,000,000 KRW). 33m2 eliminates this barrier by standardizing a flat security deposit of just 330,000 KRW (approx. $240 USD) across all listings. The deposit is held safely in escrow and returned promptly after checkout.
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| 33m² English interface |
Part 2. Is 33m2 Foreigner-Friendly? (English Support & Translation)
Historically, Korean real estate apps were notoriously difficult for foreign tourists due to strict phone verification requirements (Bonin-yungjeung) and Korean-only interfaces. However, 33m2 has rolled out major global updates designed specifically for international users:
Official English App Version: You can easily navigate listings, price breakdowns, and lease terms in English.
In-App Auto Translation: Chatting with local hosts is seamless thanks to built-in automatic translation features that convert English messages to Korean and vice versa in real time.
100% Digital In-App Leases: There is no need to visit offline real estate offices (Budongsan) or decipher complex legal paperwork. You digitally sign your short-term contract right inside the app.
Credit Card Payments: Rent and deposits can be paid online using major foreign credit cards.
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| An officetel fully equipped with all appliances and furniture |
Part 3. How to Book Your Stay on 33m2: Step-by-Step
Using 33m2 for your travel or remote work stay in Korea is straightforward. Follow this quick checklist:
Step 1: Download & Filter
Download the 33m2 app from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store. Set your target neighborhood (e.g., Mapo-gu/Hongdae, Gangnam, Seongsu, or Busan) and filter by your exact check-in date and duration in weeks.
Step 2: Check Amenities & House Rules
Most properties listed on 33m2 are fully furnished officetels. Make sure to double-check that the listing includes essential items such as:
High-speed Wi-Fi & work desk (crucial for remote workers!)
In-unit washing machine (Setaek-gi)
Bedding, cookware, and basic kitchen appliances
Note on Utilities: Some listings include utility bills (electricity, gas, water) in the rental fee, while others deduct actual usage from your deposit upon checkout. Always review the utility terms listed in the description!
Step 3: Request Lease Approval & Pay
Once you select a room, send a lease request through the app. After the host accepts, you will make your payment (rent + 330,000 KRW deposit) via credit card through 33m2's secure escrow system.
Step 4: Self Check-In & Live Like a Local!
On your move-in day, the host will message you the door lock passcode (Digital door lock) via in-app chat. Walk right in, unpack, and enjoy living in your private, modern Korean apartment!
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| Life in Korea for Foreign Digital Nomads |
Essential Tips for Foreign Tenants on 33m2
Book 2–3 Weeks Ahead: While short-term options are abundant, popular tourist hot spots like Hongdae, Gangnam, and Seongsu fill up fast during peak travel seasons (Spring Cherry Blossoms & Autumn Foliage).
Bring Your Own Towels/Toiletries: Similar to standard residential rentals in Korea, hosts provide furniture and appliances, but tenants often bring or buy their personal bath towels and toiletries at a nearby convenience store or Olive Young.
ARC & Registration Needs: If you are staying on a long-term visa (like D-2, D-4, or H-1 Working Holiday) and require proof of residency for your Alien Registration Card (ARC), ask the host through chat before booking if they can provide a housing agreement form (Sukso-jeogong-kakseo).
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| Rising Demand for Short-Term Rentals Among Foreigners |
Summary: The Smartest Way to Stay in Korea
If you are staying in South Korea for more than 7 days, sticking strictly to hotels or Airbnb means leaving money on the table.
By tapping into 33m2, you unlock access to modern, fully equipped local homes at authentic local prices. It is convenient, fully legal, transparent, and one of the best-kept housing hacks for global travelers in Korea!
