Hello everyone!

Moving to Korea is a thrilling new chapter, but the "settling in" phase can quickly become a budget-crusher. Between your flight tickets and the endless list of things you need to settle in your room your bank account might take a hit.

The secret to thriving in Korea is simple: Don't buy new. By mastering the art of the "Secondhand Life," you can save hundreds of dollars. That extra cash? It’s the difference between a tiny goshiwon and a beautiful, sunny studio in a great neighborhood. Here is your deep-dive guide into the best resources for students and how to handle your stuff when it’s time to leave.

1. 당근 (Danggeun / Karrot): The Neighborhood Marketplace

If you only download one app in Korea, make it Danggeun. It means "carrot" but it’s actually the short form for "near you" as "당신 근처”is the absolute king of Korean apps. It is a location-based marketplace where you trade with neighbors within a few kilometers of your GPS. • What you’ll find: Everything from almost-new air fryers and desks to winter coats and even half-used bottles of laundry detergent.

• Where to find it: Download "당근" from the App Store. But one down fall if you just arrived, you’ll need a Korean phone number to verify your neighborhood…

• Pricing: $0$ to 70% off retail.

• The Pro Tip: Search for "나눔" (Nanum). This means "free sharing." Many neighbors give away bulky furniture for free just to save themselves the trouble of disposing of it. Yep in Korea you have to pay a fee to dispose furniture or large items so most people prefer to give them away. If you can pick it up, it’s yours!

2. 아름다운 가게 (The Beautiful Store) – The Charity Choice

You might have passed in front of one of theses in the city, the green flower you can’t miss from now on! This is Korea's most famous non-profit thrift chain. It’s similar to Goodwill or the Salvation Army. Although compared to classic thrift shops, this one feels like a very clean, organized boutique.

• What you’ll find: Excellent for high-quality kitchenware (plates, pots), books, and clean, seasonal clothing. Items are inspected before being put on the floor, so the quality is reliable.

• Where to find it: Search "아름다운가게" on Naver Maps. Popular branches include Anguk (near Gyeongbokgung) and Seoul Station.

• Pricing: Most items range from ₩3,000 to ₩15,000.

• The Perk: All profits go to charity, and it’s a great place to find small essentials like hangers or toasters that would cost 4x more at a department store.

3. 빈프라임 (Vin Prime) – Vintage Style on a Budget

For the fashion lovers and vintage hunters, Vin Prime is a must-visit! Don’t go to expensive so called “Vintage shop”, run to Vin prime!

• What you’ll find: Carefully curated vintage clothes, including brands like Ralph Lauren and Levi’s but also full luxury brands like Dior or Yves Saint Laurent. It’s perfect for heavy winter coats, which are notoriously expensive in Korea, or stylish clothing for a small price. The shops are usually organised by type of clothing, one type of clothing tend to have the same price whatever the brand is. The luxury items are in a separate section all together.

• Where to find it: They are located inside or near major subway stations like Gangnam, Sadang, and Express Bus Terminal. Look for the bright blue signs.

• Pricing: Trendy pieces usually stay between ₩10,000 and ₩30,000. Actually some piece can be even below ₩10,000 and honestly the one in Hapjeong seems to be always “All items 50% off” so even if it’s a small shop you can find the best deals. For luxury items they often gravitate around ₩100,000.

4. Facebook Groups – The "Expat Connection"

The international community in Korea is incredibly active on Facebook. This is the best place for "Moving Sales."

• Groups to join: Seoul Buy and Sell, Really Really Free Things in Korea, and Everything Expat Korea, Free things and give away korea, MONA - Less waste, more impact.

• What you’ll find: People leaving Korea often sell their entire apartment contents at once. You can snag a "Starter Pack" (bed + desk + lamp + fan) for a fraction of the cost.

• Pricing: Highly negotiable, and often in English!

💡 Pro-Tip: Leaving Korea Without the Stress When your time in Korea comes to an end, don't wait until the last minute! You can use these same platforms to sell your stuff and make back some of your initial costs.

• The "Nanum" (Free) Strategy: If you have only 2 days left and a bulky sofa that hasn't sold, list it as 나눔 on Danggeun or post it in the Really Really Free Things in Korea group. Someone will usually come and haul it away for you within hours.

• Avoid the "Sticker" Fee: In Korea, you actually have to pay for a "Large Waste Sticker" (대형폐기물 스티커) to throw away furniture. By giving it away or selling it cheaply on Danggeun, you save yourself that $₩5,000–₩15,000$ fee! 🏠 Found your stuff? Now find your home!

All these great finds need a place to live. If you’re still searching for that perfect accommodation, check out the Momstay app. Momstay is a dedicated platform for foreigners looking for short-to-mid-term stays. They specialize in finding verified, foreigner-friendly homes—from Hasukjips (boarding houses with meals) to modern Sharehouses. By using the money you saved thrifting, you can use Momstay to upgrade to a better room with a shorter commute or a nicer view!

Ready to start your Korean adventure?