Initially, Goshiwons and goshitels were places for rent intended for examinees (e.g. State bar exam and otherwise). You’ll even notice that the rooms are reminiscent of dormitories. However, as of recently, they have become a viable alternative for those who face extreme poverty and homelessness. They do not require a deposit or maintenance fee, and rent is exponentially cheaper than an apartment which explains their appeal.

Goshiwons (less than 54 square feet) consist of a bed, a closet, a desk, and shared spaces such as the kitchen and the bathroom, while goshitels are slightly more spacious, yet more bare. The price range to rent a goshiwon is between $200 to $500 (depending on whether you’d like a window in your quarter or a bathroom to yourself). To add, some goshiwons are divided by sex. Typically, the individual’s quarter suits just one.

Kyu-dong pictures are of his first-hand experience during his five years in a goshiwon in Seoul. He met people who have found a home in a goshiwon, people who have lived there for more than 10 years. For Kyu-dong and many others, goshiwons are a way for people to experience life in the country’s capital, which is known for its sky-high rent and deposit.

In one of the pictures, the subject wears his underwear only and is curled up on his bed watching T.V. It is common for some to spend time in their underwear due to the goshiwon’s unsatisfactory heating and cooling ventilation. Meanwhile, another picture of the same subject awkward position shows us how, for taller people, the smaller than twin-sized beds might be inconvenient. In another picture, we get a view of the shower. The shower, which holds a sink, is big enough for its occupants to stand— in the case of the photograph’s subject, to crouch.

These pictures are powerful because they invite you inside the life of others. And, they posit the question of “Would I be able to live in a goshiwon?”. It is a different lifestyle in that the items one has are limited and often the most essential. While living in a goshiwon himself, Kyu-dong took a liking toward this minimalist lifestyle.

Goshiwons are a work in progress. As of recent, the Seoul City Hall began a Gosiwon safety facility initiative. So, although things like poverty might strike some viewers as unfortunate, Kyu-dong would want you to know that, “Gos[h]iwon is a hope, not a despair.”

Kyu-dong’s project in the goshiwons has gained him some notoriety in sphere of photography. To view more of Sim Kyu-dong’s work, click here.