In recent years, various coworking spaces have emerged across Korea, making them accessible not only for businesses but also for individuals.
In this post, we’ll delve into the concept of coworking spaces and highlight free coworking spaces in Korea that are particularly suitable for foreign job seekers.
What is a coworking space?
A coworking space is a collaborative environment or community where individuals from diverse fields work independently while sharing ideas and exchanging opinions.
The coworking space concept gained traction around the mid-2000s when freelancers in cities like San Francisco, New York, and Philadelphia started creating shared offices. This trend later spread to Europe, China, and beyond.
As the concept evolved, coworking spaces have firmly established themselves in Korea, with various options now available in cities such as Seoul, Incheon, Seongnam, Daejeon, Cheonan, and Busan.
Why do foreign job seekers use coworking spaces?
What makes coworking spaces appealing to foreign job seekers? The two key reasons are affordable pricing and opportunities for active networking.
Affordable Pricing
Coworking spaces offer an affordable environment equipped with all the essentials for work. Many spaces feature clean interiors, modern desks and chairs, and dedicated relaxation areas, making them ideal for combining work and rest.
Active Networking
Due to the open environment, coworking spaces encourage interactions among users. This dynamic environment fosters networking opportunities and provides a chance to develop ideas through collaboration with others facing similar challenges.
Free Coworking Spaces in Korea
Here is a curated list of free coworking spaces in Korea that are especially beneficial for foreign job seekers:
Seoul City Art Archives
- Location: 101 Pyeongchangmunhwa-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul
- Operating Hours:
- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday–Friday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Saturday–Sunday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Website: sema.seoul.go.kr
The Seoul City Art Archives is a museum that combines art with record-keeping. It collects, preserves, and researches records and materials from artists and organizations, offering programs that foster connections and inspire new artistic possibilities.
- Moeum-dong (Library): Includes a reference library with art-related books and archives, a research lab, and a storage area for artistic records.
- Baeum-dong (Learning Center): Offers seminar rooms, educational programs, and open classrooms.
- Nanum-dong (Sharing Hub): Features a cafe, multipurpose hall, and scenic views of Hongjecheon Stream.
Son Kee Chung Library
- Location: 101-3 Son Kee Chung Park, Son Kee Chung-ro, Jung-gu, Seoul
- Operating Hours:
- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday–Sunday: 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM
This public library is open to everyone without membership fees. Its vintage-inspired interiors and modular furniture create a comfortable and inviting atmosphere. With reading spaces offering views of the outdoors, it’s perfect for both work and leisure.
Jeongdok Library
- Location: 48 Bukchon-ro 5-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul
- Operating Hours:
- Weekdays: 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- November–February: 8:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Closed on the first and third Wednesday of each month
- Website: jdlib.sen.go.kr
Established in 1977, Jeongdok Library is renowned for its beautiful garden and fountain, making it an inspiring space for study and relaxation. The library also has dining facilities, making it convenient for long work sessions.
Seoul Startup Hub
- Locations:
- Gongdeok: 21 Baekbeom-ro 31-gil, Mapo-gu, Seoul
- Seongsu: 37 Seongsui-ro 22-gil, Seongdong-gu, Seoul
- Changdong: 84 Madle-ro 13-gil, Dobong-gu, Seoul
Seoul Startup Hub provides coworking spaces and various startup support programs. The spaces are open to visitors and equipped with desks, sofas, and casual meeting areas.
Art Korea Lab
- Location: 6th Floor, Twin Tree Tower, 6 Yulgok-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul
- Operating Hours:
- Tuesday–Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Thursday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
This shared office supports artists and art enterprises with facilities like open seating, workstations, and a stunning view of Gyeongbokgung Palace.
SangSang Planet
- Location: 38 Ttukseom-ro 13-gil, Seongdong-gu, Seoul
- Operating Hours:
- Weekdays: 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Weekends: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Website: sangsangplanet.com
Operated by KT&G, SangSang Planet features a cafe, casual seating areas, and coworking desks with a vibrant atmosphere perfect for creative professionals.
Mapo Youth Space Naroo
- Location: 3–4F, Square Riverview, 13 Yanghwa-ro, Mapo-gu, Seoul
- Operating Hours:
- Sunday: Closed
- Monday–Friday: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Saturday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Website: naroo.or.kr
Naroo offers free coworking desks and diverse spaces such as lecture rooms and media studios, primarily catering to individuals aged 19–39.
Cheongnyun Yesulcheong SAPY
- Location: B2, 26-26 Gyeonggi-daero, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul
- Operating Hours:
- Monday: Closed
- Cafe-like coworking area: 1:00 PM – 10:00 PM
- Website: sapy.kr
SAPY is a cultural space for young artists, featuring coworking desks, meeting rooms, and media studios. Membership includes perks like free room bookings and monthly cafe passes.
Seoul Youth Center
- Operating Hours:
- Monday–Friday: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Saturday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Sunday: Closed
- Website: youth.seoul.go.kr
- Reservation: yeyak.seoul.go.kr
The Seoul Youth Center is a space designed to support young people, with centers located across the country in various municipalities.
Many facilities at the Seoul Youth Center, including cafes, libraries, and kitchen equipment, are available free of charge. However, for some specific spaces, rental fees may apply.
If rental fees are charged, individuals from single-person households or young people may submit proof of eligibility to use the facilities for free. It’s always a good idea to check if you qualify for free use by presenting the required documentation.
Reservations for the Seoul Youth Center can be made through the Seoul Public Reservation Service. The link provided above makes it easier to navigate the reservation process.
Lastly, since there are many branches of the Seoul Youth Center, the facilities and spaces available vary by location. Be sure to check each branch’s blog or Instagram for up-to-date information before visiting!
Deo Sup Complex Cultural Space
- Location: Basement 1–2, 480 Nohae-ro, Nowon-gu, Seoul
- Operating Hours:
- Cafe: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Website: deosup.com
Deo Sup combines coworking spaces, a cafe, and cultural events, making it an ideal spot for working and unwinding.
These coworking spaces reflect Korea’s growing interest in flexible work environments. If you’re a foreign student or job seeker looking for a free and inspiring space to work, this list will help you find the right place for your needs.
