Abstract
This study aims to address the living conditions in Gosiwons, where vulnerable populations reside, despite not being legally classified as housing. To achieve this, a survey was conducted with Goshiwon residents in Seoul on a one-to-one basis, identifying shortcomings and providing recommendations for improvements. The scope of this study focuses on Gosiwon residents in Seoul in 2023, with an initial survey population of 5,522 Gosiwons registered on the Seoul Open Data Portal. The methodology involved examining the current state of Gosiwons in South Korea, identifying limitations of existing regulations, analyzing similar studies and reports to prepare interview questions and survey materials, developing interview forms based on findings, and conducting face-to-face interviews using structured questionnaires. Fortunately, analysis of the living environment revealed that residents did not feel particularly vulnerable to risks such as aging or natural disasters. The average length of stay in Goshiwons was 2.34 years, with 27.9% of residents staying for over 3 years. On average, residents stayed for 4.11 years, with 55.4% extending their stays beyond the 3-year mark. Contrary to initial assumptions, this indicated that Goshiwons serve as long-term housing options. Recognizing Gosiwons as a viable housing option and exploring measures to enhance their role in housing are crucial, considering the rising trend in single-person households and the evolving purpose of Gosiwons, which are not legally recognized as housing.