Monthly rent in Korea, especially in Seoul, can be quite expensive.

Considering that the minimum hourly wage in Korea has been set at 10,030 won this year, a person working 40 hours a week at this wage would earn around 2,096,000 won a month.

Yet, more than a quarter of that income could go toward rent, as the average monthly cost for a studio apartment in Seoul was 730,000 won, according to December's data.

But rent is just the beginning. Utility bills are another financial burden when living independently. If you're living in a fancier building with an office and managers, the bills may exceed your expectations.

So, here are some tips on how to reduce your utility bills, especially during the winter season:

1. Use Insulators

Insulation materials reduce the transfer of heat, sound, and electricity.

- Buy weather stripping to seal cracks between windows and doors to prevent cold drafts from entering your home.

- A popular method among Koreans is to attach bubble wrap to windows — a simple trick to block the cold air. You can use water spray to make the application easier.

Both weather strips and bubble wrap are available for under 5,000 won at Daiso, making them an affordable way to stay warm throughout the winter.

-     Thick curtains are also effective in blocking cold air from entering the room.

2. Maintain an Average Room Temperature

Keep your room temperature between 18-20°C. It’s important not to turn off the heating frequently unless you’re away for a long period. If you're leaving for a short time, set the heater to “외출” (going out) mode to save energy.