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Once a child has a place at Yongsan International School of Seoul (YISS), the next question for most families is where to live. This guide looks at the neighborhoods around the campus, how the school bus network widens your options, and what to settle in the lease. For admissions steps, the curriculum and the school calendar, see our YISS admissions and school guide.
Where the Campus Is
YISS is at 285 Itaewon-ro, Yongsan-gu (서울시 용산구 이태원로 285), on the border of Itaewon and Hannam-dong, near Hangangjin Station on subway Line 6. It sits in the middle of the area where many embassies and diplomatic residences are located, and the Deutsche Schule Seoul International is also in Hannam-dong, which is why this part of Yongsan is one of the most popular places for expat families to rent in Seoul.
Neighborhoods Close to YISS
Hannam-dong
Hannam-dong lies between Namsan and the Han River, with Hannam Bridge leading across to Gangnam. Housing ranges from villas to high-end apartments, and the neighborhood is home to many embassies and ambassadors’ residences. Read more in our Hannam-dong guide.
UN Village
UN Village is one of the closest residential areas to both YISS and the German School. It is known for detached houses with gardens, privacy and views over the Han River, and suits families who want space for entertaining. See our UN Village guide.
Itaewon
Itaewon offers the widest choice of shops, restaurants and international services within reach of the campus, and many school bus routes pass through it. Housing includes apartments, villas and houses on the quieter streets away from the main road. Read our Itaewon guide.
Dongbinggo-dong
Dongbinggo-dong is a quieter residential pocket between Itaewon and the Han River, popular with diplomats and executives who value privacy, with easy access to Hangang Park. See our Dongbinggo guide.
Living Further Away: The YISS Bus Network
Living within walking distance of the campus is not the only option. According to the school, YISS runs a fleet of 20 buses serving nearly all major areas of Seoul, routes are revised every year, and students spend an average of 25 to 30 minutes on the bus. This means families who prefer, for example, the larger apartments of Gangnam or the French community around Seorae Village can still consider YISS.
Because routes change annually, confirm that a bus stop serves the address you are considering before you sign a lease. The school handles route questions at transportation@yisseoul.org, as listed on its services page.
Lease Points for YISS Families
- Bus stop first, then the house. Ask where the nearest stop would be for each home on your shortlist, especially on Hannam’s hillier streets.
- Start date. Align the lease start with your arrival and the school’s first day, so the family is not living in a hotel longer than necessary.
- Early termination. Diplomats and corporate assignees can be transferred at short notice. A diplomatic or transfer clause that allows early termination with notice protects your deposit.
- Furnishing and parking. Confirm what furniture and appliances are included and how many parking spaces come with the home, as these differ widely between villas, houses and apartment complexes.
Find a Home Near YISS
Browse current homes near the campus in our housing near YISS and the German School listings, or across Itaewon, Hannam, UN Village and Dongbinggo. Our bilingual team arranges viewings and handles the lease paperwork in English.