As you may reasonably expect, your favorite K-pop stars have the financial means to purchase some of the most luxurious houses. It may surprise you that many of them prefer to live in apartments rather than self-standing villas. We took a look at some of these homes and the famous people that live in them.
Home Sweet Home
Most people prefer to live in apartments rather than self-sustaining abodes, which are considered more valuable as an investment. In Korea, the word "villa" has multiple meanings. It refers to multiplex houses, but sometimes it also means a luxurious house.
Some villas in Seoul tend to be a lot more opulent than ordinary apartments. Most famous Korean stars utilize the houses for residence rather than investment. Surprisingly, many of them stay in an apartment complex with large numbers of residents, which puts their privacy at risk.
The Beverly Hills of South Korea
The celebrities who live in villas tend to prefer Gangnam due to its peaceful atmosphere and central location. This area has been regarded as symbolic of high-class Korean society and compared to other suburbs, the prices of the houses are much higher.
In fact, property here is three and a half times more expensive than the average real-estate in South Korea. According to the Dominion Roofing Company experts, houses that are constructed in this style and with solid structures are very appealing, as well as the area.
The modern architecture and high-quality materials ensure the homes have a sturdy foundation along with the luxury as demanded by the elite. This area is relatively less populated and has better security systems.
Gangnam is popular due to its pleasant residential environment and the fact that many homes are situated close to the Han river.
Who Lives Where
We take a look at a few of the famous names and their homes. JYJ's Kim Junsu lives in a villa, which he has nicknamed the "Brown Stone Legend," in Samseong-Dong, in Seoul. It set him back about $2.6 million, and his teammate Kim Jae Joong is his neighbor.
Before leaving home, he used to live with his parents in a detached house in Paju city. That abode has all the luxury features you can imagine, like a fountain and saloon bar. It's worth a $1.6 bar, and in a show of generosity, he gave the house to his mother as a present.
The Big Bang's TOP also owns a lush residence valued at about $2.8 million. It's located at UN village, Han-nam dong, in Seoul. This area boasts many magnificent homes, and several Korean celebrities like actress Lee Young Ae and singer Lee Hyori stay there. TOP's house is 181 square meters and has four rooms and three bathrooms.
Another Big Bang member, G-Dragon, paid the same as his teammate for his high rise apartment above the Han River. He enjoys beautiful views of the river from his opulent flat. Another famous Korean star Kim Hyun Joong lives in the "Paragon" villa, located in Cheongdam-dong, Seoul.
It came at a hefty price of $2.8 million but is nothing compared to the mansion of Lee Minho, who paid almost double that for his 263 square meter house. The home boasts a golf driving range, massage room, indoor movie system, and other convenient facilities.
Final Thoughts
It's no secret that Korean movie stars enjoy spending money on luxurious properties, clothes, and accessories. However, unlike other celebrities worldwide, they usually invest in a home they use as their primary residence.
One of the most popular areas is Gangnam, where numerous Korean entertainment companies and famous beauty shops are located. It seems that even though apartments are quite popular among the stars, many still prefer the privacy and quiet of a villa and are prepared to pay extra for that luxury.
