Health

Korea to Reconsider Allowing Bathtubs in Goshiwon After Public Backlash

By Dr Natalie Singh - Health Editor Updated August 23, 2026

South Korea’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport announced on August 21, 2026, that it will re-evaluate a proposed regulatory revision that would permit bathtubs inside individual goshiwon rooms, according to reports from the Asia Today. The agency pulled back to review the rule following public criticism over potential rent increases and worsening residential conditions.

August 21 reversal follows public outcry

The August 12 administrative notice and deregulation push

The policy reversal stems from an administrative notice issued by the Ministry on August 12, 2026, regarding building code updates for multi-dwelling residential facilities like goshiwons. Under the initial proposal, which was slated to run for public comment through August 31, the government sought to lift a ban on in-room bathtubs that has been in place since 2015. The draft also aimed to eliminate a mandate requiring every room to feature study desks, citing a push from small businesses for regulatory relief and an effort to accommodate the growing population of single-person households.

Sanitation fears and rent hike warnings from tenants

According to feedback gathered during the administrative notice period, goshiwon users, industry associations, and local media outlets raised serious concerns about the changes. Critics warned that cramming bathtubs into compact goshiwon units would inevitably spark mold and sanitation problems. Furthermore, tenants and housing advocates pointed out that facility upgrade costs would likely trigger higher deposits and monthly rents.

Shared kitchens and structural safety under scrutiny

Additional pushback centered on tenant priorities, with users arguing that the government should focus on expanding fundamental living conveniences rather than bathtubs. Current goshiwon models rely heavily on shared kitchen spaces, which many argue fail to meet the basic daily needs of modern single-person occupants. Opponents also cautioned that introducing water fixtures into cramped quarters could exacerbate existing fire safety, hygiene, and ventilation vulnerabilities.

Ministry weighs public health feedback against deregulation goals

A Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport official stated that the agency will carefully weigh these diverse opinions to implement regulations that citizens can genuinely appreciate. The Ministry clarified that the review does not mean a complete withdrawal of all goshiwon deregulation efforts. Officials intend to reshape the building standards to better reflect the realities of single-occupancy living while addressing public health and safety feedback.