Are you planning to stay in South Korea for a couple of months or more?
Then, one of the first things on your list will likely be finding a "home while relocating to South Korea”. The good news is that securing accommodation in South Korea is relatively easy. Many people who start in short-term rentals can transition to long-term housing within just a month of arriving.
However, this fact cannot be overlooked that you are new to the nation's landscape. And finding something crucial like housing can be a bit tricky. That’s why you should take time to understand how Korean housing options work. Housing options in South Korea are unique. Not being familiar with the language and local housing terms could make things more complicated.
Don't worry — this guide is here to help you navigate the different housing options in South Korea, so you can find the perfect home for your needs! Let’s get started.
First of All, Let’s Talk About the Challenges You Might Face
Korea house hunting may seem simple at first, but there are challenges you should prepare for.
Language Barrier
Most online listings, apps, and even contracts are in Korean. This can make it tricky for foreigners who don’t speak the language.
Confusing Ads
Sometimes, houses look fantastic in pictures but don't match up in real life. It’s also possible to encounter fake ads. Be cautious, and always check a house in person.
Big Numbers
Korean money involves large figures that may seem confusing at first. For example, 10 million KRW is written as "10,000,000" in Korea. But don’t worry – with practice, it gets easier!
Tip: Work with an English-speaking real estate agent who can help you avoid these problems and guide you through the process of finding the right place.
Secondly, Know the Key Korean Housing Terms
When searching for homes in Korea, you’ll see some common terms. Here’s a quick breakdown!
Pyeong (평): This is how apartment size is measured. 1 pyeong is about 3.31 square meters or 35.58 square feet.
Jeonse (전세): This is a unique system where you pay a large deposit upfront (key money) instead of monthly rent. At the end of your lease, you get your deposit back.
Wolse (월세): The most common rental system, where you pay both a deposit and monthly rent.
Banjeonse (반전세): A mix of jeonse and wolse. You pay a smaller key money deposit and lower monthly rent.
Tip: Practice reading Korean numbers like 천 (chon – thousand), 만 (man – ten thousand), and 억 (eok – one hundred million). For example, a listing that says “500/45” means a deposit of 5 million KRW (around $4,300 USD) and monthly rent of 450,000 KRW (around $385 USD).
Don’t Forget Utility Bills
When renting in Korea, you’ll also need to consider additional expenses like utilities and maintenance fees.
Gwanlibi (관리비): Fees for maintaining the building, cleaning, and sometimes internet. Costs around 100,000 KRW or USD 83 per per month.
Utilities: Water, gas, and electricity are usually paid separately. Always check what is included in your rent to avoid surprises later.
Tip: Some landlords include utilities in the gwanlibi, but it may cost more overall.
Requirements and Documents for Renting
The documents you need depend on the type of rental contract:
Jeonse (Key Money Deposit): No proof of employment is needed if you have enough funds.
Wolse (Monthly Rent): Landlords usually ask for your work contract.
In both cases, you will generally need:
Passport
Visa
Alien Registration Card (ARC)
Renting Tips for Foreigners Relocating to South Korea
1. Visit the Place in Person Before Signing Anything
It can be tempting to sign a lease based on photos and online descriptions, especially if the property looks perfect in the listing. However, nothing beats seeing the property in person. Photos can be outdated, edited, or taken from angles that hide flaws. By visiting the property, you can get a true sense of the space, check the condition of appliances, and see the surrounding area.
Moreover, visiting the property gives you the chance to gauge things that you can't easily tell from an online listing—like noise levels, the state of the neighborhood, and whether the space really meets your needs. Make sure you schedule a visit before committing to anything.
2. Carefully Read and Understand Your Contract—Ask for Help if Needed
Once you've found the right place, it’s time to go over the lease agreement. It may seem like a formal document with a lot of legal jargon, but it's crucial to understand every detail before you sign. Pay close attention to the rent amount, the duration of the lease, the security deposit terms, and any rules about things like subletting or maintenance.
If you don’t understand any part of the contract, don’t hesitate to ask for help. This could mean consulting a lawyer, a trusted friend with legal knowledge, or even seeking advice from a rental agent. It's far better to clarify any uncertainties upfront than to deal with potential issues later.
3. Confirm That the Landlord is the Property’s Real Owner
One of the most important things to verify before signing a lease is that the person you’re dealing with is actually the property’s owner or an authorized representative. Sadly, rental scams do happen, where individuals pretending to be landlords ask for deposits or upfront payments. To protect yourself, ask for proof of ownership or a rental agreement from the actual owner.
A legitimate landlord will be happy to provide you with this information. If they hesitate or become defensive, it’s a red flag. Take the time to ensure you’re dealing with the rightful owner to avoid any future disputes.
4. Choose a House Close to Essential Services
When looking for a rental property, location is just as important as the house itself. Consider its proximity to essential services like grocery stores, banks, hospitals, and subway stations. The last thing you want is to live far from everyday conveniences, which can make your life more stressful and time-consuming.
A location near public transportation is especially important if you don't own a car. Having quick access to a subway station or bus stop can save you time and money, and make commuting a breeze. Always keep in mind the amenities that will make your life more convenient, and choose a place that’s close to them.
All-in-One Solution: Work with a Good English-Speaking Real Estate Agent
With an English-speaking Korea house agent by your side, you can confidently navigate the often complex housing system in Korea without any confusion or stress. These agents are well-versed in the local housing market and can guide you through the process, explaining the various options available and the details of your contract. Rest assured that you will have peace of mind throughout the process.
Final Thoughts
Relocating to South Korea is an exciting adventure! By understanding the different housing options and being cautious during the search process, you’ll find a place that feels like home in no time. Remember to take your time, research thoroughly, and use the resources at your disposal, including online listings, local contacts, and professional agents.
Enjoy the opportunity to create new memories in your new home and immerse yourself in South Korea's vibrant culture.
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