Introduction
Moving to a different country can be an exciting adventure, but it also comes with its fair share of challenges. As a foreigner, navigating a new culture, language, and housing market can be overwhelming. Understanding the rental systems, knowing what to look for in an apartment, and dealing with paperwork and contracts are just some of the struggles that foreigners may face. However, with proper research and preparation, these challenges can be overcome, and finding a suitable place to live can become an enjoyable part of your experience abroad.
In this post, we will explore the process of finding an apartment in Korea. We will discuss different rental systems, such as 전세 (Jeonse) and 월세 (Weolse), and provide insights into how to read apartment listings. Additionally, we will share tips on using real estate agencies and online platforms for your apartment search. Whether you're a student, a digital nomad, or someone planning to move to Korea, this guide will provide valuable information to help you find the perfect accommodation.
Renting Systems in Korea
There are different housing and rental systems in Korea I will discuss 2 of them in this post 전세 (Jeonse) and 월세 (Weolse).
전세 (Jeonse) | 월세 (Weolse) |
Very High Deposit: Above 100 Mill Won | Relatively High Deposit: 5 Mill - 10 Mill Won |
Rent Free | Monthly Rent |
Maintainance Fees | Maintainance |
Utility | Utlity |
전세 (Jeonse) is very unique to Korea where you pay a huge deposit (more than ~100.000 USD) upfront, and you only need to pay for maintenance and utility costs.
You basically live for free.
The landlord will use your deposit, invest it, earn interest, and give you your money back at the end of the contract.
월세 (Weolse) is more like the traditional monthly rent system in other countries.
But the deposit is relatively higher than in other countries which are around 5000 USD ~ 10.000 USD (more common)
You pay the rent and maintenance fees, on top you pay for utility costs (Gas, Water, Electricity) which is handled by the government
The contract period is normally 2 years
There can be exceptions which has to be discussed with the Landlord and Real Estate Agent
Once the contract expires to renegotiate the terms with your landlord.
Note: You don’t need an Resident Card (ARC) for Renting your passport number would be sufficient while you are still waiting for the Card to be issued
Research
Before I permanently moved to Korea I’ve been traveling back and forth for more than 9 years
I stayed in various types of accommodations such as
- Airbnbs
- Guesthouses
- Hotels
- Sharehouses
- Friend’s House
- Hanok
I explored a different neighborhood in Seoul. Before I moved I made a list of conditions that helped me with my search
Conditions:
- What are must have!
- Nice to have!
- No Gos?
Here are some examples:
- Which area do you want to live?
- How much do I want to pay for rent?
- How much deposit are you willing to pay?
- Fully furniture?
- Airconditioning
- Which Floor
- Elevator
- Close to which subway station or public transportation
- …
The more specific you are with your answers the easier it will be for you to spot the perfect apartment
How do you read a Apartment Listing in Korea
Before you start searching let me explain to you how you can decode an apartment listing
Type of Apartment: One Room Studio Apartment, Two Rooms, Officetel…
Apartment Size: 33m2 (10평) (Pyeong is often used 1 Pyeong = 3.3m2)
Type of Rent: 전세 (Jeonse), 월세(Weolse)
Deposit/Rent: 10 Million Won/700 Thousand Won
Maintainance Fee: 50 Thousand Won
Pro Tip: Use Google Translate Camera 😉
Real Estate Agencies (부동산)
So now that you know how to Read the Listing you can just walk around your desired neighborhoods and read the listings on the windows in a Real Estate Agency Office.
If there is something you like then just walk in and ask. The listing is often gone as things in Korea happen so fast, but they will show you alternatives.
Again, preparation is key! List out all the things above of your “must haves” and also show them some images of how the room should look like!
Online Platform or Apps
Real Estate Agencies recommended me to have a look at Naver 부동산
That’s the most reliable one. You might have seen in other videos about 직방(Zigbang), 다방(Dabang), those are mostly reposting from Naver
My personal Requirements
Area: Mapo-Gu (Student Area)
Close to the MMA Gym no more than 20min Walk
Deposit: ₩5.000.000($5.000) ~ ₩10.000 ($10.000)
Close to Subway Line 2
Monthly Rent: ₩800.000 ($800)
Big Windows and plenty of Sunlight (Facing South, South East, South West)
Mapo-Gu Area
When should I contact the Real Estate Agent?
Don’t start the actual search more than 2 weeks in advance. Korea things happen fast! Most Real Estate don’t make appointment more than 2 weeks in advance because you could move in within days!
Apartment Tour with Real Estate Agent
After successfully contacting the real estate agent, they will inform you of the location and time for the apartment tour. In my case, it happened on the same day! In addition to showing you the desired room, they will also take you to see alternative options. If you don't like any of the rooms after visiting them, you can let the agent know. However, it's important to make a quick decision as the room could be taken by someone else within the next hour!
Signing the Contract
Once you have decided on which apartment you want to take, the real estate agent will take you back to the office to complete the necessary paperwork.
I highly recommend bringing a Korean friend or translator with you if the agent does not speak English well.
Required Documents
- Passport/Resident Card
- Korean Phone Number
What are the Fees involved
- 10% of the Deposit
- 90% Moving Day
- 300k Real Estate Agency
The real estate agent will guide you through the entire process. They will show you the Landlord’s Public Government Records and Public Property Information.
Review the following conditions:
- Current state
- Move-in date renovations
- Move-in date
Lastly Sign the contract
Alternative Websites:
To get a feeling and the prices I found Craigslist to be very helpful just to get inspiration and see the prices in different neighborhoods
Pets and Housing in Korea
If you're planning to move to Korea with your pet while you're living there, there are several factors to keep in mind.
Firstly, it's important to know that not all apartments in Korea allow pets, especially larger dogs. When searching for a pet-friendly apartment, you may need to broaden your search to include both newer and older buildings, as the regulations can vary.
When contacting a real estate agent, make sure to mention that you have a pet or are planning on getting one. This will help them find suitable listings that allow pets. Some apartments may require a pet deposit, so be prepared for this additional cost.
When bringing a pet from another country, be aware of the quarantine rules and regulations set by the Korean government. Generally, dogs and cats brought into Korea must be vaccinated against rabies and need a health certificate issued by a government-approved veterinarian in the country of origin.
Lastly, consider the living conditions in Korea. Many apartments are smaller than what you might be used to in other countries, so consider your pet's needs for space and exercise. Also, keep in mind that there are many parks and pet-friendly activities in Korea to help your pet stay active and socialize.
Remember, having a pet is a big responsibility and making sure they are comfortable and safe in their new environment is crucial. With the right preparation and research, finding a suitable home for you and your pet in Korea can be a smooth and stress-free process.
Conclusion
Finding an apartment in a new country can be a challenging task, but with proper research and persistence, it can be done in a relatively short time once you found your gem. My experience taught me that it's essential to have a clear idea of what you're looking for and to be open to different options. If you're moving to a new country and need to find an apartment, I hope my experience will help you in your search.
Whenever you're ready, there are ways I can help you:
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About the Author
Kim Ninja (Huy-Kim Nguyen)
Cloud Engineer / WebApp Developer 💻
Content Creator Bridging Korea 🇰🇷 to the World 🌎
Startup Founder based in Seoul, South Korea 🚀
The blog published by Kim Ninja (Huy-Kim Nguyen) is available for informational purposes only and is not considered legal advice on any subject matter.
