Renting an Apartment in Korea: A Foreigner’s Guide
Finding a place to live in South Korea is one of the most exciting—and challenging—parts of relocating. Whether you're moving for work, study, or a long-term stay, understanding how to rent an apartment as a foreigner is essential. This guide breaks down everything you need to know to secure the right home, from navigating Korea's unique housing systems like jeonse and wolse to understanding lease agreements and working with real estate agents.
1. Housing Types in Korea
South Korea offers several housing options. Here are the most common types you'll encounter:
Officetels (오피스텔)
- Small studio-style apartments that double as office spaces.
- Ideal for singles or couples.
- Popular among expats and international students in Korea.
Villas (빌라)
- Low-rise apartment buildings, typically 3–5 floors.
- More affordable than high-rise apartments.
- Located in quieter residential areas.
Apartments (아파트)
- Larger complexes with security and amenities.
- Often more expensive but ideal for families or long-term residents.
2. Korea's Rental Systems: Jeonse vs. Wolse
Jeonse (전세) – Key Money Lease
- Requires a large lump-sum deposit (typically ₩100M to ₩500M).
- No monthly rent.
- Deposit is fully refunded at lease end.
- Ideal if you have capital and plan to stay for 2+ years.
Wolse (월세) – Monthly Rent
- Requires a smaller deposit (₩5M–₩20M) plus monthly rent (₩300K–₩1.5M).
- Most common for foreigners and short-term residents.
- Negotiable terms depending on location and landlord.
Both systems are legal and common. For most foreigners new to the Korean housing market, monthly rental (wolse) is easier to manage.
3. How to Find an Apartment in Korea
Let's look at different ways to find rental properties:
Real Estate Agencies (부동산)
- Licensed realtors help find listings, negotiate, and draft contracts.
- You'll pay a realtor's fee (0.3–0.8% of the deposit).
- Recommended for first-timers and those unfamiliar with Korean.
Online Rental Platforms
- Zigbang (직방), Dabang (다방) – user-friendly mobile apps with English interfaces.
- Craigslist Korea, Facebook groups (e.g., "Apartments in Seoul for Expats").
- Beware of scams on open platforms.
University Housing Boards
- Great for international students looking for shared housing or gosiwons (small budget rooms).
4. Documents & Requirements
As a foreigner, you'll need:
✔ Alien Registration Card (ARC) or passport
✔ Proof of income or employment contract
✔ Bank statement (to show you can pay deposit or rent)
✔ A Korean guarantor may be required by some landlords (though not always necessary)
Having a Korean-speaking friend or coworker can help with translation and negotiation.
5. Understanding the Rental Contract
Rental contracts in Korea typically run for 1 or 2 years. Key elements to understand include:
- Contract Length
- Deposit & Monthly Rent Terms
- Maintenance Fees (관리비) – monthly charges covering elevator operation, cleaning, and building maintenance
- Early Termination Rules
- Inventory List – noting included furniture or appliances
Have your contract translated or reviewed by a Korean speaker to ensure complete understanding.
6. Housing Costs by Region (2025 Estimates)
| Region | Monthly Rent (₩) | Deposit (₩) |
| Seoul | ₩600K–₩1.8M | ₩10M–₩50M |
| Busan | ₩400K–₩1.2M | ₩5M–₩30M |
| Daegu/Incheon | ₩350K–₩1M | ₩5M–₩25M |
| Smaller Cities | ₩250K–₩800K | ₩3M–₩20M |
💬 Note: Cost of living in Korea varies significantly by region. Seoul commands the highest prices, while cities like Daejeon or Gwangju offer more affordable options.
7. Furniture, Utilities & Internet
Most apartments in Korea come unfurnished, though officetels often include basic appliances.
You'll likely need to purchase:
- Bed, table, chair, microwave, and other essentials
- Use Facebook groups or second-hand apps like Danggeun Market (당근마켓)
Utilities include:
✔ Electricity
✔ Gas (for heating/cooking)
✔ Water
✔ Internet & Cable TV (can be bundled via SK, KT, LG)
Monthly utility costs typically range from ₩100K–₩250K, varying by season and usage.
8. Common Challenges & How to Handle Them
Language Barrier
- Most real estate agents have limited English proficiency
- Bring a Korean-speaking friend or use translation apps for viewings
Contract Confusion
- Always obtain a copy of the contract
- Verify that it clearly specifies the deposit refund, termination rules, and repair responsibilities
Landlord Communication
- Landlords generally prefer tenants with stable employment or Korean co-signers
- Consider seeking support from your employer or educational institution
9. Moving In & Setting Up
After signing your contract:
✔ Register your address at your local gu or dong office
✔ Set up gas, internet, and utilities (your realtor can assist)
✔ Document the apartment's condition thoroughly
Important questions for your landlord:
- Garbage sorting and disposal guidelines
- Building quiet hours
- Emergency maintenance contacts
10. Short-Term Rentals & Gosiwons
For stays under 6 months:
✔ Airbnb or monthly serviced apartments
✔ Gosiwon (고시원) – budget-friendly single rooms popular among students
Perfect for language students or those with temporary visas (e.g., D-4 or D-10 visa holders).
11. Tips for First-Time Renters in Korea
✔ Begin your housing search at least 1 month before move-in
✔ Always visit in person before signing
✔ Take photos of any damage or wear when moving in
✔ Keep a copy of all documents and receipts
✔ Be prepared to negotiate the deposit or rent
While renting an apartment in Korea as a foreigner might seem daunting, proper preparation makes the process manageable. Understanding Korea's rental systems, knowing the best places to search, and having your documents ready will give you a strong advantage. Finding the right home—whether for one year or longer—will help ensure your time in South Korea is comfortable and enjoyable.
There's help available! Trusted real estate apps and expat communities are excellent resources for guidance. Welcome to your new home in Korea!
