Real Estate

One of the most frequently asked questions by expats and newcomers is:"Why are rental deposits in Korea so high?" Unlike many Western countries where small deposits and monthly rent are the norm, the Korean housing market operates with large security deposits, especially under the unique jeonse system. Here's why. The Jeonse System: Rent-Free Living with a Large Deposit In Korea, the jeonse...

How Housing Unlocks ARC, Phone, Internet, and More for Expats When relocating to South Korea, securing housing is not just about having a place to stay—it is the first step that enables everything else. Without a signed lease contract, it is difficult to proceed with essentials like applying for your Alien Registration Card (ARC), setting up your Korean phone number, home internet, or even opening a...

Top 7 Mistakes Expats Make When Renting an Apartment in Seoul (And How to Avoid Them) 1. Confusing Jeonse with Regular Deposit-Based Rent Many expats mistakenly assume that paying a high deposit with low monthly rent means they’ve secured a jeonse contract. In reality, jeonse is a uniquely Korean rental system where the tenant pays a lump-sum deposit—often 60% to 80% of the property's...

When looking for temporary housing, especially for a month or more, short-term rentals through real estate agencies often offer better value than Airbnb. While Airbnb can be convenient for very short stays, when it comes to longer stays, short-term rentals provide significant advantages in terms of cost, stability, and service. 1. Better Value for Longer Stays While Airbnb may seem cost-effective...

Introduction To understand the rental price trends in South Korea, it is crucial to first grasp thedynamics of property sale prices and the unique "jeonse" system. The jeonse systemand property sales market are closely interconnected, with both influencing the rentalmarket significantly. This analysis will examine the key elements of South Korea’sreal estate market and how factors such as the...

Obtaining a visa for Korea as a foreigner involves navigating a complex and often stringent process. One of the key challenges faced by many prospective visa applicants is the requirement to be outside Korea for the visa issuance. This stipulation means that individuals cannot obtain a new visa while in the country on a tourist visa, necessitating a return to their home country or another location outside...

Arriving at Incheon Airport Welcome to Incheon International Airport, your gateway to the vibrant city of Seoul! Situated approximately 48 kilometers west of the capital, Incheon Airport is renowned for its modern facilities and exceptional service. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, here's everything you need to know to navigate your arrival with ease. Transportation to...

Korea boasts one of the most advanced and fastest internet infrastructures globally, making it an ideal destination for expatriates seeking reliable internet connectivity. Whether you're a student, professional, or digital nomad, setting up internet service in your apartment in Seoul as a foreigner is a relatively straightforward process. In this comprehensive guide, we'll walk you through every step,...

Understanding Cleaning Fees When Renting an Apartment in Korea Renting an apartment in Korea comes with various considerations, one of which is understanding cleaning fees. These fees, often outlined in rental agreements, play a crucial role in maintaining the condition of the property and ensuring a smooth transition between tenants. In this article, we'll explore what cleaning fees entail, why they...

Introduction: Embarking on a journey to South Korea is an exhilarating adventure, and unlocking the nuances of local customs and manners is key to a fulfilling experience. Deeply rooted in Confucian principles, Korean etiquette offers a unique perspective that may differ from what you're accustomed to. This comprehensive guide goes beyond house hunting in Seoul, providing insights into the subtleties...