Korea Move-in Cost Calculator

Wolse vs. Jeonse: Korea has two main rental systems. Wolse (월세) is monthly rent with a smaller deposit, similar to Western rentals. Jeonse (전세) requires a large lump-sum deposit (often 50-80% of the home value) but no monthly rent. Your deposit is returned when you move out. Jeonse is becoming less common due to deposit fraud risks.

Before Signing the Contract: Always check the 등기부등본 (property registry) to verify the landlord owns the property and check for liens or mortgages. You can get this at any 등기소 (registry office) or online at iros.go.kr. Ask about 관리비 (maintenance fee), which covers building maintenance and sometimes includes water or heating.

Agent Fee Negotiation: The agent fee (중개수수료) is legally capped in Korea. Rates range from 0.3-0.9% depending on the transaction amount. The fee is non-negotiable below the cap but you should confirm the exact rate before signing. Both tenant and landlord pay their own agent fee.

Cheapest Moving Options: For small moves, use 용달이사 (small truck service) starting from ₩100,000-200,000. For full apartment moves, 포장이사 (full-service packing) costs ₩300,000-700,000 depending on apartment size and distance. Apps like 짐싸 (Zimssa) and 미소 (Miso) let you compare quotes from multiple moving companies.

Getting Your Deposit Back: Korean law protects your deposit through the 주택임대차보호법 (Housing Lease Protection Act). To maximize protection, register your move-in at the local 주민센터 (community center) and get a 확정일자 (fixed date stamp) on your contract within the first day. This establishes your priority as a creditor if the landlord faces financial trouble.

Utility Setup: After moving in, visit the local 주민센터 to register your address change. Utilities (electricity via KEPCO, gas via local provider, water via local government) will transfer to your name. Internet can be set up through KT, SK Broadband, or LG U+ with 1-2 year contracts starting around ₩30,000/month.