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South Korea – Buying Property

Legal Restrictions on Property Ownership/Sale by Foreign Nationals

  • There are no restrictions on foreign ownership of real estate in South Korea.
  • However, some regulations for foreign buyers include a requirement for a foreign-invested enterprise or a Korean corporation.
  • Some areas, such as military facilities, are restricted for foreign ownership.

Average Property Prices and Regional Variations

  • Average property prices in South Korea vary widely depending on the location.
  • In the capital city of Seoul, the average price of a house is around $400,000.
  • Prices in smaller cities such as Busan and Daegu are lower, averaging around $200,000.

Popular Locations to Buy Property

  • Seoul is the most popular location for foreign buyers due to its high demand and steady property market.
  • Busan, the second-largest city, is also a popular location for property investment.
  • Jeju Island is a popular vacation spot and attracts foreign buyers for holiday homes.

Upcoming Areas for Property Investment

  • The city of Pangyo in Gyeonggi Province is emerging as a popular area for real estate investment.
  • The city of Seongnam, located near Seoul, is also becoming a popular area for property investment.

New Trends in the Property Market

  • The Korean government has implemented measures to cool down the property market and control price hikes in popular areas.
  • The use of virtual reality technology for property viewing is increasing in popularity.
  • The demand for eco-friendly and energy-efficient homes is growing.

Is Buying Property a Good Investment in South Korea?


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  • Yes, property investment in South Korea can be a good investment.
  • The property market in South Korea has been steady, and property prices have consistently increased over the years.
  • The high demand for housing, particularly in the capital city, makes real estate a secure investment option.

Common Property Types

  • The most common property type in South Korea is apartment-style housing.
  • Detached houses, known as “villas,” are also popular in South Korea.
  • Townhouses and terraced houses are less common, but can be found in some areas.
  • Land-only investments are also possible in South Korea, particularly in rural areas.

Typical House Buying Procedure in South Korea

Finding a Property:
The first step in the house buying process in South Korea is to find a property that you want to purchase. This can be done through various channels such as real estate agents, online property listings, or by searching for properties in your desired area.

Surveys/Inspections:
Once you have found a property, it is advisable to have it inspected by a professional surveyor to ensure that there are no structural or other issues with the property. Additionally, a pest and termite inspection may also be conducted to ensure that the property is free of infestations.

Making an Offer:
After you have completed any inspections and are satisfied with the property, you can make an offer to the seller. The offer can be made through the real estate agent or directly to the seller. It is important to note that the offer is subject to the property being transferred to your name and the property being registered in the Land Register Office.

Notary
In South Korea, a notary is not typically needed for the buying process.

Exchange of Contracts:
When your offer is accepted, the next step is to exchange contracts with the seller. This is typically done through the real estate agent, who will prepare and finalize the sale agreement. Once the contract is signed, the deposit is paid, and the sale is considered binding.

Transfer of Property:
After the contract is signed, the next step is to transfer the property to your name. This is done by registering the sale in the Land Register Office. Once the registration is complete, you will be the legal owner of the property.

Finding a Reputable Lawyer

When buying a property in South Korea, it is important to find a reputable lawyer to assist with the legal aspects of the transaction. One way to find a reputable lawyer is by asking for recommendations from friends, family, or real estate agents. It is also possible to search online for lawyers with experience in real estate transactions.

Fees and Professional Organizations
The fees charged by lawyers for property transactions can vary, so it is important to ask for a quote before engaging their services. Lawyers in South Korea are required to be members of the Korean Bar Association.

Pitfalls and Problems

There are several problems expats may encounter when buying a property in South Korea. One common issue is a lack of understanding of the local legal system and property laws. Additionally, there may be issues with the transfer of the property, such as outstanding debts or unpaid taxes.

Purchasing Property Through a Company

It is possible to purchase property through a company in South Korea, but it is not always desirable. One of the main disadvantages is that companies are subject to additional taxes and regulations. Additionally, owning property through a company may also make it more difficult to obtain financing. It is recommended to seek professional advice before considering purchasing property through a company.


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