In South Korea, the typical lease term for rental properties is typically one year, although shorter-term leases of 6 months to a year are also common. It is not uncommon for tenants to renew their leases at the end of the lease term, but there is no guarantee that the landlord will agree to renew the lease.
Furnished vs Unfurnished Properties
In South Korea, rental properties can either be furnished or unfurnished. Furnished properties typically include basic furniture such as a bed, dresser, and sometimes a couch and dining table. They may also include appliances such as a refrigerator, washing machine, and air conditioner.
Unfurnished properties, on the other hand, do not come with any furniture or appliances. Tenants must provide their own furniture and appliances.
Standard Clauses in Lease Agreement
A standard lease agreement in South Korea includes clauses such as the rental amount, the length of the lease, the security deposit, and any utility and maintenance fees. It also includes clauses on the responsibilities of both the tenant and the landlord, such as the tenant’s responsibility to pay rent on time and the landlord’s responsibility to make any necessary repairs.
The lease agreement may also include clauses on the use of common areas and any restrictions on pets or smoking.
Additional Clauses
Additional clauses that may be included in a lease agreement in South Korea, but are not mandatory, include clauses on renewing the lease, subleasing, and termination of the lease.
For Expats
Expats signing a lease contract in South Korea should be aware of the language used in the lease agreement. It is important to make sure that they understand all of the terms and clauses included in the lease agreement, as well as any local laws that may impact the lease agreement.
Expats should also be aware of the local customs and norms regarding rental properties. For example, in some areas of South Korea, it is common for the landlord to perform a credit check on the tenant before approving the lease.
Condition Reports
Condition reports are not commonly used in South Korea before signing a lease agreement. However, it is still a good idea for tenants to thoroughly inspect the property before signing the lease agreement and to document any pre-existing damages.
Qualifications for Letting Agents
Letting agents in South Korea are not required to have any specific qualifications or licenses. However, reputable letting agents should have a good understanding of local laws and regulations related to rental properties, as well as a good knowledge of the local real estate market.
Association for Letting Agencies
There is no specific association or organization in South Korea that reputable letting agencies must be a member of. However, the Korea Real Estate Association (KREA) is a professional organization for real estate agents in South Korea that provides training and support for its members.
The website for KREA is: http://www.krea.or.kr/eng/main/index.do
