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How Jeonse Works – Korea’s Unique Rental System

by 황금알 부동산 2025. 5. 14.
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How Jeonse Works – Korea’s Unique Rental System

💰 How Jeonse Works – Korea’s Unique Rental System

If you're living in South Korea, you've probably heard the term "Jeonse". It's a rental model unique to Korea, and understanding how it works can save you money — or cost you a fortune.

🔍 What Is Jeonse?

Jeonse (전세) is a lump-sum deposit lease contract. Instead of paying monthly rent, the tenant pays a large deposit upfront (often 50–80% of the property value), and lives rent-free for the contract period (usually 2 years).

📝 How It Works

  1. Tenant pays deposit (₩100M~₩600M depending on region)
  2. Landlord holds the money and invests it
  3. No monthly rent is paid
  4. Deposit is returned in full at the end of the lease

Important: There is no interest paid to the tenant.

🏠 Jeonse vs. Wolse (Monthly Rent)

TypeDepositMonthly Payment
JeonseHigh (₩200–₩500M)₩0
WolseLow (₩5–₩20M)₩400K–₩1M/month

✅ Pros of Jeonse

  • No monthly payments = ideal for budgeting
  • Deposit is returned in full (in most cases)
  • More negotiating power as a tenant

⚠️ Risks of Jeonse

  • Landlord may not return deposit if they go bankrupt
  • High upfront cost blocks many renters
  • Not suitable if you're staying short-term

📌 Foreigners: What You Need to Know

  • You must register the contract at the local office (for legal protection)
  • Get Jeonse Deposit Insurance (HUG or SGI)
  • Use a reliable real estate agent who explains in English

📍 Where to Find Jeonse Listings

📘 Final Advice

Jeonse can be a great deal if you have cash and plan to stay long-term. But be cautious of risks — especially landlord solvency and legal paperwork. For most expats, monthly rent is simpler and safer unless you're well-informed.

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