How to Find Housing Safely in Korea: A Checklist to Avoid Deposit Fraud
Studying or working in Korea is an exciting opportunity, but one of the biggest concerns for international students and expats is finding safe housing. Unfortunately, deposit fraud (jeonse/wolse scam) has been a recurring problem, and foreign residents are often more vulnerable due to language barriers and unfamiliarity with the Korean rental system.
This guide will walk you through the key risks, a practical checklist to prevent fraud, and how platforms like Enkostay help you find secure housing without the stress of deposits.
Understanding Deposit Fraud in Korea
In Korea, many rental contracts require a deposit (보증금), sometimes as low as a few hundred dollars, but in traditional jeonse (long-term lease), it can be tens of thousands. Deposit fraud happens when:
A landlord collects a large deposit but fails to return it when the tenant moves out.
A property is rented out illegally by someone who is not the rightful owner.
Contracts are written incorrectly (wrong address, mismatched names), making them legally unenforceable.
💡 Fact: According to Korean news reports, foreigners are often targeted because scammers assume they won’t fully understand the contract or know how to pursue legal action.
Deposit Fraud Prevention Checklist
Before signing any contract, follow this checklist:
✅ Check the Ownership
Always confirm that the landlord is the legal owner of the property.
Request a Certified Copy of the Property Register (등기부등본), which lists ownership and financial obligations.
✅ Verify the Landlord’s Identity
The name on the property register must match the landlord’s ID and the contract.
If a “friend” or “agent” insists on signing instead, it’s a red flag.
✅ Beware of Unusual Contract Terms
If the deposit seems too low or too high compared to the market average, be cautious.
Contracts should clearly state rent, deposit, address, and duration.
✅ Avoid Cash-Only Transactions
Always use a bank transfer for deposits and rent. Keep all receipts.
Cash transactions make it difficult to prove payment in disputes.
✅ Have a Witness or Third Party
Bring a Korean friend, co-worker, or legal advisor when signing contracts.
Many scams target people signing alone, especially foreigners.
Why International Students Are More Vulnerable
Language barrier: Contracts are often only in Korean. Misunderstandings are common.
Urgency: New students often sign quickly to secure a place before the semester starts.
Lack of knowledge: Many don’t know about the 등기부등본 (Certified Copy of the Property Register) or how to check it.
That’s why it’s essential to take your time, verify documents, and ask questions before paying anything.
How Enkostay Helps Prevent Housing Fraud
Finding a safe home doesn’t have to be stressful. Enkostay offers foreigner friendly housing listings (officetels, one-rooms, share houses, goshiwon…) all without deposits.
No Deposit required: Unlike traditional Korean rentals, we don’t ask for deposit, so you don’t have to risk losing thousands of dollars in deposits.
Verified Listings: Properties on Enkostay are reviewed, reducing the risk of illegal sublets or fraudulent landlords.
Clear Contracts: English-supported contracts that meet the requirements for Alien Registration Card (RC) issuance.
Multi-languages support for Foreigners: Our team provides guidance on housing documents, so you don’t face these risks alone.
👉 For foreign students and workers, this means more security, less stress, and no deposit fraud risk.
Final Tips for a Safe Housing Experience
Never rush into signing, even if told “someone else will take it.”
Learn the basics of Korean rental terms: 전세 (jeonse), 월세 (monthly rent), 보증금 (deposit).
Use trusted platforms like Enkostay instead of random online listings.
Conclusion
Deposit fraud is one of the biggest challenges foreign students and workers face in Korea, but it can be prevented. By following the checklist, verifying ownership, and avoiding suspicious contracts, you can protect yourself.
Better yet, by choosing deposit-free housing options through Enkostay, you eliminate the risk altogether and focus on what really matters : your studies, your work, and enjoying life in Korea.