Korean Apartment Move-Out Deposit Tips for Renters

Q: What is the 'original condition' principle for move-out deposits?

The 'original condition' principle, or *wonsang bokgu*, dictates that tenants must restore the apartment to its initial state upon moving out. This means undoing any significant alterations made during the tenancy and repairing any damages beyond normal wear and tear. Maison Korea states that landlords have the right to request this restoration at the tenant's expense, and costs for damages like holes or tape residue can be deducted from the deposit. Natural discoloration of wallpaper, however,

Last updated: April 2026

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Quick Answer

Tenants have a legal duty to maintain and manage the apartment well during their lease, according to Maison Korea's guide, published in December 2023.
Landlords have the right to request the apartment be restored to its original condition at the tenant's expense upon lease termination.
Minor decorations like hanging shelves or pictures do not require landlord approval, but major renovations like changing wall colors or expanding rooms do.
Repair costs for damages caused by the tenant can be deducted from the deposit, as noted by Maison Korea in 2023, emphasizing the importance of fulfilling tenant obligations.

Navigating the complexities of a Korean apartment move-out deposit, especially for a jeonse (lump-sum deposit) lease, requires a clear understanding of tenant responsibilities and landlord expectations. The core principle revolves around returning the apartment to its "original condition," a concept that can sometimes lead to misunderstandings if not thoroughly understood. "If you are struggling to get a jeonse home, the next step is interior design. Like many others, it would be wonderful to be able to change the space to fit your lifestyle and taste. However, if you decide to decorate a jeonse home, there are precautions that tenants must know," advises Maison Korea Maison Korea's guide to jeonse interior tips. This includes knowing which interior changes are permissible without approval and which could lead to deductions from your significant deposit. For instance, while small decorative items are generally fine, any structural changes or major alterations to the property require explicit written consent from the landlord. Maison Korea highlights that landlords can deduct repair costs from the deposit if tenant obligations are not met, as of December 2023. Understanding these guidelines can help prevent unexpected deductions and ensure a smooth move-out process.

What is the 'Original Condition' Principle in Korean Leases?

The "original condition" principle, known as wonsang bokgu (원상 복구), is a fundamental aspect of Korean rental agreements, particularly for jeonse properties. This principle grants landlords the right to demand that the property be restored to its initial state at the tenant's expense once the lease concludes. It's a critical clause designed to protect the landlord's asset and ensure that the property can be rented out again without significant additional costs for restoration due to tenant-made alterations. This means that if a tenant makes changes to the apartment, they are generally expected to reverse those changes before moving out.

Understanding the Scope of 'Original Condition'

The scope of the wonsang bokgu principle is broad, covering various aspects of the apartment's condition. It applies most strictly to any structural changes or major renovations that alter the fundamental layout or finishes of the property. For example, if a tenant were to remove a non-load-bearing wall to create a more open-plan living space or decide to change the bathroom tiles to a different style, these would be considered significant alterations. In such cases, the landlord has the right to insist that the wall be rebuilt or the original tiles be reinstalled, with all associated costs borne by the tenant. This is because these types of changes go beyond mere aesthetics and affect the integrity or core design of the apartment as it was initially leased.

Distinguishing Wear and Tear from Tenant Damage

It is important to distinguish between normal wear and tear and damage caused by the tenant. The wonsang bokgu principle does not typically hold tenants responsible for natural deterioration that occurs over time with regular use. For instance, the natural discoloration of wallpaper or paint due to sunlight exposure over several years is generally considered normal wear and tear. Similarly, slight fading of carpets or minor scuffs on flooring from everyday foot traffic are usually not attributed to tenant negligence. These are expected consequences of living in a space for an extended period.

However, the line is drawn when damage results from the tenant's actions, negligence, or misuse. This could include significant holes in walls beyond those for hanging small pictures, extensive scratches on floors or furniture, or stains that are difficult to remove. Maison Korea specifies that while natural wear like "discoloration of wallpaper or paint" is not the tenant's responsibility, damages such as "dents, holes, tape residue, and furniture scratches caused by mistakes" are. The legal obligation for tenants is to "maintain and manage the house well" during the lease period. If a tenant fails to adhere to this, the landlord can deduct the repair costs from the security deposit. This distinction is crucial for tenants to understand to avoid unexpected charges upon move-out.

The Impact on Deposit Deductions

Failure to comply with the wonsang bokgu principle can directly impact the return of the tenant's deposit. If a tenant has made unauthorized structural changes or caused damage beyond normal wear and tear, the landlord is entitled to use part of the deposit to cover the costs of restoring the property. This could involve hiring contractors for painting, filling holes, re-tiling, or replacing damaged fixtures. The cost of these repairs can quickly add up, potentially reducing the amount of the deposit returned to the tenant significantly. Therefore, it is always advisable for tenants to carefully review their lease agreement, understand the terms related to property alterations, and communicate with their landlord before undertaking any significant changes to the apartment. This proactive approach can help tenants protect their deposit and ensure a smoother transition when the lease term ends.

What Interior Changes Require Landlord Approval?

Any interior change in a rented Korean apartment that fundamentally alters the building or its facilities typically requires explicit written consent from the landlord. This rule is in place to protect the landlord's property value and ensure that the apartment's structure and major components remain as they were when the lease began. Without proper approval, tenants risk being held responsible for restoring the property to its original condition at their own expense, which can lead to significant deductions from their move-out deposit.

Major Structural and Aesthetic Alterations

Changes that fall under the category of requiring landlord approval are generally those that are permanent or semi-permanent and affect the core structure, layout, or primary finishes of the apartment. For instance, painting walls a different, non-neutral color is often considered a change that requires permission. While a fresh coat of white or off-white paint might be seen as maintenance, a bold color choice would likely necessitate repainting to a neutral shade upon move-out, and the landlord would want to approve this beforehand. Similarly, installing new flooring that is difficult to remove, such as glued-down hardwood or extensive tiling, would also require written consent. These types of flooring are not easily reversible and represent a substantial alteration to the apartment's interior.

Expanding rooms, which would involve demolishing or adding partition walls, is another significant alteration that absolutely requires the landlord's written consent. Maison Korea explicitly states that "if you want to paint the walls a different color or expand a room, the landlord's written consent is required." This is because such changes impact the structural integrity and layout of the apartment, potentially affecting future rental prospects or even the building's overall safety.

Understanding 'Daesuseon' (Major Repairs)

The concept of 'daesuseon' (대수선), which translates to "major repairs" or "major alterations," further clarifies what tenants are not permitted to do without landlord approval. These are extensive modifications that go beyond simple cosmetic changes. Examples include demolishing partition walls, which could change the room configuration, or changing bathroom tiles. Maison Korea emphasizes that tenants "do not have the right to make 'major repairs' such as demolishing partition walls or changing bathroom tiles, even if they want to improve the condition of the house."

This distinction is crucial because it highlights that even if a tenant believes a major repair or alteration would improve the property, they lack the legal right to perform it without the landlord's agreement. Such actions could be costly to reverse and might not align with the landlord's long-term vision for the property. For example, if a tenant decides to upgrade the bathroom by replacing all the tiles, the landlord might prefer the original tiles or have a specific aesthetic in mind for the property that differs from the tenant's choice. Therefore, any intention to make substantial changes to the property, no matter how well-intentioned, must first be discussed and formally approved by the landlord to avoid complications and potential financial penalties at the end of the lease.

The Importance of Written Consent

Verbal agreements regarding major interior changes are generally insufficient and can lead to disputes. To protect both parties, any consent for significant alterations should be documented in writing, ideally as an addendum to the original lease agreement. This written consent should clearly outline the nature of the approved changes, who is responsible for the costs, and whether the tenant is required to restore the property to its original state upon move-out. Without this formal documentation, tenants may find themselves in a challenging position if the landlord denies having given permission or if there's a disagreement about the scope of the approved work. This meticulous approach ensures clarity and reduces the risk of deposit deductions due to unauthorized or disputed renovations.

What Interior Changes Can Tenants Make Without Approval?

While major structural changes or significant aesthetic overhauls require landlord approval in a Korean rental, tenants do have considerable freedom to personalize their living space through minor decorations and easily reversible alterations. These types of changes are generally permitted because they do not permanently alter the property's structure or fixtures, making them simple to undo before moving out. This flexibility allows tenants to infuse their personality into their rented home without fear of losing their deposit due to restoration costs.

Small-Scale Decorations and Enhancements

One of the most common and widely accepted forms of tenant-friendly interior design involves small-scale decorations. These typically include items that can be installed with minimal impact and easily removed without leaving lasting damage. For example, hanging shelves or pictures on walls is generally fine, even if it involves drilling small holes. The expectation is that these small holes can be easily filled and painted over before move-out, restoring the wall to its original state. This allows tenants to display artwork, create storage, or add personal touches that make the space feel more like home. Similarly, adding new carpets or rugs is perfectly acceptable, as these are temporary floor coverings that can be rolled up and taken away when the lease ends. They offer an immediate way to change the feel of a room, add warmth, or cover existing flooring without any permanent modification.

Maison Korea notes that "small decorations do not require landlord approval. You can drill small holes in the wall to hang shelves and pictures, and you can lay new carpets." This highlights the distinction between minor, reversible changes and major, permanent ones. The key is that these decorative elements "do not transform the building or facility," allowing tenants to make noticeable changes without altering the property's core condition.

Flexible Furniture and Removable Materials

For tenants looking to make more impactful changes without landlord approval, focusing on furniture and easily removable materials is key. Using furniture that is simple to assemble and disassemble offers great flexibility. This includes modular shelving units, freestanding cabinets, or portable kitchen islands. For instance, one user on Today's House described how they purchased a ready-made island to address a lack of counter space in their jeonse kitchen, noting its versatility for cooking and storage and how it can be arranged straight or L-shaped Today's House search results for 'jeonse interior'. This approach allows for significant functional and aesthetic improvements without permanent installation.

Removable wallpaper is another excellent option for tenants wanting to change wall colors or patterns. Unlike traditional wallpaper or paint, removable options can be peeled off without damaging the underlying surface, making them ideal for rented properties. Similarly, simple overlay flooring, such as peel-and-stick vinyl tiles or interlocking laminate planks, can transform the look of a floor without requiring permanent installation or removal of existing flooring. Maison Korea advises, "If you decide to decorate, consider furniture that is easy to assemble and disassemble, removable wallpaper, and floor coverings that can be easily added." These temporary solutions allow tenants to experiment with different styles and trends, such as the "minimalist design" and "smart appliances" mentioned as current trends, without committing to irreversible changes.

The Popularity of Tenant-Friendly Interiors

The high interest in tenant-friendly interior solutions is evident in online platforms. Today's House, a popular Korean lifestyle app, shows 6,369 search results for "jeonse interior" (전세 인테리어), indicating a strong desire among renters to personalize their temporary homes. Many posts showcase creative and reversible solutions, such as using non-drilling partition walls and curtains to create a self-made entryway or applying tile sheet stickers to transform a kitchen without permanent construction. These examples demonstrate how tenants are successfully creating comfortable and stylish living spaces while adhering to the "original condition" principle. This active community sharing ideas for "restorable interiors" (복구가능 인테리어) further confirms that there are numerous ways to enhance a rented apartment without requiring landlord approval or risking deposit deductions.

How Do Tenant Responsibilities Affect Your Deposit?

In a Korean apartment lease, a tenant's responsibilities extend beyond simply paying rent or the jeonse deposit. Legally, tenants are obligated to maintain and manage the home well throughout the duration of their lease. This legal duty plays a significant role in determining how much of their move-out deposit will be returned. Adhering to these responsibilities helps ensure the property remains in good condition, preventing landlords from needing to deduct costs for repairs or restoration due to tenant actions or neglect.

Legal Obligation for Maintenance and Management

The primary responsibility of a tenant is to ensure the property is kept in a reasonable state of repair and cleanliness. This isn't just about personal hygiene but also about preventing undue wear or damage to the apartment's fixtures and fittings. Maison Korea explicitly states that "during the rental period, the tenant has a legal obligation to maintain and manage the house well." This means that while natural wear and tear, such as the gradual discoloration of wallpaper or paint over time, is generally not the tenant's responsibility, anything beyond that falls under their purview.

For instance, tenants are responsible for replacing consumables. This category typically includes items that naturally deplete or wear out with regular use, such as light bulbs, certain filters, or even minor plumbing parts if their failure is due to tenant misuse rather than inherent defect. The expectation is that the tenant will address these minor issues as they arise, preventing them from escalating into larger problems that could cause more significant damage to the property.

Consequences of Damages Caused by Tenants

Any damage to the apartment that results from a tenant's mistakes, carelessness, or intentional actions can lead to direct deductions from the security deposit. Maison Korea provides specific examples of such damages: "dents, holes, tape residue, and furniture scratches caused by mistakes." If a tenant, for example, accidentally puts a large dent in a wall, leaves stubborn adhesive residue from decorations, or causes deep scratches on the flooring with furniture, these are considered damages for which the tenant is accountable.

Beyond these, other issues like cigarette smoke stains on walls or ceilings, or holes burned into carpets, are also explicitly cited as being "entirely the tenant's responsibility." These types of damages go beyond normal wear and tear and require specific repairs or replacements to restore the property. The principle of wonsang bokgu dictates that the tenant must ensure these issues are addressed and rectified to an "unnoticeable" state before moving out. If the tenant fails to do so, the landlord has the right to assess the cost of repairs and deduct that amount from the jeonse deposit. This ensures that the landlord is not financially burdened by damages caused during the tenancy.

Protecting Your Deposit Through Proactive Measures

To avoid significant deductions from their deposit, tenants are encouraged to be proactive. This involves carefully inspecting the apartment before moving in and documenting its condition with photos or videos. This initial record serves as crucial evidence of the property's state at the beginning of the lease, helping to differentiate existing issues from those that occurred during the tenancy.

Before moving out, tenants should conduct a thorough self-inspection of the apartment, looking for any damages or issues for which they might be held responsible. Maison Korea advises, "Before leaving, you should handle any noticeable issues to prevent your deposit from being reduced." This includes performing minor repairs themselves, such as filling small holes in walls, repainting areas if necessary (with landlord approval if it's a non-neutral color), or removing any tape residue. By taking these steps, tenants can address potential issues directly, often at a lower cost than if the landlord were to hire professionals after they have moved out. Understanding and fulfilling these responsibilities is not just a legal obligation but a practical strategy for ensuring the maximum return of the jeonse deposit.

Can You Negotiate Financial Support for Home Improvements?

Yes, tenants in Korean apartments may have the opportunity to negotiate financial support from their landlord for certain home improvements, particularly if those improvements address functional issues or enhance the overall condition of the property. This negotiation is often successful when the proposed changes benefit both the tenant, by improving their living environment, and the landlord, by increasing the property's value or appeal.

Identifying Mutually Beneficial Improvements

The most promising areas for negotiating financial support from a landlord are improvements that address existing functional defects or significantly enhance the property's livability and long-term value. Maison Korea suggests that "when you want to improve your home, there is room to negotiate financial support with the landlord." This is because repairing functional defects, such as issues related to breakdowns, hygiene problems, or deficiencies in heating and insulation, benefits both parties. For the tenant, these repairs directly improve their daily comfort and quality of life within the apartment. For the landlord, fixing these issues can prevent further deterioration, reduce future maintenance costs, and make the property more attractive to subsequent tenants, potentially justifying a higher rental price.

For example, if an apartment has an outdated or inefficient heating system that results in high utility bills for the tenant and poor insulation, upgrading it could be a mutually beneficial project. The tenant enjoys a more comfortable and energy-efficient home, while the landlord gains a modernized property feature that adds value. Similarly, addressing significant hygiene issues, such as persistent mold problems due to poor ventilation, would improve living conditions for the current tenant and prevent a recurring issue for future occupants. For more details, see Blind forum discussion on jeonse interior spending.

Strategies for Negotiation

When approaching a landlord for financial support, it is advisable to present a clear proposal outlining the specific improvement, its estimated cost, and the benefits it would bring to both parties. Highlighting how the improvement addresses a functional flaw or significantly enhances the property's marketability can strengthen the tenant's case. It's also beneficial to time these discussions strategically. Maison Korea suggests, "When there is a need for repairs inside the house, why not consider interior design together and coordinate?" This means if there's an existing issue that the landlord is already obligated to fix, such as a leaking pipe or a broken window, that might be an opportune moment to discuss additional improvements.

For instance, if the landlord is already planning to repair a damaged bathroom fixture, the tenant could propose a cost-sharing arrangement to upgrade the entire bathroom, arguing that a more modern bathroom would significantly enhance the apartment's appeal. The landlord might be more receptive to contributing financially if they are already incurring costs for repairs and can see a clear return on investment in the form of an improved, more valuable property.

Considerations for Shared Costs

Any agreement for financial support should be clearly documented in writing, detailing the scope of the work, the total cost, and the exact contribution from both the landlord and the tenant. This prevents misunderstandings and disputes down the line. It's also important for tenants to be realistic about what landlords are likely to fund. Landlords are generally more inclined to support improvements that add permanent value to their property rather than purely aesthetic changes that cater only to the current tenant's personal taste and may need to be reversed later.

Ultimately, successful negotiation hinges on mutual respect and a clear understanding of the benefits for both parties. By focusing on functional improvements that enhance the property's condition and presenting a well-thought-out proposal, tenants can increase their chances of securing financial assistance for home improvements, turning a rented space into an even more comfortable and appealing home.

What Are the Trends in Tenant-Friendly Interior Design for 2026?

The landscape of interior design for 2026, particularly for rented spaces, is evolving towards a more integrated and thoughtful approach, moving beyond fleeting trends to focus on core values. This shift is characterized by an emphasis on functionality, the integration of smart technology, a commitment to sustainability, and the overarching goal of creating comfortable and enduring living environments. These trends are especially relevant for tenants who seek to personalize their spaces without permanent alterations.

Embracing 'Fundamentalism' and Timeless Aesthetics

A significant trend for 2026 is "Fundamentalism" (근본이즘), as identified by Seoul National University Professor Kim Nan-do's research team in 『Trend Korea 2026』. This concept emphasizes a return to unchanging values and timeless forms, rather than chasing temporary fads. In interior design, this translates to focusing on classic, enduring aesthetics and functional designs that do not quickly go out of style. The idea is to create spaces that offer stability and comfort amidst rapid societal changes, including the pervasive influence of AI technology. This trend is visible in the renewed interest in traditional crafts, museum-like aesthetics, and an "anemoia" sentiment—a nostalgia for past eras one has never personally experienced.

For tenants, "Fundamentalism" means choosing furniture and decor that are not only stylish but also robust and versatile. This could involve selecting pieces with clean lines, natural materials, and neutral color palettes that can adapt to different interior styles over time. The focus is on creating a sense of calm and permanence, even in a temporary home. This approach aligns well with tenant-friendly design, as timeless pieces are less likely to require replacement or major updates, making them a wise investment for a rented space. The market for interior design in 2026 is described as "competitive with high expectations for integrated environments," underscoring the demand for designs that blend style with practical, long-lasting solutions.

Integrating Smart Technology for Enhanced Living

Another defining trend for 2026 is the seamless integration of smart technology into residential spaces. Modern smart appliances and home systems are no longer just about functionality; they now combine advanced hardware with sophisticated design. This includes systems that allow for remote control of temperature, lighting, security, and entertainment. For tenants, smart home technology offers a way to significantly enhance their living experience without making permanent changes to the apartment's structure.

Portable smart devices, such as smart speakers, smart lighting systems that simply screw into existing fixtures, or smart plugs that convert regular appliances into smart ones, are perfect examples of tenant-friendly tech. These can be easily installed and removed, providing convenience and modern features without requiring any landlord approval for installation. Maison Korea highlights that "recently introduced smart appliances are definitely different from past functional appliances. They are equipped with advanced hardware and beautiful designs, not just functionality!" This includes "everything from temperature and lighting to security and entertainment systems." Smart home systems offer "one-touch convenience" and the ability to "remotely control various functions of the house," making them an attractive option for renters looking to modernize their space.

Focus on Sustainability and Comfort

Sustainability continues to be a crucial trend, influencing material choices and design philosophies. For tenants, this can mean opting for furniture and decor made from recycled, reclaimed, or sustainably sourced materials. Choosing items that are durable and have a long lifespan also contributes to sustainability by reducing waste. This aligns with the "Fundamentalism" trend's emphasis on lasting value.

Comfort is also paramount, reflecting a broader preference among homeowners for "integrated environments" that prioritize well-being. This involves creating cozy, inviting spaces through thoughtful lighting, comfortable textiles, and personalized decor. For example, bedroom lighting, beyond its function, can create a "unique coziness and design accent." Maison Korea suggests using "long pendant lights, mood lights, or wall lights to create an even warmer bedroom space." Recessed lighting, which can be installed without visible wires, is also gaining popularity for its ability to illuminate specific areas or add ambient light, enhancing the mood in spaces like dressers, shelves, or bathrooms. These elements, when chosen carefully, can be incorporated into a rented apartment to create a personalized sanctuary that embodies the trends of comfort and thoughtful design without permanent structural changes.

Is it Common for Jeonse Tenants to Spend on Interiors?

While the concept of jeonse involves a large deposit and the expectation to return the apartment in its original condition, it is surprisingly common for tenants in Korea to invest their own money in interior renovations. This trend reflects a strong desire among many Koreans to personalize their living spaces and create an environment that truly feels like home, even if it's temporary. This sentiment is widely discussed in online communities and is evident in the prevalence of tenant-friendly design solutions.

Significant Investments in Jeonse Apartments

A revealing discussion on the Teamblind forum from March 6, 2022, brought this trend to light. The original post described a scenario where "two households who moved in as jeonse tenants in the last two years each spent about 15 to 20 million won (approximately $11,000 to $15,000 USD at typical exchange rates) on interior renovations." These tenants occupied old, 10-pyeong (approximately 33 square meters) villa units along Seoul's Line 2 subway. What makes this particularly noteworthy is that these tenants reportedly had no intention of asking the landlord for reimbursement, understanding that they would leave the improvements behind when they moved out. The post received 1,081 views and 17 comments, indicating significant interest and discussion around this topic.

The initial poster expressed surprise and difficulty understanding such an investment in a non-owned property, finding the money "a huge waste." However, the responses from other users on the forum offered various perspectives that shed light on why tenants make these choices.

Motivations for Tenant-Funded Renovations

The reasons behind such significant tenant-funded renovations are diverse, often stemming from a deep desire for self-satisfaction and the importance placed on one's living environment. One Korean Middle Power employee commented on Teamblind, "It's not about showing off, but rather, for people who can't stand it if their living space, where they spend the most time, isn't to their liking" (translated from Korean). This highlights a personal need for comfort and aesthetic pleasure within their immediate surroundings, regardless of ownership.

Another commenter suggested that the investment might be a pragmatic choice: "They probably couldn't find a better house even if they spent that extra 20 million won." This implies that some tenants might view the renovation cost as an additional premium to make an otherwise suitable but aesthetically lacking jeonse apartment into their ideal home, especially in competitive urban rental markets like Seoul. If spending 20 million won on renovations makes a 100 million won jeonse apartment feel like a 150 million won apartment, some might consider it a worthwhile expenditure.

The sentiment that "people on 'Today's House' seem 'obsessed with remodeling and interiors'" further underscores this cultural inclination. Many desire to "decorate beautifully and enjoy living in it, even if only for the duration of their stay." This suggests that for a significant portion of the population, the psychological benefits of living in a personalized, aesthetically pleasing space outweigh the financial implications of investing in a temporary home.

The Rise of Tenant-Friendly Interior Solutions

This widespread desire for personalized interiors in jeonse homes has fueled the growth of tenant-friendly interior design solutions. Platforms like Today's House are filled with examples of "restorable interiors" (복구가능 인테리어) that allow tenants to make significant aesthetic changes without permanent alterations. These include using portable kitchen islands to add counter space, installing non-drilling partition walls with curtains to create entryways, and applying tile sheet stickers to refresh kitchens.

These solutions enable tenants to transform their living spaces to reflect their tastes and needs while adhering to the "original condition" principle. The availability and popularity of such methods demonstrate that while making permanent changes might be restricted, there are numerous creative and practical ways for jeonse tenants to invest in and enjoy their temporary homes, making their living experience as comfortable and personalized as possible. This shows that despite the financial implications, the drive for a beautiful and comfortable home environment is a powerful motivator for many Korean renters.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is 'jeonse' in Korean real estate?

'Jeonse' is a unique Korean rental system where a tenant pays a large, lump-sum deposit (the jeonse deposit) to the landlord instead of monthly rent. This deposit is held by the landlord for the duration of the lease and is fully returned to the tenant when the lease ends, provided the apartment is returned in its "original condition." This system is popular because tenants do not pay monthly rent, and landlords can invest the large deposit for profit. A Teamblind forum post from March 6, 2022, highlighted that two jeonse tenants in Seoul spent between 15 million and 20 million won on interior renovations, indicating significant upfront investment from tenants.

What is the 'original condition' principle for move-out deposits?

The 'original condition' principle, or wonsang bokgu, dictates that tenants must restore the apartment to its initial state upon moving out. This means undoing any significant alterations made during the tenancy and repairing any damages beyond normal wear and tear. Maison Korea states that landlords have the right to request this restoration at the tenant's expense, and costs for damages like holes or tape residue can be deducted from the deposit. Natural discoloration of wallpaper, however, is generally considered normal wear.

Can I paint the walls in my rented Korean apartment?

Painting walls a different color usually requires the landlord's written consent, especially if it's a non-neutral color. Maison Korea explicitly states that "if you want to paint the walls a different color... the landlord's written consent is required." If you paint without permission, you might be responsible for repainting the walls to their original color upon move-out, with the costs deducted from your deposit. For temporary color changes, removable wallpaper is a tenant-friendly alternative.

What happens if I cause damage to the apartment?

If you cause damage to the apartment due to mistakes, negligence, or misuse, you are responsible for the repair costs. Maison Korea notes that damages such as "dents, holes, tape residue, [and] furniture scratches" are the tenant's responsibility and must be handled before moving out. Failure to repair these issues can result in the landlord deducting the repair costs from your jeonse deposit. This is part of the tenant's legal obligation to maintain the home well.

Are smart home devices considered a permanent renovation?

Most smart home devices are not considered permanent renovations, making them ideal for rented apartments. Portable smart appliances and systems, such as smart lighting, smart plugs, or smart speakers, can be easily installed and removed without altering the apartment's structure. Maison Korea highlights that "recently introduced smart appliances" offer advanced functionality and design, covering "temperature or lighting to security, entertainment systems," and can be remotely controlled. These devices enhance convenience without requiring landlord approval for installation, as they do not constitute structural changes.