Korean New Apartment Move-In Checklist

Last updated: April 2026

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Quick Answer

Tenants often spend ₩15-20 million (translated from Korean) on interior design for Jeonse homes, even though they won't get the money back.
Small decorations like shelves, paintings, and carpets do not require landlord approval (translated from Korean).
New apartment residents should conduct a 'bake-out' 2-3 times before moving in to reduce harmful substances (translated from Korean).
The 2026 interior design trend 'Fundamentalism' emphasizes unchanging values, stability, and essential beauty (translated from Korean).

Moving into a new apartment in Korea, especially a Jeonse (deposit-based rental) property, involves a unique set of considerations from the moment you receive your keys to the final touches of interior design. While the excitement of a new space is palpable, understanding tenant obligations, landlord agreements, and essential move-in procedures is crucial for a smooth transition. For instance, some tenants are willing to invest significantly in their rental homes; two Jeonse tenants in an old 4-story villa in Seoul, each in a 10-pyeong unit, spent approximately ₩15-20 million (translated from Korean) of their own money on interior renovations in 2022, without expecting reimbursement from the landlord Blind Korea discussion on Jeonse interior spending. This guide offers a comprehensive checklist for new apartment move-ins, covering everything from initial inspections and smart home setup to interior design rules and emerging trends for 2026.

What are the essential steps for moving into a new Korean apartment?

Moving into a new Korean apartment, particularly a newly constructed one, requires a structured approach to ensure everything is in order before and after you settle in. The process begins with verifying the apartment's condition and ensuring all systems are functional, then moves into preparing the living space for occupancy.

Initial Key Handover and Inspection

Upon receiving your apartment keys, it is essential to also collect and verify all accompanying instruction manuals for appliances and systems within the home. This initial step ensures you understand how to operate everything from the heating system to kitchen equipment. A critical task at this stage is to review the defects that were reported during the pre-inspection phase. You must meticulously check if all previously identified issues have been properly addressed and repaired. If any defects remain unresolved or if new issues are discovered, it is important to re-submit these items on a defect list for further action. This diligence helps ensure your new home meets the expected standards from day one.

Smart Home System Setup

Modern Korean apartments often come equipped with advanced smart home (IoT) systems. Before fully moving in, you should install the corresponding smartphone applications and test their functionalities remotely. This includes verifying that you can control lighting, gas, heating, cooling, standby power, and ventilation through the app, even when you are away from the apartment. Testing these features in advance helps identify any connectivity or operational issues, allowing you to resolve them before they become an inconvenience. The smart home system, often integrated with a wall pad, offers a centralized control hub for various apartment functions, enhancing convenience and energy management.

Scheduling Installations and Utilities

Coordinating installations for built-in furniture, such as wardrobes in the master bedroom and smaller rooms, is a key step. It is advisable to obtain quotes from multiple contractors and schedule these installations to avoid conflicts with other move-in activities. Similarly, essential services like internet connection need to be arranged. For new apartments, it's also crucial to schedule the "bake-out" process, which is designed to reduce harmful volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and other indoor air pollutants that can cause "new house syndrome." This process typically involves setting the indoor temperature to 35 degrees Celsius or higher for several hours with all windows closed, followed by extensive ventilation. This is usually done 2-3 times before moving in, requiring the urban gas supply to be connected beforehand. After the bake-out, professional move-in cleaning should be scheduled, followed by your own self-cleaning to ensure a pristine living environment.

Pre-Move Preparation

Before the actual moving day, several tasks can streamline the process. This includes getting quotes and booking your moving company, and making reservations for any necessary interior construction or renovation work. You should also arrange for utility transfers, address changes for services, and termination of old contracts. Sorting through belongings is also important: discard unused items through recycling or by selling valuable goods on second-hand markets. Organizing seasonal clothes and emptying the refrigerator are practical steps to prepare your old home for the next occupant, demonstrating consideration. On moving day, after the movers complete their work, a quick rearrangement of furniture and light cleaning might be needed, followed by connecting the internet and confirming that all smart home devices are controllable via your smartphone app.

If you're moving from a US apartment, our Korean Apartment Floor Plans vs American: A Translated Comparison covers what to expect from the layout itself.

What are the rules for interior design in a Jeonse (deposit-based rental) apartment?

Interior design in a Jeonse apartment comes with specific rules and limitations that tenants must understand to avoid potential conflicts with their landlord and ensure the return of their security deposit. Unlike owning a home, tenants in a Jeonse property have certain obligations regarding the property's original condition.

Landlord Consent for Major Changes

Major renovations, such as painting walls a different color, replacing flooring, or making structural alterations like expanding a room, require explicit written consent from the landlord. This is a critical point because the landlord retains the right to demand "restoration to original condition" at the end of the lease agreement. This means that any significant changes made by the tenant, even if intended to improve the property, might need to be reversed at the tenant's expense. For example, demolishing partition walls or changing bathroom tiles, which are considered "major repairs" (대수선, translated from Korean), are typically not within the tenant's rights, regardless of their desire to enhance the home's condition. Maison Korea advises that if you decide to do Jeonse interior design, there are precautions tenants must know. If you want to paint walls, lay new flooring, or make structural changes, you need the landlord's consent Maison Korea's Jeonse Interior Guide.

Focus on Reversible and Non-Structural Changes

Given the "restoration to original condition" clause, tenants living in Jeonse apartments should prioritize interior design elements that are easily assembled, disassembled, or removed without causing permanent damage. This includes choices like furniture that can be moved, wallpaper that can be peeled off, or flooring materials that can be simply overlaid and removed later. The goal is to make improvements that enhance your living experience during the lease term but can be reversed without significant cost or effort when you move out. This approach allows tenants to express their personal style and improve functionality while respecting the terms of their rental agreement.

Understanding the Financial Investment

It is common for Jeonse tenants in Korea to invest their own money in interior improvements, even knowing they won't be reimbursed. A discussion on Blind Korea highlighted instances where Jeonse tenants spent significant amounts, such as ₩15-20 million (translated from Korean), on renovations. One user commented that people who spend money on Jeonse interiors are those who find it unacceptable for their living space, where they spend the most time, not to be to their liking (translated from Korean). This sentiment suggests that for many, the quality of their immediate living environment outweighs the financial loss of non-reimbursable renovations. However, it is crucial to balance personal aesthetic desires with the practicalities of a rental agreement to avoid unnecessary expenses or disputes with the landlord upon vacating the property.

Can tenants make cosmetic changes without landlord approval?

Yes, tenants in Jeonse apartments generally have the freedom to make minor cosmetic changes and add decorations without needing explicit landlord approval. These types of changes are typically non-structural and do not alter the fundamental condition of the property, making them permissible under most rental agreements.

Enhancing Space with Small Decorations

Small decorative elements are a tenant's best friend in a rental property. You can install shelves, hang pictures, or lay down new carpets without seeking the landlord's consent. These modifications allow for significant visual transformation of a space without altering the building's core structure or its permanent fixtures. For instance, adding a vibrant rug can instantly change the mood of a living room, or a well-placed shelf can enhance storage and display capabilities. These changes are considered personal touches that can be easily removed or reversed when the lease ends, aligning with the "restoration to original condition" principle. Maison Korea notes that small decorations do not require the landlord's approval, allowing tenants to add noticeable changes to the home without altering the building or facilities (translated from Korean).

Revitalizing Key Areas: The Kitchen and Bedroom

In many compact urban apartments, such as studio units, the kitchen often serves as a central hub of the home. Because of its prominence, updating the kitchen can bring new life to the entire space. While major overhauls are restricted, tenants can focus on incorporating modern finishes, minimalist designs, and smart appliances that are not permanently installed. For example, adding a portable island counter can significantly increase cooking space and storage, as shown by a Today's House user who used a pre-made island to solve their kitchen space and storage issues in a Jeonse apartment (translated from Korean). Similarly, bedroom lighting offers a great opportunity for cosmetic changes. Beyond their functional purpose, lights can add a unique sense of coziness and serve as a design accent. Utilizing pendant lights, mood lighting, or wall-mounted lamps can create a warmer, more inviting bedroom atmosphere. Recessed lighting, which can be installed without visible wires, offers a modern touch and can highlight specific areas or artworks, adding mood to spaces like dressers, shelves, shoe racks, and bathrooms through indirect illumination.

DIY Solutions for Rental Homes

The trend of "restorable interior design" (복구가능인테리어, translated from Korean) is popular among Jeonse and monthly rental tenants. This involves creative solutions that can be easily removed or reversed. For example, a Today's House user successfully created a self-installed partition (중문, translated from Korean) using a non-drilling temporary wall and curtains in a rental home that lacked an entryway door. This not only provided dust blockage and privacy but also improved insulation and brightened the interior atmosphere, making it a cost-effective solution for rental properties (translated from Korean). Other examples include using tile stickers for a refreshed look in kitchens, or temporary wallpaper to change wall colors without painting. These DIY methods empower tenants to personalize their living spaces while adhering to the limitations of their rental agreements.

What are the tenant's responsibilities and rights regarding maintenance and repairs?

Tenants in a Jeonse apartment hold specific legal obligations to maintain and manage the property responsibly throughout their lease period. While some wear and tear are expected, tenants are accountable for damages caused by their actions and the replacement of consumable items.

Obligation to Maintain and Manage

During the entire duration of the lease, the tenant has a legal duty to maintain and manage the home properly. This fundamental responsibility ensures the property remains in a good state, preserving its value and functionality for both the tenant and the landlord. This duty includes general upkeep and ensuring that the property is not neglected or intentionally damaged. However, it is important to distinguish between natural degradation and tenant-caused damage. Normal wear and tear, such as the natural fading or discoloration of wallpaper or paint over time, or the gradual wearing of carpets over several years, is typically not the tenant's responsibility. These are considered unavoidable consequences of prolonged habitation and are factored into the property's lifecycle. Maison Korea clarifies that while tenants are not held responsible for natural wear and tear, they are responsible for replacing consumables (translated from Korean).

Responsibility for Consumables and Damages

Conversely, tenants are directly responsible for the replacement of consumables within the apartment. This can include items like light bulbs, filters for ventilation systems, or other small parts that naturally deplete or wear out with regular use. More significantly, tenants are held accountable for any damages or imperfections that arise from their own mistakes or negligence. This includes accidental scratches on furniture, holes drilled into walls beyond what is considered normal for hanging small items, residue left by tape or adhesives, or any other physical damage to the property. According to the "restoration to original condition" principle (원상 복구 원칙, translated from Korean), any such damages must be repaired or rectified by the tenant before they vacate the property. This ensures that the apartment is returned to the landlord in a condition comparable to when it was initially rented, barring natural wear.

Adhering to Lease Agreements and Mutual Respect

From the moment a tenant begins residency, they are bound by the special clauses (특약 사항, translated from Korean) outlined in the signed real estate contract. These clauses often detail specific expectations regarding property use and maintenance. While signs of normal use, such as marks on walls where picture frames were installed, are generally accepted, more severe damages like cigarette smoke stains or holes in carpets are entirely the tenant's responsibility. This distinction underscores the importance of mutual respect between landlord and tenant. The tenant must respect the property as if it were their own, while the landlord must acknowledge the natural aging and use of the property. Understanding these boundaries helps prevent disputes and ensures a fair conclusion to the lease agreement.

How can tenants negotiate with landlords for financial support on improvements?

While tenants are generally responsible for maintaining the property and restoring it to its original condition, there can be opportunities to negotiate with landlords for financial support on certain improvements, especially when these improvements also benefit the property owner. For more details, see Today's House Jeonse Interior photos and ideas.

Identifying Mutually Beneficial Improvements

The key to successful negotiation lies in identifying improvements that offer a clear benefit to both the tenant and the landlord. Repairs that address functional defects, such as issues with sanitation, heating, insulation, or other structural problems, fall into this category. For instance, if the heating system is inefficient, leading to high utility bills for the tenant and potentially impacting the property's marketability in the future, the landlord might be open to contributing to its repair or upgrade. Improving the overall condition and functionality of the home is advantageous for both parties; it enhances the tenant's living experience and preserves or even increases the property's value for the landlord. Maison Korea suggests that when a home needs repairs, tenants can consider coordinating interior improvements at the same time, as improving the home's functional flaws benefits both parties (translated from Korean).

Timing Negotiations with Necessary Repairs

A strategic approach is to initiate discussions about interior improvements when the property already requires essential repairs. If a plumbing issue needs fixing, or if there's a problem with the roof, this presents an opportune moment to suggest broader improvements or renovations that could be partially funded by the landlord. By combining these efforts, the landlord might see the benefit of a more comprehensive upgrade, potentially sharing the cost. This could include, for example, modernizing an outdated bathroom while fixing a leaky pipe, or improving insulation in conjunction with a window repair. Such coordinated efforts can be more cost-effective for the landlord in the long run and result in a more attractive and functional living space for the tenant.

Documenting Agreements

Any agreement reached regarding financial support for improvements should be clearly documented, ideally in writing and signed by both parties. This documentation should specify the nature of the improvements, the agreed-upon cost-sharing arrangement, and any implications for the security deposit or the "restoration to original condition" clause. Clear communication and formalizing agreements are crucial to prevent misunderstandings or disputes later on. This proactive approach ensures that both tenant and landlord are on the same page regarding the scope of work, financial contributions, and expectations for the property's condition at the end of the lease.

What are the financial implications for tenants who don't restore the property?

Failing to restore a Jeonse apartment to its original condition as stipulated in the lease agreement can have direct financial consequences for the tenant, primarily through deductions from their security deposit. It's a critical aspect of tenant responsibility that often gets overlooked until the move-out process.

Security Deposit Deductions for Unfulfilled Obligations

At the conclusion of a lease agreement, if a tenant has not fulfilled their obligations to restore the property to its original state, the landlord has the right to deduct the cost of necessary repairs from the security deposit. This is a common practice in Korea and serves as a mechanism to ensure landlords are not left with the burden of rectifying tenant-caused damages or unapproved alterations. For example, if a tenant painted the walls a vibrant red without permission and does not repaint them to a neutral color, the landlord can use a portion of the deposit to cover the repainting expenses. This principle also applies to more significant alterations. While tenants might feel empowered to personalize their space, Maison Korea warns that if tenants do not comply with their obligations at the end of the contract, the landlord can deduct repair costs from the deposit (translated from Korean). This makes it vital for tenants to understand the scope of their responsibility before making any changes.

Tenant's Responsibility for Restoration Work

While tenants might have the freedom to make certain aesthetic changes during their tenancy, such as painting walls or replacing carpets, the responsibility for restoring these elements to their initial condition often falls squarely on them. This means that if you choose to paint your walls, you must also be prepared to repaint them to the original color before moving out. Similarly, if you replaced the carpet, you might need to reinstall the original or a suitable replacement. The restoration work can include tasks like repainting, applying new caulking, or filling holes in the walls. These tasks, if not completed by the tenant, will be charged against the security deposit. A key takeaway is to carefully inspect the home before moving out and perform any possible restoration work yourself to prevent a reduction in your deposit. This proactive approach can save tenants significant money and avoid disputes with landlords during the move-out inspection.

Understanding Normal Wear vs. Damage

It is crucial for tenants to differentiate between normal wear and tear, for which they are typically not responsible, and actual damage, for which they are. Normal wear includes minor scuffs, slight discoloration due to sunlight, or general aging of materials over time. These are expected outcomes of living in a property for several years. However, damages like large holes in walls, deep scratches on flooring, or stains that penetrate materials are considered the tenant's responsibility. The initial condition of the property, often documented through photos or an inspection report at the beginning of the lease, serves as the baseline. Any deterioration beyond normal wear and tear will likely result in deductions from the security deposit. Therefore, careful consideration of any changes made and diligent maintenance throughout the lease are essential to ensure a full refund of the deposit.

What are the emerging trends in Korean interior design for 2026?

The landscape of Korean interior design for 2026 is evolving beyond mere aesthetics, focusing on creating integrated environments that prioritize functionality, smart technology, sustainability, and profound comfort. This shift reflects a deeper understanding of how living spaces impact well-being and daily life.

The Rise of 'Fundamentalism'

A prominent trend identified for 2026 is 'Fundamentalism' (근본이즘, translated from Korean), as highlighted by Seoul National University Professor Kim Nan-do's research team and discussed by LX Z:IN. This trend signifies a return to unchanging values and an emphasis on stability, authenticity, and essential beauty, moving away from fleeting trends and superficial novelties. It's about designing spaces that are timeless, functional, and inherently comforting. This movement embraces classic styles, traditional crafts, and analog aesthetics, suggesting a longing for the enduring rather than the ephemeral. The concept of 'Anemoia'—nostalgia for past eras never personally experienced—also plays into this, broadening interest in original and traditional elements. This trend means focusing on forms and functions that don't get old over time, rather than chasing trends. In recent years, people have begun to seek stability, authenticity, and essential beauty again, rather than new and stimulating experiences (translated from Korean) LX Z:IN on Fundamentalism. This approach aligns with creating a home that offers a sense of stability and comfort in a rapidly changing world.

Integration of Smart Technology and Sustainability

The 2026 interior design trends reflect a strong preference for integrated environments that blend smart technology with sustainable practices. Homeowners are increasingly looking for spaces that offer convenience, efficiency, and a reduced environmental footprint. Smart home systems, which allow remote control of temperature, lighting, security, and entertainment, are becoming a standard expectation rather than a luxury. These systems contribute to daily convenience with one-touch control over various household functions. Beyond smart tech, there's a growing emphasis on sustainable materials and energy-efficient designs, reflecting a broader societal move towards eco-consciousness. Designers are expected to have clear insights into these elements, shaping the next generation of residential spaces. Oppolia Home notes that 2026 interior design reflects homeowners' changing preferences for integrated environments that prioritize functionality, smart technology, sustainability, and comfort (translated from Korean) Oppolia Home on 2026 Trends.

Personalization and Well-being

Beyond trends, the core desire remains to create a home that truly reflects the inhabitant's lifestyle and promotes well-being. This involves personalization, where spaces are tailored to individual needs and preferences. For instance, in 2022, a Blind Korea user commented that people who spend money on Jeonse interiors are those who find it unacceptable for their living space, where they spend the most time, not to be to their liking (translated from Korean). This sentiment underscores a desire for personal satisfaction and comfort within one's living environment, regardless of ownership status. The focus is on creating serene, comfortable, and functional spaces that support daily routines and offer a sanctuary from the outside world. This can involve anything from thoughtful lighting choices that create a cozy atmosphere to incorporating furniture that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing, contributing to a sense of peace and contentment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need my landlord's permission to paint the walls in my Jeonse apartment?

Yes, major changes like painting walls a different color, replacing flooring, or making structural alterations require written consent from the landlord Maison Korea's Jeonse Interior Guide. Landlords have the right to demand "restoration to original condition" at the end of the lease, at the tenant's expense. If you paint the walls without permission and do not restore them, the landlord can deduct the repainting cost from your security deposit.

What is 'bake-out' and why is it important for new apartments?

'Bake-out' is a process where the apartment is heated to 35 degrees Celsius or higher for several hours with all windows closed, followed by extensive ventilation, typically performed 2-3 times before moving in. This process helps to release harmful volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and other indoor air pollutants, mitigating "new house syndrome" and ensuring healthier indoor air quality for residents. It's a critical step in new apartment move-ins to ensure a safe living environment.

Can I get my security deposit back if I make significant improvements to a Jeonse apartment?

Generally, no. If tenants do not fulfill their obligations to restore the property to its original condition at the end of the contract, landlords can deduct repair costs from the security deposit. While some tenants invest significant amounts, like the ₩15-20 million (translated from Korean) spent by two Jeonse tenants on renovations, they often do so without the expectation of reimbursement. Any agreements for financial support from the landlord for improvements should be documented in writing.

What kind of interior design changes are generally allowed in a rental apartment without landlord approval?

Small, non-structural decorations such as hanging shelves and pictures, or laying new carpets, do not require landlord approval. These changes can significantly impact the home's appearance without altering the building's structure or permanent facilities. Tenants can also use removable wallpaper, tile stickers, or easily assembled furniture to personalize their space without permanent modifications.

What is the 'Fundamentalism' trend in Korean interior design for 2026?

'Fundamentalism' (근본이즘, translated from Korean) is a 2026 interior design trend that emphasizes unchanging values, stability, authenticity, and essential beauty, moving away from fleeting trends. It involves a renewed interest in classic styles, traditional crafts, and analog tastes, creating spaces that are timeless, functional, and inherently comforting. This trend seeks to provide a sense of stability and well-being in a rapidly changing world.