What properties can you buy in Seoulwith $100k, $300k, $500k and more? (January 2026)

Authored by the expert who managed and guided the team behind the South Korea Property Pack

Yes, the analysis of Seoul's property market is included in our pack

What can I realistically buy with $100k in Seoul right now?

Are there any decent properties for $100k in Seoul, or is it all scams?

With $100,000 (approximately 145 million Korean won at early 2026 exchange rates around 1,450 KRW per dollar), you are looking at the very bottom of Seoul's property market, which means your options are limited to micro-studios, old low-rise "villa" units in fringe areas, or officetels far from central subway stations.

The neighborhoods in Seoul that give the best value for a $100,000 budget in 2026 include outer districts like Dobong-gu (Ssangmun-dong, Banghak-dong), Nowon-gu (Sanggye-dong), Gangbuk-gu (Mia-dong), and Geumcheon-gu (Siheung-dong), where older buildings and less convenient locations push prices down to this level.

Buying in popular or upscale Seoul areas like Gangnam, Mapo, Yongsan, or Seongdong for $100,000 is essentially impossible for any legitimate property because even the smallest studios in these districts start well above 300 million won, and anything appearing cheaper usually involves unusual ownership structures, severe defects, or auction complications that require expert legal help.

What property types can I afford for $100k in Seoul (studio, land, old house)?

For 145 million won in Seoul in 2026, your realistic options include micro-studios under 20 square meters, older officetels in non-central locations, or very old villa units (low-rise multi-family buildings) in outer districts, while standalone land plots inside Seoul city limits are virtually impossible at this budget.

At this price point in Seoul, you should expect properties that need significant renovation, often with outdated plumbing, old kitchens, and worn floors, so budgeting an extra 10 to 30 million won for basic updates is realistic and necessary.

For long-term value at the $100,000 level in Seoul, older officetels near subway stations in value districts like Guro-gu or Eunpyeong-gu tend to hold their resale potential better than villas because officetels attract a steady stream of young renters and single professionals who prioritize transit access.

What's a realistic budget to get a comfortable property in Seoul as of 2026?

As of early 2026, the realistic minimum budget to get a comfortable property in Seoul is around 400 million to 500 million Korean won, which translates to approximately $275,000 to $345,000 USD or 250,000 to 315,000 EUR.

Most buyers looking for a comfortable standard in Seoul typically need 600 million to 900 million won ($415,000 to $620,000 USD or 380,000 to 570,000 EUR) to access decent apartments in non-premium districts with reasonable subway access and building management.

In Seoul, "comfortable" generally means a unit of at least 40 to 60 square meters with a separate bedroom, a functional kitchen, building elevator access, and proper heating and cooling systems, ideally in a managed apartment complex rather than an older villa building.

The required budget can vary dramatically depending on the Seoul neighborhood, with outer districts like Nowon-gu or Gangbuk-gu allowing entry around 400 million won while desirable areas north of the Han River like Mapo-gu or Seongdong-gu often require 800 million won or more for similar comfort levels.

What can I get with a $200k budget in Seoul as of 2026?

What "normal" homes become available at $200k in Seoul as of 2026?

As of early 2026, a $200,000 budget (approximately 290 million Korean won) in Seoul opens the door to legitimate small homes, typically older but livable studios or compact one-room apartments in outer districts, though you are still below the threshold for standard family apartments in most areas.

For 290 million won in Seoul, you can typically expect a property between 20 and 35 square meters in neighborhoods like Nowon-gu, Dobong-gu, or Guro-gu, which represents a meaningful step up from the micro-units available at $100,000.

By the way, we have much more granular data about housing prices in our property pack about Seoul.

What places are the smartest $200k buys in Seoul as of 2026?

As of early 2026, the smartest areas to buy at the $200,000 level in Seoul include Gwanak-gu (especially Sillim-dong near universities), Nowon-gu (near established apartment clusters), and Seodaemun-gu value pockets like Hongje-dong, where you get legitimate housing near transit without paying premium prices.

These Seoul areas are smarter buys compared to other $200,000 options because they combine steady rental demand from students or commuters, established subway access, and building stock that is old but functional, avoiding the "mystery discount" properties that signal hidden problems.

The main growth factor driving value in these smart-buy Seoul areas is infrastructure improvement and urban regeneration projects, with subway line extensions and neighborhood redevelopment plans gradually lifting property values in previously overlooked districts.

What can I buy with $300k in Seoul in 2026?

What quality upgrade do I get at $300k in Seoul in 2026?

As of early 2026, moving from $200,000 to $300,000 (approximately 435 million Korean won) in Seoul gets you a meaningful upgrade in both livability and choice, with access to proper one-bedroom apartments with separate living areas, better building management, and locations closer to actual subway nodes.

At 435 million won in Seoul, you can sometimes buy a property in a newer building, particularly newer officetels in non-core districts or recently renovated villas, though new apartment complexes in desirable areas remain out of reach at this budget.

Specific features that become available at the $300,000 level in Seoul include elevator access as standard, units with balconies or small outdoor space, buildings with security systems and parking, and locations within a 10-minute walk of subway stations in mid-tier neighborhoods.

Can $300k buy a 2-bedroom in Seoul in 2026 in good areas?

As of early 2026, finding a 2-bedroom property for $300,000 (435 million won) in genuinely good Seoul areas is difficult, though you can find 2-bedroom options in outer districts or in older villa buildings where "good" means safe and transit-accessible rather than prestigious.

Specific Seoul areas where you can find 2-bedroom options at the $300,000 budget include Dongdaemun-gu (Hoegi, Jang-an-dong pockets), parts of Seongbuk-gu (Jongam-dong), and select buildings in Yeongdeungpo-gu outside the Yeouido core, though you will be looking at older stock.

A $300,000 2-bedroom in Seoul typically offers 45 to 60 square meters, which is comfortable for a couple or small family but compact by international standards, and you should expect older building amenities rather than modern features.

Which places become "accessible" at $300k in Seoul as of 2026?

At the $300,000 price point (435 million won) in Seoul, previously inaccessible districts like Dongdaemun-gu, Seongbuk-gu, and entry-level pockets of Yeongdeungpo-gu become realistically accessible for property buyers in 2026.

These newly accessible Seoul areas are more desirable than lower-budget options because they offer better transit connections to central business districts, more established neighborhood infrastructure, and building stock that sits between budget value districts and premium areas.

In these newly accessible Seoul areas for $300,000, buyers can typically expect older but well-maintained apartment units or quality officetels with proper management, representing the entry point into "real neighborhood" living rather than fringe locations.

By the way, we've written a blog article detailing what are the current best areas to invest in property in Seoul.

What does a $500k budget unlock in Seoul in 2026?

What's the typical size and location for $500k in Seoul in 2026?

As of early 2026, a $500,000 budget (approximately 725 million Korean won) in Seoul typically gets you a property of 50 to 80 square meters in good-but-not-premium districts, or a smaller unit in stronger demand areas, representing the first budget level where "apartment-like" living becomes consistently realistic.

At 725 million won in Seoul, buying a family home with genuine outdoor space remains difficult because Seoul's density means outdoor areas come at significant premiums, though you can find villas with balconies or terraces in outer districts if you prioritize this feature over location.

For $500,000 in Seoul in 2026, the typical configuration is a 2-bedroom or small 3-bedroom apartment with one bathroom, or a spacious 1-bedroom with a proper living area in a higher-demand neighborhood.

Finally, please note that we cover all the housing price data in Seoul here.

Which "premium" neighborhoods open up at $500k in Seoul in 2026?

At the $500,000 level (725 million won) in Seoul, you can start exploring entry points into premium-adjacent areas like Seongdong-gu (Wangsimni edges), fringe Mapo-gu locations, and occasionally older stock in parts of Yongsan-gu, though you will not access the truly premium cores.

These Seoul neighborhoods are considered premium or premium-adjacent because they offer superior subway connectivity, proximity to major employment centers like Yeouido and Gangnam, trendy commercial strips, and strong school reputations that support long-term demand.

For $500,000 in these premium-adjacent Seoul neighborhoods, buyers can realistically expect older apartments in established complexes, smaller units in well-regarded buildings, or quality officetels with genuine residential amenities rather than investment-grade studio boxes.

What counts as "luxury" in Seoul in 2026?

At what amount does "luxury" start in Seoul right now?

In Seoul in 2026, properties start being considered luxury at around 2 billion Korean won (approximately $1.38 million USD or 1.27 million EUR), with truly luxury properties typically priced at 3 billion won ($2.07 million USD or 1.9 million EUR) and above.

The entry point to luxury real estate in Seoul is defined by features like large floor areas of 100 square meters or more, premium building amenities including concierge and fitness facilities, high-floor units with views, and addresses in recognized prestige districts like Gangnam, Seocho, or Hannam.

Compared to other major Asian markets, Seoul's luxury threshold sits higher than most Chinese cities outside tier-one, roughly comparable to Tokyo's premium districts, but below Singapore and Hong Kong where luxury typically starts above $2 million USD.

Mid-tier luxury in Seoul runs from 3 to 6 billion won ($2.07 million to $4.14 million USD or 1.9 million to 3.8 million EUR), while top-tier luxury properties in prime Gangnam or Hannam locations can exceed 10 billion won ($6.9 million USD or 6.3 million EUR).

Which areas are truly high-end in Seoul right now?

The truly high-end neighborhoods in Seoul in 2026 are Gangnam-gu (particularly Apgujeong-dong, Daechi-dong, and Samseong-dong), Seocho-gu (especially Banpo-dong and Seocho-dong), Yongsan-gu (Hannam-dong and Ichon-dong), and select pockets of Seongdong-gu (premium Seongsu-dong addresses).

These Seoul areas are considered truly high-end because they combine the city's best school districts, exclusive retail and dining, proximity to corporate headquarters and cultural venues, mature tree-lined streets, and prestige addresses that Korean families have sought for generations.

The typical buyer profile in these high-end Seoul areas includes successful business owners, executives at major Korean conglomerates, medical professionals, and increasingly younger tech entrepreneurs, along with Koreans returning from overseas who want premium addresses for their families.

How much does it really cost to buy, beyond the price, in Seoul in 2026?

What are the total closing costs in Seoul in 2026 as a percentage?

As of early 2026, the total closing costs for buying property in Seoul typically run between 3.5% and 5% of the purchase price for a straightforward first-home purchase, excluding any multi-home surcharges that can dramatically increase costs.

The realistic low-to-high closing cost range that covers most standard Seoul transactions runs from about 2.8% for simple cases with lower acquisition tax brackets up to 7% or more when you factor in higher tax rates, legal review, and potential complications.

The specific fee categories that make up total closing costs in Seoul include acquisition tax (the biggest piece at 1% to 3% for first homes), local education tax, registration fees, court fees, judicial scrivener fees, and brokerage commission which is capped by regulation.

To avoid hidden costs and bad surprises, you can check our our pack covering the property buying process in Seoul.

How much are notary, registration, and legal fees in Seoul in 2026?

As of early 2026, the combined cost for registration and legal fees in Seoul typically runs between 5 million and 15 million Korean won ($3,500 to $10,300 USD or 3,200 to 9,500 EUR), with the exact amount depending on property value and complexity.

These fees typically represent 0.5% to 1.5% of the property price in Seoul, though this percentage decreases as property values increase since some costs are fixed rather than proportional.

In Seoul property transactions, the registration tax component (calculated at around 2% for housing, part of acquisition tax) is usually the most expensive element, while judicial scrivener fees for handling paperwork are relatively modest and notarization itself is not the major cost driver that it is in some other countries.

What annual property taxes should I expect in Seoul in 2026?

As of early 2026, the typical annual property tax for a mid-range apartment in Seoul runs between 500,000 and 2,000,000 Korean won ($345 to $1,380 USD or 315 to 1,265 EUR), representing 0.15% to 0.35% of the property's assessed value.

Annual property taxes in Seoul typically represent 0.1% to 0.5% of your property value, though this can increase significantly for high-value properties that trigger the national Comprehensive Real Estate Holding Tax.

Property taxes in Seoul vary substantially based on location and property type, with properties in premium districts like Gangnam facing higher assessed values and therefore higher absolute taxes, while the Comprehensive Real Estate Holding Tax adds an extra layer for homes valued above approximately 1.2 billion won for single-property owners.

First-time homebuyers and owner-occupiers in Seoul can access some tax reductions, and properties held for longer periods may qualify for preferential treatment when sold, though the specific exemptions depend on your situation and change with policy updates.

You can find the list of all property taxes, costs and fees when buying in Seoul here.

Is mortgage a viable option for foreigners in Seoul right now?

Obtaining a mortgage as a foreigner in Seoul in 2026 is possible but challenging, with most foreign buyers facing stricter documentation requirements, lower loan-to-value limits, and the need for Korean residency status or substantial local income verification.

Foreign buyers in Seoul can typically access loan-to-value ratios of around 40% to 60% (meaning 40% to 60% down payment required), with current interest rates running between 3.5% and 4.5% for new mortgage loans, though these terms are less favorable than what Korean nationals receive.

To qualify for a mortgage in Seoul as a foreigner, you typically need an Alien Registration Card, documented local income in Korea, proof of funds for the down payment with proper foreign exchange documentation, and sometimes additional guarantees or higher deposits depending on the lender.

To avoid hidden costs and bad surprises, you can check our our pack covering the property buying process in Seoul.

What should I predict for resale and growth in Seoul in 2026?

What property types resell fastest in Seoul in 2026?

As of early 2026, standard apartments in well-known complexes near subway stations and good schools resell fastest in Seoul, followed by clean-title officetels in employment and university areas, because these property types have the deepest pool of potential buyers.

The typical time to sell a property in Seoul ranges from 30 to 60 days for apartments in liquid areas with strong demand, while officetels and villas take 60 to 120 days or longer, with significant variation depending on pricing, condition, and micro-location.

Apartments sell faster in Seoul because they are the dominant product type that Korean families seek, they qualify for standard mortgage programs, and major indices like the Korea Real Estate Board track apartment prices, making them the benchmark asset class that everyone understands.

The slowest-selling property types in Seoul are old villas without elevator access, ground-floor or semi-basement units, and properties in buildings with unclear management structures or unusual ownership arrangements, as these attract only bargain hunters willing to accept steep discounts.

If you're interested, we cover all the best exit strategies in our real estate pack about Seoul.

What sources have we used to write this blog article?

Whether it's in our blog articles or the market analyses included in our property pack about Seoul, we always rely on the strongest methodology we can and we don't throw out numbers at random.

We also aim to be fully transparent, so below we've listed the authoritative sources we used, and explained how we used them and the methods behind our estimates.