What Is the Lease Renewal Right?
Under South Korea's Housing Lease Protection Act, tenants have a one-time right to demand a 2-year lease extension (the "Gyeyak Gaengsin Cheonggugeun"). The notice must be sent between 6 months and 2 months before the lease expiration date. Missing this window forfeits the right.
How to Exercise the Right
Send written notice to the landlord via text, email, or certified mail. The effective date is when the landlord receives it — so act early to leave a buffer. Certified mail is recommended to avoid disputes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes — landlords may refuse for legitimate reasons such as personal occupancy. However, if they falsely claim occupancy, they may be liable for damages.
Under Korean law, rent increases are capped at 5% of the previous contract amount when exercising this right.
No. The lease renewal right can only be exercised once per tenant per property.