Getting your deposit back when you move out

In principle the deposit is returned on the day you leave. If it isn't, there is a process.

Before you leave

1. Give notice in advance that you will not renew, within the period set by the contract and the law. Deadlines vary — check with 132.
2. Give notice by text so there is a record.
3. Photograph the condition of the property and compare with your move-in photos.
4. Settle the utility bills.
5. Tell the management office you are moving out.

If the deposit isn't returned

Never cancel your move-in registration first. Keeping registration and occupancy is what preserves your legal standing.

1. Send certified mail formally demanding return.
2. Apply for a lease registration order (임차권등기명령). When you must move but haven't been paid, the registration preserves your rights after you leave. Apply at the court.
3. Sue for return of the deposit, or apply for a payment order.
4. If you took out deposit return insurance, claim from the guarantor — HUG 1566-9009.

What you need

• The lease contract
• Records of the fixed date stamp and move-in registration
• Payment records
• Text and KakaoTalk records
• Photos of the property's condition

Where to go

• 132 Korea Legal Aid Corporation
• Housing Lease Dispute Resolution Committee www.hldcc.or.kr
• 1566-9009 Korea Housing and Urban Guarantee Corporation (HUG)
• The competent court (lease registration order)
• 1577-1366 · 1345 interpretation

Questions people ask

Moving day has come and I still haven't been paid. Apply for the lease registration order first. Cancelling your registration and moving before it is entered loses your priority. Consult 132 immediately.

The landlord wants to deduct repair costs. Ordinary wear and tear is not the tenant's responsibility. Move-in photos are strong evidence.

The landlord won't answer. Send certified mail and consult 132. Being unreachable is itself part of the record.

Is litigation expensive? Legal Aid supports eligible cases free of charge. Ask 132.

Take care

The most dangerous move is cancelling your registration and leaving while the deposit is unpaid. You lose both your standing and your priority claim. Always check the lease registration order first.

Related

deposit-protection · landlord-dispute · lease-contract · moving-in

Source

Korea Legal Aid Corporation www.klac.or.kr / As of 2026-08