When you have a dispute with your landlord
Don't settle disputes with a landlord verbally — leave a record.
Common disputes
- Refusing repairs — boiler, leaks, mould. Major fixtures are generally the landlord's responsibility.
- Deposit not returned — see move-out-deposit.
- Unilateral rent increase demands
- Demands to leave mid-contract
- The landlord entering as they please — entering without the tenant's consent can be trespass.
Steps
- Make requests by text or KakaoTalk. Phone calls leave no evidence. Put it in writing.
- Take photos and video of leaks, mould, breakages.
- Send certified mail (내용증명). An official document sent via the post office — the starting point of legal process.
- Apply to the Housing Lease Dispute Resolution Committee. Free, and faster than litigation.
- Legal Aid consultation — 132, free.
- Litigation — a last resort.
What you need
- The lease contract
- Conversation records (texts, KakaoTalk)
- Photos and video
- Payment records
- Alien Registration Card
Where to go
- 132 Korea Legal Aid Corporation (free legal advice)
- Housing Lease Dispute Resolution Committee www.hldcc.or.kr
- The housing department of your city or district
- 1577-1366 · 1345 interpretation
- Your local post office (certified mail)
Questions people ask
The boiler is broken and they won't fix it. Major fixtures are generally the landlord's responsibility. Request the repair by text so there is a record. If nothing happens, consult 132.
The landlord lets himself in with a key. Entry without the tenant's consent can be a problem. Ask them in writing to stop and keep the record. If it feels threatening, call 112.
I can't write certified mail in Korean. 132 or a family centre can help.
They say the contract doesn't apply because I'm a foreigner. Not true. The Housing Lease Protection Act applies regardless of nationality.
Take care
Never respond emotionally or vacate the property on your own initiative. Leaving mid-contract can weaken your position. Consult 132 before you move out.
Related
move-out-deposit · lease-contract · deposit-protection · legal-aid
Source
Korea Legal Aid Corporation www.klac.or.kr / As of 2026-08