Best Short-Term Rent Platforms in Korea for Foreigners (2026 Guide)
Moving to Korea for a few weeks or months can be challenging, especially if you're unfamiliar with the local housing market.
Traditional Korean rentals often require large security deposits, long contracts, and Korean-language paperwork. Fortunately, several short-term rental platforms now make it easier for foreigners, international students, and remote workers to find furnished housing with flexible lease terms.
In this guide, we'll compare three popular platforms used by foreigners in Korea:
33m² (Samsam M2)
Enkor Stay
betterliving
We'll look at contract periods, deposit policies, payment methods, and key advantages to help you choose the right option.
What Should Foreigners Check Before Renting in Korea?
Before signing a short-term rental contract, consider the following:
1. Deposit Requirement
Some platforms require a security deposit, while others offer no-deposit options.
2. Minimum Contract Period
Short-term rentals may start from one week, two weeks, or one month depending on the platform.
3. Additional Fees
Besides rent, you may need to pay:
Maintenance fees
Cleaning fees
Platform service fees
Utility costs
Always check the final payment amount before booking.
4. Payment Methods
Foreigners should verify whether international credit cards are accepted.
5. Contract Safety
A legally valid lease agreement can provide additional protection and reduce potential disputes during your stay.
33m² (Samsam M2): Flexible Weekly Rentals
Best For
Travelers, digital nomads, and short-term residents staying a few weeks.
Pros
Rental periods available from 1 week to 12 weeks
Fixed security deposit of KRW 330,000
Lower upfront deposit compared to traditional Korean rentals
Immediate move-in and long-stay discounts available on selected listings
Supports both bank transfer and card payments
International credit cards accepted
Things to Consider
Full rent payment is required before move-in
Platform fees may apply
Cleaning fees and maintenance fees are charged separately
Move-Out Process
After checking out, tenants can request deposit returns. The host verifies the property condition before the deposit is refunded.
Enko Stay: Popular Among International Students
Best For
International students and first-time residents in Korea.
Pros
No security deposit required
University-based housing search filters
Transparent host information and review system
Flexible stays from 14 days or longer
Monthly payment structure available instead of paying the entire rent upfront
Helpful guides for living in Korea
Things to Consider
Platform fees may be included
Cleaning and maintenance fees are charged separately
Why Students Like It
Many international students use Enkor Stay because it offers housing near universities and reduces the financial burden of large deposits.
betterliving: Corporate-Managed Housing with Legal Contracts
Best For
Foreign professionals, exchange students, and long-term residents seeking a reliable rental experience.
Pros
Corporate-operated housing rather than individual landlords
Standard Korean lease agreements for legal protection
Supports international credit card payments
No platform commission fees
No real-estate brokerage fees
3D virtual room tours available
In-person room tours can be scheduled before signing
Flexible contracts from 1 month to 1 year+
Selected properties offer no-deposit options
Things to Consider
Lease extensions should be discussed in advance
Move-out inspections are conducted before deposit refunds
Why It Stands Out
Unlike peer-to-peer rental platforms, Better Living directly manages its properties through a corporate operating model. This can provide greater consistency in property management, contract handling, and deposit protection.
Comparison Table: Which Platform Is Right for You?
Feature | 33m² | Enkor Stay | betterliving |
Minimum Stay | 1 week | 2 week | 1 month |
Maximum Stay | 12 weeks | Long-term available | Long-term available |
Deposit | KRW 330,000 | No Deposit | Deposit / Selected No-Deposit Options |
Monthly Payment | No | Yes | Yes |
International Cards | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Legal Lease Agreement | No | No | Y |
Virtual Room Tour | Limited | Limited | Yes |
Direct Corporate Management | No | No | Yes |
A Reliable Way to Rent in Korea
Each short-term rental platform has its own advantages, but if you're looking for a safe and reliable rental experience, betterliving is worth considering. With professionally managed housing and standard lease agreements, it offers a more secure and transparent way to rent in Korea. For foreigners seeking a trusted short-term rental option, betterliving is a great place to start!