Your First Day in Your Korean Apartment: The Essential Move-In Checklist

Your first day in your Korean apartment! Don't forget to change the door code, check for mold, and take photos. Here is your essential move-in checklist.

LiveAnywhere

Dec 12, 2025

Your First Day in Your Korean Apartment: The Essential Move-In Checklist

Contents

1. The "Evidence" Photos 2. Change the Door Code 3. Test the "White Options"4. Locate the Trash Area

You dragged your suitcases up the stairs. You are sweating. You are finally inside. Stop! Don't unpack yet.

To protect yourself from unfair charges later, you need to do these 4 things immediately.

1. The "Evidence" Photos

Take photos/videos of EVERYTHING.

Scratches on the floor? Click.
Stain on the wallpaper? Click.
Crack in the sink? Click.
Action: Send these photos to your landlord or agent on the first day via KakaoTalk. This proves the damage was there before you arrived.

2. Change the Door Code

Most Korean homes use digital locks. The landlord likely gave you a generic code (like 1234 or 0000).

Action: Look for the "Set" button (usually inside the battery cover on the back of the door) and change the PIN immediately.

3. Test the "White Options"

Turn on the AC. Does it smell?
Turn on the Water. Is the pressure good? Does it drain fast?
Turn on the Stove. Does it light up?

4. Locate the Trash Area

Every building has a specific spot for trash. Don't guess. Find it now so you don't pile up garbage in your room.