History
Korea's subscription system dates to the 1977 rules on priority supply of national housing. New apartments were often sold below market price under price controls, so the government needed a fair way to choose buyers. At first there were separate accounts for public and private housing. In May 2009 they were merged into a single housing subscription savings account, and since 2015 it's the only one available for new sign-ups. In 2024 the recognized monthly deposit for public housing rose from ₩100,000 to ₩250,000, and a youth version with better rates launched.
First priority and selection
In the Seoul metropolitan area you generally reach first priority after one year and 12 payments, or two years and 24 in overheated zones. Elsewhere it's usually six months. Public housing goes to applicants with the most recognized deposits, so steady ₩250,000 monthly payments matter. Private apartments use a mix of lottery and an 84-point score built from years without a home (32), dependents (35), and account age (17). There are also special allocations for newlyweds, first-time buyers, and families with several children.
Tax benefits and tips
Homeless heads of household earning ₩70 million or less can deduct 40% of up to ₩3 million in annual deposits at year-end tax settlement. Interest is lower than regular deposits, but most people keep the account for the eligibility. After winning, check your LTV and DSR limits against the down-payment, interim, and balance schedule. Also factor in resale restrictions, residency requirements, and future capital gains tax.
FAQ
- How much should I deposit monthly?
- ₩250,000 maximizes recognition for public housing; for private housing you only need the required deposit balance.
- Can minors open one?
- Yes—up to five years (60 payments) after age 14 are recognized.
Sources reviewed: 2026-10-26
References
- 주택공급에 관한 규칙(국토교통부령).
- 국토교통부. (2009). 「주택청약종합저축 출시」 보도자료.
- 한국부동산원 청약홈. 청약 제도 안내.