South Korea faces a worsening youth housing crisis, with thousands of young adults living in temporary accommodations. Government data show 5.3 percent of households led by people aged 19 to 34 occupy structures not meant for long-term living. Consequently, experts warn this trend highlights broader affordability and urban planning problems.
The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport studied 61,000 households nationwide. It found young adults frequently live in gosiwons, greenhouses, or shipping container units. These structures lack adequate facilities for safe, permanent habitation. By contrast, only 2.2 percent of the general population reside in similar conditions.
Moreover, the report shows 82.6 percent of young Koreans rent homes, compared with 60.7 percent homeownership nationwide. Additionally, 8.2 percent of youth live in conditions below minimum residential standards, including insufficient space, water, or protection from hazards.
In Seoul, the situation is more severe. Households led by people aged 19 to 34 now make up 29.3 percent of the city’s population. High demand for city living drives costs, leaving many young renters with unaffordable housing. Furthermore, the price-to-income ratio shows buying a home in Seoul would require 13.9 years of earnings, more than double the national average.
Meanwhile, monthly housing costs for young Seoul residents averaged 895,900 won ($609) in 2023. This represents a 12.7 percent increase from the previous year. Analysts noted young renters spend nearly a quarter of their income on housing, making homeownership increasingly difficult.
Homeownership among Seoul residents in their 30s dropped to 25.8 percent, the lowest rate recorded since the government began tracking. Therefore, the trend intensifies concerns about financial stability and access to adequate housing.
Housing experts say the youth housing crisis requires immediate policy measures. Solutions include more public housing, rent subsidies, and stricter rules on non-residential units. “The youth housing crisis threatens social mobility and urban stability if unaddressed,” a researcher said.
Government officials plan reforms to improve housing affordability, expand safe rental options, and support young residents. Analysts warn that without action, inequalities and housing insecurity will worsen for South Korea’s younger generations.
