The Seoul Metropolitan Government has warned that it will take strict measures against unfair brokerage practices, such as forcing tenants into one-year lease contracts or shifting brokerage fees that landlords are supposed to pay onto tenants.

Following points that some licensed real estate agents recently prioritized their relationships with landlords to induce disadvantageous contracts for tenants, Seoul plans to closely review the contracting process and brokerage practices if related civil complaints are filed.

Typical targets include cases where a two-year lease contract is forced to be renewed on a one-year basis to raise monthly rent, or cases where tenants are asked to pay the brokerage fees that landlords should cover when moving out under a tacit renewal.

If agreements violating the Housing Lease Protection Act are included, the city will determine whether to impose sanctions by examining whether it was an agreement between the parties or if the licensed real estate agent unfairly restricted the tenant's rights.

Licensed real estate agents who fail to properly inspect and explain the objects of brokerage can face fines of up to 5 million KRW, while those who provide false explanations may be subject to business suspension or criminal punishment.

Tenants who have suffered damages can report the case to the Seoul Eungdapso or the real estate brokerage department of their autonomous district by attaching the contract, the confirmation and explanation statement of the brokerage object, and text messages.

Seoul also plans to request the Korea Association of Realtors to prepare self-regulatory measures and continue its "customized visiting real estate education" targeting young adults and first-time job seekers.

Kim Chang-gyu, head of the Urban Space Bureau at the Seoul Metropolitan Government, said, "We will strictly respond to unfair brokerage practices that restrict tenants' rights and strengthen the provision of information so that citizens can sign contracts safely."

(Photo: Yonhap News)