Real Estate Agency Registration in Korea — 2026 Guide

1. Overview of Real Estate Agency Registration

In Korea, operating a real estate brokerage requires a license from the local government under the Act on Business Affairs of Licensed Real Estate Agents. Only holders of the 공인중개사 (Certified Real Estate Agent) qualification can register a brokerage.

2. Broker Qualifications Required

• Must pass the national 공인중개사 examination
• Cannot be disqualified due to criminal history or prior license revocation
• Foreign nationals who passed the Korean real estate exam can also register

3. Required Documents

• Brokerage registration application
• Certified Real Estate Agent certificate
• Photo ID
• Facility lease agreement
• Business registration certificate
• Surety bond or liability insurance certificate

4. Surety Bond and Liability Insurance

• KRW 100 million surety bond required for individual brokers
• KRW 200 million for corporate brokerages
• Alternatively, join a certified real estate agent cooperative

5. Registration Procedure

1. Submit application to local city/county office
2. Document review and qualification verification
3. Registration certificate issued (approx. 5–7 business days)
4. Post the registration certificate visibly in the office

6. Ongoing Compliance

• Display commission rate table in office
• Issue transaction confirmation documents for every deal
• Annual renewal of liability insurance or cooperative membership
• Mandatory continuing education (28 hours every 2 years)