A Unique System: The South Korean Housing Subscription

In many countries, buying a new apartment simply requires the payment. In South Korea, however, new apartments in high-demand areas are distributed via a competitive “Subscription” system based on a complex point matrix. Whether you are an expat living in Korea or a curious observer of global real estate, the Ahoxy Housing Score Calculator provides a window into this high-stakes social engineering project.

How the Points are Structured:

• Homeless Duration: Points increase for every year you don’t own a home (capped at 32 points).
• Number of Dependents: Having children or living with elderly parents provides the biggest boost (up to 35 points).
• History of Savings: Points are awarded for holding a special “Housing Subscription account” for over 15 years (17 points).

Why This Matters

For resident foreigners and new citizens, navigating this system is the key to long-term financial stability in Korea. Winning a subscription often means securing a brand-new home at a lower price than the surrounding market value.

Strategy for Newcomers:

If your points are low (e.g., single households), look into the “Lottery System” (Choocheom-je) quotas, which don’t rely on points, or “Special Supply” (Teuk-gong) categories for foreigners or newlywed couples.

Explore the engine behind one of the world’s most unique housing markets.