What no one told me about renting an apartment in Seoul

I've lived in three apartments here now. Nobody prepared me for any of the following.

1. The deposit will shock you. Even for a small one-room, expect 5–10 million KRW deposit ('bojeungeum') on top of monthly rent ("월세"). Full jeonse (huge deposit, no monthly) is basically extinct for foreigners in central Seoul now.

2. You need a Korean guarantor OR a lot of extra cash. Without a guarantor, most landlords will ask for a bigger deposit. Some accept a bigger up-front payment; some don't. Airbnb-turned-monthly options like Homeee, Airbnb Long Stay, or serviced residences (like the Fraser Place chain) are actually competitive if you're staying 3–6 months.

3. 'Fully furnished' means different things. Sometimes: fridge, washing machine, bed, wardrobe, desk. Sometimes: fridge and washing machine, that's it. Always ask for photos and a specific list before signing anything.

4. Management fee ("관리비") is a black box. Ask what it covers. It might include internet + water + basic utilities, or it might be a 200,000 won pass-through with no clear itemization. Ask.

5. You will get calls from strangers ringing your door. Religious canvassers, delivery drivers looking for a different apartment, mail carriers who need a hanko. Just don't answer if you don't want to; nothing bad happens.

6. Move-in and move-out is a huge deal. The landlord (or their agent) will inspect down to whether the ceiling looks yellowed. Take dated photos on day 1 of everything.

7. The realtor fee ("복비") is real. Roughly 0.4–0.9% of the deposit, one-time. Not always negotiable but you can try.

Anything I forgot?