"If You Buy It, You Make Money"... Seoul Apartment Prices Rose About 6% Annually Over 40 Years

[Financial News] Apartment prices in Seoul have climbed about 6% per year on average over roughly 40 years, confirming their status as a safe asset from a mid- to long-term perspective. As government regulations discourage owning multiple homes and more buyers focus on securing one high-quality property, interest is growing in new presale projects with strong locations and solid product features.
According to KB Real Estate statistics released on the 13th, apartment prices in Seoul rose an average of 6.17% per year from 1987, when the data series began, through 2025, a span of about 40 years. This is more than double the 2.56% average annual increase recorded in other regions excluding major metropolitan cities.
Because apartment prices in Seoul are higher than in other areas, even a 6% gain is felt more strongly. For example, if a 1 billion won apartment rises 6% in a year, its value increases by 60 million won. As a result, many people view Seoul apartments as assets that "make money" over the long term.
An industry expert said, "Unlike other regions, Seoul apartment prices tend not to fall even during real estate downturns, instead holding steady and then jumping sharply in upturns, which is why they are recognized as having high investment value from a mid- to long-term perspective." The expert added, "With jeonse rents in Seoul soaring and a shortage of new-build units spreading, more buyers are targeting large-scale new presale complexes."
Against this backdrop, a landmark apartment complex planned for presale in February in Mullae-dong, Yeongdeungpo District, is drawing attention. The Sharp Priella, to be developed by POSCO E&C, will consist of six buildings with three basement levels and up to 21 floors above ground, totaling 324 units.
Of these, 138 units with exclusive areas ranging from 44 to 84 square meters will be offered to the general public. By type, there will be 14 units of 44 square meters, 37 units of 59 square meters, 43 units of 74 square meters, and 44 units of 84 square meters, mostly small and mid-sized layouts favored by end users.
Mullae-dong, where the complex will be built, offers quick access to transportation, schools, and everyday amenities. Dorimcheon Station on Subway Line 2 is within walking distance, and residents can also use Mullae Station and Yangpyeong Station, making it easy to reach major business districts such as Yeouido, Gwanghwamun, and the southern Seoul area.
Nearby are green spaces including Anyangcheon Stream, Dorimcheon Stream, Anyangcheon Sports Park, and Mullae Neighborhood Park. Yeongmun Elementary School is about a five-minute walk away, allowing children to commute safely, and large retail facilities and cultural venues such as Mullae Art Village are also close by.
DL E&C plans to launch presales in February for Acro de Seocho in the Seocho-dong area of Seocho District in Seoul. The project will comprise 16 buildings with four basement levels and up to 39 floors above ground, offering 1,161 units with exclusive areas from 59 to 170 square meters, of which 56 will be available for general sale.

act@fnnews.com Reporter Choi Ah-young Reporter