If you are searching for an Airbnb in Seoul – or anywhere else in Korea – starting in 2026, you may notice that a large number of listings are no longer available. In fact, many travelers are surprised by just how many properties have disappeared.
The main reason is that a significant portion of Airbnb listings in Korea were studio-style apartments. Under Korean housing regulations, these types of units are subject to restrictions when used as short-term accommodation. As a result, many modern, fully furnished studio apartments are no longer listed on Airbnb.
What remains available on Airbnb are often older residential houses, villas, or traditional Korean houses (hanok). While these options may appeal to some travelers, they are not always ideal for solo travelers or couples seeking modern facilities, privacy, or longer stays.
Does this mean staying in a modern, fully furnished studio in Seoul is no longer possible?
Fortunately, there is a practical alternative: Short-term lease agreements.
If you are planning a stay that lasts several weeks or months – rather than just a few nights – a short-term rental contract allows you to live in the same type of modern, fully furnished studio apartments that have disappeared from Airbnb. These rentals are particularly well-suited for digital nomads, business travelers, international students, and anyone planning a longer stay in Korea.
StayLocal makes short-term leasing in Seoul simple for foreigners.
Short-term rental contracts in Korea can be difficult for international residents due to complex procedures, language barriers, and unfamiliar regulations. StayLocal removes these obstacles by carefully curating some of the best modern living spaces in Seoul. With StayLocal, you can easily browse available furnished studios online, compare options, and secure a flexible lease that matches your length of stay – all with guidance throughout the contract process.
