Dongdaemun-gu Launches On-Site Rental Fraud Prevention Program for High School Seniors

Nation’s First “Lecture + Field Inspection” Program
Hands-On Checklist Review at Real Properties

Dongdaemun-gu in Seoul (District Mayor Lee Philhyeong) is launching the nation’s first hands-on education program to prevent rental fraud among youth. Targeting third-year high school students who will soon enter society as young adults, the program combines classroom-based learning on the essentials of lease and monthly rental contracts with a “lecture + field inspection” format, where students visit and verify actual properties listed for rent.

Third-year high school students in Dongdaemun-gu are attending a field inspection lecture where they visit and verify houses actually listed for sale. Provided by Dongdaemun-gu.

As rental fraud has become a widespread social issue, there are many procedures tenants must check before signing a contract. However, concerns have been raised that young people are particularly vulnerable due to limited access to information and lack of experience. The district explained that the program was designed to go beyond simple guidance, enabling students to move from merely “knowing” to actually “doing” these checks themselves.

The education begins by visiting high school classrooms, starting with Seoul Jeonghwa High School. The curriculum is structured step-by-step from basic concepts so that even students encountering contracts for the first time can understand. Focusing on real contracts, the program highlights what situations may signal risk and what needs to be checked during the contract process, all tailored to the students’ level. To aid understanding, the district has produced a dedicated textbook with numerous illustrations and has invited a full-time professor from the Korea Association of Realtors to strengthen the program’s practical expertise.

The program does not end with theory; it also offers a field inspection experience for interested students. Applications are accepted through the Dongdaemun-gu Office’s online application system, and the training is conducted in small groups of three to enhance safety and focus. On-site, a manager recommended by the Korea Association of Realtors accompanies the group, guiding them through the items that must be checked before signing a contract at actual properties. Participants are encouraged to ask questions and conduct inspections themselves as part of the experience.

Lee Philhyeong, Mayor of Dongdaemun-gu, stated, “I hope this education helps young people make rational decisions when signing real estate contracts as they enter society,” adding, “We will continue to expand preventive policies to create an environment where residents can sign lease and rental contracts with peace of mind.”