In South Korea, often called the "Republic of Apartments," there is one certification that every middle-aged retiree dreams of: the Housing Manager (Ju-taek-gwan-ri-sa). As of late 2025, it remains the #1 sought-after license for a second career. But is it really a path to a stable, respected, and stress-free retirement? Let's dive into the reality of the 2025 exam, salary expectations, and what lies ahead for 2026.
What is a Housing Manager?
A "Housing Manager" is a state-certified professional legally required to manage apartment complexes. Given that over 60% of Koreans live in apartments, the demand is structural and constant. They are responsible for facility maintenance, budget execution, and managing security and cleaning staff.
- Complexes with 300+ units.
- Complexes with 150+ units equipped with elevators.
- Complexes with 150+ units using central heating.
Any complex meeting these criteria MUST hire a certified Housing Manager. This legal mandate provides the job security that makes this certification so attractive.
2025 Exam Review & 2026 Forecast
The 28th exam held in 2025 confirmed that the era of "easy pass" is long gone. Since the introduction of the relative evaluation system in 2020, competition has become fierce.
📅 Expected Schedule for 2026 (29th Exam)
| Stage | Registration | Exam Date | Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1st Round | Mid-May | Early July (Sat) | Mid-August |
| 2nd Round | Mid-August | Late September (Sat) | Late Nov - Early Dec |
The "Relative Evaluation" Trap
While the 1st round is an absolute evaluation (pass if you score over 60%), the 2nd round is a relative evaluation based on a pre-set quota (approx. 1,600 people in 2025). This means scoring 60 is no longer enough; you must score higher than your competitors.
The Reality: Salary & Stress
Is it a dream job? Not exactly. While it offers employment into old age, the job comes with significant emotional labor.
💰 Realistic Salary (2025 Estimates)
- Entry-level (Small Complex): ~3.6M to 4.0M KRW / year
- Experienced (Mid-sized Complex): ~4.5M to 5.5M KRW / year
- Expert (Large Complex): 6.0M+ KRW / year
- From 'Apartment Manager World' Community
Conclusion: Is it Worth It?
The Housing Manager certification is a solid option for retirement planning in Korea. It offers longevity and decent pay. However, do not expect a stress-free life. It requires patience, legal knowledge, and people skills.
If you are aiming for the 2026 exam, start with Accounting Principles today. The best investment for your old age is action.