Abstract

Purpose: This study aims to address the inefficiencies and limitations in Seoul’s social housing system by proposing innovative approaches to improve the supply and management processes. Despite a severe shortage of social housing, existing units are underutilized due to structural constraints, leading to high vacancy rates and increased management costs. This research focuses on identifying critical areas for transformation to better serve housing-vulnerable populations. Research Design, Data and Methodology: The research employs a multi-faceted methodology; 1. A critical analysis of the current tenant recruitment and location processes to uncover systemic inefficiencies. 2. An in-depth case study of residential mobility patterns among housing vulnerable groups to assess their needs and movement dynamics. 3. An institutional review of constraints faced by housing welfare centers in providing effective social housing counseling. The study integrates qualitative and quantitative data collected through surveys, interviews and administrative records. Results: The findings highlight significant gaps in the current tenant recruitment process, including delays and mismatched allocations that contribute to prolonged vacancies. Residential mobility analysis reveals unmet housing needs and frequent relocations among vulnerable populations, while institutional reviews underscore the lack of adaptive and user-centered counseling frameworks. These inefficiencies collective hinder the system’s capacity to meet demand and increase operational burdens. Conclusion: The study underscores the need for a transformative approach to Seoul’s social housing supply system. Key recommendations include adopting data driven tenant matching, streamlining administrative processes and enhancing housing welfare services to align better with the needs of housing-vulnerable populations. These reforms are critical to improving the efficiency, responsiveness and equity of the social housing system in Seoul.

Keywords : Social housing, Housing counseling, Housing welfare centers,Vulnerable populations, AI new technology