An apartment complex can be seen behind the densely populated villas in downtown Seoul. /Courtesy of Yonhap News

In the new year, the scope of non-apartment homes considered as 'having no dwellings' will be expanded so that purchasers of non-apartment properties, such as villas, do not face disadvantages when applying for apartments.

According to 'Changes from 2025,' published by the government on the 31st, with the revision and implementation of the 'Rules on Dwelling Supply,' individuals who own properties with an exclusive area of up to 85 square meters and an official price not exceeding 500 million won (300 million won in non-metropolitan areas) will also be regarded as 'having no dwellings' when applying for apartments.

In the past, only properties with an exclusive area of up to 60 square meters and an official price not exceeding 160 million won (100 million won in non-metropolitan areas) were recognized as small and low-cost homes.

The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport said that it will help normalize the contracted non-apartment market and aid in restoring the housing ladder for actual demanders.

Starting in the new year, deliveries by drones and robots will also be permitted. The revised Living Logistics Service Industry Development Act, which allows drones and robots in addition to existing cargo and two-wheeled vehicles, will be implemented from Jan. 17.

Under the revised law, drones can register as ultralight vehicle operators according to the Aviation Business Act. Outdoor mobile robots need to receive operational safety certification under the Intelligent Robot Act and must be insured or enrolled in a guarantee plan.