From BTS members to Song Hye-kyo, and IU—here are the Korean stars who own expensive properties in upscale neighbourhoods
With fame comes fortune. With the rise of K-pop, K-dramas and K-mania going strong, several Korean stars have also amassed wealth that allowed them to purchase and own expensive properties, whether it's a penthouse suite or an entire building in the most affluent districts in South Korea.
Every time these famous stars splurge on new properties, it always catches the attention of fans. Read on to find out more about their property purchases.
Editor's note: This list is not exhaustive and the figures are taken from publicly available information on the estimated prices that were converted from Korean won.
1. BTS
Named as the winners of the 2020 Global Recording Artist of the Year Award, it's no surprise that BTS also own stylish abodes. Both RM and Jimin have recently purchased an apartment each within the upscale Nine One Hannam complex, which is often called the 'Beverly Hills of Korea' and is one of the most expensive apartment complexes in Seoul. According to Korean media, RM's apartment costs around US$5.7 million for about 293.93 square metres of space while Jimin spent US$5.3 million for an apartment of the same size.
RM previously bought a US$4 million apartment in Hannam The Hill, the same residence where BTS lives as a group and one of the most exclusive apartment buildings in Asia. Jimin had also bought an old apartment complex before, worth US$3.9 million in Banpo Jugong, a prime spot located near the Han River. When the apartment undergoes restoration and remodelling, the value is likely to increase.
Meanwhile, Jungkook purchased a house in Itaewon early this year. The two-storey house is priced at US$7 million (worth more than the group's home) and spans around 230.72 square metres. It's located about five minutes away from RM and Jimin's new apartment. Before this, he bought a US$2.3 million apartment in Seoul Forest Trimage but has sold it since.
See also: BTS Joins Louis Vuitton as its Newest Brand Ambassadors
Other members of the group have also purchased lavish homes in recent years. Jin bought his own apartment in Hannam The Hill. The property is said to cost about US$3.4 million and was a gift to his parents with them holding 35 per cent of the property's ownership. Before that, Jin bought a 614 sq ft unit in 2018 worth US$1.5 million and eventually sold it in 2019.
Rapper Suga bought an apartment in UN Village for about US$3 million. This complex has a prime location thanks to its proximity to the Han River, a popular tourist destination. On the other hand, V bought a property in Apelbaum, Gangnam, that is worth US$4.55 million and spanning about 283 square metres. The location is popular among Korean artists and celebrities for its tight security and stunning views of the Han River.
J-hope is the first amongst the group to own an apartment located in Seoul Forest Trimage, a luxury apartment complex, way back in 2016. It's reported to cost around US$1.2 million and has since increased in value.
See also: Who is Bang Si-Hyuk? The BTS Mastermind Debuts on Forbes Korea’s Richest List 2021