Kim Soo-hyun’s Luxury Apartment Surges by 5.3 Billion KRW in Value: Record Sale at Galleria Foret

A luxury apartment in Seoul’s prestigious Galleria Foret complex, known as the residence of top actor Kim Soo-hyun, has set a new record with its latest transaction—highlighting the explosive rise in property values in South Korea’s high-end real estate market.

According to data released by the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, and Transport on May 3, a 195㎡ unit in the Galleria Foret complex in Seongsu-dong, Seoul, was sold for a record-breaking 9 billion KRW (approx. $6.5 million USD) on April 3. This marks a dramatic increase of 5.3 billion KRW from its 2020 price of 3.7 billion KRW, showcasing a nearly 143% rise in just five years.

Galleria Foret: Home of the Stars

Completed in 2011, Galleria Foret is one of the most exclusive addresses in northern Seoul, with only 230 units spread across two towers. The complex is celebrated not only for its panoramic views of the Han River and Seoul Forest but also for its tight security, privacy, and central location. It is part of the so-called “Seoul Forest Big Three,” alongside Acro Seoul Forest and Trimage.

Kim Soo-hyun is among the most high-profile celebrity residents, reportedly owning three units purchased in 2013, 2014, and 2023. Other celebrity residents include Han Ye-seul, Ko Jun-hee, G-Dragon, and Insooni, further cementing Galleria Foret’s elite reputation.

The area is known for its convenience and luxury, offering proximity to major business districts such as Gangnam, Gwanghwamun, and Yeouido, with easy access via Seongsu and Yeongdong Bridges, as well as the Suin–Bundang Line and Seoul Metro Line 2.

Real Estate Record-Breaking Trend Continues

The newly sold unit breaks the previous record set in November 2021, when a unit of the same size went for 5.5 billion KRW. Even more notably, Galleria Foret joined the “10 Billion Club” last year when a 241 m² unit sold for 10.8 billion KRW in June 2023.

The soaring value of these luxury units is seen as a reflection of both Seoul’s high-end real estate boom and the increasing symbolic status of celebrity-owned properties. With Kim Soo-hyun’s name attached to the address, the property has become as much an investment trophy as it is a home.

As Galleria Foret continues to break price records, it’s not just a showcase of wealth; it’s a testament to how star power and location can push property values to new heights.