Seoul's housing squeeze is widening across sales and rentals as tighter financial regulations weaken demand in high-end southern districts and redirect buyers toward affordable mega-complexes, early redevelopment projects and outer districts. Apartment prices rose 0.30% in the 14 districts north of the Han River versus 0.14% in the 11 southern districts, while Seoul's average apartment monthly rent reached a record ₩1.62 million in July. Villa rents rose 6.52% year over year to ₩670,000, and the median villa jeonse deposit reached a record ₩201.5 million as apartment jeonse listings dwindled and non-apartment construction contracted. Ownership transfers from forced auction sales reached a record 3,854 from January through July, adding downside pressure to the broader market.