Bidirectional impact of working from home on housing satisfaction during COVID-19: evidence from Seoul Metropolitan Area

The COVID-19 pandemic fundamentally disrupted the spatial dynamics of work and daily life, forcing a rapid transition to remote work arrangements. As the home forcibly absorbed the functions of the workplace, the adequacy of residential spaces became a critical determinant of daily well-being. This study examines the bidirectional impact of working from home on housing satisfaction among 2135 residents of Seoul Metropolitan Area, considering household characteristics, housing conditions, and pandemic-induced socio-economic disruptions, using multinomial logistic regression analysis. The findings reveal that women, middle-income earners, homeowners, and residents of larger housing units were likely to report increased satisfaction. Notably, working from home played a bidirectional role, simultaneously enhancing and diminishing housing satisfaction depending on housing conditions and individual preferences. While working from home improved satisfaction for those with adequate living space and flexibility, it led to dissatisfaction for individuals in cramped or unsuitable environments. These findings highlight evolving relationships between work and residential experiences, emphasizing the need for post-pandemic housing policies that accommodate diverse work arrangements.