This study investigates trends in the classification of visual perception elements in the exterior design of apartments in Korea. As urbanization has progressed, apartment buildings have grown substantially in both height and scale. The rapid proliferation of high-rise apartments, particularly in metropolitan areas, has led to the development of standardized designs that primarily prioritize economic efficiency. However, in response to an oversupply in the housing market, the focus has shifted from quantity to quality, prompting the adoption of specialized and differentiated designs to meet evolving consumer preferences. According to environmental perception theory, humans process visual stimuli in a modular manner, organizing individual components to form a cohesive whole. In the context of apartment exterior design, key visual perception elements include massing, façade configuration, texture, and detailing. This study identifies 18 specific visual elements, with features such as roof configuration, and balconies being the most frequently utilized. Through a comprehensive literature review of academic publications, the research highlights shifts in the prominence of various design features, particularly an increased emphasis on skylines and low-rise elements. The findings underscore the need for an ongoing, systematic classification of visual perception elements to ensure that apartment exterior designs remain distinctive and responsive to their contextual environments.