Permitted work
Assigning work not allowed under the worker's status can lead to penalties for the employer too.
LABOR & EMPLOYMENT
Hiring Foreign Employees: Labor Basics You Must Cover
Korean labor laws, including the Labor Standards Act, generally apply to foreign workers in Korea. At the same time, they may work only within the scope permitted by their status, so labor and immigration requirements should be checked together when hiring.
Contact an expert ↗Key points
• The employment contract should be written so the worker understands it, and a copy must be given.
• Minimum wage, working hours and holidays follow the same standards as for Korean workers.
• Check the worker's status and permitted work, and report changes when required.
• Minimum wage, working hours and holidays follow the same standards as for Korean workers.
• Check the worker's status and permitted work, and report changes when required.
What to prepare and check
- Residence card, status and period of stay
- Employment contract (ideally with the worker's native language)
- Wage structure and working hours
- Whether social insurance enrollment applies
- Reporting duties when employment changes
Practical cautions
Reporting
Resignations or workplace changes may need to be reported within set deadlines.
Specialist review
Wage or dismissal disputes need review by a certified labor attorney.
Frequently asked questions
Do foreigners join social insurance?
Coverage can differ by status and nationality, so check.
Can the contract be in Korean only?
We recommend adding the worker's native language so they understand it.
Note
This article is general information. Actual requirements and documents may vary by nationality, current status, the law at the time of application and the competent authority's decision.
Want to know the right procedure for your case?
Tell us your current status, nationality, purpose and preferred schedule, and we will explain the required steps and documents.
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