Guides

Essential information for life in Korea, checked against official sources and explained simply.

• Bank Accounts, Sending Money Abroad, No Lending AccountsDocuments for a foreigner's bank account, limited accounts, sending money abroad through registered providers, and why you must never hand over your account.
• Health Insurance for Foreigners: Who, When, and CostForeigners join health insurance depending on visa type and length of stay. It covers when to join, 2026 premium rules, and falling behind.
• Help Lines for Foreigners: 1345, 1350, 119, 112Which number to call for emergencies, visa problems, unpaid wages, domestic violence and more, with official hours and languages.
• Using Hospitals and Emergencies: Clinics, Big Hospitals, 119Go to a local clinic for mild illness; call 119 in an emergency. What to bring, using big hospitals, and interpreter help, from official guidance.
• Finding a Home and Protecting Your Deposit: Registry, Fixed DateJeonse vs. monthly rent, checking the property registry before you sign, and steps after moving in to protect your deposit.
• Labor Contract, Minimum Wage 2026 and 2027, Pay StatementWhat a labor contract must include, the minimum wage of 10,320 won in 2026 and 10,700 won in 2027, and how to check your pay statement.
• Student Part-Time Work: Get Permission First, Allowed HoursInternational students need permission before they start work. Application steps, allowed hours by program, and work they cannot do, based on official guidance.
• Unpaid Wages: Keep Records, Call 1350, File a ComplaintIf you were not paid, you can collect records and file a complaint with the Ministry of Employment and Labor. Needed documents, steps, and free legal help.
• Extending Your Stay: When, How, Documents, and If You Are LateYou must get permission to extend your stay before it ends. When to apply, how to apply on Hi Korea, documents, and the risks of being late.
• Hurt at Work: Workers' Compensation and Company RefusalIf you were hurt or became ill because of work, you can apply for workers' compensation. What to do right after, how to apply, and what if your company refuses.