In 2026, crackdowns on the illegal employment of foreign nationals and sanctions against employers have become much stronger.
Crackdown on illegal employment
From January to May, 734 foreign nationals were caught in crackdowns on delivery riders alone (11 times as many as the previous year). Of these, 56% were on student (D-2) visas and 20% on Overseas Korean (F-4) visas, and fines ranged from KRW 1 million to 10 million per person. Branch owners who lent out their accounts are also under investigation.
Before hiring, always check the status of stay and period of stay on the residence card (ARC). International students and job seekers can work only within the scope of their permission, and F-4 holders are also restricted from some jobs.
Unpaid wages or industrial accidents can lead to limits on inviting foreign workers (proposed)
- Fine of KRW 5 million or more for violating the Labor Standards Act: 3 years
- Named on the public list of employers with unpaid wages: for as long as the name is published
- Violation of the Occupational Safety and Health Act (fatal accidents) or the Serious Accidents Punishment Act: 3 years
This is a proposal announced for public comment on June 19. The effective date must be checked in the final rules once they are officially published.
Reporting human rights violations has also become easier
Workers can report in 20 languages by calling 1345 and choosing option 1, and in assault cases, a change of workplace is approved quickly.
The information above is as of the date of the Ministry of Justice press release. Actual requirements must be checked against the laws and guidelines in effect when you apply. If you have any questions, please leave them via Ask a question.