Have You Experienced Delayed or Unpaid Wages?
If you’re a foreign worker in Korea and haven’t received your salary on time, you’re not alone.
Fortunately, there is a step-by-step way to resolve this issue.
This interactive guide will walk you through what to do — from direct negotiation to government support options.
In addition, you’ll learn how to prevent future issues and access legal help, regardless of your visa status.
Let’s begin your journey to reclaim your rights. Choose your situation below to get started.
Q1. Are you currently not receiving your wages?
Q2. Have you tried negotiating directly with your employer?
Step 1: Send a Written Request to Your Employer
- Politely request payment via email or text; keep a saved copy.
- Document all conversations and promises in writing.
If unpaid, proceed to Q3.
Q3. Have you filed a complaint with the Ministry of Employment and Labor?
Step 2: File a Wage-Claim Complaint
- Online: MoEL Civil Service or call 1350 (multilingual)
- Alternatively, visit your local labor office, or send by mail/fax.
- Inspector investigation → Issuance of correction order.
If still unpaid after correction order, go to Q4.
Q4. After the correction order, are you still unpaid?
🎉 Your wage claim is resolved!
Keep your payment records safe and review your contract regularly to prevent future issues.
Q5. Is your workplace still operating normally?
Step 3: File a Civil Lawsuit
- Submit a petition at your district court → Trial → Enforcement.
- For claims under ₩30 million, use the Small Claims Court for faster handling.
- Free legal aid via Korea Legal Aid Corporation or NGOs.
Q6. Have you considered applying for the Wage Guarantee Fund?
Wage Guarantee Fund – In Progress
Submit any additional requested documents promptly; process typically takes 2–4 months. Consider using professional or interpreter support.
Step 4: How to Apply for Wage Guarantee Fund
- Prepare: wage-confirmation form, ID, work records, etc.
- Submit to MoEL or Korea Workers’ Compensation & Welfare Service for review.
- Government pays part of wages up front; then recovers from employer.
Professional or interpreter support is recommended.
Prevention Tips
- Sign a clear contract (include a translated copy in your native language).
- Keep daily attendance logs, wage slips, and transfer receipts.
- Use MoEL 1350 multilingual hotline for questions.
- Seek free legal/interpreter help from migrant worker NGOs.