Legal Information for Foreigners in Korea

Professional legal information and guides for foreigners in Korea.

[Q&A] Does a DUI conviction lead to a permanent entry ban to South Korea? When can I return?

[Q&A] Does a DUI conviction lead to a permanent entry ban to South Korea? When can I return?

Understanding entry ban durations and the legal process for returning to Korea after a DUI.

[Q&A] Can I appeal or file a lawsuit against an Immigration Deportation Order for a DUI?

[Q&A] Can I appeal or file a lawsuit against an Immigration Deportation Order for a DUI?

Legal strategies to challenge deportation orders and maintain your residency in Korea.

[Q&A] Can I request an interpreter during a DUI investigation? How can I ensure my words aren't twisted?

[Q&A] Can I request an interpreter during a DUI investigation? How can I ensure my words aren't twisted?

Exercising your right to an interpreter and legal counsel to protect your visa during police interviews.

[Q&A] I refused a breathalyzer test in Korea. Will I be deported immediately?

[Q&A] I refused a breathalyzer test in Korea. Will I be deported immediately?

Why refusing a breathalyzer is often more dangerous for your visa than the DUI itself.

[Q&A] What is the minimum fine amount for a DUI that causes deportation from Korea?

[Q&A] What is the minimum fine amount for a DUI that causes deportation from Korea?

Understanding the critical fine thresholds that trigger visa revocation for foreigners.

[Q&A] Is riding an electric scooter while drunk a DUI? What happens to my visa?

[Q&A] Is riding an electric scooter while drunk a DUI? What happens to my visa?

The hidden dangers of electric scooter DUIs for foreign residents in Korea.

[Q&A] My boss says foreigners aren't entitled to severance pay. Can I get my money?

[Q&A] My boss says foreigners aren't entitled to severance pay. Can I get my money?

Fighting for fair wages and severance pay for foreign workers in Korea.

[Q&A] I'm facing abuse at work but my boss refuses to give me an LOR. How can I change jobs?

[Q&A] I'm facing abuse at work but my boss refuses to give me an LOR. How can I change jobs?

Legal ways to change employers without your boss's consent in case of abuse.

[Q&A] Fired over a single sick day with no written notice. Do I really have to leave Korea?

[Q&A] Fired over a single sick day with no written notice. Do I really have to leave Korea?

Your rights against illegal verbal dismissal and procedures for seeking relief.

[Q&A] I got hurt at work but my boss told me not to file for Workers' Comp. Will it hurt my visa?

[Q&A] I got hurt at work but my boss told me not to file for Workers' Comp. Will it hurt my visa?

Your legal right to Workers' Compensation (San-jae) and its impact on your stay.

[Q&A] My lease ended but no deposit return. I leave Korea next week—what should I do?

[Q&A] My lease ended but no deposit return. I leave Korea next week—what should I do?

How to safeguard your deposit if you must leave Korea before getting paid.

[Q&A] Can foreigners get a Fixed Date at the Community Center? How do I protect my deposit?

[Q&A] Can foreigners get a Fixed Date at the Community Center? How do I protect my deposit?

Essential administrative steps for foreigners to secure their rental deposit in Korea.

[Q&A] Landlord wants 2 million KRW for wallpaper wear and floor scuffs. Am I responsible?

[Q&A] Landlord wants 2 million KRW for wallpaper wear and floor scuffs. Am I responsible?

Understanding the legal limits of 'Restoration to Original Condition' in Korea.

[Q&A] Landlord demands 30% rent increase and threatens eviction. Is there a legal cap?

[Q&A] Landlord demands 30% rent increase and threatens eviction. Is there a legal cap?

Protecting your housing costs under the 5% Rent Increase Cap law.

[HOAM Foreign Law Column] Sabeom Simsa to Detention: When a Violation Review Leads to a Protection Order

[HOAM Foreign Law Column] Sabeom Simsa to Detention: When a Violation Review Leads to a Protection Order

Understanding why and how some immigration reviews end in immediate detention.

[HOAM Foreign Law Column] The 90-Day Fight: How to File an Objection to a Deportation Order

[HOAM Foreign Law Column] The 90-Day Fight: How to File an Objection to a Deportation Order

Legal procedures to challenge a deportation order and remain in Korea.

[HOAM Foreign Law Column] What is a Deportation Order? The Nature and Effects of Forcible Removal

[HOAM Foreign Law Column] What is a Deportation Order? The Nature and Effects of Forcible Removal

A deep dive into the most severe immigration sanction and its long-term consequences.

[HOAM Final Guide] Criminal Punishment and Immigration Risks: A Complete Roadmap for Foreigners

[HOAM Final Guide] Criminal Punishment and Immigration Risks: A Complete Roadmap for Foreigners

Connecting the dots between criminal cases and your right to stay in Korea.

[Q&A] Caught on an electric scooter after drinking. Will I lose my visa?

[Q&A] Caught on an electric scooter after drinking. Will I lose my visa?

How a single drunk driving incident leads to an automatic departure order.

[HOAM Foreign Law Column] Sabeom Simsa: The Secret Second Trial That Decides Your Future

[HOAM Foreign Law Column] Sabeom Simsa: The Secret Second Trial That Decides Your Future

An overview of the administrative review process that follows every criminal case for foreigners.

[HOAM Foreign Law Column] Drugs and Foreigners: Why Cannabis is a One-Way Ticket Out of Korea

[HOAM Foreign Law Column] Drugs and Foreigners: Why Cannabis is a One-Way Ticket Out of Korea

The severe consequences of even minor drug use on your residency and future entry to Korea.

[HOAM Foreign Law Column] Received an Immigration Summons? Here is Your Survival Guide

[HOAM Foreign Law Column] Received an Immigration Summons? Here is Your Survival Guide

What to do when the Korea Immigration Service officially summons you for an investigation.

[HOAM Foreign Law Column] Traffic Accidents in Korea: From a Simple Crash to a Departure Order

[HOAM Foreign Law Column] Traffic Accidents in Korea: From a Simple Crash to a Departure Order

How the '12 Major Negligence' items and hit-and-run charges affect your visa.

[HOAM Foreign Law Column] When to Call a Lawyer: The Importance of Police Accompaniment for Foreigners

[HOAM Foreign Law Column] When to Call a Lawyer: The Importance of Police Accompaniment for Foreigners

Protecting your rights and visa status by having a legal expert by your side during investigations.

[HOAM Foreign Law Column] Arrested at the Airport? Understanding Wanted Status and Entry Bans in Korea

[HOAM Foreign Law Column] Arrested at the Airport? Understanding Wanted Status and Entry Bans in Korea

What happens when unresolved legal issues trigger an arrest upon arrival in Korea.

[HOAM Foreign Law Column] Caught Driving Without a License? Why It’s More Than Just a Traffic Ticket

[HOAM Foreign Law Column] Caught Driving Without a License? Why It’s More Than Just a Traffic Ticket

Understanding the criminal consequences and visa risks of unlicensed driving in Korea.

[HOAM Foreign Law Column] Online Defamation: Does Korean Law Reach Foreign SNS Activities?

[HOAM Foreign Law Column] Online Defamation: Does Korean Law Reach Foreign SNS Activities?

Why your Instagram or Facebook posts can lead to criminal charges and visa issues in Korea.

[Q&A] Accused of sexual assault. How do I request an interpreter and a lawyer?

[Q&A] Accused of sexual assault. How do I request an interpreter and a lawyer?

Essential knowledge before you speak to the police to protect your right to stay in Korea.

[HOAM Foreign Law Column] Assault vs. Self-Defense: Why 'He Hit Me First' is a Dangerous Defense in Korea

[HOAM Foreign Law Column] Assault vs. Self-Defense: Why 'He Hit Me First' is a Dangerous Defense in Korea

Understanding the extremely narrow definition of self-defense in the Korean legal system.

[HOAM Foreign Law Column] From a Drunken Dispute to a Visa Crisis: The Reality of Assault Charges

[HOAM Foreign Law Column] From a Drunken Dispute to a Visa Crisis: The Reality of Assault Charges

How a simple street fight can lead to deportation and how to prevent it.

[HOAM Final Guide] Navigating the Korean Legal System: A Complete Resource for Foreigners

[HOAM Final Guide] Navigating the Korean Legal System: A Complete Resource for Foreigners

Your ultimate shield for labor, real estate, and legal safety in South Korea.

[HOAM Foreign Law Column] 37. Apartment Renovations: Can the Landlord Force You Out for Repairs?

[HOAM Foreign Law Column] 37. Apartment Renovations: Can the Landlord Force You Out for Repairs?

Rights regarding renovations and temporary relocation during a lease.

[HOAM Foreign Law Column] Foreclosure & Auction: Is My Deposit Safe?

[HOAM Foreign Law Column] Foreclosure & Auction: Is My Deposit Safe?

How to protect your deposit if the property goes into auction.

[HOAM Foreign Law Column] The 2+2 Year Rule: Your Right to Renew the Lease

[HOAM Foreign Law Column] The 2+2 Year Rule: Your Right to Renew the Lease

Understanding your legal right to extend your stay for another 2 years.

[HOAM Foreign Law Column] Rent Increase Cap: Can the Landlord Raise it by 20%?

[HOAM Foreign Law Column] Rent Increase Cap: Can the Landlord Raise it by 20%?

Rules on rent increases and the legal 5% cap on renewals.

[HOAM Foreign Law Column] Key Money (Gwonligum): How to Get it Back When Closing a Business

[HOAM Foreign Law Column] Key Money (Gwonligum): How to Get it Back When Closing a Business

Understanding the rules of premium money in Korean commercial leases.

[HOAM Foreign Law Column] Commercial Leases for Foreigners: Protecting Your Business Space

[HOAM Foreign Law Column] Commercial Leases for Foreigners: Protecting Your Business Space

Legal rights and protections for foreign entrepreneurs renting commercial property.

[HOAM Foreign Law Column] Pet Disputes: Can I Be Evicted for Having a Cat or Dog?

[HOAM Foreign Law Column] Pet Disputes: Can I Be Evicted for Having a Cat or Dog?

Rules regarding pets in rental properties and liability for damages.

[HOAM Foreign Law Column] Smoking and Wallpaper: Damage Liability for Smokers in Rentals

[HOAM Foreign Law Column] Smoking and Wallpaper: Damage Liability for Smokers in Rentals

Responsibilities for cleaning and repair costs caused by indoor smoking.

[HOAM Foreign Law Column] 32. Shared Housing (Gosiwon/Sharehouse): Specific Lease Issues

[HOAM Foreign Law Column] 32. Shared Housing (Gosiwon/Sharehouse): Specific Lease Issues

Navigating the unique rules and disputes in shared living spaces.

[HOAM Foreign Law Column] Natural Disasters: Who Pays for Flood or Fire Damage?

[HOAM Foreign Law Column] Natural Disasters: Who Pays for Flood or Fire Damage?

Legal responsibility for repairs and damages caused by disasters.

[HOAM Foreign Law Column] Real Estate Agent Negligence: Can You Sue Your Broker?

[HOAM Foreign Law Column] Real Estate Agent Negligence: Can You Sue Your Broker?

Legal steps to take if your real estate broker's mistake caused you financial loss.

[HOAM Foreign Law Column] Phantom Landlords: Identity Theft in Rental Scams

[HOAM Foreign Law Column] Phantom Landlords: Identity Theft in Rental Scams

How to verify a landlord's identity and avoid identity-based fraud.

[HOAM Foreign Law Column] Inheritance of Lease Rights: What Happens if the Landlord Passes Away?

[HOAM Foreign Law Column] Inheritance of Lease Rights: What Happens if the Landlord Passes Away?

Dealing with lease transitions and deposit returns after a landlord's death.

[HOAM Foreign Law Column] Terminating a Lease Due to Mold or Safety Hazards

[HOAM Foreign Law Column] Terminating a Lease Due to Mold or Safety Hazards

When and how you can legally end a lease early for structural issues.

[HOAM Foreign Law Column] Electronic Lease Contracts: How to Sign Safely Online in Korea

[HOAM Foreign Law Column] Electronic Lease Contracts: How to Sign Safely Online in Korea

The benefits and safety features of the government's digital real estate system.

[HOAM Foreign Law Column] Floor Noise (Cheung-gan-so-eum): Dealing with Loud Neighbors

[HOAM Foreign Law Column] Floor Noise (Cheung-gan-so-eum): Dealing with Loud Neighbors

How to handle noise complaints and utilize official mediation services.

[HOAM Foreign Law Column] Landlord’s Family Moving In: Is It a Valid Reason to Evict?

[HOAM Foreign Law Column] Landlord’s Family Moving In: Is It a Valid Reason to Evict?

Verifying if a landlord's claim to move in is legitimate and your right to compensation.

[HOAM Foreign Law Column] 33. Residence Report & Legal Protection: Why Every Foreigner Needs It

[HOAM Foreign Law Column] 33. Residence Report & Legal Protection: Why Every Foreigner Needs It

The legal importance of reporting your new address to immigration.

[HOAM Foreign Law Column] 24. Jeonse Guarantee Insurance: Why You Need HUG or SGI

[HOAM Foreign Law Column] 24. Jeonse Guarantee Insurance: Why You Need HUG or SGI

How to secure your deposit with professional guarantee insurance.

[HOAM Foreign Law Column] Parking Disputes: Your Rights in the Building and How to Resolve Them

[HOAM Foreign Law Column] Parking Disputes: Your Rights in the Building and How to Resolve Them

Addressing conflicts over parking spaces and management fees.

[HOAM Foreign Law Column] Illegal Contract Penalties: Can They Charge You for Quitting?

[HOAM Foreign Law Column] Illegal Contract Penalties: Can They Charge You for Quitting?

Why pre-set penalties for quitting early are unenforceable in Korea.

[HOAM Foreign Law Column] Letter of Release (LOR): How to Transfer Without Being Trapped

[HOAM Foreign Law Column] Letter of Release (LOR): How to Transfer Without Being Trapped

Strategies for switching schools and obtaining your LOR or a waiver.

[HOAM Foreign Law Column] Housing Issues: Substandard Apartments & Illegal Deductions

[HOAM Foreign Law Column] Housing Issues: Substandard Apartments & Illegal Deductions

Tenant rights for instructors living in hagwon-provided housing.

[HOAM Foreign Law Column] Workplace Bullying & Abuse: You Don't Have to Suffer in Silence

[HOAM Foreign Law Column] Workplace Bullying & Abuse: You Don't Have to Suffer in Silence

How to deal with harassment and abuse at your workplace.

[HOAM Foreign Law Column] Working Hours vs. Prep Time: What counts as paid time?

[HOAM Foreign Law Column] Working Hours vs. Prep Time: What counts as paid time?

Definition of working hours and issues with unpaid preparation time.

[HOAM Foreign Law Column] Health Insurance & Pension: Is Your Hagwon Paying Its Share?

[HOAM Foreign Law Column] Health Insurance & Pension: Is Your Hagwon Paying Its Share?

Ensuring your social security benefits are properly managed.

[HOAM Foreign Law Column] Fired Without Notice? Claim Your 30-Day Allowance

[HOAM Foreign Law Column] Fired Without Notice? Claim Your 30-Day Allowance

Protection against wrongful dismissal and rules for dismissal notice.

[HOAM Foreign Law Column] Severance Pay: The 1-Year Rule Every Instructor Should Know

[HOAM Foreign Law Column] Severance Pay: The 1-Year Rule Every Instructor Should Know

Understanding your entitlement to severance pay in Korea.

[HOAM Foreign Law Column] The 11-Month Contract Trick: Is It Legal?

[HOAM Foreign Law Column] The 11-Month Contract Trick: Is It Legal?

Dealing with short-term contracts designed to avoid benefits.

[HOAM Foreign Law Column] Unpaid Wages & Overtime: Know Your Rights

[HOAM Foreign Law Column] Unpaid Wages & Overtime: Know Your Rights

Legal guide to claiming unpaid wages and overtime for hagwon instructors.

[HOAM Foreign Law Column] Can the Landlord Enter My Home Without Permission?

[HOAM Foreign Law Column] Can the Landlord Enter My Home Without Permission?

Protecting your privacy and legal rights against unauthorized entry.

[HOAM Foreign Law Column] Who Pays for Repairs? Maintenance Responsibility

[HOAM Foreign Law Column] Who Pays for Repairs? Maintenance Responsibility

Guide to maintenance responsibilities for landlords and tenants.

[HOAM Foreign Law Column] 04. Restoration & Cleaning Fees: How Much Should You Pay?

Guidelines on restoration obligations and cleaning fee disputes.

[HOAM Foreign Law Column] Early Termination: Do You Have to Pay the Brokerage Fee?

[HOAM Foreign Law Column] Early Termination: Do You Have to Pay the Brokerage Fee?

Understanding who pays the commission when a lease ends early.

[HOAM Foreign Law Column] How to Prevent Jeonse Scams: A Checklist for Foreigners

[HOAM Foreign Law Column] How to Prevent Jeonse Scams: A Checklist for Foreigners

Essential steps to protect your deposit from fraudulent schemes.

[HOAM Foreign Law Column] How to Resolve Disputes Without a Lawsuit: Mediation Committee

[HOAM Foreign Law Column] How to Resolve Disputes Without a Lawsuit: Mediation Committee

A fast and cost-effective way for foreigners to resolve rental disputes.

[HOAM Foreign Law Column] Subleasing to a Friend? Be Careful of Contract Violations!

[HOAM Foreign Law Column] Subleasing to a Friend? Be Careful of Contract Violations!

The risks of unauthorized subleasing and how to stay protected.

[HOAM Foreign Law Column] Management Fees: Are You Paying Too Much?

[HOAM Foreign Law Column] Management Fees: Are You Paying Too Much?

Understanding your rights regarding management fees and utility bills.

[HOAM Foreign Law Column] Tacit Renewal: What Happens if You Don't Say Anything?

[HOAM Foreign Law Column] Tacit Renewal: What Happens if You Don't Say Anything?

Rules for automatic renewal and how to properly terminate a lease.

[HOAM Foreign Law Column] Haven't Received Your Deposit Back? A Guide for Foreigners

[HOAM Foreign Law Column] Haven't Received Your Deposit Back? A Guide for Foreigners

How to recover your Jeonse/Wolse deposit when the landlord refuses to pay.

[HOAM Foreign Law Column] Medical Accidents in Korea: How Foreigners Can Seek Accountability

[HOAM Foreign Law Column] Medical Accidents in Korea: How Foreigners Can Seek Accountability

A guide to medical negligence claims and dispute mediation for foreign patients in Korea.

[HOAM Foreign Law Column] Real Estate Brokerage Disputes in Korea: How Foreigners Can Seek Remedies

[HOAM Foreign Law Column] Real Estate Brokerage Disputes in Korea: How Foreigners Can Seek Remedies

A guide to recovering deposits and claiming damages for real estate brokerage accidents.

[HOAM Foreign Law Column] When Your Stay Status is at Risk: How to Respond as a Foreigner

[HOAM Foreign Law Column] When Your Stay Status is at Risk: How to Respond as a Foreigner

A guide to appealing visa cancellations, extension denials, and deportation orders in Korea.

[HOAM Foreign Law Column] Stalking in Korea: How to Report as a Foreigner

[HOAM Foreign Law Column] Stalking in Korea: How to Report as a Foreigner

A guide to protection and legal response for stalking victims and suspects in Korea.

[HOAM Foreign Law Column] Foreign Instructors in Korea: Unpaid Wages and Wrongful Termination Guide

[HOAM Foreign Law Column] Foreign Instructors in Korea: Unpaid Wages and Wrongful Termination Guide

Labor rights and visa guide for foreign instructors on E-2 visas.

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