2026 Minimum Wage (10,320 KRW) & Labor Rights for Foreign Workers
South Korea's official minimum wage for 2026 is 10,320 KRW per hour. Under Korean Labor Law, this rate applies equally to all registered foreign workers and international students (D-2/D-4 visa holders with work permits).
Key Labor Rights Summary
| Labor Right | 2026 Standard | Legal Basis |
|---|---|---|
| Hourly Minimum Wage | 10,320 KRW / hour | Minimum Wage Act |
| Weekly Holiday Pay (주휴수당) | Mandatory for 15+ hrs/week | Labor Standards Act Art. 55 |
| Employment Contract | Mandatory written contract | Labor Standards Act Art. 17 |
| Overtime Premium | 1.5x hourly rate (5+ employees) | Labor Standards Act Art. 56 |
Essential Contract Rules
- Your employer must provide a signed written copy of your Employment Contract (근로계약서) before work starts.
- The contract must clearly state hourly wage, working hours, break times, and payment date.
- Employers cannot deduct visa sponsorship fees or lodging costs without prior written consent.
- Part-time student workers must adhere to authorized work permit hours (typically 20-25 hours/week during semesters).
Сүүлд хянасан: August 2026 · Confirm official labor guidelines with the Ministry of Employment and Labor (moel.go.kr) or call 1350.