As a lawyer dedicated to protecting the rights of foreign residents in Korea, I have seen many cases where expats are underpaid simply because they weren’t aware of the updated labor standards. In 2026, the legal landscape continues to evolve, and it is crucial to know your worth. (2026 Minimum Wage Korea Guide).

Here is the comprehensive guide to the 2026 Minimum Wage and Allowances in South Korea.

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1. The 2026 Minimum Wage Breakdown

Starting January 1, 2026, the statutory minimum wage in South Korea has officially crossed into the 10,000 KRW era, settling at 10,320 KRW per hour. Whether you are an E-7 professional, an E-9 worker, or on an F-series visa, the law ensures you receive fair compensation for your labor.

The following figures represent the absolute legal minimum you must receive before taxes.

Classification	Amount (KRW)	Note
Hourly Rate	10,320	Applicable to all industries
Daily Rate	82,560	Based on an 8-hour workday
Monthly Rate	2,156,880	Based on 209 hours per month

What is the “209 hours” rule?

This is the standard calculation for a full-time employee (40 hours/week). It includes paid weekly holidays (Ju-hyu). Even if you don’t work on your day off, you are legally entitled to “holiday pay” for that day if you met your weekly schedule.

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2. Equality for All: Does it Apply to Foreigners?

Yes. Under Article 6 of the Labor Standards Act, employers cannot discriminate against workers based on nationality.

• No Exceptions for Visas: Whether you are E-7, E-9, D-10, or F-6, the 10,320 KRW rate applies to you.
• Probation Period Rules: If you sign a contract for 1 year or longer, your employer may pay 90% of the minimum wage for the first 3 months of a probation period. However, this is subject to specific requirements, and many “simple labor” or specific industries may be exempt from this reduction, meaning you must receive 100% from day one.

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3. Calculating Your Allowances (Overtime & Night Shifts)

If your workplace has 5 or more employees, you are entitled to additional “premium” pay for extra work.

Type of Work	Premium Rate	Amount (Hourly)
Overtime	1.5x Base	15,480 KRW
Night Shift (22:00–06:00)	Base + 0.5x	5,160 KRW extra per hour
Holiday Work	1.5x (up to 8h) * More than 8 hours on a holiday: 2.0x (double pay)	15,480 KRW

Special Note for Small Workplaces (<5 Employees):

If your company has fewer than 5 employees, the 0.5x premium does not apply. However, you must still be paid your base hourly rate (10,320 KRW) for every single hour you work.

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4. Underpayment Checklist: Signs of Trouble

If you check any of the following boxes, your rights may be under violation:

• [ ] My monthly salary is less than 2,156,880 KRW for a 40-hour week.
• [ ] I work more than 8 hours a day but my hourly rate stays the same.
• [ ] My boss deducts “housing” or “food” costs from my paycheck without my written consent.
• [ ] I do not receive a Pay Stub (Pay Slip) every month.

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5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: My boss says I’m a “freelancer” so I don’t get the minimum wage. Is that true?

A: Not necessarily. If you follow a set schedule and work under your boss’s direct supervision, you are legally an “employee,” and the minimum wage applies regardless of what your contract says.

Q: Can my boss deduct housing costs from my minimum wage?

A: They can only do this if there is a prior written agreement. Furthermore, the deduction must be reasonable and cannot be used as a “trick” to pay you less than the minimum wage for your actual labor.

Q: I am on an E-9 visa. Does the “90% probation” rule apply to me?

A: For many E-9 workers in manufacturing or labor-intensive roles, the probation reduction is often disallowed. Most E-9 workers should receive 100% of the minimum wage from the start.

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💡 Lawyer’s Insight (2026 Minimum Wage Korea Guide)

“The 10,320 KRW minimum wage is your most basic right in Korea. Many employers try to take advantage of foreigners by citing ‘visa sponsorship’ as a reason to lower wages. Do not fall for this. Keep a personal log of your work hours and save every pay stub. If you are being underpaid, you can file a petition with the Ministry of Employment and Labor (MOEL) to recover every won you are owed”.

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📞 How to Reclaim Your Wages

1. Direct Negotiation: Ask for your correct pay based on the 2026 rates.
2. MOEL Petition: File a formal complaint at the local Labor Office or online.
3. 1345 Hotline: Call the Immigration contact center for general guidance in 20 languages.

⚠️ Disclaimer

• This post is for general informational purposes and does not replace official legal advice.
• Note: This post was drafted based on the standard 2026 figures; always verify the current official Ministry of Employment and Labor (MOEL) notice for the most up-to-date specific industry regulations.
• Individual calculations may vary based on your specific contract and workplace size.

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