How to File Taxes in Korea as a Foreigner

A Step-by-Step Guide to Navigating Korean Income Tax as an Expat or Worker


1. Do Foreigners Need to File Taxes in Korea?

Yes. If you earn income in Korea, you’re generally required to file and pay Korean income tax, regardless of your nationality.

You may fall into one of the following categories:

  • Resident foreigner (living in Korea for 183+ days) – taxed on worldwide income

  • Non-resident foreigner – taxed only on Korean-source income

💡 If you're employed full-time, your employer usually handles tax filing, but you may still need to review or claim deductions.

2. Tax Filing Period in Korea

  • Annual tax filing (종합소득세 신고):

    • Filing period: May 1st – May 31st

    • Covers income from the previous calendar year

  • Year-End Tax Settlement (연말정산):

    • For salaried workers only

    • Usually handled by the employer in January–February

📅 If you're a freelancer, self-employed, or earning multiple income types, you'll need to file manually in May.

3. How to File Taxes (for Self-Employed or Freelancers)

Steps to file individually:

  1. Visit the Hometax website – https://www.hometax.go.kr

    • Some services now available in English

  2. Log in with your Korean ID or public certificate (공동인증서)

  3. Click “종합소득세 신고” (General Income Tax Filing)

  4. Enter your income and expenses

  5. Apply deductions (insurance, dependents, education, etc.)

  6. Submit and pay (via card, bank transfer, or convenience store)

🧾 Tip: You can get tax statements and receipts from your bank, employer, and online stores (like Naver or Coupang).

4. What You’ll Need to File

  • Alien Registration Number (ARC)

  • Korean bank account

  • Income documents (payslips, invoices)

  • Proof of deductions (insurance, tuition, charity, etc.)

  • Digital certificate (공동인증서) for online filing

💡 Visit a local tax office for help filing in person if you’re unsure how to use the website.

5. Common Tax Deductions & Credits

  • National health insurance and pension payments

  • Spouse and dependent support

  • Education and child care expenses

  • Credit/debit card usage

  • Rent (if properly registered with the tax office)

📌 These can significantly reduce your tax burden, so keep all relevant receipts.

6. Penalties for Not Filing Taxes

  • Late filing: Additional penalty fees up to 20%

  • Underreporting: Further fines and audits

  • Non-payment: Possible impact on visa renewals or future applications

💡 Filing even with zero income is recommended if you're registered with the NTS (National Tax Service).

7. Help & Support for Foreigners

  • National Tax Service (NTS) Help Line: 126 → Press 7 (English)

  • Taxpayer Assistance Centers in major cities

  • Seoul Global Center – Offers free tax consultations in English

  • Hire a tax accountant (세무사) if you have complex income sources

📞 Don't hesitate to call or visit your district tax office (세무서) for personalized help.


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