Essential Guide for Foreign Workers in Korea: Preventing and Addressing Wage Delays
Hello, this is Kowork.
Ensuring that foreign workers in Korea receive fair compensation is crucial for a stable working life. However, many migrant workers face challenges due to wage delays.
Recent data shows that approximately 120 billion KRW in unpaid wages is reported annually, with 9 out of 10 foreign workers experiencing wage delays.
In such situations, it is essential to know how to prevent wage issues and take effective actions to resolve them.
Today, we will share practical and detailed steps to help foreign workers prevent and address unpaid wages in Korea.
1. How to Prevent Wage Delays
The best way to deal with wage delays is to prevent them before they happen.
1) Check the Employer’s Wage Delay Records
The Ministry of Employment and Labor operates a “Wage Delinquent Companies/Employers System”.
This system allows you to check whether the company or employer you plan to work for has a history of wage non-payment.
- How to Access: Wage Delinquent Companies/Employers List
Warning Signs of Potential Wage Delays:
- Companies that insist on paying wages in cash only
- Frequent delays in salary payments
- Salary delays continuing for more than two months
If these situations persist, it is advisable to resign and report the employer to recover your wages.
2) Review Your Employment Contract Carefully
Your employment contract is the legal basis for wage payments. Always ensure you sign a written employment contract, and check the following:
- Agreed wage amount and payment date
- Working hours and overtime compensation
Job responsibilities and working conditions
2. What to Do If You Experience Wage Delays
If you face wage delays, there are two main approaches to resolve the issue:
- File a Complaint with the Labor Office
- Pursue Legal Action
1) Filing a Complaint with the Labor Office
Filing a complaint with the Labor Office is the quickest and most cost-effective solution. You can also seek assistance from public labor consultants at no cost.
Documents to Prepare:
- Employment contract
- Work records (attendance sheets, time cards, etc.)
- Proof of unpaid wages or salary payment delays
- A detailed written statement explaining the situation
How to File a Complaint:
- Prepare the documents and visit the nearest local Labor Office or file an online complaint.
- A designated labor officer will investigate and enforce payment of the overdue wages.
2) Legal Action
For significant amounts of unpaid wages, legal action may be necessary.
If lawyer fees are a concern, you can contact organizations like the Korea Legal Aid Corporation or free labor consultation centers for assistance.
3. Additional Government Support Programs
To protect the rights of foreign workers, the Korean government provides several support programs:
- Wage Payment Guarantee System
If your employer is bankrupt or unable to pay, the government will cover part of the unpaid wages. - Foreign Worker Employment Permit System Counseling Center
This center offers free consultations for wage delays, unfair dismissals, and other employment-related issues.
- Phone Consultation: ☎ 1577-0071
Languages Supported: 16 languages, including English, Chinese, and Vietnamese
Wage delays can be financially and emotionally overwhelming for foreign workers. However, knowing how to prevent issues and understanding the systematic solutions available can help you resolve the problem quickly and effectively.
At Kowork, we are committed to helping you work and live in Korea with confidence. From visa consultations to job placement support, Kowork is here to assist you every step of the way.
If you have further questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to reach out to Kowork!
Kowork is here to help you achieve a better working life in Korea ✨
