💵 How Do Foreign Workers Receive Their Salary in Korea?

"Where does my salary go when I work in Korea?""Is it illegal to be paid in cash?""Can I get paid without a bank account?"

👉 If you're legally employed in Korea, your salary should be sent directly to your Korean bank account.It’s the safest and most transparent way to get paid.

Let’s go over the key things you need to know!

🏦 1. Open a Bank Account First

To receive your salary in Korea, you need a bank account in your own name.

📄 Documents you usually need:

• Alien Registration Card (ARC)

• Passport

• Employment contract (may be requested)

• Proof of residence (e.g., rental agreement)

💡 Some banks may limit account openings during your first few weeks in Korea.It’s usually easier after 30 days of arrival.

📥 2. When and How Is Salary Paid?

• Most companies pay between the 25th and the last day of each month

• The exact payday is written in your employment contract

• Your salary is usually sent by automatic bank transfer

💡 Some small businesses or part-time jobs may pay in cash—but this is not recommended, since it doesn’t leave a legal record and could cause issues later.

⚠️ 3. Important Things to Check

✅ Make sure you’re registered for the 4 major insurances:

• National Pension

• Health Insurance

• Employment Insurance

• Industrial Accident Insurance

➡️ These deductions will appear on your pay slip

✅ Check your employment contract for:

• Clear salary amount

• Payday details

✅ If you're working in a company that hires many foreigners,they might guide you to open a special foreign worker bank account.

✅ If your salary is delayed or unpaid,you can get help from the Labor Ministry (☎️ 1350) or a Foreign Worker Support Center.

👩‍🔧 Real Story

👨‍🔧 Khang (29, Vietnam) works in a small factory in Gyeonggi Province.

At first, he received cash for 3 weeks because he didn’t have a bank account.After getting his ARC, he opened an account at KB Kookmin Bank and now receives his salary on the 28th every month.

Now he even uses mobile banking to send money home! 📱💸

❓ FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions

Q. Can I receive my salary without a bank account?👉 It’s possible, but not recommended.Without a record, you could lose legal protection.

Q. Can I use someone else’s bank account?👉 No.Always use a bank account in your own name to stay safe.

Q. Can foreigners use mobile or online banking in Korea?👉 Yes!Once your ARC is registered and verified, you can use mobile apps to check your balance, send money, and more.

✅ Summary

• Foreign workers in Korea should receive salary through their own Korean bank account

• Payday is written in the contract (usually between the 25th–31st)

• Your pay slip will show tax and insurance deductions

• Avoid cash payments—they’re risky and untraceable

• If you have any issues, contact Labor Ministry (1350)

📬 Ready to start working in Korea?👉 Submit your resume here

Safe and accurate salary payment is the first step to a stable life in Korea! 💵🇰🇷🌏