With the increasing number of foreign workers coming to South Korea, particular attention has been paid to overseas workers, whose numbers have continued to rise significantly. It can be observed that not only full-time foreign workers, but also the number of foreign part-time workers in South Korea has shown a year-on-year increase. This trend is largely attributable to changes in South Korea’s open-door policies and measures encouraging international students, which in turn necessitate greater attention to labor protection policies. With the increasing number of foreign workers coming to South Korea, particular attention has been paid to overseas workers, whose numbers have continued to rise significantly. It can be observed that not only full-time foreign workers, but also the number of foreign part-time workers in South Korea has shown a year-on-year increase. This trend is largely attributable to changes in South Korea’s open-door policies and measures encouraging international students, which in turn necessitate greater attention to labor protection policies.

I. Minimum Wage Increase Policy for Workers in South Korea in 2025

Every year, the Minimum Wage Commission is responsible for convening annual meetings to determine the minimum wage for the following year, with the objective of striking a balance between protecting workers and accommodating prevailing economic conditions. Prior to 2025, the minimum wage for workers was calculated as follows:

• Hourly wage: KRW 10,030 per hour, based on a standard working schedule of five days per week and eight hours per day, equivalent to 40 hours per week.
• Monthly wage: KRW 2,096,270, calculated on the basis of 209 standard working hours per month.

However, in line with the gradual upward trend in the minimum wage over the years, the Minimum Wage Commission decided to increase the minimum wage for 2026 by 2.9% compared to 2025, specifically as follows:

• Hourly wage: 10,320 KRW per hour, based on a working schedule of 5 days per week and 8 working hours per day, equivalent to 40 hours per week.
• Monthly wage: 2,156,880 KRW (calculated on the basis of 209 standard working hours per month).

This decision was approved on 10 July 2025 at the 12th Plenary Session held at the Sejong Government Complex, Sejong City, and will take effect from 1 January 2026.

II. Actual wages classified by industry and occupation

The minimum wage is the lowest level of remuneration paid to employees upon the establishment of an employment contract, provided that the statutory requirements and internal company regulations are satisfied. However, in practice, actual wage levels vary among industries and occupations depending on the nature of the work and the level of knowledge and skills required. Although there is a certain classification of the lowest average wages across different sectors, such wages must not fall below the applicable statutory minimum wage. This situation reflects social demand, as recruitment needs and wage levels in certain industries tend to increase significantly, thereby exerting both positive and negative impacts on individuals’ career choices within society.

In particular, in the current era of digital transformation, industries related to technology and digital engineering are being strongly promoted by many countries. South Korea is no exception, as it has introduced various policies to attract skilled professionals, protect the rights and interests of workers in these sectors, and safeguard domestic investment in order to ensure the sustainable development of Korean enterprises. Consequently, the average wage levels in these industries benefit from comparatively favorable remuneration schemes, with salaries reaching higher levels.

In addition, occupations that are essential to society but currently face labor shortages have also received special attention from the State, such as pediatricians, pilots, doctors of traditional Korean medicine, university presidents, family physicians, financial managers, anesthesiologists, and dentists. In summary, medical doctors are among the highest-paid professions, particularly in light of recent strikes and workforce shortages caused by excessive workloads in Korean hospitals.

The fields of economics and law also offer highly attractive remuneration, as professionals in these sectors enjoy competitive salaries and benefits, including university professors, economic researchers, accountants, and lawyers.

III. Changes in the Minimum Wage and Their Impact on Foreign Workers

The minimum wage applies universally to all workers, regardless of whether they are domestic or foreign workers. Therefore, any increase in the minimum wage carries significant implications for foreign workers. In addition, it brings broader benefits to the Korean labor market and has the potential to stimulate domestic economic growth. As the minimum wage rises, the number of foreign professionals coming to Korea for employment is also expected to increase. Moreover, higher minimum wages encourage international students who are currently studying or have graduated in Korea to remain in the country for work, thereby supplementing the workforce in key industries.

For foreign workers, an increase in the minimum wage represents a valuable opportunity to improve their quality of life, as wages become more aligned with rising market prices. At the same time, it serves as an incentive for foreign workers to continue working in Korea and to feel more secure in settling down and establishing family lives. In the long term, this contributes to addressing Korea’s demographic challenges, including population aging and the sharp decline in birth rates observed in recent years.

IV. About NYLA – Korean Legal Office

■ NYLA – Your Trusted Legal Partner in Korea

At NYLA, we understand that the success of foreign businesses in Korea requires not only a solid business strategy but also reliable legal support. With a team of experienced Korean attorneys and legal professionals, NYLA provides tailored legal services for companies, investors, and individuals operating or planning to establish a presence in Korea.

We support our clients throughout the entire business journey with comprehensive services, including:

• Legal consultation on company establishment, taxation, and immigration;
• Advice on commercial real estate, franchising, and product distribution;
• Support in human resources, marketing, and business strategy.

In addition to legal advisory, NYLA also represents clients in civil litigation cases related to business, labor, marriage, family, and inheritance to ensure their rights and interests are fully protected.

■ Contact NYLA

If you’re a foreign business or individual looking for a reliable legal partner in Korea, NYLA is here to help. We are committed to delivering effective, practical, and personalized legal solutions for every client.

With a proven track record of assisting hundreds of international clients, our team is equipped to help you navigate complex legal challenges—whether it’s commercial disputes, contract issues, or foreign investment guidance.

Don’t let legal matters hold you back. Let NYLA be your trusted guide in the Korean market.

■ Get in touch with NYLA for expert legal support

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