Is dual nationality allowed?
Korea restricts dual nationality in principle, but exceptions exist.
The basic rule
Someone who naturalises or acquires nationality must renounce their foreign nationality within a set period, or in some cases pledge not to exercise it. With the pledge, both nationalities can be kept on condition the foreign one is not exercised in Korea.
The scope of exceptions and the procedure change with amendments to the Nationality Act. Always confirm your own case with 1345 or an immigration office.
Common situations
- Children with two nationalities from birth — there is a selection procedure up to a certain age. See child-nationality.
- A marriage migrant who naturalises — the non-exercise pledge may apply.
- Elderly overseas Koreans who recover nationality — separate rules may apply.
What to check
- Whether the other country allows dual nationality. Even if Korea permits it, you lose the other nationality if that country provides for automatic loss. Check with your embassy.
- Deadlines. Selection, renunciation and pledges all have deadlines, with consequences if missed.
- Military service for children — for sons, the timing of nationality selection is tied to military service. Check early.
Where to go
- 1345 Immigration Contact Centre (20 languages)
- HiKorea www.hikorea.go.kr
- The nationality section of your local immigration office
- Your country's embassy (its own rules)
Questions people ask
If I get Korean nationality, do I lose my original one automatically? It varies by country. Always check with your embassy. Some countries provide for automatic loss.
What is the non-exercise pledge? A pledge not to assert rights as a foreign national while in Korea. Eligibility is defined.
My child has two nationalities. When must they choose? Deadlines differ by age and, for sons, military service. Give your child's date of birth to 1345 and confirm.
What if I miss the deadline? Korean nationality may be lost or restricted. Even if you are late, contact 1345 immediately.
Take care
Nationality deadlines are hard to undo once missed. Put your child's nationality selection deadline in the calendar well in advance. Rather than internet rumour, confirm with both 1345 and your embassy.
Related
naturalization-overview · nationality-loss · child-nationality · embassy-contacts
Source
Nationality and Integration Policy Division, Ministry of Justice www.hikorea.go.kr / As of 2026-08