Applying for refugee status

Refugee applications are long and turn on written submissions. Don't do it alone.

Where to apply

• Your local immigration office — if you are already in Korea.
• At entry inspection (airport or port) — you can apply on arrival.

The broad flow

1. Submit the application, setting out your grounds. This document matters enormously.
2. Interview — describe your grounds in detail. You can request an interpreter.
3. Assessment — the result takes time.
4. Notification — recognition, humanitarian stay, or refusal.
5. If refused, objection and administrative litigation are available. There are deadlines.

Your status and permitted activities during the assessment are defined. Always confirm with 1345 and your immigration office.

What to prepare

• A statement setting out your experience chronologically
• Supporting material — news articles, medical certificates, photos, testimony, country information
• Passport and identity documents
• Interpretation

You can apply even with limited evidence, but your account must be consistent and specific.

Always get help

Refugee support and public interest legal organisations help with the procedure and the written submission. A submission written alone and one prepared with expert help can produce very different outcomes.

• Ask 1345 to point you to support organisations.
• Consult 132 (Legal Aid) as well.
• Information from international bodies such as UNHCR Korea can also help.

Where to go

• The refugee section of your immigration office
• 1345 Immigration Contact Centre (20 languages)
• 132 Korea Legal Aid Corporation
• Refugee support and public interest legal organisations
• 1577-1366 interpretation

Questions people ask

Can I work once I apply? Permission has defined requirements and timing. Working without it is a violation. Always confirm with 1345 and your immigration office.

Does changing my account hurt my case? Consistency matters greatly. If your memory is uncertain, saying "I don't remember precisely" is better. Tell the truth.

I need an interpreter. You have the right to request interpretation. Ask before the interview.

The assessment is taking far too long. Maintain your status and track deadlines throughout. Stay in contact with your support organisation.

Take care

Never use a "successful case" statement written by a broker. An account that differs from the truth leads not only to refusal but to criminal prosecution. Setting out your real experience with a support organisation is the only safe route.

Related

humanitarian-stay · asylum-support · study-abroad-agent-scam · legal-aid

Source

Korea Immigration Service, Ministry of Justice www.hikorea.go.kr / As of 2026-08