If the period has already passed

Even past the date there are options. But do not decide alone.

The most important thing: get advice first

Once the period has lapsed, what you do next changes the outcome a great deal. Before acting on your own judgment, get advice.

• 1345 — you can ask anonymously, in 20 languages.
• Migrant support organisations — they handle many similar cases and give practical advice.
• Korea Legal Aid Corporation, 132 — free legal advice.

Ask at more than one place.

Circumstances that can be taken into account

When someone's situation is examined, factors like these may be considered.

• Needing medical treatment.
• An unpaid wages complaint or industrial accident claim in progress.
• Ongoing litigation.
• Being the victim of a crime.
• Family circumstances, such as raising children.

If any of these apply, say so in your consultation. They cannot be considered if unsaid.

Reporting your own departure

There is a scheme for reporting your own departure, and in some cases the burden can be reduced. But the requirements and effects differ by situation, and policy changes.

Always take advice before reporting. Take the steps in the wrong order and it cannot be undone.

If you have a matter in progress

If unpaid wages or an injury claim is at stake, it is sometimes better to settle that first. Decide the order in your consultation. See also the unpaid wages and work injury scenarios here.

Source

Ministry of Justice HiKorea www.hikorea.go.kr / As of 2026-08