Make a formal demand

Demanding in writing is itself evidence. If you only speak on the phone, it later becomes "I never said that."

How to send it

Keep it short and polite, with the date and amount. You don't need to be angry — the point is to leave a record.

"Hello, this is ___. I have not yet received my wages of ___ for work from ___ to ___. Please let me know when you can pay."

If you don't know the exact figure, "wages for the month of ___" is enough.

If there is no reply, or they refuse

• Send once more and keep that record — it shows you asked twice.
• If you get threats or abuse, save those too. That is a separate offence.
• Don't keep waiting — move to the next step, the labour office complaint.

What not to do

• Don't write a resignation letter just because they say "quit and I'll pay." Take advice first.
• Don't sign a settlement cutting the amount on the spot.
• Never hand over your passport or bankbook. No reason makes that legitimate.

Source

Ministry of Employment and Labour www.moel.go.kr / As of 2026-08