Am I allowed to do a part-time job as an international student in South Korea?
12 Oct 2026 · Answered by Tamanna Jaisingh · 1 min read
Quick Answer
verified
Yes, international students can work part-time in South Korea, but only within strict legal rules. You must obtain approval from your university international office and the Korea Immigration Service before starting. Taking a job without a permit is unlawful and may bring heavy fines or deportation.
Yes, you can work part-time in South Korea, but only after getting official permission. Starting a job without it can lead to serious trouble.
Permission You Need Before Working
| Step | What to do |
|---|---|
| University approval | Get approval from your university international office |
| Immigration approval | Get permission from the Korea Immigration Service |
| Start work | Only after both approvals are in place |
What Happens If You Skip Permission
- Working without a permit is illegal.
- It can lead to heavy fines.
- It can also lead to deportation.
My Advice
Contact your international office soon after arriving and ask exactly what documents they need. Do not accept even a small cash job before the permit is cleared.
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