I faced discrimination or bullying at school

Is this your situation?

You have the right not to be discriminated against

You should not be treated worse because of nationality, skin colour, language or where you come from. This applies inside school too.
The school has a duty to protect you

Schools must act to stop bullying. If your class teacher is hard to approach, you can speak to the counsellor or the head teacher.
You can file a complaint with the Human Rights Commission

You can file a discrimination complaint with the National Human Rights Commission (1331), including as a foreign national.
Speaking up is not telling tales

Asking for help is your right, and punishing you for asking for help is itself a problem.

1.
Write down what happened

Note the date, place, who was involved and what was said. Save any messages or photos.
2.
Tell a trusted adult first

Start with whoever feels easiest: your class teacher, the school counsellor, a parent, or a youth centre worker.
3.
Report school violence to 117

For violence or ongoing bullying you can call or text 117 to report and get advice.
4.
Call 1331 about discrimination

The National Human Rights Commission helpline (1331) will explain how to file a complaint.

Please note

Whether a specific incident counts as discrimination must be assessed by an official body such as the National Human Rights Commission.

Human Rights & Discrimination
I was discriminated against for being a foreigner
Being treated worse because of nationality, skin colour, language or religion is discrimination. You do not have to accept it, and you can file a complaint.
Reviewed 6 September 2026
School & Education
I want to enrol in a Korean school
Young people living in Korea can attend school regardless of nationality or visa status. How you enrol depends on your age and previous schooling.
Reviewed 6 September 2026
Human Rights & Discrimination
폭력이나 위협을 겪고 있어요
누구도 나를 때리거나 위협할 권리는 없습니다. 지금 위험하다면 112, 급하지 않다면 1388이나 1366에서 먼저 상담할 수 있습니다.
Reviewed 6 September 2026 한국어

Before you call, try saying this

If you are not sure how to start the call, use these sentences as a guide. They are only examples and do not replace advice from the organisation.

Tips for the call

If Korean is hard for you, ask: "Can I get advice in another language?"
Keep dates, places and things like text messages or contracts next to you so it is easier to explain.
You only need to give your name or contact details if the counsellor asks for them.

Follow the organisation's own guidance on how advice works. If you are in danger now, call 112 (police) or 119 (ambulance) straight away.

Describe your situation in your own words. Write in any language and the answer comes back in that language.