I was discriminated against for being a foreigner

Is this your situation?

You have the right not to be discriminated against

Treating someone worse without reasonable grounds because of nationality, race, skin colour, language or religion may amount to discrimination.
Non-citizens can file complaints

You can file a complaint with the National Human Rights Commission regardless of nationality, and it is free.
You must not be punished for complaining

Retaliating against someone for reporting discrimination can itself be a problem.
You do not have to decide alone

You can ask for advice even when you are unsure. Asking is not the same as filing, so there is no pressure.

1.
Write down what happened straight away

Record the date, place, who was involved and the exact words used. Keep photos, recordings, messages or screenshots.
2.
Call the Human Rights Commission on 1331

Explain the situation and they will tell you whether it can be filed and how to submit it.
3.
You can also file online

See humanrights.go.kr for how to submit a complaint. Ask a support organisation if the form is difficult.
4.
Ask for interpretation if language is a barrier

The Danuri Call Center (1577-1366) offers advice in several languages.

Please note

Whether an act legally counts as discrimination is decided by official bodies such as the National Human Rights Commission.

School & Education
I faced discrimination or bullying at school
Being teased or treated worse because of your country, skin colour or accent is discrimination. You do not have to put up with it.
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
Work & Part-time Jobs
I worked but was not paid
You must be paid for the work you did. This is true even if you are young, not a Korean citizen, or never signed a contract.
Reviewed 6 September 2026

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.

1. “Hello. I'm calling because I'd like some advice about Human Rights & Discrimination.”
2. “This is what happened. (Briefly say when, where and what happened.)”
3. “Is there anything I can do? What should I prepare?”

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.