LINKRIGHTS

Do I really need a written work contract?

Yes. A written contract is the strongest proof that protects you. Always get your own copy and keep it.

Source
Ministry of Employment and Labor See sources
Last reviewed
6 September 2026

Is this your situation?

  • I was told "we do not write contracts here".
  • I signed one but the boss kept it and I got nothing.
  • The pay and hours were only agreed verbally.
  • The contract is written in difficult Korean and I do not understand it.

Rights you should know

  • Getting a written contract is your right

    When you start work you should receive a written document stating your pay, hours, duties and rest days, and the employer must give you a copy.

  • Under 18 means extra paperwork

    If you are under 18, the workplace must keep a document proving your age and a consent form from your parent or guardian.

  • Unfair clauses may not be valid

    Terms that are worse than the legal minimum, such as "one day of pay is deducted if you are late", may not be enforceable. Ask before you sign.

Try this

  1. 1.

    Check four things before signing

    1) the hourly rate, 2) the pay date, 3) the start and finish times, 4) what work you will do. Make sure all four are written down.

  2. 2.

    Always take your own copy

    If you cannot get paper, photograph it, or ask for it by text or messenger so you have a record.

  3. 3.

    Do not sign what you do not understand

    You do not have to sign on the spot. It is fine to say "I will read it at home and bring it tomorrow".

  4. 4.

    Call 1350 if you are refused a contract

    Explain your situation to the Ministry of Employment and Labor helpline (1350) and they will tell you what to do next.

Please note

For a final decision on whether a contract term is lawful, check with the Ministry of Employment and Labor or a legal advice service.

Checklists to use with this information

You might also want to know

Where to get help

  • Ministry of Employment and Labor Helpline 1350

    Area: NationwideWork & wages

    How they can help

    Advice on unpaid wages, employment contracts and how to file a wage complaint.

    Languages
    Korean · English · Chinese · Vietnamese · other languages
    Opening hours
    Weekdays 09:00-18:00
    1350 Website

    moel.go.kr

    What to say once the call connects
    • “Hello. I'm calling because I'd like some advice about something.”
    • “Can I get advice in English, Chinese, Vietnamese?”
    • “Can young people get advice here too?”
    • “Is there anything I can do? What should I prepare?”

    These are examples only. Please follow the organisation's own instructions.

    Last reviewed 6 September 2026

  • Korea Legal Aid Corporation 132

    Area: NationwideLegal

    How they can help

    Free legal advice from a public body, with free litigation support if you meet the criteria.

    Languages
    Korean
    Opening hours
    Weekdays 09:00-18:00
    132 Website

    klac.or.kr

    What to say once the call connects
    • “Hello. I'm calling because I'd like some advice about something.”
    • “My Korean isn't very good. Can I still get advice?”
    • “Can young people get advice here too?”
    • “Is there anything I can do? What should I prepare?”

    These are examples only. Please follow the organisation's own instructions.

    Last reviewed 6 September 2026

  • Danuri Call Center 1577-1366

    Emergency line

    Area: NationwideFamilyViolence & safety

    How they can help

    A 24-hour multilingual call center for migrants, covering daily-life questions and violence support.

    Languages
    Korean · English · Chinese · Vietnamese · other languages
    Opening hours
    24 hours
    1577-1366 Website

    liveinkorea.kr

    What to say once the call connects
    • “Hello. I'm calling because I'd like some advice about something.”
    • “Can I get advice in English, Chinese, Vietnamese?”
    • “Can young people get advice here too?”
    • “Is there anything I can do? What should I prepare?”

    These are examples only. Please follow the organisation's own instructions.

    Last reviewed 6 September 2026

Choose your area
What to say once the call connects

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. 1. “Hello. I'm calling because I'd like some advice about Work & Part-time Jobs.”
  2. 2. “This is what happened. (Briefly say when, where and what happened.)”
  3. 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.

Sources for this page

Official sources (organisation websites, open in a new window)

Last reviewed 6 September 2026

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