Do I really need a written work contract?

Is this your situation?

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.

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.
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.
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.
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.

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
Work & Part-time Jobs
How much should I be paid per hour? (Minimum wage)
Korea sets a legal minimum hourly wage. You cannot be paid less than it because you are young or not a Korean citizen.
Reviewed 6 September 2026
Work & Part-time Jobs
몇 살부터 일할 수 있나요? 청소년이 지켜야 할 규칙
청소년도 일할 수 있지만, 나이에 따라 필요한 서류와 일할 수 있는 시간이 정해져 있습니다. 이것은 청소년을 보호하기 위한 규칙입니다.
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.

1. “Hello. I'm calling because I'd like some advice about Work & Part-time Jobs.”
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.