Is this your situation?
- I want a part-time job, but I was told I'm too young.
- I was told to work until midnight. Is that OK?
- I'm not sure whether I really need my parents' consent form.
- I keep working without any breaks.
Rights you should know
You can work from age 15
As a rule, you can work if you are 15 or older. If you are 13 or 14, you need an employment permit issued by the Ministry of Employment and Labor.
Under 18, you need a guardian's consent and proof of age
The workplace must keep a consent form from your guardian (a parent with parental authority or a legal guardian) and a document that shows your age.
Under 18, your working hours are limited
If you are under 18, you can work up to 7 hours a day and 35 hours a week. Only if you agree can this be extended by up to 1 hour a day and 5 hours a week.
Night work is not allowed as a rule
If you are under 18, you cannot work between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m. the next day. An exception needs both your own consent and approval from the Ministry of Employment and Labor.
You have the right to breaks
When you work long hours, you must get a break in between. Being told "we're busy, so no breaks" is not acceptable.
Try this
- 1.
Prepare your documents before you start
If you are under 18, you need a guardian's consent form and a document that shows your family relationship. Preparing them in advance makes it less likely you will be turned away.
- 2.
Take a photo of your work schedule
If you work late at night or for very long hours, keep a record of your schedule and the time you actually finished.
- 3.
If the rules are not followed, call 1350 or 1388
You can get advice on work rules from the Ministry of Employment and Labor (1350) and youth counselling from the Youth Helpline (1388).
Please note
When you need an individual procedure, such as an employment permit or approval for night work, check the exact conditions with the Ministry of Employment and Labor (1350).
Checklists to use with this information
You might also want to know
- Work & Part-time Jobs
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.
- 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.
- 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.
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
WebsitePhone 1350
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
Youth Helpline 1388
Emergency lineArea: NationwideMental healthViolence & safety
How they can help
A helpline for young people aged 9-24 about any worry: home, violence, school, or the future. Your call is confidential.
- Languages
- Korean
- Opening hours
- 24 hours
WebsitePhone 1388
kyci.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?”
- “Is there anything I can do? What should I prepare?”
These are examples only. Please follow the organisation's own instructions.
Last reviewed 24 September 2026
Rainbow Youth Center for Migrant Youth
Area: NationwideEducation & schoolMental health
How they can help
A specialist centre supporting migrant-background youth with study, careers, Korean language and counselling.
- Languages
- Korean
- Opening hours
- Weekdays 09:00-18:00
WebsitePhone 02-733-7587
rainbowyouth.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
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. “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.
Sources for this page
Official sources (organisation websites, open in a new window)
- Ministry of Employment and Labor · Ministry of Employment and Labor website
Last reviewed 6 September 2026
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