Is this your situation?
- I need to get paid for my part-time job, but I don't have a bank account.
- I went to the bank but was sent away because I didn't have enough documents.
- I want to get a mobile phone line but don't know how.
- Someone asked me to open a bank account in my name for them.
Rights you should know
Foreigners can open bank accounts too
If you have a residence card, you can open an account at a bank. The documents each bank asks for may differ slightly.
Minors may need a guardian's consent
If you are under 19, the bank may ask for a guardian's consent form or a document that shows your family relationship. It helps to prepare these before you go.
Lending your name is very dangerous
If you let someone else use a bank account or phone in your name, it can be used for crime and you may be held responsible. Never lend them, for any reason.
Try this
- 1.
Take your documents to the bank
Bring your residence card (or passport) and, if needed, a certificate of enrolment or a guardian's consent form. Calling the bank first to ask which documents you need can save you a wasted trip.
- 2.
Compare budget phone plans
If you want to save on phone bills, compare budget (MVNO) plans. To open a line you usually need an ID and a bank account or card.
- 3.
Ask for interpretation if the explanation is hard to follow
You can ask the Danuri Call Center (1577-1366) or your local family center for interpretation support.
- 4.
Refuse offers to borrow your name, and get advice
If someone offers you money to borrow your bank account or SIM card, do not agree. Talk to the Youth Helpline 1388 or the police (112).
Please note
Required documents and conditions differ by bank and phone company. Check with the branch or store before you visit.
You might also want to know
- Daily Life in Korea
I'm looking for a place to live, or I have a problem with my deposit
Renting a home involves a lot of money. Always sign a written contract, keep a copy, and report your move-in after you move.
Your residence status (visa type) sets out what you are allowed to do in Korea. Knowing your status exactly is the first step for every procedure.
- 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
Local Family Center (Multicultural Family Support)
Area: NationwideLocal centresFamilyEducation & school
How they can help
Local centres offering Korean lessons, interpretation and study support. On the Family Center portal (familynet), choose your city or province to see nearby centres and their contact details.
Find one near youPhone 1577-9337
familynet.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 16 September 2026
Danuri Call Center 1577-1366
Emergency lineArea: 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
WebsitePhone 1577-1366
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
Government Complaints Hotline 110 (e-People)
Area: Nationwide
How they can help
A single government window that tells you which office handles your issue, and lets you file a complaint.
- Languages
- Korean · English
- Opening hours
- Weekdays 09:00-18:00
WebsitePhone 110
epeople.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?”
- “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
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 Daily Life in Korea.”
- 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 Gender Equality and Family · Danuri portal
Last reviewed 6 September 2026
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