Working in Korea: visa limits, permitted activity, and job caution points

A practical warning guide for foreign residents checking whether a job or side work is allowed.

In Korea, permission to work depends on your status of stay. Some visas allow broad employment, some allow only specific activities, and others require permission before part-time or side work. Before accepting work, confirm whether the job matches your visa conditions. Check employer registration, contract terms, pay, working hours, insurance, and whether immigration permission is required. Students and dependents should be especially careful. Unauthorized work can affect visa extensions, status changes, and future applications. If a recruiter says permission is not necessary, verify through official guidance before starting.