My employer didn't pay my wages or severance. Where do I get help?

File a wage claim (petition) with the Ministry of Employment and Labor. It's free, foreigners can file, and you can do it while still working there or after you leave. What to do 1. Collect evidence: contract, pay slips, bank records of pay, work schedules and messages with your employer. 2. File online on the Labor Portal or in person at the labor office that covers your workplace. A labor inspector investigates and orders the employer to pay. 3. If the employer still doesn't pay, ask the labor office about next steps, such as a government substitute payment or a civil lawsuit. 4. For free legal help, call the Korea Legal Aid Corporation (132); eligibility depends on your income. 5. E-9 and H-2 workers may also be able to claim from their employer's wage guarantee insurance; ask 1577-0071. Good to know • After you leave, all wages and severance are due within 14 days unless you both agree to extend it. Severance is owed if you worked 1 year or more, averaging 15+ hours a week. • Labor inspectors don't have to report undocumented workers who come forward about unpaid wages. This lifts only the inspector's duty to notify; it doesn't change your status or stop immigration enforcement. • Phone help: 1350 (Ministry of Labor), 1345 (many languages), 1577-0071 (Employment Permit System workers). Official sources • Labor Portal – wage claim: https://labor.moel.go.kr/minwonApply/minwonFormat.do?searchVal=SN001 • Easy Law – Wage Arrears: https://www.easylaw.go.kr/CSM/SubCnpclsCmd.laf?csmSeq=2800&ccfNo=1&cciNo=1&cnpClsNo=1 This is general information, not legal advice. Checked by the Verihood team on October 3, 2026. Rules and fees change, so confirm with the official source before you act.