If you are a foreign worker in South Korea and find yourself unemployed, you may be eligible to receive unemployment benefits. This guide will help you understand the process and requirements to apply for benefits under the Korean Employment Insurance system.
Eligibility for Unemployment Benefits
To qualify for unemployment benefits in South Korea, you must meet the following conditions:
- Employment Insurance Subscription: You must have been enrolled in the Employment Insurance (EI) scheme for at least 180 days within the last 18 months before losing your job.
- Involuntary Unemployment: You must have lost your job due to reasons beyond your control, such as contract expiration or company downsizing. Voluntary resignation usually disqualifies you unless you had a valid reason (e.g., workplace harassment, unpaid wages, or company closure).
- Willingness and Ability to Work: You must be actively looking for a new job and be available for employment.
Required Documents
When applying for unemployment benefits, you will need to prepare the following:
- Alien Registration Card (ARC)
- Passport
- Employment Insurance subscription certificate (고용보험 가입내역서)
- Termination of Employment Certificate (퇴직증명서) or a contract showing that your employment has ended
- Bank account information (for benefit payments)
- Job-seeking activity records (after submitting the application)
How to Apply for Unemployment Benefits
- Visit the Nearest Employment Center (고용센터)
- Locate your nearest Employment Center (Hi Korea website provides information in English: www.hikorea.go.kr).
- Bring all the required documents and register as a job seeker.
- File an Application for Unemployment Benefits
- Submit your unemployment benefits application at the Employment Center.
- Attend an initial consultation session where an officer will assess your eligibility.
- Attend Job-Seeking Training
- You must attend mandatory job-seeking training sessions and job-searching activities as part of the requirements to continue receiving benefits.
- Submit Regular Job Search Reports
- You need to report your job search activities regularly. This can be done online or in person at the Employment Center.
- Failure to actively seek employment may result in suspension of benefits.
Amount and Duration of Unemployment Benefits
- Benefit Amount: Unemployment benefits are generally 60% of your average daily wage (based on the last 3 months of employment), up to a maximum limit set by the government.
- Benefit Duration: The period you receive benefits depends on your age and employment history. Typically, it ranges from 90 to 240 days.
Additional Support for Foreign Workers
- Job Training Programs: The Korean government provides vocational training programs to help unemployed workers improve their skills and find new jobs.
- Job Matching Services: Employment Centers offer job-matching services to connect job seekers with potential employers.
- Language Support: Some Employment Centers provide support in English, Chinese, and other languages.
Important Notes
- If you voluntarily resign without a justifiable reason, you may not be eligible for benefits.
- If your visa status does not allow you to stay in Korea after job termination, you may not be able to claim benefits.
- If you plan to leave Korea, you must inform the Employment Center.
For further assistance, you can contact the Employment Center (고용센터) or visit the Hi Korea website for foreigner employment information.
By following these steps, foreign workers in South Korea can successfully apply for unemployment benefits and receive support while searching for a new job.