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Unpaid Wage Complaint and Report (임금체불 진정·신고): How to Apply, Amount & Eligibility (2026)

Labor inspectors of the Ministry of Employment and Labor guide settlement of unpaid wages and handle prosecution (free)

This page is a translation of the Korean original and is for reference only. The official Korean guidance is the authoritative source for amounts and conditions, so be sure to confirm on the official website before applying. View Korean original (한국어)

Benefit: If wages or severance are unpaid, file a complaint or accusation with the regional Employment and Labor office. In principle, wages and severance must be paid within 14 days of leaving (Labor Standards Act). You can obtain an unpaid wage confirmation and then claim the Simplified Substitute Payment (간이대지급금).
Who is eligible: Workers who have not been paid wages, severance, etc. (whether currently employed or departed).
When to apply: Year-round.
How to apply: Online at the Ministry of Employment and Labor's labor portal (labor.moel.go.kr) or in person at the Labor office with jurisdiction. Inquiries 1350.
Important notes: Beware of the 3-year limitation on wage claims (generally, file as soon as possible after leaving).
Note: The statute of limitations on wage claims is 3 years (3 years for severance). Workplaces with fewer than 5 employees are also covered.

Go to the official guide →

Based on official sources as of 2026년 10월. Amounts and requirements may change, so please confirm with the official guide before applying.

Frequently asked questions

Unpaid Wage Complaint and Report (임금체불 진정·신고): who can receive it?

Workers who have not been paid wages, severance, etc. (whether currently employed or departed).

Unpaid Wage Complaint and Report (임금체불 진정·신고): how do I apply?

Online at the Ministry of Employment and Labor's labor portal (labor.moel.go.kr) or in person at the Labor office with jurisdiction. Inquiries 1350.

Unpaid Wage Complaint and Report (임금체불 진정·신고): how much will I receive?

If wages or severance are unpaid, file a complaint or accusation with the regional Employment and Labor office. In principle, wages and severance must be paid within 14 days of leaving (Labor Standards Act). You can obtain an unpaid wage confirmation and then claim the Simplified Substitute Payment (간이대지급금).

Unpaid Wage Complaint and Report (임금체불 진정·신고): when can I apply?

Year-round.