Cash · Vouchers
Job-Seeker's Benefit (unemployment benefit, 구직급여/실업급여)
60% of average pre-retirement wage, KRW 66,048-68,100 per day (2026), paid for 120-270 days
See eligibility · how to apply · cautions
- Details
- For those who left their job on or after January 1, 2026: daily maximum KRW 68,100 and minimum KRW 66,048 (about KRW 1.98-2.04 million per month converted at 30 days). Benefit days (insured period under 1 year / 1-3 / 3-5 / 5-10 / 10+ years): under age 50: 120/150/180/210/240 days; age 50 or older and people with disabilities: 120/180/210/240/270 days. 7-day waiting period after eligibility is recognized, then unemployment recognition every 4 weeks. You cannot receive unemployment benefit and the Job-Seeking Promotion Allowance of Korea Unemployment Assistance (국민취업지원제도) Type I at the same time. You must report any work or income while receiving benefits (failure to report is improper receipt: repayment plus additional charges). The plan to pay for 6 days a week is at the announcement stage.
- Eligibility
- At least 180 days of insured unit period in the 18 months before leaving the job, involuntary separation (recommended resignation, contract expiration, layoff, etc.), willing and able to work and actively looking for work; new employment after age 65 excluded.
- Timing
- Apply without delay after leaving your job (year-round). The benefit period is 12 months from the day after you leave the job.
- How to apply
- Confirm your separation certificate has been processed, then register as a job seeker and take the online course on Work24 (고용24; work24.go.kr), visit the Employment Center (고용센터) for your area with ID to apply for recognition of eligibility, then unemployment recognition every 4 weeks (online possible). Inquiries 1350.
- Caution
- Once 12 months pass from the day after you leave the job, payment ends even if days remain. The later you apply, the fewer days you can receive. Voluntary separation can also be recognized if there is a justifiable reason (unpaid wages, workplace harassment, etc.).
Cash · Vouchers
Korea Unemployment Assistance (국민취업지원제도) Type I (Job-Seeking Promotion Allowance, 구직촉진수당)
KRW 600,000 per month x 6 months (up to KRW 3,600,000) plus KRW 100,000 per month for each dependent (up to KRW 400,000)
See eligibility · how to apply · cautions
- Details
- From January 1, 2026, the Job-Seeking Promotion Allowance rises from KRW 500,000 to KRW 600,000 per month (6 months, subject to carrying out your job activity plan). KRW 100,000 per month per dependent (aged 18 or under, 70 or older, people with severe disabilities, etc.), up to KRW 1,000,000 per month in total. Employment support services such as counseling, vocational training and work experience are provided together. Cannot be received at the same time as the Job-Seeker's Benefit. For youth (aged 15-34), the criteria are eased to income 120% and assets up to KRW 500,000,000. The Employment Success Allowance of up to KRW 1,500,000 is separate.
- Eligibility
- Ages 15-69, household median income at or below 60% (youth 120%), assets of KRW 400,000,000 or less (youth KRW 500,000,000), with work experience of 100 days or 800 hours or more in the last 2 years (those who do not meet this are selected competitively).
- Timing
- Apply year-round.
- How to apply
- Online at Work24 (고용24; work24.go.kr) or visit the Employment Center for your residence. Inquiries 1350. After applying: eligibility recognized, then first consultation, then drawing up a job activity plan.
- Caution
- You must carry out and document job-seeking activity at least twice a month (the allowance stops if not). 6 months from the date eligibility is recognized.
Care · Services · Discounts
National Tomorrow Learning Card (국민내일배움카드)
Training cost support of KRW 3,000,000-5,000,000 over 5 years (self-payment 0-55%), training incentive up to KRW 116,000 per month
See eligibility · how to apply · cautions
- Details
- KRW 3,000,000 is supported first for 5 years from the account issue date, with up to KRW 2,000,000 more depending on counseling, income and employment type (KRW 5,000,000 in total). Self-payment is 0-55% depending on the job category's employment rate, Earned Income Tax Credit receipt, the type of Korea Unemployment Assistance participation, etc. Training incentive: for courses of 140 hours or more with 80% or higher attendance, KRW 5,800 per day for 5 or more hours (up to KRW 116,000 per month); self-employed people up to KRW 360,000 per month. Excluded: civil servants and school staff, people aged 75 or older, workers under 45 at large companies earning KRW 3,000,000 or more per month, etc. Only job seekers without a stable job get the training incentive.
- Eligibility
- Any citizen who wants to work (including those currently employed). Excluded: civil servants and school staff, people aged 75 or older, high-paid workers at large companies, etc.
- Timing
- Issued year-round.
- How to apply
- Apply online at Work24 (고용24; work24.go.kr) or in person at an Employment Center, then choose a course on HRD-Net (hrd.go.kr). Inquiries 1350.
- Caution
- Usable for 5 years from the account issue date. Course enrollment follows each course's recruitment period.
Medical · Checkups
Voluntary Continued Enrollment and Dependent Status for Health Insurance After Job Loss (실직 시 건강보험 임의계속가입·피부양자)
Keep employee member status for up to 36 months after leaving (premium based on pre-retirement level) or register as a dependent
See eligibility · how to apply · cautions
- Details
- Voluntary continued enrollment: a total of 1 year or more of employee coverage in the 18 months before leaving, up to 36 months, with premiums based on the average monthly remuneration for the 12 months before leaving (paid entirely by yourself with no employer share). Compare with self-employed member premiums and choose. If you meet the dependent requirements (income and assets) of a family member, there is no premium. If your income falls sharply, you can apply for an adjustment of self-employed member premiums (check details). If you are in arrears on voluntary continued premiums, you lose eligibility.
- Eligibility
- Employee members who have left their jobs (requirements above). Dependents: those who meet asset and income criteria such as annual income of KRW 20,000,000 or less.
- Timing
- Within 2 months from the day after the first payment due date for self-employed member premiums after leaving (confirm with the Service).
- How to apply
- National Health Insurance Service branch, nhis.or.kr or 1577-1000.
- Caution
- If you miss the application deadline (usually 2 months), voluntary continued enrollment is not possible.
Care · Services · DiscountsOfficial confirmation needed
What to Check When Asked to Resign (권고사직)
To receive unemployment benefits, your separation must be processed as involuntary
See eligibility · how to apply · cautions
- Details
- Even if you write a resignation letter on a recommended-resignation form, it can be treated as involuntary separation if the employer recommended it. Check how the separation code (employer reasons vs. voluntary) was reported on your separation certificate. If it was reported with a voluntary code, file an objection with the Employment Center (고용센터). Keep evidence such as the recommended-resignation form, text messages and personnel notices. Forced resignation can be disputed as unfair dismissal.
- Eligibility
- Those scheduled to leave or who have left a job through recommended resignation, contract expiry, etc.
- Timing
- Immediately upon leaving the job.
- How to apply
- Check the separation certificate processing result on Work24 (고용24) and consult the Employment Center. To object, file a request for review.
- Caution
- Deadline for requesting review of an objection to the eligibility decision (90 days from the day you learned of the decision; confirm with the Employment Center).
Cash · Vouchers
Early Reemployment Allowance (조기재취업수당)
50% of the remaining Job-Seeker's Benefit paid as a reemployment bonus
See eligibility · how to apply · cautions
- Details
- If you are reemployed in a stable job (or start a business) with at least 1/2 of your benefit days remaining, you receive 50% of remaining benefit days x daily amount. Reform plan (announced September 2026): those whose reemployment pay is KRW 3,000,000 or more per month are excluded (lowered from the current KRW 5,740,000 per month; not confirmed). You must be receiving the Job-Seeker's Benefit and keep working for a set period after reemployment to be paid. Not available if you leave after a short stint. Improper receipt of the benefit related to a previous separation, etc. is excluded.
- Eligibility
- Those receiving the Job-Seeker's Benefit who are reemployed in a job they can keep for 12 months or more, or start a business, with at least 1/2 of benefit days remaining.
- Timing
- Apply after meeting the continued employment requirement following reemployment (check the exact timing with Work24 (고용24) or the Employment Center).
- How to apply
- Report your reemployment to the Employment Center (고용센터) with jurisdiction and apply for the Early Reemployment Allowance (see work24.go.kr). Inquiries 1350.
- Caution
- Report reemployment immediately upon starting work. The claim lapses if the claim deadline passes, so confirm the schedule with the Employment Center.
Care · Services · Discounts
Korea Unemployment Assistance (국민취업지원제도) Type II (Job Activity Expenses and Services)
No income support; job counseling, training, work experience and job activity expenses, Employment Success Allowance up to KRW 1,500,000
See eligibility · how to apply · cautions
- Details
- Type II provides employment support services and a participation allowance (job activity expenses, up to several hundred thousand won per month; needs confirmation) instead of the Job-Seeking Promotion Allowance. There are reports that the 2026 Type II Training Participation Support Allowance (KRW 284,000 per month) was abolished (official source not confirmed). After getting a job, Employment Success Allowance up to KRW 1,500,000. For people who are not eligible for Type I (youth regardless of income; middle-aged and older people at or below 100% of median income, etc.). Not available together with receiving the Job-Seeker's Benefit (check with Work24 (고용24)).
- Eligibility
- Job seekers aged 15-69 not covered by Type I: household median income at or below 100% (no income limit for youth aged 15-34), including specific groups (small self-employed, etc.).
- Timing
- Apply year-round.
- How to apply
- Work24 (고용24; work24.go.kr) or the Employment Center with jurisdiction. Inquiries 1350.
- Caution
- You must carry out your job activity plan during the participation period.
Cash · Vouchers
Korea Unemployment Assistance (국민취업지원제도) Employment Success Allowance (취업성공수당)
Up to KRW 1,500,000 when you stay employed for a set period after getting a job
See eligibility · how to apply · cautions
- Details
- Participants in Korea Unemployment Assistance who meet the tenure requirement, such as 6 months after getting a job, receive up to KRW 1,500,000 (paid in stages by length of service; check detailed stages with the Employment Center). A system carried over from the Employment Success Package. Requirements and payment stages may be reformed.
- Eligibility
- Participants in Korea Unemployment Assistance who meet the tenure condition after getting a job.
- Timing
- Apply once you meet the tenure requirement after getting a job.
- How to apply
- Apply at the Employment Center with jurisdiction or on Work24 (고용24).
- Caution
- Within the application deadline after meeting the tenure condition (check the exact deadline with the Employment Center).
Care · Services · DiscountsOfficial confirmation needed
K-Digital Training and Other Vocational Training (K-디지털 트레이닝 등 직업훈련; State-Funded)
State support for digital and advanced training in AI, big data, semiconductors, etc., using the National Tomorrow Learning Card
See eligibility · how to apply · cautions
- Details
- Take K-Digital Training, short-term and basic competency training courses with the National Tomorrow Learning Card (a large part of the training cost is state-funded). The training incentive of up to KRW 116,000 per month follows the National Tomorrow Learning Card rules. There are reports of a new 2026 overhaul (K-New Deal linked with large companies, etc.), but details are unconfirmed. There are also courses for general job seekers, not only youth. Be sure to check each course's recruitment and employment rate.
- Eligibility
- Holders of the National Tomorrow Learning Card who pass course selection.
- Timing
- Per-course recruitment announcements (ongoing and regular).
- How to apply
- Search courses on HRD-Net (hrd.go.kr) and consult Work24 (고용24) or an Employment Center.
- Caution
- Each course's recruitment closing date. You must meet attendance and course completion requirements to keep receiving support.
Cash · Vouchers
Insolvency Substitute Payment (도산대지급금, 체당금)
When a company becomes insolvent, the state pays the last 6 months of unpaid wages (from August 20, 2026), up to KRW 31,500,000 per person
See eligibility · how to apply · cautions
- Details
- Wage Claim Guarantee Act and decree amendments effective August 20, 2026: wages, closure allowance and maternity leave benefits increase from the last 3 months to the last 6 months, and the per-person limit from KRW 21,000,000 to KRW 31,500,000 (age-based caps apply). Retirement benefits remain at the last 3 years. Recognition of insolvency (confirmed by the court or Employment and Labor office) is required. For people who left workplaces recognized as insolvent on or after the effective date (check with the Corporation if the period straddles the effective date). Recovered from the employer through the right of reimbursement. Cannot be combined with the Simplified Substitute Payment (간이대지급금).
- Eligibility
- Workers who left a workplace that is insolvent (bankruptcy, rehabilitation, or recognized by the Employment and Labor office) (workplace requirements such as 6 months or more in operation).
- Timing
- Claim after insolvency is recognized (check the deadline, e.g., within 2 years from the date of recognition).
- How to apply
- Claim at a Korea Workers' Compensation and Welfare Service branch (comwel.or.kr); apply for confirmation of insolvency facts at an Employment and Labor office. Inquiries 1350.
- Caution
- Observe the claim deadline strictly (generally guided as within 2 years of leaving the job or insolvency recognition). Review takes time before payment.
Cash · Vouchers
Simplified Substitute Payment (간이대지급금: Unpaid Wages)
Up to KRW 10,000,000 combined for unpaid wages and severance (departed workers) / up to KRW 7,000,000 for current employees, paid on your behalf
See eligibility · how to apply · cautions
- Details
- Even if the company is not insolvent, the state pays first if you have a court judgment or a confirmation of unpaid wages (departed workers: up to KRW 10,000,000 combined wages and severance; low-income current employees: up to KRW 7,000,000). The August 20, 2026 amendment did not change the limit (reported). Cannot be combined with the Insolvency Substitute Payment (도산대지급금). Recovered from the employer. Current employees must meet requirements such as monthly income of 110% of the minimum wage or less.
- Eligibility
- Workers who have not received unpaid wages, etc. and hold a final judgment, unpaid wage confirmation, payment order, etc. Current employees have a separate income requirement.
- Timing
- Claim after the judgment, etc. (year-round).
- How to apply
- Claim at a Korea Workers' Compensation and Welfare Service branch (comwel.or.kr); file an unpaid wage complaint with the Ministry of Employment and Labor and have the confirmation issued.
- Caution
- Claim deadlines such as 2 years from the date of the judgment (1 year for the confirmation) (differs by source - check with the Corporation). Cannot claim once the limitation period is missed.
Care · Services · Discounts
Unpaid Wage Complaint and Report (임금체불 진정·신고)
Labor inspectors of the Ministry of Employment and Labor guide settlement of unpaid wages and handle prosecution (free)
See eligibility · how to apply · cautions
- Details
- 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). The statute of limitations on wage claims is 3 years (3 years for severance). Workplaces with fewer than 5 employees are also covered.
- Eligibility
- Workers who have not been paid wages, severance, etc. (whether currently employed or departed).
- Timing
- 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.
- Caution
- Beware of the 3-year limitation on wage claims (generally, file as soon as possible after leaving).
Care · Services · Discounts
Unemployment Credit (실업크레딧: 75% Support for National Pension Premiums)
75% support of National Pension premiums while receiving the Job-Seeker's Benefit (up to 12 months), with additional coverage period recognized
See eligibility · how to apply · cautions
- Details
- The government supports 75% of the pension premium based on recognized income (50% of average income in the 3 months before unemployment, up to KRW 700,000), with 25% paid by the individual. The supported period is added to the coverage period. Up to 12 months in a lifetime. Excluded if property tax base exceeds KRW 600,000,000 or financial and pension income exceeds KRW 16,800,000. Only Job-Seeker's Benefit recipients are eligible.
- Eligibility
- Job-Seeker's Benefit recipients aged 18-59 with at least 1 month of National Pension premium payment history who meet the asset and income requirements.
- Timing
- When applying for eligibility recognition or unemployment recognition.
- How to apply
- Employment Center or a National Pension Service branch. Inquiries 1355 and 1350.
- Caution
- Apply within the Job-Seeker's Benefit period. Check with the Service whether retroactive application is possible.
Care · Services · DiscountsOfficial confirmation needed
National Pension Payment Exception (국민연금 납부예외: When Unemployed)
Deferral of National Pension premiums during unemployment or no income (not counted in coverage period, can be paid back later)
See eligibility · how to apply · cautions
- Details
- If you lose workplace member status through leaving a job and switch to a self-employed member with no income, you can apply for a payment exception. The exception period is not counted in the coverage period and can be filled by later payment (추납). Choose between this and the Unemployment Credit. For Job-Seeker's Benefit recipients, the Unemployment Credit (75% support) may be more advantageous. Check asset and income criteria beyond some requirements.
- Eligibility
- Unemployed self-employed members aged 18-59 with no income.
- Timing
- When switching to a self-employed member after leaving a job.
- How to apply
- Apply at a National Pension Service branch, nps.or.kr or 1355.
- Caution
- Premium payments must resume after the payment exception ends. For later payment, check the application period.
Cash · VouchersOfficial confirmation needed
Unemployment Benefit for Artists and Platform/Labor-Service Workers (예술인·노무제공자 실업급여, 구직급여)
Job-Seeker's Benefit for 120-270 days when artists and labor-service workers (special-type workers, etc.) leave involuntarily
See eligibility · how to apply · cautions
- Details
- Premium payment periods total at least 12 months for labor-service workers (9 months or more guided for artists) in the 24 months before leaving, involuntary separation (contract end, income decline, etc.), benefit days 120-270 (up to 240 for those under 50). Daily amount is 60% of average remuneration (ceiling and floor apply; 2026 details unconfirmed). Cannot be received at the same time as the general Job-Seeker's Benefit. A history of employment insurance enrollment (premium payment) is required.
- Eligibility
- Artists and labor-service workers enrolled in employment insurance who separated involuntarily.
- Timing
- Apply without delay after leaving.
- How to apply
- Apply for eligibility recognition at Work24 (고용24; work24.go.kr) or an Employment Center.
- Caution
- Within 12 months from the day after leaving.
Cash · VouchersOfficial confirmation needed
Unemployment Benefit for Closure of Self-Employed Business with Employment Insurance (자영업자 고용보험 폐업 실업급여)
Job-Seeker's Benefit for 120-210 days (60% of the standard remuneration grade) when an insured self-employed person closes involuntarily
See eligibility · how to apply · cautions
- Details
- Choose from standard remuneration grades 1-7; 120-210 days by enrollment period (under 1 year to 5+ years). At least 12 months of insured unit period in the 24 months before closure, and involuntary closure (continued losses, sales decline, natural disaster, etc.) is required. 2026 standard remuneration amounts unconfirmed. Enrollment is voluntary, so you cannot claim without an enrollment history. There are limits on when you can enroll.
- Eligibility
- Small self-employed people enrolled in employment insurance who closed involuntarily (meeting the enrollment period requirement).
- Timing
- Apply without delay after closing the business.
- How to apply
- Work24 (고용24), Korea Workers' Compensation and Welfare Service (employment insurance enrollment) and the Employment Center with jurisdiction.
- Caution
- Within 12 months from the day after the closure date.
Cash · VouchersOfficial confirmation needed
Job-Seeker's Benefit for Daily Workers (일용근로자 구직급여)
Daily workers also receive the Job-Seeker's Benefit if they meet the working day criteria (ceiling and floor same as general)
See eligibility · how to apply · cautions
- Details
- At least 180 working days in the 18 months before leaving, and under 10 working days in the 1 month before the eligibility application date (for construction daily workers, no consecutive 14-day work record before the application date, etc.). Ceiling, floor and days follow the same system as the general Job-Seeker's Benefit. Work records require employer reporting, so if missing they must be corrected (work record confirmation report).
- Eligibility
- Daily workers covered by employment insurance who left involuntarily or have no work.
- Timing
- Apply after work ends.
- How to apply
- Register as a job seeker on Work24 (고용24), then visit the Employment Center with jurisdiction.
- Caution
- Within 12 months from the day after the date you left (last working day).
Care · Services · Discounts
Employment Welfare Plus Center (고용복지+센터: Integrated Employment and Welfare Services)
Consultation and linkage for unemployment benefits, job support and welfare services in one place
See eligibility · how to apply · cautions
- Details
- A one-stop counter combining Employment Center and local government welfare services. Consultation on unemployment benefits, Korea Unemployment Assistance (국민취업지원제도), vocational training and welfare linkage. No separate eligibility restrictions. Services provided differ by center.
- Eligibility
- Job seekers and citizens who need welfare consultation.
- Timing
- Weekday visits and phone consultation.
- How to apply
- Visit a nearby center, or call 1350 or use the center finder at work24.go.kr.
- Caution
- Not applicable.
Medical · CheckupsOfficial confirmation needed
Industrial Accident Insurance Medical Care Benefit (산재보험 요양급여)
Medical treatment costs covered with no out-of-pocket payment once a work-related accident is approved
See eligibility · how to apply · cautions
- Details
- Once a work-related accident (or illness) is approved, the Korea Workers' Compensation and Welfare Service (근로복지공단) pays the cost of medical care. Workers can file a claim directly, without the employer's seal. The key point is whether a causal link between the work and the accident is recognized. Disability benefits and others are separate after treatment ends.
- Eligibility
- Workers at workplaces covered by industrial accident insurance (those who suffer a work-related accident or illness).
- Timing
- Apply before or during treatment.
- How to apply
- Korea Workers' Compensation and Welfare Service branch office, comwel.or.kr, or 1588-0075.
- Caution
- Claims for medical care benefits expire after 3 years.
Cash · VouchersOfficial confirmation needed
Industrial Accident Insurance Sick Leave Benefit (산재보험 휴업급여)
70% of average wage paid for the period you could not work during treatment
See eligibility · how to apply · cautions
- Details
- For treatment lasting 4 or more days, 70% of the average daily wage is paid for the period you could not work (minimum compensation base amount applies; 2026 amount not confirmed). The employer pays the sick leave allowance for the first 3 days. Apply together with the medical care benefit. Reduced or suspended if you return to work.
- Eligibility
- Workers receiving treatment for an industrial accident.
- Timing
- Claim during the treatment period.
- How to apply
- Korea Workers' Compensation and Welfare Service (근로복지공단), comwel.or.kr.
- Caution
- The right to claim expires after 3 years.
Care · Services · Discounts
Unfair Dismissal Remedy Application (부당해고 구제신청)
Free remedy from the Labor Relations Commission (reinstatement and back pay for the dismissal period)
See eligibility · how to apply · cautions
- Details
- At workplaces with 5 or more employees, a dismissal without just cause or written notice is an unfair dismissal. If a remedy is granted, the commission orders reinstatement and payment of an amount equal to wages for the dismissal period. Also check dismissal notice (30 days in advance, or 30 days of ordinary wages). If a dismissal is ruled unfair, the reason for leaving may be corrected, which can affect unemployment benefits. Some dismissal-restriction rules do not apply to workplaces with fewer than 5 employees.
- Eligibility
- Workers who were dismissed unfairly.
- Timing
- Within 3 months of the dismissal date.
- How to apply
- Apply for a remedy to the competent Regional Labor Relations Commission (지방노동위원회, nlrc.go.kr). For labor office consultation, call 1350.
- Caution
- 3 months from the dismissal date (Labor Standards Act). Applications cannot be made after the deadline.
Cash · Vouchers
Job-Seeker's Benefit Reform Plan (구직급여 개편안: 6-Day Payment Week and Linked Ceiling), Announcement Stage
[Proposed] Payment basis changed from 7 days to 6 days a week, same total amount and days, monthly payment about 14% lower
See eligibility · how to apply · cautions
- Details
- Announced by the Ministry of Employment and Labor on September 1, 2026: payment for 6 days a week excluding unpaid holidays (total amount and 120-270 days maintained; monthly ceiling around KRW 2,040,000 to KRW 1,810,000 and floor around KRW 1,980,000 to KRW 1,700,000; the benefit period lengthens by about 3 weeks to 1.5 months), the ceiling linked to 103% of the floor, and the premium rate raised from 1.8% to 2.0% (from 2027). Requires a law amendment; legislation targeted within the year. For guidance only before confirmation. Current recipients and those who left jobs in 2026 remain under the existing rules (7 days a week, ceiling KRW 68,100 / floor KRW 66,048). Whether it will apply retroactively to existing recipients has not been announced.
- Eligibility
- All prospective applicants and recipients of the Job-Seeker's Benefit (if legislated, it may apply from new applications onward; unconfirmed).
- Timing
- Implemented after legislation (reported as a government target of 2027; not confirmed).
- How to apply
- No separate application. Check whether it is finalized via notices from the Ministry of Employment and Labor (moel.go.kr) and Work24 (고용24).
- Caution
- Subject to change depending on the legislative outcome. Please do not treat it as a finalized program.
Cash · VouchersOfficial confirmation needed
Extended Benefits (연장급여: Training, Individual and Special Extensions)
After the Job-Seeker's Benefit ends: up to 2 years during training / 60 days individual / 60 days special extension
See eligibility · how to apply · cautions
- Details
- Training extended benefit: while taking vocational competency development training, the Job-Seeker's Benefit is extended for the training period (up to 2 years). Individual extended benefit: up to 60 days for recipients who have particular difficulty finding work and are in financial hardship. Special extended benefit: up to 60 days when designated by the Minister of Employment and Labor, e.g., during a surge in unemployment. Requirements and payment rates differ by type of extension (individual extension pays part of the daily amount). Check detailed criteria with the Employment Center.
- Eligibility
- Recipients of the Job-Seeker's Benefit instructed by the head of the Employment Center to undergo training (training extension), those recognized as having difficulty finding work and in financial hardship (individual extension), and targets when the Minister designates (special extension).
- Timing
- Consult and apply at the Employment Center before your Job-Seeker's Benefit days end.
- How to apply
- Consult the Employment Center with jurisdiction, then receive a training instruction and apply for the extension; see Work24 (고용24; work24.go.kr).
- Caution
- Possible only within the benefit period (12 months after leaving the job). Cannot be applied for after it ends.
Cash · VouchersOfficial confirmation needed
Vocational Competency Development Allowance (직업능력개발수당: Training Allowance for Job-Seeker's Benefit Recipients)
Training allowance paid when taking training instructed by the Employment Center while receiving the Job-Seeker's Benefit (fixed daily amount)
See eligibility · how to apply · cautions
- Details
- While a Job-Seeker's Benefit recipient takes vocational competency development training instructed by the head of the Employment Center, the Vocational Competency Development Allowance is paid as an employment promotion allowance. The amount is announced every year (2026 amount unconfirmed). Check with the Employment Center whether it can be paid together with the training extended benefit. Separate from the training incentive of the National Tomorrow Learning Card (국민내일배움카드).
- Eligibility
- Recipients of the Job-Seeker's Benefit who have received a training instruction from the head of the Employment Center.
- Timing
- Consult the Employment Center before training starts.
- How to apply
- Take training after the Employment Center instruction, and apply at the time of unemployment recognition.
- Caution
- Limited to training within the Job-Seeker's Benefit period.
Cash · VouchersOfficial confirmation needed
Wide-Area Job Search Expenses and Relocation Expenses (광역구직활동비·이주비: Employment Promotion Allowance)
Actual-cost support for transportation to distant job searches and moving expenses
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- Details
- Wide-area job search expenses: transportation and lodging costs when job hunting in a distant area outside your area of residence. Relocation expenses: moving costs when you move your residence for work or training. Distance criteria and limits follow the official notice (unconfirmed). For Job-Seeker's Benefit recipients. Prior recognition by the Employment Center is required.
- Eligibility
- Recipients of the Job-Seeker's Benefit whose distant job search or relocation has been recognized by the head of the Employment Center.
- Timing
- Consult the Employment Center in advance before job searching or moving.
- How to apply
- Visit the Employment Center with jurisdiction and submit supporting documents. Inquiries 1350.
- Caution
- Payment may not be possible if you spend without prior recognition. Check the claim deadline with the Employment Center.
Loans · FinanceOfficial confirmation needed
Vocational Training Living Expense Loan (직업훈련 생계비 대부)
Low-interest loan for living expenses while attending training (limit and rate per Corporation notice)
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- Details
- Korea Workers' Compensation and Welfare Service (근로복지공단) vocational training living expense loan: living expense support while participating in vocational training. We could not confirm the 2026 limit, interest rate, and eligibility details — please check with the Korea Workers' Compensation and Welfare Service (comwel.or.kr). A low-interest loan that must be repaid. Separate from training incentives and the Job-Seeking Promotion Allowance.
- Eligibility
- Workers and job seekers taking state-funded vocational training, etc. (detailed requirements unconfirmed).
- Timing
- Year-round (presumed; needs confirmation).
- How to apply
- A Korea Workers' Compensation and Welfare Service branch or comwel.or.kr.
- Caution
- Unconfirmed.
Care · Services · DiscountsOfficial confirmation needed
Middle-Aged Tomorrow Center (중장년내일센터) – Re-employment Support for Mid-Life Workers
Free consultation on career planning, job placement and re-employment training for middle-aged and older job seekers
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- Details
- Provides career transition support, re-employment planning and job-matching services. Programs differ by center (detailed eligibility and programs not confirmed as of 2026). Free service. Can be used together with the National Employment Assistance Program (국민취업지원제도).
- Eligibility
- Retired middle-aged and older workers (generally age 40 or older; check with each center).
- Timing
- Year-round.
- How to apply
- Visit or call your nearest Middle-Aged Tomorrow Center (중장년내일센터), or see work24.go.kr.
- Caution
- Not applicable.
Care · Services · DiscountsOfficial confirmation needed
Saeil Center (새일센터) – Employment Support for Career-Interrupted Women
Employment support including career counseling, free education and training, and internship placement (check training allowance separately)
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- Details
- Career counseling, vocational training, internships and post-employment follow-up for women seeking work, including career-interrupted women. Training allowance amounts differ by course and year (not confirmed). Free. Separate from parental leave benefits.
- Eligibility
- Women whose economic activity was interrupted by marriage, childbirth or childcare, and other women seeking employment.
- Timing
- Year-round.
- How to apply
- Visit or call a Saeil Center nationwide (1544-1199), or use the Women's New Start Center portal (여성새로일하기센터, saeil.mogef.go.kr).
- Caution
- Recruitment period for each training course.