Working in Korea? You must be enrolled in Korea's 4 major social insurances. Coverage differs by visa (E-9, H-2, E-7). Here's the complete 2026 guide.
4 Major Social Insurances by Visa Type (2026)
E-9 Visa (Employment Permit System)
Health Insurance ✅ / National Pension ✅ (reciprocity) / Employment Insurance ✅ / Industrial Accident ✅
Unemployment benefits available — apply before leaving Korea
Premiums: Health 3.545%+3.545%, Pension 4.5%+4.5%, Employment 0.9%+0.9%
H-2 Visa (Working Visit)
All 4 insurances mandatory ✅
Stay as workplace subscriber for lower premiums
E-7 Visa (Specific Activities)
All 4 insurances mandatory ✅
Pension lump-sum refund available within 3 years of departure (non-agreement countries)
Industrial Accident — Applies to Everyone
Covers ALL foreign workers regardless of visa status
Korea Workers' Compensation: 1588-0075
Unemployment Benefit Conditions
Insured 180+ days in past 18 months
Involuntary separation
Job searching
Apply before leaving Korea
Daily benefit: 60% of average wage, min. KRW 61,568
Pension Lump-Sum Refund
Apply within 3 years of departure
Available for workers from non-agreement countries
Employer Penalties
Health non-enrollment → up to KRW 5M fine
Industrial accident non-enrollment → full accident costs on employer
Must register within 15 days
Contacts
Health Insurance: 1577-1000
Pension: 1355
Workers' Compensation: 1588-0075
Labor Ministry (multilingual): 1644-0800
Korea's 4 major social insurances are your protection. Check your visa type and make sure you're properly enrolled.
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