Working in Korea may be a challenge for foreigners who are unwilling to put in the hours and efforts that many Korean nationals are used to. Korea has one of the highest average work weeks and overtime hours in the world. With their rigorous work ethic, you can expect to go beyond your own standards to keep up. However, if you can be committed, the people around you will in return be committed to you.
Korean people are known for their intelligence and work ethic. It is no wonder why the country has one of the highest average annual work hours. If you’re planning to find employment in South Korea, you better be prepared to put in a lot of hours and effort. Bonuses are sometimes given, depending on the company.
Luckily, law changes have dropped the maximum workweek down to 40 hours and adopted a 5-day workweek system. Unless you are planning to work for a smaller company (with 5 regular employees or less), the new law applies to you as well. Although some contracts do allow for minor adjustments in hours, the average workweek in any 2-week period is not to exceed the maximum 40 hours. Also, workers may not be required to work more than 12 hours in any given day.
A Tourist Visa to Korea is generally FREE, but you still have to apply for it. You can get your visa in as short as 3 days or as long as a week.
Here are some tips on how to apply for a South Korea Visa here in Manila.
- No need for appointments, but visa application happens every day from 9.00am to 11.00am only. The Korean Embassy is located at 122 Upper McKinley Road, McKinley Town Center, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City 1634. This is along C5, right after Petron and Jollibee on the road going to McKinley Hill.
- Make sure you have the following complete visa requirements.
Visa Requirements for Employees:
Application Form
1pc. Passport Size Colored Picture
Passport Original (6 months valid)
Copy of Passport First Page
Original & Copy of Valid Visas and Arrival Stamps to OECD member countries for the past 5 years.
Employment Certificate Original
Personal Bank Certificate Original
ITR (Income Tax Return) or form 2316 copy
If personally invited by Korean National: Invitation Letter & Copy of Invitor's Passport
If invited by Company in Korea: Invitation Letter & Copy of Korean Company Business Permit
Visa Requirements for Businessmen:
Application Form
1pc. Passport Size Colored Picture
Passport Original (6 months valid)
Copy of Passport First Page
Original & Copy of Valid Visas and Arrival Stamps to OECD member countries for the past 5 years.
Business Registration from SEC or DTI (Copy)
Business Permit or Mayor's Permit (Copy)
Personal Bank Certificate Original
Individual ITR (Income Tax Return) or form 2316 copy
If personally invited by Korean National: Invitation Letter & Copy of Invitor's Passport
If invited by Company in Korea: Invitation Letter & Copy of Korean Company Business Permit
