10 Essential Free Support and Legal Assistance Services for International Students in South Korea
Your Complete Guide to Visa Assistance, Legal Protection, Housing Disputes, Part-Time Job Problems, Mental Health, and Emergency Services
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Studying in South Korea can be one of the most exciting experiences of your life. From world-class universities and advanced technology to vibrant cities and unique cultural traditions, Korea offers international students countless opportunities for personal and academic growth.
However, living in a foreign country also comes with challenges.
What happens if your landlord refuses to return your housing deposit? Where should you go if your part-time employer does not pay your salary? Who can help you with a visa problem, discrimination, or a medical emergency?
Many international students are unaware that South Korea has government-supported consultation services, legal assistance programs, university counseling centers, and multilingual helplines.
The good news is that you do not always need to hire an expensive lawyer or speak fluent Korean to get help.
This guide introduces 10 essential services every international student should know, including how to access them, what problems they handle, and practical advice for protecting your rights.
Updated: October 2026. Information and service eligibility may change, so always verify important details with the relevant organization.
Quick Reference: 10 Essential Support Services
| No. | Service | Main purpose | Contact or access | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Immigration Contact Center | Visas and residence | 1345 | Consultation free; call charges may apply |
| 2 | Village Lawyers for Foreigners | Legal advice | Through 1345 | Free consultation |
| 3 | University International Office | Student support | Your university | Generally free |
| 4 | Housing Dispute Support | Rental deposits and contracts | HUG, legal aid services | Depends on service |
| 5 | Ministry of Employment and Labor | Unpaid wages and workplace rights | 1350 | Consultation free; call charges apply |
| 6 | Multilingual Interpretation | Communication with public institutions | 1345 / 1577-1366 | Eligible services free |
| 7 | University Counseling Center | Emotional and psychological support | Your university | Often free for enrolled students |
| 8 | Police and Emergency Services | Fraud, theft, medical emergencies | 112 / 119 | Emergency calls free |
| 9 | National Human Rights Commission | Discrimination and human rights | 1331 | Free consultation |
| 10 | Crisis and Multicultural Support | Violence, safety, urgent assistance | 1577-1366 | Free hotline |
Not every service is open to every international student, and free consultation does not necessarily cover legal representation, medical treatment, or other related expenses.
1. Immigration Contact Center (1345): Your First Stop for Visa Problems
Visa and immigration regulations are among the most important responsibilities international students must understand.
Even a small misunderstanding about your permitted activities or period of stay can create serious difficulties.
Fortunately, South Korea operates the Immigration Contact Center, a government service that provides immigration and everyday-life information in multiple languages.
What can you ask about?
- D-2 student visa requirements and extensions
- D-4 language-training visa regulations
- Residence card registration and changes of address
- Permission for part-time employment
- Changes of university or academic status
- Preparing for a change of residence status after graduation
- Immigration office appointments and documentation
Key information
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Service | Immigration Contact Center |
| Telephone | 1345 |
| Languages | 20 languages, including English, Chinese, Vietnamese, Japanese, and others |
| Operating hours | Weekdays, 9:00 AM–10:00 PM |
| Evening service | Korean, English, and Chinese after 6:00 PM |
| Official website | Korea Immigration Service |
How to use the service
- Dial 1345 from a Korean telephone number.
- Follow the automated voice instructions.
- Select your preferred language.
- Explain your visa or residence problem.
- Write down the instructions and documents the counselor recommends.
For example, you might say:
“Hello, I am an international student studying in Korea on a D-2 visa. I would like to know whether I need permission before starting a part-time job.”
Important tip: Never assume that permission granted to another student automatically applies to you. Immigration conditions may differ according to visa type, academic program, Korean-language proficiency, and individual circumstances.
Official information:
법무부
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2. Free Legal Advice: Village Lawyers for Foreigners
Many international students hesitate to seek legal assistance because they believe a lawyer will be too expensive or that legal advice is only available in Korean.
South Korea offers a program called the Village Lawyers for Foreigners Program (외국인을 위한 마을변호사 제도).
This program helps foreigners obtain free legal consultations, including interpretation assistance when needed.
What types of problems can you discuss?
| Legal problem | Example |
|---|---|
| Rental agreements | Landlord refuses to return a deposit |
| Employment disputes | Employer withholds salary |
| Financial disputes | Someone borrowed money and refuses repayment |
| Civil disputes | Disagreement over compensation for damages |
| Crime-related issues | A student becomes the victim of fraud |
| Personal legal matters | Questions about legal rights and responsibilities |
How to request assistance
- Call 1345.
- Select your preferred language.
- Ask for the Village Lawyers for Foreigners Program.
- Explain the problem and request a consultation.
- Follow the counselor’s guidance to connect with a lawyer, potentially through a three-way interpreted call.
All foreign residents can request consultation through this program regardless of residence status.
Cost: Legal consultation through the program is free. However, representation in court or other legal work is not automatically included.
Official information:
법무부
3. University International Offices: Support You May Be Overlooking
Your university’s International Office is often the easiest place to find help.
Depending on the institution, it may be called the Office of International Affairs, International Student Support Center, Global Services Center, or International Student Affairs Office.
These offices are familiar with the challenges international students experience.
Services you may be able to receive
| Type of support | Possible assistance |
|---|---|
| Academic | Course registration and academic policies |
| Immigration | Visa documentation and university-issued certificates |
| Housing | Dormitory applications and accommodation information |
| Scholarships | Guidance on eligibility and applications |
| Health | Referrals to medical services or counseling centers |
| Language | Korean-language programs and communication assistance |
| Campus life | Student clubs, orientation, and cultural activities |
Practical steps
First, visit your university’s official website and search for “International Office” or “International Student Support.”
Next, find the contact email address and ask whether English-language consultation is available.
For complex problems, request an appointment and bring your student ID and relevant documents.
You can use this email template:
Subject: Request for International Student Support Consultation
Dear International Student Support Team,
I am currently enrolled at your university and would like to request assistance regarding a personal issue affecting my studies in Korea.
Could you please let me know whether I can schedule a consultation in English?
Thank you for your support.
Best regards, [Your Name]
Practical tip: Contact the International Office as soon as a problem occurs, particularly if the issue may affect your academic enrollment, housing, or immigration status.
4. Housing and Rental Deposit Disputes: Protect Your Money
Housing problems can be stressful and financially damaging.
International students frequently rent university dormitories, one-room apartments, shared housing, or studio apartments.
In private rental agreements, students may pay a refundable security deposit called bojeunggeum (보증금).
Some disputes arise when landlords delay or refuse to return deposits, request unexpected fees, or disagree about property damage.
Common housing problems
| Problem | Recommended first action |
|---|---|
| Deposit not returned | Request an explanation in writing |
| Unexpected repair charges | Review the rental contract and photographs |
| Sudden rent increase | Check contractual and legal conditions |
| Misleading property information | Preserve advertisements and communications |
| Suspected rental fraud | Seek legal assistance promptly |
Where to get help
South Korea has housing lease dispute mediation procedures that address disputes involving deposits, rental payments, lease periods, repairs, and related matters.
The Housing & Urban Guarantee Corporation (HUG) also provides information about housing fraud assistance and relevant support organizations.
Useful websites:
- Housing & Urban Guarantee Corporation (HUG)
- Korea Legal Aid Corporation
- Korea Immigration Service — Legal Counseling
Documents to prepare
Keep copies of your signed lease, proof of deposit payment, bank-transfer records, messages with the landlord, and photographs of the property.
Important: Do not sign a document stating that your deposit has been fully returned if you have not actually received the money.
Mediation procedures may involve application fees or eligibility conditions. Free initial legal consultation does not mean every stage of a housing dispute is free.
Housing dispute support information:
한국농업정책기획원
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5. Unpaid Wages and Part-Time Job Problems: Know Your Employment Rights
Part-time employment is a valuable opportunity to earn money, learn Korean, and develop professional skills.
However, some students experience unpaid wages, excessive working hours, unclear contracts, or unsafe conditions.
International students should understand both Korean labor protections and immigration restrictions relating to employment.
Common workplace problems
| Situation | Recommended action |
|---|---|
| Employer refuses to pay wages | Preserve work records and request labor consultation |
| Salary differs from the agreement | Review the employment contract and payment statements |
| Unsafe working conditions | Seek advice from the labor authorities |
| Employer pressures you to work unauthorized hours | Check immigration permission requirements |
| Unfair dismissal | Ask about applicable labor protections and remedies |
Where to get help
The Ministry of Employment and Labor operates a national employment and labor counseling service.
Ministry of Employment and Labor
1350
Weekdays, 9:00 AM–6:00 PM. Call charges apply.
Official portal: labor.moel.go.kr
English and Chinese telephone consultation options are listed by the Ministry.
What to prepare before contacting the authorities
- Your employment contract, if available
- A record of dates and hours worked
- Salary deposits or payslips
- Messages with your employer
- The employer’s company name and contact details
For reference, the statutory minimum hourly wage in South Korea for 2026 is KRW 10,320, subject to the applicable legal rules. Some additional wage entitlements depend on working conditions and statutory eligibility.
If you believe you have worked without proper immigration permission, obtain appropriate advice about both your labor rights and your immigration situation.
Official information:
고용노동부 고객센터
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6. Free Multilingual Interpretation: Get Help Even If You Cannot Speak Korean
One of the biggest challenges of living in Korea is communicating in unfamiliar situations.
You might need to speak with a government official, explain a legal issue, or discuss an important administrative problem.
Fortunately, several public services offer language assistance.
Multilingual assistance services
| Organization | Available assistance | Contact |
|---|---|---|
| Immigration Contact Center | Immigration guidance and interpretation with eligible public institutions | 1345 |
| Danuri Call Center | Multilingual counseling and interpretation for eligible users | 1577-1366 |
| University International Office | Campus-related language and administrative support | University contact |
| Local foreign resident centers | Local advice and language support where available | Varies by city |
The Immigration Contact Center provides a three-way interpretation service in specified administrative and legal consultation settings.
Danuri operates 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, offering services in 13 languages, including Korean. Its services primarily support migrants, multicultural families, and people requiring related assistance. Eligibility and availability can depend on the situation.
법무부
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Useful Korean phrases
| English | Korean | Approximate pronunciation |
|---|---|---|
| I need help. | 도움이 필요합니다. | Doumi piryohamnida |
| I am an international student. | 저는 외국인 유학생입니다. | Jeoneun oegugin yuhaksaengimnida |
| Can you speak English? | 영어로 말씀하실 수 있나요? | Yeongeoro malsseumhasil su innayo |
| I need an interpreter. | 통역이 필요합니다. | Tongyeogi piryohamnida |
| Please speak slowly. | 천천히 말씀해 주세요. | Cheoncheonhi malsseumhae juseyo |
Practical tip: Save a short Korean explanation of your situation on your phone before visiting a public office. This can help staff understand your needs quickly.
7. University Mental Health and Psychological Counseling
Studying abroad can be emotionally demanding.
International students may experience academic pressure, loneliness, culture shock, homesickness, financial worries, or difficulty developing friendships.
Seeking emotional support is a responsible and constructive way to protect your well-being.
Many Korean universities operate student counseling centers. Some offer individual counseling, group workshops, psychological assessments, or referrals to specialized services.
When might counseling be useful?
| Challenge | Possible support |
|---|---|
| Academic stress | Stress management and study-related counseling |
| Loneliness | Emotional counseling and social adjustment programs |
| Homesickness | Individual counseling and peer-support activities |
| Anxiety | Psychological support and professional referrals |
| Relationship difficulties | Counseling about communication and conflict |
| Cultural adjustment | International student workshops and mentoring |
How to make an appointment
- Search your university website for “Student Counseling Center” (학생상담센터).
- Check whether the service is available to international students.
- Ask whether counseling can be conducted in English or another language.
- Book an appointment online, by email, or by telephone.
- Ask about confidentiality, fees, and the number of sessions available.
Example email
Subject: Request for Student Counseling Appointment
Dear Counseling Center,
I am an international student currently studying at the university. I have been experiencing some difficulties adjusting to student life in Korea.
I would like to request a confidential counseling appointment.
Could you please let me know whether counseling in English is available and how I can make a reservation?
Thank you for your assistance.
Remember: University counseling services are often free for enrolled students, but services, language options, and eligibility vary. Some universities may refer students to external providers that charge fees.
For an immediate danger to yourself or another person, contact emergency services rather than waiting for a routine appointment.
8. Fraud, Theft, and Scams: Where International Students Can Report Problems
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International students can encounter online scams, fraudulent advertisements, fake job offers, unauthorized financial transactions, or theft.
Some victims hesitate to report incidents because they cannot speak Korean fluently or are unfamiliar with police procedures.
But reporting suspicious activity early may help protect you and prevent further losses.
Common scams and recommended responses
| Type of scam | Warning signs | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Rental deposit fraud | Unverified landlord or unrealistic rent | Verify documents and obtain legal advice |
| Fake part-time jobs | Large advance payment required | Stop communication and report suspicious activity |
| Online shopping fraud | Seller disappears after payment | Save transaction records |
| Banking or phishing scams | Requests for passwords or verification codes | Contact your bank immediately |
| Identity fraud | Someone requests your passport or residence card for an unclear purpose | Refuse unnecessary disclosure and seek assistance |
Essential emergency numbers
Police
112
Crime, threats, or immediate danger
Fire & Ambulance
119
Medical emergencies, fires, and rescue
Both numbers are free emergency calls and operate 24 hours a day.
If you cannot speak Korean, ask for English assistance or an interpreter. When reporting an incident, provide your location, describe what happened, and follow the operator’s instructions.
VISITKOREA – Imagine Your Korea
What should you do after discovering fraud?
First, stop sending money or providing personal information.
Second, contact your bank immediately if a financial transaction is involved.
Third, preserve messages, transaction receipts, usernames, phone numbers, and relevant screenshots.
Finally, seek assistance from the police or a legal counselor. If your residence documents have been stolen, also ask your university and the immigration authorities about replacement procedures.
9. Discrimination and Human Rights: You Have the Right to Seek Assistance
bestfullyfundedscholarships.com
Every international student deserves to be treated with dignity and respect.
Unfortunately, some students may encounter discrimination, harassment, inappropriate treatment, or exclusion based on their nationality, ethnicity, gender, or other personal characteristics.
South Korea has a national institution responsible for receiving and examining certain human rights and discrimination complaints.
National Human Rights Commission of Korea
The National Human Rights Commission of Korea (NHRCK) provides consultation and complaint procedures concerning matters within its legal jurisdiction.
Human Rights Consultation Hotline
1331
Official website: humanrights.go.kr
Examples of problems that may warrant consultation
| Situation | Recommended response |
|---|---|
| Discrimination based on nationality | Record the incident and seek advice |
| Racial harassment | Preserve evidence and report the matter |
| Discriminatory treatment in an organization | Ask about applicable complaint procedures |
| Sexual harassment | Seek confidential support and consider a formal complaint |
| Human rights violations | Contact the NHRCK or an appropriate legal support service |
The NHRCK provides information about human rights consultations and complaint filing, including an English-language guide.
Not every unfair or unpleasant experience constitutes an unlawful discriminatory act. The Commission can help explain whether the issue falls within its responsibilities.
case.hr.go.kr
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How to prepare a complaint
Write down what happened, when and where the incident occurred, who was involved, and whether witnesses or records are available.
You may also contact your university’s student affairs office or human rights center when an incident occurs on campus.
Practical tip: Keep written records of important conversations, but avoid publicly sharing another person’s private information or making unsupported accusations.
10. Emergency Support for International Women and Vulnerable Students
Some students experience serious personal crises, including sexual harassment, relationship violence, threats, exploitation, or unsafe living conditions.
In these circumstances, it is important to seek assistance from organizations trained to handle sensitive cases.
One service worth knowing is the Danuri Call Center, which provides multilingual support primarily for migrants and multicultural families, including emergency services for migrant women.
Danuri Call Center — 1577-1366
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Service | Danuri Multicultural Family Support Hotline |
| Telephone | 1577-1366 |
| Availability | 24 hours a day, 365 days a year |
| Languages | 13 languages, including Korean and English |
| Main services | Crisis counseling, interpretation, emergency referrals, and family-related support |
| Website | Danuri |
| Consultation charge | Free hotline service; phone charges may depend on how you call |
Danuri can help eligible callers obtain counseling, interpretation, and referrals to relevant emergency and legal services. It does not replace the police or ambulance service during an immediate emergency.
한국건강가정진흥원
What should you do in a serious personal crisis?
- Move to a safe place, if possible.
- Call 112 if you are in immediate danger.
- Contact 119 if urgent medical assistance is necessary.
- Ask for multilingual crisis support when language is a barrier.
- Tell a trusted university counselor or student-support officer if it is safe to do so.
- Preserve relevant evidence and seek legal advice when appropriate.
If you are unsure whether a particular support program accepts international students in your circumstances, call first to confirm eligibility.
Save This: Essential Korean Support Numbers for International Students
International Student Emergency Contact Card Copy
| 112 | Police emergencies |
| 119 | Ambulance, fire, and rescue |
| 1345 | Immigration and multilingual administrative guidance |
| 1350 | Labor and employment consultation |
| 1331 | Human rights consultation |
| 1577-1366 | Danuri multilingual and crisis support |
Keep these contacts on your phone. Non-emergency operating hours, eligibility, and interpretation availability vary.
Practical Checklist: What Every International Student Should Do During Their First Month
Preparing for problems before they happen can make studying abroad much easier.
Your First-Month Safety Checklist
0 of 10 completeSave Korea’s emergency and support telephone numbers.Find the location and contact details of your university’s International Office.Read the important conditions attached to your visa.Make digital copies of your residence documents and academic enrollment records.Keep rental agreements, deposit receipts, and bank-transfer records secure.Find your university’s counseling center and check available languages.Review employment permission requirements before taking a part-time job.Identify a nearby hospital and the nearest police station.Learn several basic Korean phrases for requesting help.Share an emergency contact plan with someone you trust.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can international students receive free legal consultation in Korea?
Yes. The Ministry of Justice’s Village Lawyers for Foreigners Program offers free consultations to foreign residents. Call 1345 for information about accessing the service. Free consultation does not automatically include court representation.
Can I report unpaid wages even if I am a foreign student?
International students can seek advice about employment and unpaid wages. Contact 1350, explain your situation, and ask about the appropriate process. Immigration-related circumstances may require separate advice.
What should I do if I lose my residence card?
Contact 1345 or your university’s International Office promptly to confirm the replacement procedure and required documents. If the card was stolen, consider reporting the theft to the police.
Are counseling services at Korean universities free?
Many universities provide free counseling to enrolled students, but policies vary. Ask whether English-language counseling is available and whether any additional costs apply.
What if I cannot explain an emergency in Korean?
Call 112 or 119, say “English please” or “Interpreter please,” and communicate your location as clearly as possible.
Can my university help me with a dispute outside campus?
University support offices may provide referrals or guidance, although they generally cannot replace lawyers, police, immigration officials, or other competent authorities.
Final Thoughts: You Are Not Alone in South Korea
Studying abroad is more than attending lectures, completing assignments, and earning a degree. It is also about learning to navigate unfamiliar situations, becoming more independent, and building confidence in a new environment.
South Korea offers many support resources that international students may not discover until they experience a problem.
By understanding these services in advance, you can make better decisions, respond more effectively to difficulties, and focus on what matters most: your education, personal growth, and future opportunities.
Whether you are dealing with an immigration question, housing disagreement, workplace issue, emotional difficulty, or personal emergency, remember that professional assistance may be available.
A successful international student is not someone who never faces difficulties. It is someone who knows how to find reliable information, ask for help, and overcome challenges.
Share this guide with your classmates, international student communities, and friends preparing to study in South Korea. One useful telephone number or piece of information could make a meaningful difference when someone needs it most.
Disclaimer: This guide provides general information for international students. It is not a substitute for professional legal, immigration, medical, or psychological advice. Service availability and requirements should be verified directly with the responsible organizations.
K-STUDY | Your Practical Guide to Studying and Living in South Korea
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