Does an E-1 professor need a re-entry permit when leaving Korea for a school break or an academic conference?

No, usually you do not need a re-entry permit. An E-1 professor with an alien registration can re-enter without a permit if they return within 1 year of the departure date (or within the remaining period of stay, if it is shorter than 1 year).

Most trips for breaks or conferences last a few weeks to a few months, so you return within this period.

⚠️ Things to note

• If your remaining period of stay is shorter, the exemption only lasts until that date. You must return before your period of stay expires.
• If you plan to stay abroad for more than 1 year, up to 2 years (for example, a sabbatical), you must get a multiple re-entry permit before you leave. The fee is 50,000 KRW. You can apply by visiting an immigration office, through an agent, or online at HiKorea (www.hikorea.go.kr). The documents are your passport, alien registration card, and integrated application form.
• If you are subject to an entry ban or visa issuance restrictions, you may need a separate permit. In this case, you must get the permit from the immigration office that covers your place of residence.
• If you have not completed alien registration, this exemption does not apply.

Before you leave, just check your period of stay expiry date once. For exact details, please make a final check with HiKorea or 1345.