How much is the 2026 minimum wage, and does it apply to foreigners too?

ä¸ ## 2026 Minimum Wage

• The hourly wage is 10,320 won (up 290 won from last year).
• The daily wage is 82,560 won (based on 8 hours a day).
• The monthly wage is 2,156,880 won (40 hours a week, including 8 hours of paid weekly holiday).

Does it apply to foreigners too?

Generally, yes, it does. The Minimum Wage Act (최저임금법) applies to "workers" regardless of nationality.

• Employers must pay workers covered by the minimum wage at least the minimum wage amount.
• Any part of an employment contract that sets pay lower than the minimum wage is void. That part is treated as an agreement to pay the minimum wage amount.
• Foreign workers who work legally are generally covered by the same standard, regardless of their visa status (체류자격).

⚠️ Things to watch out for

• Wages paid regularly at least once a month are included in the minimum wage. However, benefits given in kind, such as meals, lodging, and transportation, are not included. If your dormitory fee or meal cost is deducted from your monthly pay, you need to check separately.
• A person on probation who signed an employment contract of 1 year or more may be paid a different amount within 3 months after the probation starts. Simple labor jobs are excluded.

💡 Helpful information

• The proposed 2027 minimum wage was decided at 10,700 won per hour, but the final official notice has not been confirmed yet. As of the end of October 2026, the applicable rate is 10,320 won.
• You can get advice on wage problems from the Ministry of Employment and Labor (고용노동부) (1350) or the Foreigner Support Center (외국인종합안내센터) (1345).