Can foreign workers also get industrial accident insurance?

Yes, foreign workers can also get industrial accident insurance. Employers who hire 1 or more workers must sign up for this insurance. So, whatever your visa status is (E-9, etc.), you can get compensation if you are injured while working.

The employer pays the insurance fee. Workers do not pay separately. Even if the employer did not sign up, you can often still apply for industrial accident compensation. In that case, check with the Korea Workers' Compensation and Welfare Service (근로복지공단).

💡 Good to know

• Duty to sign up: The employer must report to the local Korea Workers' Compensation and Welfare Service office within 14 days of the day the worker was hired. If the employer does not sign up, there is a fine of up to 3,000,000 KRW.
• Staying during treatment: If you can no longer work because of an industrial accident, etc., you can change your visa from E-9 to G-1 (Other) at the local Immigration Office (출입국관리사무소). This lets you stay in Korea for the treatment period. You do not have to leave the country right away because you are being treated.
• Difference from other insurance: Industrial accident insurance is for accidents and illnesses that happen because of work. For accidents or illnesses not caused by work, there is separate accident insurance (made for foreigners) that you can sign up for.

If you are injured, first tell your employer and the Korea Workers' Compensation and Welfare Service (1588-0075). If your period of stay will end soon, also check with Immigration (1345).