Domestic violence and dating violence are not something to just endure alone. If you are in a dangerous situation right now, the first step is to ask for help in the order below.
1Step 1 — If it is dangerous, start with the Women's Emergency Hotline 1366
If you need urgent rescue, protection, or counseling because of domestic violence, sexual violence, prostitution, or similar situations, call 1366 (no area code). A counselor begins crisis counseling immediately and, if needed, connects you directly to the police, a medical institution, or a shelter; it operates 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
2Step 2 — If you need a lawyer but the cost is a concern
If you are considering legal action but the cost of hiring a lawyer is a concern, look into the Village Lawyer / Legal Home Doctor program. It is a Ministry of Justice program that connects residents in areas without easy access to a lawyer to phone, fax, or email consultations, or places a lawyer on-site at community hub agencies serving vulnerable groups. The assigned lawyer and consultation method vary by region, so check with your local town, township, or neighborhood community service center.
3Step 3 — If it has to go to litigation, the Korea Legal Aid Corporation
If you need to go as far as litigation — divorce, a restraining order, damages — the Korea Legal Aid Corporation (132) can provide free litigation representation if you meet the income requirements.
Services mentioned in this guide
Women's Emergency Hotline 1366
A 24-hour emergency hotline offering counseling and connections to shelters for women affected by domestic violence, sexual violence, or prostitution
24 hours
Operated by · 여성가족부
Cost · Free
Village Lawyer / Legal Home Doctor
A Ministry of Justice program offering free legal counseling by phone or in person for residents in areas with little access to lawyers and for vulnerable groups
Varies by region (check with your local community service center)
Operated by · 법무부
Cost · Free
Korea Legal Aid Corporation Free Legal Counseling (132)
A public organization offering free legal counseling and litigation support for people facing financial hardship
Weekdays 09:00–18:00 (phone); online consultation accepted anytime
Operated by · 대한법률구조공단(법무부 산하)
Cost · Free