Unpaid wages or unfair dismissal are easy to just put up with on your own, but following the established procedure often actually resolves them.
1Start by calling 1350 for counseling
If you're dealing with a labor issue like unpaid wages or unfair dismissal, the first step is to call the Ministry of Employment and Labor Customer Counseling Center (1350) and explain your situation. They can guide you on which procedure to follow and which labor office has jurisdiction.
2If you were injured at work
If you were injured or fell ill on the job, the Korea Workers' Compensation and Welfare Service (1588-0075) can advise on and process your industrial-accident insurance claim and issue related certificates.
3If it may go to a lawsuit but the cost of hiring a lawyer is a burden
If your dispute with your employer looks likely to turn into a lawsuit and hiring a lawyer feels like too much of a financial burden, the Korea Legal Aid Corporation (132) can provide free legal counseling and even litigation representation if you meet the income criteria. If you're in an area where it's hard to find a lawyer, you can also get phone or in-person counseling through the Village Lawyer / Legal Home Doctor program.
4If your employer ignores the government process itself
If you feel there's a problem with the administrative handling itself — for example, your employer isn't complying even after a labor office correction order — you can file a complaint with People's Voice (Epeople) / National Call Center 110.
Services mentioned in this guide
Ministry of Employment and Labor Customer Counseling Center (1350)
Official guidance on employment and labor issues, including unpaid wages and complaint procedures
Phone weekdays 09:00–18:00; call charges apply. Check each online channel for its hours.
Operated by · 고용노동부
Cost · Paid
Korea Workers' Compensation and Welfare Service (1588-0075)
The Korea Workers' Compensation and Welfare Service's main line for industrial-accident/employment insurance enrollment, workers' comp claims, and issuing certificates
Weekdays 09:00–18:00 (online service available anytime)
Operated by · 근로복지공단
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
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
People's Voice (Epeople) / National Call Center 110
The Anti-Corruption and Civil Rights Commission's main civil-complaint channel for consulting or reporting complaints about government policy or administrative handling in one place
Phone counseling weekdays 09:00–18:00, online submissions 24 hours
Operated by · 국민권익위원회
Cost · Free