Minimum Wage in South Korea: Rates, Trends & Compliance

What Is the Minimum Wage in South Korea?

As of January 1, 2026, South Korea’s minimum wage is set at 10,320 Korean Won (KRW) per hour, reflecting an increase from the 2025 rate of 10,030 KRW per hour. At this rate, a full-time employee working the standard 209 hours per month earns approximately 2,156,880 KRW per month before taxes and deductions. In U.S. dollar terms, the hourly minimum wage is roughly in the mid-$7 range, though the exact amount varies depending on exchange rate fluctuations.

Are There Regional Variations in South Korea's Minimum Wage?

South Korea does not have regional variations in its minimum wage system. The country implements a single national minimum wage that applies uniformly across all regions, provinces, and cities.

How Does Minimum Wage Apply to Different Workers in South Korea?

South Korea's Minimum Wage Act applies universally to all employees, regardless of employment status or nationality. This includes full-time, part-time, temporary, daily, and foreign workers. However, there are specific considerations and exceptions for certain categories of workers.

Full-Time Employee Wages

Full-time employees in South Korea are entitled to the statutory minimum wage of 10,320 KRW per hour as of 2026. This rate applies uniformly across most industries, providing a nationwide baseline for compensation. Employers are legally required to comply with this standard to support fair labor practices.

Part-Time Employee Wages

Part-time employees are also entitled to the same minimum wage of 10,320 KRW per hour. Under South Korea’s Minimum Wage Act, part-time workers must receive the same hourly minimum as full-time employees, ensuring equitable treatment regardless of employment type or working hours.

Interns and Trainees

Interns and trainees are generally entitled to the minimum wage. However, the law allows for exceptions during probationary periods. Specifically, for employees under a contract of one year or more, employers may pay a wage below the minimum wage during the first three months of employment, provided the work is not classified as simple labor. This provision is designed to accommodate training periods while ensuring fair compensation.

Expats

Expatriates working in South Korea are subject to the same minimum wage laws as domestic workers. The Minimum Wage Act explicitly states that it applies to all employees, regardless of nationality. This ensures that foreign workers receive equitable compensation and are protected under South Korean labor laws.

Factors Influencing Minimum Wage in South Korea

Several factors influence the determination and variation of the minimum wage in South Korea, including industry-specific considerations, economic conditions, and government policies.

Industry-Specific Variations

While the standard minimum wage applies across most sectors, certain industries may have specific wage considerations. For instance, sectors with high demand for skilled labor might offer wages above the minimum to attract qualified employees. Conversely, industries facing economic challenges may advocate for exceptions or adjustments to the standard rate.

Economic Conditions

Economic factors such as inflation and employment rates play a significant role in shaping minimum wage policies. The government assesses these indicators to ensure that wage adjustments align with the broader economic environment, aiming to balance fair compensation with economic sustainability.

Government Policies and Legislation

The South Korean government, through the Minimum Wage Commission, regularly reviews and sets the minimum wage. This process involves consultations with representatives from labor, management, and the public to reach a consensus that reflects the interests of all stakeholders. The goal is to establish a wage standard that supports workers' livelihoods while considering the economic realities faced by employers.

Minimum Wage History and Trends in South Korea

South Korea implemented its Minimum Wage System on January 1, 1988. Since then, the minimum wage has been adjusted regularly in response to economic growth, labor market conditions, and policy priorities. In recent years, the pace of increases has moderated compared with the sharp rises seen in the late 2010s. After a 1.7 percent increase in 2025, one of the smallest adjustments in recent years, the minimum wage rose by 2.9 percent in 2026, bringing the hourly rate to 10,320 KRW.

This pattern reflects a continued, cautious approach by policymakers aimed at balancing wage growth for workers with broader concerns around employment stability and economic conditions.