Can International Students Work Part-Time in Korea?
Part-Time Jobs in Korea for International Students are one of the most common topics students ask about before coming to South Korea. Many international students choose to work part-time to help cover their living expenses, gain work experience, and improve their Korean language skills. However, there are important visa rules, working hour limits, and application procedures that every student must understand before starting work.
For students studying in a Korean language program under a D-4 visa, part-time work is not allowed during the first 6 months of study. After 6 months, students may apply for part-time work permission if their attendance rate is above 90%.
For undergraduate and graduate students under a D-2 visa, students can apply to work part-time immediately. However, they must have a GPA of at least 2.0 and maintain a school attendance rate of more than 70%.
Working Hour Limits
For D-4 Korean language program students, the maximum working hour limit is 20 hours per week.
For undergraduate students, students with TOPIK Level 3 can work up to 20 hours per week. Students with TOPIK Level 4 or above may work up to 25 hours per week.
For graduate students, students need TOPIK Level 4 to work up to 30 hours per week.
During semester breaks, there is generally no weekday restriction, but students should not work more than 40 hours per week.
How to Apply for Part-Time Work Permission
Students can apply for part-time work permission through Hi Korea. The approval process may take around 1–2 weeks, so students should apply before starting any job.
Documents Required
Students usually need to prepare the following documents:
- Personal photo
- Alien Registration Card (ARC)
- TOPIK result
- Certificate of Enrollment / Certificate of Student Status
- Academic Transcript
- Official Employment Contract
- Copy of Employer’s Business Registration Certificate
- Part-Time Work Confirmation Form stamped by the school’s International Office
Students should always receive permission before starting work. Working without permission or exceeding the allowed working hours may affect the student’s visa status in Korea.
Minimum Wage in Korea
As of 2026, the legal minimum wage in South Korea is 10,320 KRW per hour. All employers must pay at least this amount to employees, including international students who are legally permitted to work. Some jobs, especially those that require experience or language skills, may offer a higher hourly wage.
Typical hourly wages include :
| Job Type | Average Hourly Pay |
|---|---|
| Convenience Store | 10,320–12,000 KRW |
| Café / Barista | 10,320–13,000 KRW |
| Restaurant | 10,320–13,000 KRW |
| Warehouse | 11,000–15,000 KRW |
| English Tutoring (Qualified Applicants) | 25,000–50,000+ KRW |
Best Apps to Find Part-Time Jobs in Korea
Once you have received your part-time work permit, you can use these popular job platforms to find opportunities:
1. Albamon (알바몬)
One of Korea’s largest part-time job platforms. It has thousands of listings for cafés, restaurants, convenience stores, warehouses, retail stores, and more.
2. Alba Heaven (알바천국)
Another popular platform with a wide range of part-time jobs throughout Korea. Many employers regularly hire university students.
3. JobKorea (잡코리아)
Best for students looking for internships, office jobs, or professional part-time positions related to their major.
4. Saramin (사람인)
A well-known recruitment platform that offers internships, office positions, and entry-level jobs for students and graduates.
5. Karrot Alba (당근알바)
A great option for finding local part-time jobs near your university or accommodation. Many small businesses post short-term and flexible jobs here.
Tips for Finding a Job
Do not start working until your part-time work permit has been approved by Hi Korea.
Prepare a simple Korean resume (이력서).
Include your TOPIK certificate if you have one.
Search for jobs near your university to reduce commuting time.
Always confirm that the employer is willing to hire international students.