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What type of document can youth seek which will allow them to move around the country?
In South Korea, individuals aged 17 and older are issued a Resident Registration Card (주민등록증 in Korean). This card provides identification and residence information and can be used for domestic travel. Children aged 9 to 18 can get a Youth ID Card (청소년증 in Korean) for similar purposes.
If you are a foreign national staying in Korea for more than 90 days, you will get a card called Residence Card (외국인등록증 in Korean). It is a blue card which contains your personal details, including registration number, country of nationality, visa type, duration of stay, and address within South Korea.
You will need to present the card to a potential employer for tax calculations, to a bank if you wish to open a Korean bank account, and to a hospital to confirm your coverage under the National Health Insurance. You can get a resident registration card and a youth ID card from a local community service center (주민센터 in Korean), while a residence card is issued by immigration offices (출입국·외국인관서 in Korean).
https://www.mogef.go.kr/sp/yth/sp_yth_f005.do
What is the process for getting a National ID card?
To get a youth ID card, a national ID card available to Korean nationals aged 9 to 18, follow these steps:
- Gather required documents: You need to present your student card and 1 color photo (3.5 cm x 4.5 cm) taken within the last 6 months. If you do not have a student card, please ensure you bring a photo and be prepared to provide your resident registration number.
- Apply in person: Visit a local community service center to submit your application and supporting documents.
- Wait for processing: The processing time for a youth ID card can vary, but it usually takes 2 weeks.
- Receive your ID card: Once your application has been processed, you can pick up the card in person at the local community service center.
For information on the requirements to obtain a youth ID card, please visit this website: https://www.mogef.go.kr/sp/yth/sp_yth_f005.do.
To get a resident registration card, a national ID card required for Korean nationals aged 17 and above, follow these steps:
- Gather required document: You need to present 1 color photo (3.5 cm x 4.5 cm) taken within the last 6 months.
- Apply in person or online: Visit a local community service center to submit your application and supporting documents, or you can submit them online at: https://www.gov.kr/mw/AA020InfoCappView.do?HighCtgCD=A01010&CappBizCD=13100000013&tp_seq=01.
- Wait for processing: The processing time for a resident registration card can vary, but it usually takes 2 weeks.
- Receive your ID card: Once your application has been processed, you can either receive your card by registered mail for a delivery fee, or collect it in person at the local community service center.
For information on the requirements to obtain a resident registration card, please visit this website: https://www.mois.go.kr/frt/sub/a06/b06/IDCard_2/screen.do.
Korean nationals who are already enrolled in the national Resident Registration System will have their information digitally managed and will not need a physical ID card.
To get a residence card, a national ID card required for foreign nationals staying in Korea for more than 90 days, follow these steps:
- Gather required documents: You need to provide a valid passport, documents proving place of residence (such as lease agreement, confirmation of accommodation, or utility bill payment receipt), and 1 color photo (3.5 cm x 4.5 cm) taken within the last 6 months.
- Book your appointment: You will need to make an appointment to visit the local immigration office having jurisdiction over your place of residence at: https://www.hikorea.go.kr/resv/ResvIntroR.pt. Please check the list of each immigration office's jurisdiction in order to choose the right one for your 'gu' or district. Please find the list at: https://centers.ibs.re.kr/html/living_en/overview/offices.html.
- Apply in person: Visit the local immigration office to submit your application and supporting documents. You may also need to do biometric verification, like getting your fingerprints or eyes scanned.
- Wait for processing: The processing time for a national ID card can vary, but it usually takes several weeks.
- Receive your ID card: Once your application has been processed, you can either receive your card by registered mail for a delivery fee, or collect it in person at the local immigration office.
For information on the requirements to obtain a residence card, please visit this website: https://www.ddm.go.kr/eng/contents.do?key=1036.
It is important to note that the specific requirements and process for obtaining a national ID card may vary depending on your individual circumstances and location. To find out more, please contact your local immigration office.
Where can I find information online about getting a National ID?
Please visit this website for information on the requirements to obtain a youth ID card for Korean nationals: https://www.mogef.go.kr/sp/yth/sp_yth_f005.do.
Please visit this website for information on the requirements to obtain a resident registration card for Korean nationals: https://www.mois.go.kr/frt/sub/a06/b06/IDCard_2/screen.do.
Please visit this website for information on the requirements to obtain a residence card for foreign nationals in both English and Korean: https://www.hikorea.go.kr/info/InfoDatail.pt?CAT_SEQ=176&PARENT_ID=139. For more details on the application process, you can also reach out to a local immigration office or call the "1345" immigration hotline.
HiKorea (http://www.hikorea.go.kr) can serve as a valuable resource for comprehensive information on living in South Korea. It is an official e-government platform for foreign nationals, jointly established by the Ministry of Justice, the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy, and the Ministry of Employment and Labor, providing a single window for information on investment, employment, and living in South Korea. Additionally, it offers guidance on the requirements, application procedures, and necessary documentation for obtaining a national ID card, available in both Korean and English.
What documents do I have to have to get a National ID? Is there any document that I must have to get an ID?
To get a youth ID card, a national ID card available to Korean nationals aged 9 to 18, you will need to provide the following documents:
- Proof of identity: Student card (if you do not have a student card, please be prepared to provide your resident registration number instead); and
- Recent photo: An upper body color photo (3.5 cm x 4.5 cm) taken within the last 6 months (detailed photo requirements can be found at: https://www.mois.go.kr/frt/sub/a06/b06/IDCard_5/screen.do).
To get a resident registration card, a national ID card required for Korean nationals aged 17 and above, you only need to submit 1 color photo to a local community service center. The same photo requirements apply as the ones above.
To obtain a residence card, a national ID card required for foreign nationals staying in Korea for more than 90 days, you will need to provide the following documents:
- Proof of identity: A valid passport and 1 copy each of its personal information page and visa page;
- Proof of residency: Documentation showing your permanent address in South Korea, such as lease agreement, confirmation of accommodation, or utility bill payment receipt;
- Recent photo: An upper body color photo (3.5 cm x 4.5 cm) taken within the last 6 months (detailed photo requirements can be found at: https://www.mois.go.kr/frt/sub/a06/b06/IDCard_5/screen.do);
- Completed application form: The form is available for download online at: https://www.hikorea.go.kr/board/BoardApplicationListR.pt#this, or can be obtained at immigration offices;
- Additional documents (depending on your specific visa type): These additional documents should be issued within 3 months before the date on which you apply for your residence card. The complete list of these documents can be found at: https://www.hikorea.go.kr/info/InfoDatail.pt?CAT_SEQ=177&PARENT_ID=139; and
- Biometric information: You are required to submit your biometric information, such as your fingerprint, at a local immigration office.
The requirements for obtaining an ID card may vary depending on your individual circumstances and specific regulations of immigration offices/community service centers within each jurisdiction. You can find the immigration office responsible for your jurisdiction here: https://centers.ibs.re.kr/html/living_en/overview/offices.html. For the most current information on the necessary documents and process, please contact your local immigration office/community service center.
What if my documents do not have my correct name/address?
For Korean nationals holding a youth ID card or resident registration card
If your card has incorrect personal information like your name, date of birth, gender, or if you have changed any previously registered personal details, you must report the incorrect information/change to a local community service center and re-apply for a new card within 14 days after you make such changes. Korean nationals already registered in the Resident Registration System can also apply for a new card online at: https://www.gov.kr/portal/main/nologin.
For the name change, you first need to submit the court order on the name change to the district office of your jurisdiction. Once you get notification from the district office, you can then bring a color photo (3.5 cm x 4.5 cm) taken within the last 6 months to apply for a new resident registration card. Returning your old resident registration card will waive the application fee of 5,000 KRW (approximately USD 3.5).
When your address changes, you should first complete the change of address notification at a local community service center. Following this, you can obtain a new address label sticker to be attached to your existing resident registration card. No fees are required; simply bring your ID card.
For foreign nationals holding a residence card
If you have already registered as a foreign national in Korea, you are legally required to report any changes in your information within 15 days of the change, otherwise, you may end up paying a fine.
If your card has incorrect personal information like your name, date of birth, nationality, gender, or passport details, or if you have changed any previously registered personal details, you must report the incorrect information or change to the local immigration office and re-apply for a new residence card within 15 days after you return to Korea (if you traveled to your home country to apply for the change) or after you change the details within Korea. For example, if your name has changed, you may need to submit the following documents to the local immigration office:
- New passport with your updated name;
- Existing residence card for return;
- 1 photo (3.5 cm x 4.5 cm, color, taken within the 6 months);
- Application fee (35,000 KRW (approximately USD 25));
- Application form; and
- Proof of change (e.g., marriage certificate, court order for the name change, family relations certificate).
https://www.hikorea.go.kr/info/InfoDatail.pt?CAT_SEQ=180&PARENT_ID=139
If your card shows an incorrect address or if you have changed your address, you need to report the incorrect information or change to the local immigration office and re-apply for a new residence card within 15 days (14 days if you hold a F-4 visa) of such change. You need to submit the following documents to the local immigration office when your address has changed:
- Passport;
- Existing residence card for return;
- 1 photo (3.5 cm x 4.5 cm, color, taken within the 6 months);
- Application fee (35,000 KRW (approximately USD 25));
- Application form;
- Proof of residence (e.g., confirmation of accommodation and lease agreement); and
- Landlord's ID card.
https://www.songpa.go.kr/www/contents.do?key=2114
What if I only have foreign documents?
It is possible to get a national ID card using foreign documents. Please see the response to Question 4 of Section A.
What happens if my documents are not accepted to get a National ID card?
If your documents are rejected, it generally means required information is missing or incorrect.
It is also important to note that the requirements and process for obtaining a national ID card may vary depending on your individual circumstances and specific regulations of immigration offices/community service centers within each jurisdiction. Please contact your local immigration office or community service center if you are unsure which specific information or documentation is missing or incorrect.
Do I have to be a resident of the country to get a National ID card?
No, you do not need to be a resident to apply for a national ID card as long as you can provide a residential address. However, residence card applicants may be required to submit proof of residency in the country.
What does it mean to be a resident of this country? How do I prove residency?
For Korean nationals, being a resident of South Korea means being registered in the national Resident Registration System, which assigns a unique resident registration number and links them to a specific address. This residency status enables access to essential services like voting, healthcare, education, and government benefits. Proof of residency is typically provided through a Resident Registration Certificate (주민등록등본 in Korean), which must be updated when a citizen changes their address.
For foreign nationals, you must stay in the country for more than 90 days and register with the local immigration office to be recognized as a resident of South Korea. This registration process grants you a residence card, which is your primary proof of residency. To prove residency, you can present your residence card, along with a certificate of residence from a local district office or other address-verifying documents, such as lease agreement, confirmation of accommodation, or utility bill payment receipt.
What can I do if I do not have residency in this country?
You must provide a residential address to apply for a national ID card.
If you do not have a residential address, consider contacting a child welfare institution or a shelter. Alternatively, reach out to a social service agency by calling the "local area code + 1388" hotline to see if they can assist with a residential address. For more details, please visit https://www.mogef.go.kr/sp/yth/sp_yth_f014.do and https://news.seoul.go.kr/welfare/archives/49791.
Will I need a mailing address? What can I do if I am homeless?
You must provide a residential (rather than mailing) address to apply for any type of national ID cards. However, you can choose not to receive mail at your residential address and can collect the ID card personally at the office.
If you do not have a residential address, consider contacting a child welfare institution or a shelter. Alternatively, reach out to a social service agency by calling the "local area code + 1388" hotline to see if they can assist with a residential address. For more details, please visit https://www.mogef.go.kr/sp/yth/sp_yth_f014.do.
What is the application process? Can I complete it online?
Yes, you can apply for a resident registration card online at: https://www.gov.kr/mw/AA020InfoCappView.do?HighCtgCD=A01010&CappBizCD=13100000013&tp_seq=01. For a youth ID card and a residence card, you must apply in person; you can download application forms and templates for supporting documents at: https://www.hikorea.go.kr/board/BoardApplicationListR.pt?page=1#this.
Is there an application fee? Is there a waiver option if I cannot afford to pay it?
Yes, the application fee for a residence card (ID card for foreign nationals) is 35,000 KRW (approximately USD 25). You can pay this fee at the local immigration office when applying for your ID card.
Fee exemptions apply based on nationality or visa status only.
Eligible nationality for fee exemption:
- Argentina (for individuals under 14 years of age).
Eligible visa statuses for fee exemption:
- Diplomat (A-1);
- Foreign Government Official (A-2);
- International Agreement (A-3); and
- Corporate Investment (D-8).
Youth ID cards and resident registration cards (ID cards for Korean nationals) are issued free of charge. However, a 5,000 KRW (approximately USD 3.5) fee may be charged for replacing a damaged or lost resident registration card.
What can I do if I do not have a parent or guardian who can go with me (and the application says I have to have one)?
Applicants for a youth ID card under 14 years of age must have their application signed by their legal representative. If you do not have a parent or guardian to sign the application, the family court can appoint a substitute guardian as a replacement.
How old do I have to be to apply for a National ID card by myself?
17 years old for a resident registration card and a residence card; 14 years old for a youth ID card.
https://www.mois.go.kr/frt/sub/a06/b06/IDCard_2/screen.do
https://easylaw.go.kr/CSP/CnpClsMain.laf?csmSeq=508&ccfNo=2&cciNo=3&cnpClsNo=1
https://www.sejong.go.kr/welfare/sub04_02_06.do
At what age can I get a National ID card by myself?
17 years old for a resident registration card and a residence card; 14 years old for a youth ID card.
Are there any special provisions for foster youth (children in custody of the government)?
No special provisions found.
Are there any special provisions for homeless youth?
No special provisions found.
Will I have to take a test?
Not applicable. No testing requirement for a national ID card.
If applicable, do I have to make an appointment to take the test?
Not applicable. No testing requirement for a national ID card.
What organization issues a driver's license in this country?
Korea Road Traffic Authority (KoROAD). KoROAD is a quasi-governmental organization under the Korean National Police Agency, responsible for managing the driving examination. You can access their website here in English or Korean: https://www.koroad.or.kr/eng/content/view/ME02010000.do.
What is the process for getting a driver's license?
Driver's licenses come in various types, each with specific age criteria for eligibility:
- Class 1 Large, Class 1 Special (large towing truck, small towing truck, recovery vehicle): Must be at least 19 years old and have driven a vehicle for at least 1 year after obtaining a Class 1 General or Class 2 General license.
- Class 1 General, Class 2 General (automatic, manual), Class 2 Small: Must be at least 18 years old.
- Class 2 Motorized Bicycle: Must be at least 16 years old.
In order to obtain a driver's license, you must follow the steps below:
- Take an one-hour traffic safety training.
- Go through a medical screening.
This process can be completed at the Health Check Center within a Driver's License Examination Center or at a nearby hospital. The fees at the Health Check Center are as follows:
- Class 1 Large, Class 1 Special: 7,000 KRW (approximately USD 5).
- Other types: 6,000 KRW (approximately USD 4).
- Take a written exam.
You will need to submit an application form, together with your ID card and 3 color photos (3.5 cm x 4.5 cm) taken within the last 6 months. Fees vary by the type of the driver's license:
- Class 1 or Class 2: 10,000 KRW (approximately USD 7).
- Class 2 Motorized Bicycle: 8,000 KRW (approximately USD 5.5).
- Take the driving course test.
You will need to submit an application form, along with your ID card. Fees differ based on the type of the driver's license:
- Class 1 Large or Class 1 Special: 25,000 KRW (approximately USD 17).
- Class 1 General or Class 2 General: 25,000 KRW (approximately USD 17).
- Class 2 Small: 14,000 KRW (approximately USD 10).
- Class 2 Motorized Bicycle: 10,000 KRW (approximately USD 7).
- Drive with a practice license.
- Take the on-road driving exam.
You will need to submit an application form, along with your ID card and pay a fee of 30,000 KRW (approximately USD 21). You must pass the on-road driving exam within 1 year from the issuance date of the practice license. The minimum passing score is 70 points.
- Get your driver's license.
The training is provided at the Education Center within a Driver's License Examination Center or at an accredited traffic safety education institute, such as a driving school. There is no charge for this training; please bring your ID card.
Please ensure to bring your ID card and 2 color photos (3.5 cm x 4.5 cm) taken within the last 6 months.
The exam is available in Korean, English, Chinese, and Vietnamese. The passing scores are 70 points or higher for Class 1, and 60 points or higher for Class 2. You can find the sample exam questions here: https://www.safedriving.or.kr/notice/rerBankEngList.do?menuCode=MN-PO-1152.
The passing scores are 80 points or higher for Class 1 Large, Class 1 General, and Class 2 General, and 90 points or higher for Class 1 Special, Class 2 Small, and Class 2 Motorized Bicycle. The applicant must pass the driving course test within 1 year from the date of passing the written exam.
Once you have passed both the written exam and the driving course test, you will receive a practice license valid for 1 year for a 4,000 KRW fee (approximately USD 3). The license allows you to drive under the guidance of at least 1 passenger, while the passenger must have held a valid driver's license for at least 2 years and must not currently be under any license suspension.
Once you pass all tests for the respective license type (Class 1 Large, Class 1 Special, Class 1 General, Class 2 General, Class 2 Small, or Class 2 Motorized Bicycle), you can apply for a driver's license. Please submit an application with the passing notice, a fee of 10,000 KRW (approximately USD 7), ID card, and 1 color photo (3.5 cm x 4.5 cm) taken within the last 6 months. Your driver's license will be valid for 10 years.
For more details, please visit https://www.safedriving.or.kr/guide/rerGuideEng01.do.
Where can I find information online about getting a driver's license?
For more details, please visit https://www.safedriving.or.kr/guide/rerGuideEng01.do.
What documents do I have to have to get a driver's license? Is there any document that I must have to get a driver's license?
Please see the response to Question 2 of Section B.
What if my documents do not have my correct name/address?
If your card has incorrect personal information like your name, date of birth, gender, or if you have changed any previously registered personal details, you must re-apply for a new card at a Driver's License Examination Center. Please bring your current driver's license, a newly issued ID card reflecting the correct or updated information, and a fee of 10,000 KRW (approximately USD 7).
When your address changes, you should first complete the change of address notification. Following this, you can obtain a new address label sticker at a Driver's License Examination Center to be attached to your existing driver's license. This service does not charge any fees; you only need to present your new ID card.
What if I only have foreign documents?
You need to first obtain a residence card with your foreign identification documents in order to apply for a driver's license. You then need to present your residence card and passport to sign up for a test.
It may also be possible to exchange a valid foreign driver's license for a Korean driver's license, instead of applying for one directly in Korea. Further information regarding the exchange of a U.S. driver's license can be found at: https://kr.usembassy.gov/services-driving-in-korea/.
What happens if my documents are not accepted to get a driver's license?
If your documents are not accepted, you should seek clarification from the Driver's License Examination Center regarding the reasons for rejection and any additional documentation required. Once clarified, it is necessary to correct the information or provide supplementary documents to complete your application. This may include submitting additional evidence to verify identity, residency, or other requirements.
Do I have to be a resident of the country to get a driver's license?
Yes, you need to be a resident with a valid resident registration number to apply for a driver's license.
What does it mean to be a resident of this country? How do I prove residency?
For Korean nationals, being a resident of South Korea means being registered in the national Resident Registration System, which assigns a unique resident registration number and links them to a specific address. This residency status enables access to essential services like voting, healthcare, education, and government benefits. Proof of residency is typically provided through a Resident Registration Certificate (주민등록등본 in Korean), which must be updated when a citizen changes their address.
For foreign nationals, you must stay in the country for more than 90 days and register with the local immigration office to be recognized as a resident of South Korea. This registration process grants you a residence card, which is your primary proof of residency. To prove residency, you can present your residence card, along with a certificate of residence from a local district office or other address-verifying documents, such as lease agreement, confirmation of accommodation, or utility bill payment receipt.
What can I do if I do not have residency in this country?
You must provide a residential address to apply for a driver's license.
If you do not have a residential address, consider contacting a shelter or a social service agency to see if they can assist with a residential address. For more details, please visit https://news.seoul.go.kr/welfare/archives/49791.
Will I need a mailing address? What can I do if I am homeless?
Yes, you must provide a residential address (rather than mailing) to apply for a driver's license.
If you do not have a residential address, consider contacting a shelter or a social service agency to see if they can assist with a residential address. For more details, please visit https://news.seoul.go.kr/welfare/archives/49791.
What is the application process? Can I complete it online?
Yes, you can sign up for the driving tests online at KoROAD's website: https://www.safedriving.or.kr/main.do. To complete the online registration process, you must have a resident registration number and an online identification certificate (인증서 in Korean), which you can get at banks, postal services, or registration agencies. Once successfully passed all required tests, you must submit a driver's license application in person at a Driver's License Examination Center.
For more information regarding the application process, please see the response to Question 2 of Section B.
Is there an application fee? Is there a waiver option if I cannot afford to pay it?
Yes, there are application fees for the tests that must be paid during registration. For more information regarding the fees, please see the response to Question 2 of Section B.
There is limited financial support for people with disabilities, recipients of basic livelihood security program benefits, single-parent families, and national independence honorees only.
How old do I have to be to apply for a driver's license by myself?
You must be at least 18 years old.
What can I do if I do not have a parent or guardian who can go with me (and the application says I have to have one)?
Not applicable. There is no requirement for the application to be signed by a legal representative.
At what age can I get a driver's license card by myself?
You must be at least 18 years old.
Are there any special provisions for foster youth (children in custody of the government)?
No special provisions found.
Are there any special provisions for homeless youth?
No special provisions found.
Will I have to take a test?
Yes, you will have to take tests to get a driver's license. The tests are designed to assess your knowledge of the traffic laws in South Korea and your ability to safely operate a motor vehicle.
The written exam is a multiple-choice test that covers topics such as traffic signs, road markings, and right-of-way rules. The driving course test and on-road driving exam are practical tests that assess your ability to drive safely in a variety of situations, such as parallel parking and driving on the highway.
For more information, please see the response to Question 2 of Section B.
If applicable, do I have to make an appointment to take the test?
Yes, you must register in advance to take the driving tests. You can reserve your slot online (https://www.safedriving.or.kr/auth01.do?deptFlag=4) or in person at a Driver's License Examination Center.
Where can I take the driving test? What can I do if I cannot get to a testing location?
You can take the driving tests at any of the 27 Driver's License Examination Centers located throughout the country. You can find a list of the Driver's License Examination Centers at: https://www.safedriving.or.kr/guide/cusSeGuide01M.do.
You should be able to visit a Driver's License Examination Center to take the written exam, while some private driving schools accredited by the National Police Agency offer the option to complete both the driving course test and on-road driving exam within their facilities.
Do I need to get a permit or authorization to practice driving before I get my driver's license?
Yes, you will need to get a "practice license" to practice driving before qualifying for an actual driver's license. The practice license allows you to practice driving with a licensed passenger, while the passenger must have held a valid driver's license for at least 2 years and must not currently be under any license suspension. Your practice license will be valid for 1 year.
What is the document detailing a person's birth called in this country?
In South Korea, the document detailing a person's birth is typically referred to as a "Basic Certificate" (기본증명서 in Korean). Additionally, there is a "Family Relations Certificate" (가족관계증명서 in Korean), which includes information about family relationships and can also serve as proof of birth.
A basic certificate contains information about the applicant's address of registration, name, gender, place of family origin, date of birth, and resident registration number. The certificate is updated when there are changes to your status, such as name, custody, gender, and death.
A family relations certificate contains information about the applicant's immediate family members (biological and adoptive parents, spouse, and children). It is updated when there are status changes to any of the family members, such as name, custody, gender, and death.
https://efamily.scourt.go.kr/sm/ovs/SmTopEnglishInformation.do?guideCd=0000010002&guideYn=Y
I'm not sure I have a birth certificate, what can I do to find out if I have one and where to get it?
If you were born in South Korea, you can visit a community service center or access http://efamily.scourt.go.kr to check whether your certificate is in their database and obtain a copy.
How do I get a copy of my birth certificate?
Option 1 (In-Person at Community Service Center): You or a family member may request a copy of the certificates by visiting a community service center and presenting an ID card.
Option 2 (Online): You or a family member can order a copy of the certificates online at http://efamily.scourt.go.kr. An online identification certificate (인증서 in Korean) is required for online applications.
Option 3 (Self-Service Certificate Issuing Kiosk): You can also use self-service kiosks to issue certificates with your fingerprints.
For more details, please visit https://efamily.scourt.go.kr/cs/CsBltnWrtGuide.do?bltnbordId=0000007&guideCd=0000007002&guideYn=Y.
Can I order my birth certificate online?
Yes, if you have an online identification certificate, which can be obtained at banks, postal services, or registration agencies.
What documents will I need to get my birth certificate?
Online – online identification certificate;
Self-Service Kiosk – fingerprint; and
In-Person at Community Service Center – ID card and application form.
To obtain a certificate through a kiosk, you must have registered your fingerprint at a community service center during the application process for a resident registration card. This process is typically available to those who are over 17 years of age.
What happens if I don't have some or all of the documents that are required?
You only need an ID card to order a certificate.
How old do I have to be to get a copy of my birth certificate by myself?
You can get a basic or family relations certificate at any age at a community service center with your ID card, such as a student card. Online application may require authentication using an online identification certificate, typically issued by banks to those over 14 years of age.
What can I do if I do not have a parent or guardian who can go with me to get a birth certificate (and the application says I have to have one)?
Not applicable. Please see the response to Question 7 of Section C.
What is the cost to get a birth certificate?
Online – free of charge;
Self-Service Kiosk – 500 KRW (approximately USD 0.35); and
In-person at Community Service Center – 1,000 KRW (approximately USD 0.7).
https://efamily.scourt.go.kr/cs/CsBltnWrtGuideP.do?bltnbordId=0000007&guideCd=0000007001&guideYn=Y
Is there a waiver if I cannot afford the fee?
Certificates are issued online free of charge.
Are there any special laws or provisions that can help get a birth certificate if I have been in the foster care system (children in custody of the government)?
No special provisions found.
Are there any special laws or provisions that can help get a birth certificate if I am homeless?
No special provisions found.
Where do I get my birth certificate if I was born in another country?
If you were born in another country, you can obtain a copy of your birth certificate from the government agency responsible for maintaining vital records in that country.
The specific agency and process for obtaining a birth certificate can vary depending on the country and jurisdiction. You can typically find information on how to obtain a birth certificate by searching online for the name of the relevant government agency and the words "vital records" or "birth certificate."
You may also be able to obtain one through the consular section of the country's embassy to South Korea.
Is there a way to get my birth certificate without going somewhere in person?
Yes, you can order the certificate online. For more information, please see the response to Question 3 of Section C.
Where can I find information online about getting a birth certificate?
Please visit https://efamily.scourt.go.kr/cs/CsBltnWrtGuideP.do?bltnbordId=0000007&guideCd=0000007001&guideYn=Y and https://efamily.scourt.go.kr/sm/ovs/SmTopEnglishInformation.do?guideCd=0000010003&guideYn=Y.What vital doc should I start with to change my name? Is the process easier for one of the IDs?
The process begins with filing a petition with the relevant family court for the name change. After the court issues an order, you must submit the order to the district office of your jurisdiction. Your vital documents, including basic certificate and family relations certificate, will then be automatically updated. No preference is given to one type of ID over another.
How do I change my name on my Birth Certificate?
Please see the response to Question 1 of Section D.
The name on your record in the government's Family Relations Registration System, which maintains basic certificates and family relations certificates, will be automatically updated 3-10 days after you report the name change at the district office of your jurisdiction or online at: https://efamily.scourt.go.kr/ar/ArChgnmCAAFMgr.do. Please note that if you do not report the name change within 1 month from the date of court approval, you may have to pay a fine.
How do I change my name on my National ID?
Please see the response to Question 5 of Section A.
How do I change my name on my Driver's License?
Please see the response to Question 5 of Section B.
At what age can I change my name by myself?
You can change your name without parental consent at the age of 19, which is the legal age of adulthood in South Korea.
What can I do if I do not have a parent or guardian with to change my name and do not have anyone who can help me?
If you do not have a parent or guardian to sign the application, the family court can appoint a substitute guardian as a replacement.
What vital doc should I start with to change my gender marker? Is the process easier for one of the IDs?
The process begins with filing a petition with the relevant family court for the change of the gender marker. After the court issues an order, you must submit the order to the district office of your jurisdiction. Your vital documents, including basic certificate and family relations certificate, will then be automatically updated. No preference is given to one type of ID over another.
How do I change my gender marker on my Birth Certificate?
Please see the response to Question 7 of Section D.
The gender on your record in the government's Family Relations Registration System, which maintains basic certificates and family relations certificates, will be automatically updated 3-10 days after you report the gender marker change at the district office of your jurisdiction or online at: https://efamily.scourt.go.kr/ar/ArFrrCrctCAAFMgr.do. Please note that if you do not report the change within 1 month from the date of court approval, you may have to pay a fine.
How do I change my gender marker on my National ID?
Please see the response to Question 5 of Section A.
How do I change my gender marker on my driver's license?
Please see the response to Question 5 of Section B.
At what age can I change my gender marker by myself?
You can change your gender marker without parental consent at the age of 19, which is the legal age of adulthood in South Korea.
What can I do if I do not have a parent or guardian with me to change my gender marker and do not have anyone else who can help me?
If you do not have a parent or guardian to sign the application, the family court can appoint a substitute guardian as a replacement.