My wages are overdue. What should I do?

What the Law Says

South Korean law guarantees timely payment of wages and provides clear remedies when employers fail to pay. The Labor Standards Act and the Labor Relations Adjustment Act set deadlines, procedures, and enforcement mechanisms.

Under the Labor Standards Act, employers must pay wages at least once a month on a fixed date. If wages are unpaid, employees may file a claim with the Ministry of Employment and Labor (MOEL) or pursue litigation.

The Labor Standards Act also prohibits wage deductions unless specifically permitted by law or collective agreement. Any delay beyond the agreed payment date is unlawful.

The Labor Relations Adjustment Act allows workers to file wage claims directly with MOEL labor offices, which must investigate and mediate within 30 days.

Statutory Text

An employer shall pay wages to workers at least once a month on a fixed date.

— Labor Standards Act, s. 43 — Payment of Wages

Statutory Text

A worker may file a claim for unpaid wages with the competent labor office, which shall conduct an investigation and attempt mediation within thirty days.

— Labor Relations Adjustment Act, s. 51 — Wage Claim Procedure

Statutory Text

The right to claim unpaid wages shall be extinguished after two years from the date the wages became due.

— Labor Standards Act, s. 111 — Limitation Period

What to Do

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