South KoreaHow is the child support calculation table applied?
In South Korea, child support is calculated using the official Child Support Calculation Table issued by the Supreme Court, which sets monthly amounts based on the combined income of both parents and the number of children.
What the Law Says
South Korean law does not prescribe a fixed statutory formula for child support but authorizes the Supreme Court to issue binding calculation guidelines. The Child Support Calculation Table is the official tool used nationwide to determine fair and consistent support amounts.
The table is published and periodically revised by the Supreme Court of Korea under its rulemaking authority granted by the Civil Procedure Act and related family law practice rules.
It applies to all child support determinations in family court proceedings, including divorce, separation, and paternity cases.
The table uses the combined monthly income of both parents (after tax and mandatory deductions) and the number of dependent children to assign a recommended monthly support amount.
Courts may adjust the table amount only upon showing 'special circumstances' — such as extraordinary medical expenses, private school tuition, or significant disparity in living standards.
Statutory TextThe Supreme Court shall establish and publicly announce standards for calculating child support amounts to ensure fairness and consistency in family litigation.
— Civil Procedure Act Enforcement Rules, Art. 217-2 — Standards for Child Support Calculation
What to Do
Confirm both parents’ most recent 3 months of net income (pay slips, tax returns, or business records).
Identify the number of minor children requiring support.
Locate the applicable row and column in the latest Supreme Court Child Support Calculation Table.
File a petition for child support with the Family Court, attaching income documentation and citing the table amount.
Request adjustment only if verifiable special circumstances exist — supported by evidence like medical bills or education contracts.
Sources
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JapanNot legal advice. This article is general information based on publicly available sources, written for educational purposes. Laws change and individual situations vary. Consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction before acting on anything you read here. Last reviewed: 2026-06-08.