South KoreaHow do I get an emergency temporary measure for domestic?
You can apply for an emergency temporary protection order at a family court in South Korea under the Act on Special Cases Concerning the Punishment of Crimes of Domestic Violence. The court must decide within 24 hours.
What the Law Says
South Korean law allows victims of domestic violence to request urgent court-ordered protection without delay. The legal basis is the Act on Special Cases Concerning the Punishment of Crimes of Domestic Violence, which establishes expedited procedures for emergency measures.
Under this law, a victim (or their legal representative, guardian, or certain public officials) may file an application for an emergency temporary protection order directly with the competent Family Court.
The court must hold a hearing and issue a decision within 24 hours of receiving the application — even on weekends or holidays — if there is imminent danger of harm.
The emergency order can prohibit the abuser from approaching, contacting, or residing with the victim; require the abuser to leave the shared residence; and grant temporary custody or visitation restrictions.
This emergency measure lasts up to 7 days and may be extended once for another 7 days if necessary and justified.
Statutory TextThe court shall render a decision on the application for an emergency temporary protection order within 24 hours after receipt thereof.
— Act on Special Cases Concerning the Punishment of Crimes of Domestic Violence, s. 10 — Emergency Temporary Protection Order
Statutory TextAn emergency temporary protection order shall be effective for a period not exceeding seven days from the date of issuance.
— Act on Special Cases Concerning the Punishment of Crimes of Domestic Violence, s. 10 — Emergency Temporary Protection Order
What to Do
Go to your local Family Court (e.g., Seoul Family Court, Busan Family Court) or submit the application online via the Electronic Litigation System (www.i-court.go.kr).
Fill out Form No. 36 (Application for Emergency Temporary Protection Order) — available free at courts or online.
Submit supporting evidence if possible (e.g., medical reports, photos, text messages, witness statements), though not mandatory.
Attend the hearing (usually same day); the court may proceed ex parte (without the abuser present) if urgency justifies it.
If granted, the order is immediately enforceable by police — keep a certified copy with you at all times.
Sources
Not 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.