South KoreaHow do hit-and-run victims get compensated?
Hit-and-run victims in South Korea can receive compensation through the Automobile Accident Compensation Security Fund, which pays medical expenses, disability benefits, or death benefits when the at-fault driver is unidentified or uninsured.
What the Law Says
South Korea’s Automobile Management Act and related enforcement decrees establish a no-fault compensation system for victims of hit-and-run accidents when the responsible driver cannot be identified or lacks insurance.
The Automobile Accident Compensation Security Fund (the 'Fund') is operated by the Korea Automobile Insurance Association under the Automobile Management Act. It provides immediate financial support to victims of automobile accidents caused by unidentified or uninsured drivers.
Eligible victims may claim medical expenses, disability compensation, or death benefits — regardless of fault — as long as they report the accident to police within 72 hours and file a claim with the Fund within 30 days of the accident.
The Fund covers 100% of eligible costs up to statutory limits: up to ₩15 million for medical treatment, and up to ₩300 million for death benefits. Disability benefits are calculated based on severity and income loss.
Statutory TextWhen an automobile accident occurs and the person liable for damages is unknown or does not have automobile liability insurance, the Automobile Accident Compensation Security Fund shall compensate the victim for damages within the scope prescribed by Presidential Decree.
— Automobile Management Act, s. 89 — Establishment of Automobile Accident Compensation Security Fund
Statutory TextA person who has suffered damage from an automobile accident may file a claim for compensation with the Korea Automobile Insurance Association within 30 days from the date of the accident.
— Enforcement Decree of the Automobile Management Act, s. 104 — Claim Period
What to Do
Report the accident to police within 72 hours.
Seek medical treatment and retain all receipts and diagnosis records.
File a compensation claim with the Korea Automobile Insurance Association within 30 days.
Submit required documents: police report, medical records, ID, and accident details.
Receive provisional payment within 15 business days if the claim is complete and valid.
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.