South KoreaWhat is the appeal process if workers' comp is denied?
If workers' compensation is denied in South Korea, the injured worker may file an appeal with the Labor Welfare Public Corporation within 90 days of receiving the denial notice.
What the Law Says
South Korean law provides a clear administrative appeal process for denied workers’ compensation claims under the Industrial Accident Compensation Insurance Act.
When a claim for industrial accident compensation is denied by the Labor Welfare Public Corporation (LWPC), the injured worker or their representative has the right to appeal that decision.
The appeal must be filed in writing with the LWPC within 90 days from the date the denial notice is delivered. The LWPC is required to review the appeal and issue a written decision within 60 days of receipt.
No fee is charged for filing the appeal. If the appeal is rejected, the claimant may then file an administrative lawsuit with the Administrative Court.
Statutory TextA person who is dissatisfied with a decision made by the Labor Welfare Public Corporation pursuant to this Act may file an appeal with the same corporation within ninety days from the date on which the decision was notified.
— Industrial Accident Compensation Insurance Act, Article 45 — Right to Appeal
Statutory TextThe Labor Welfare Public Corporation shall examine the appeal without delay and notify the appellant of its decision in writing within sixty days from the date of receipt of the appeal.
— Industrial Accident Compensation Insurance Act, Article 45 — Right to Appeal
What to Do
Receive and carefully read the official denial notice from the Labor Welfare Public Corporation (LWPC).
Prepare a written appeal statement explaining why the denial is incorrect, including supporting evidence (e.g., medical reports, witness statements).
Submit the appeal to the LWPC within 90 days of the denial notice date — no fee required.
Wait for the LWPC’s written decision, which must be issued within 60 days.
If the appeal is denied, consider filing an administrative lawsuit at the competent Administrative Court within 90 days of receiving the appeal decision.
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.