South KoreaWhat's the difference between sections A and B of the?
Sections A and B of the registry refer to distinct categories under the Resident Registration Act: Section A lists registered residents with full civil rights, while Section B lists foreign nationals and others with limited registration status.
What the Law Says
The Resident Registration Act defines two core registry categories—Section A and Section B—based on nationality, residency status, and legal rights.
Section A of the registry includes Korean nationals and long-term foreign residents granted permanent residence status who are fully registered under the Resident Registration Act. These individuals receive a Resident Registration Number (RRN) and enjoy full civil rights, including voting and public service eligibility.
Section B covers foreign nationals residing in Korea on non-permanent visas (e.g., E-2, D-2), who are recorded separately under the Foreign Residents Registration System. They receive a Foreign Resident Registration Number (FRRN), not an RRN, and do not have voting rights or access to certain public benefits.
The law requires all eligible persons to register within 30 days of establishing residence. Failure to register or providing false information may result in penalties under Article 14.
Statutory Text‘Resident’ means a person who has established a domicile in the Republic of Korea and is registered under this Act.
— Resident Registration Act, s. 2(1) — Definition of Resident
Statutory TextA foreign national who resides in the Republic of Korea for more than 90 days shall be registered as a foreign resident under separate provisions prescribed by Presidential Decree.
— Resident Registration Act, s. 13 — Registration of Foreign Residents
What to Do
Korean nationals must complete Section A registration at their local district office within 30 days of establishing residence.
Foreign nationals staying over 90 days must apply for Section B (foreign resident) registration at the immigration office or local district office.
Ensure all documents—including passport, visa, lease agreement, and proof of address—are up to date before applying.
Update registration within 14 days of any change in address, visa status, or personal information.
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.