The question I get the most from foreigners in Korea is about setting up a business in Korea. South Korea has become an excellent location for global entrepreneurs and investors looking to enter the Asian market. Seoul, in particular, has become a global hub for startups passionate about technology and innovation. Furthermore, foreigners come to Korea with startup business ideas they feel can bring much value to the Korean market. However, starting a business in Korea has more to do with having a solid business plan. Therefore foreigners in Korea must have a guideline about the ins and outs of doing business in Korea and how to set up a business in Korea.
Information about setting up a business in South Korea can be difficult to find in English as most of the information is primarily on Naver and written in Korean. Therefore this article will give you a step-by-step guide to setting up a business in Korea.
First, foreigners can open a business in Korea if your visa permits them to. You can check out all the available visas in Korea here. Usually, these visa categories below cannot register a business in Korea.
But the following visas usually permit you to open a business in Korea. If you have any questions regarding your visa, make sure to contact your embassy, and they will be able to explain what you can and can’t do.
Visa guidelines and requirements in Korea change often. Therefore, for your situation, check HiKorea, which offers free advice when you call 1345; they are fluent in English.
Korea has many business structures, similar to western countries but with some important differences. Therefore I have provided a summary of the main types and their general requirements below.
Next, you will need to register your business in Korea. The requirements for LTDs and LLCs are complex and best explained by your chosen financial or legal professional.
For sole proprietors, you will need to follow these steps:
Note: The tax office may call you to verify your identity and business details in Korean. Therefore try to have a Korean friend or co-worker nearby to help you with the call.
Once you have completed your business registration, you can set up your business bank account.
Unfortunately, many banks will only provide business banking in Korea.
You will likely need the following documents:
Once you have prepared the above documents, you can visit a branch of your choice. No appointment is required. However, remember that not all Korean banks offer English banking applications. Therefore, we recommend you consider Hana, IBK, Shinhan, or KB. Moreover, these banks do provide English banking applications.
Here are the next steps to take:
Once the above steps are completed, the banking teller will provide you with:
Below is a sample of a passbook & OTP.
Once you set up a business in Korea, whether it is profitable or not, you must be tax compliant. Tax compliance means the following tax returns must be submitted on time. Filing your taxes in Korea for foreigners can be a complicated process. Therefore, it is highly recommended you have a tax accountant you can trust.
Note: Talk to your financial or legal professional for a tailored compliance plan.
Congratulations on setting up a business in Korea! We wish you the best for your business’s success in Korea.
For Business Setup or Tax Consultations, contact us here:
https://www.taxinkorea.com/appointments/
Or by email: christie@hanatax.net
Christie Lee CPA
Suite 301, 72
Nonhyeon-ro 79-gil
Gangnam-gu, Seoul
Republic of Korea 06239
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Branch or Office set up in Korea for Trading Bussiness