Late interest (Labor Standards Act, Art. 37)
Employers must pay a departing worker's wages and severance within 14 days of leaving. From the next day until actual payment, 20% a year in late interest accrues.
Wages unpaid while still employed may be subject to statutory interest under the Civil or Commercial Act (5–6% a year) or amended laws depending on the situation, so check with the Ministry of Employment and Labor.
Steps to take
- Organize the unpaid amount (pay slips, bank records, employment contract)
- File an unpaid wage petition on the Labor Portal
- Get an unpaid wage confirmation
- Apply to COMWEL for a substitute payment (the state pays first even if the company has no money)
- Free litigation support from the Korea Legal Aid Corporation
The statute of limitations for wage claims is 3 years. Don't wait too long — file a petition.
This calculator gives estimates based on published laws and criteria and is not legal advice. Before acting, be sure to check with the official agencies below.