Where can I get legal help in Korea?
Explore resources for legal assistance in Korea, including support services for foreign residents and workers. Learn about accessing legal counseling, navigating disputes, and understanding your rights. Find guidance on how to seek help for workplace issues, immigration concerns, and personal matters.
Finding legal support as a foreigner in Korea can be challenging, especially if language barriers are a concern. However, several resources and organizations can provide assistance. Here’s a guide to finding legal help:
Korea Legal Aid Corporation (KLAC)
KLAC is a government-funded organization offering free or low-cost legal aid to residents, including foreigners in need.
- Services: Civil, criminal, and family law assistance, especially for low-income individuals.
- Languages: Primarily Korean, but English-speaking staff may be available.
- Contact: Visit KLAC website or call 132 (legal counseling).
Seoul Global Center
Operated by the Seoul Metropolitan Government, the Seoul Global Center provides various services for foreigners living in Seoul, including legal advice.
- Services: Free consultations with lawyers on civil, labor, and immigration issues.
- Languages: English, Chinese, Japanese, and other languages depending on availability.
- Contact: Visit the Seoul Global Center website or call 02-2075-4180.
Korean Bar Association (KBA) - Foreign Legal Counseling Center
The KBA offers a special Foreign Legal Counseling Center where foreign residents can receive legal consultations.
- Services: Consultation on various legal issues, including contracts, employment, and family law.
- Languages: English and other languages, depending on the lawyer’s proficiency.
- Contact: Visit KBA website or call 02-3476-4000.
- You can also contact the Local Bar Association in your area.
Migrant Workers’ Centers
About: These centers assist foreign workers by providing information, legal help, and other services related to employment and rights.
- Services: Help with employment disputes, immigration, and labor rights issues.
- Languages: Various languages based on the center.
- Contact: Look up local migrant workers' centers in your area, or contact the Korea Support Center for Foreign Workers at 1644-0644.
Village Lawyers Program
About: The Village Lawyers Program, initiated by the Korean Ministry of Justice, provides free legal consultation services for foreigners residing in Korea. Village lawyers, or local attorneys, volunteer their time to help non-Korean residents with a range of legal issues.
- Services: Free legal advice on civil, criminal, and family law, among other topics.
- Availability: Lawyers are stationed at local community centers, government offices, and some NGOs.
- Languages: Primarily in Korean, though some village lawyers may offer services in English or other languages, depending on location.
- Contact: Visit or contact your local immigration office, community center, or the Ministry of Justice’s Village Lawyers Program page for more information on participating locations and lawyer availability.
Private Law Firms with International Services
About: Many private law firms in Korea specialize in services for foreigners, including business, immigration, and family law.
- Examples:
- Kim & Chang - Known for international expertise.
- Yulchon LLC - Offers services to foreign residents and companies.
- Lee & Lee - English speaking lawyers for foreigners.
- Pureum Law Office - Offers service in English for foreign residents.
- Languages: Typically English and other languages as needed.
- Cost: Fees apply; rates vary by firm.
※ You can also join Legal Help for Foreigners in Korea Facebook group to gain insights and support from other foreigners.
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