• Expanding one’s business abroad is itself an act of pioneering. We believe valuable things in this world can only be created by the act of pioneering.
  • “To make a world without barriers for business expansion.”
  • We help you build your business in Korea.
  • From setting up a corporate entity to living in Korea, we provide a total solution to doing business in Korea.
  • At the turn of the 20th century, Korea finally opened its doors to foreign investment. Korea provides generous support to attract foreign entrepreneurs & professionals.
  • Doing business in Korea starts with establishing a local corporate entity.
  • There are 36 types of visa for foreigners entering Korea. We provide visa issuance, extension and change of sojourn status services for foreign entrepreneurs & professionals.
  • We provide accounting, filing, reporting, and auditing services for foreign businesses in Korea.
  • We match foreign-invested enterprises with Korean job seekers & professionals.
  • Finding local partners is the key to business success abroad. Contact us to find your optimal business partners in Korea.
  • Doing business in Korea may involve living in Korea. Contact us to get help with settling in Korea.
  • “To make a world without barriers for business expansion.”
  • Feed yourself with more in-depth insights on doing business in Korea.
  • Feed yourself with more in-depth insights on doing business in Korea.
  • Feed yourself with more in-depth insights on doing business in Korea.
  • Feed yourself with more in-depth insights on doing business in Korea.
  • Feed yourself with more in-depth insights on doing business in Korea.
  • Feed yourself with more in-depth insights on doing business in Korea.
  • Feed yourself with more in-depth insights on doing business in Korea.
  • You can download required documents for registrations and government-provided information in this section.
  • You can download required documents for registrations and government-provided information in this section.
  • For more inquiries or service request, contact us directly.
  • For more inquiries or service request, contact us directly.

We bring the World to Korea, and take Korea to the World.

HOME INSIGHTS All
25 MAR 2024

Comprehensive Guide to the Alien Registration Card (ARC) in South Korea

TOPIC : Visa Living in Korea

The Alien Registration Card (ARC), which is 외국인등록증, is a vital document utilized by foreigners intending to reside in South Korea for over 90 days. It serves as their official identification and is legally mandated to be carried out at all times. Upon receiving the ARC, individuals benefit from it serving as their primary form of identification in Korea, eliminating the need to constantly use their passports for domestic travel or age verification. 

Possession of an ARC significantly facilitates the process of establishing local amenities such as obtaining a local phone number or opening a bank account. This opens up various options such as enrolling in a post-paid mobile phone plan or applying for a credit card. Furthermore, possessing an ARC allows for an indefinite stay in Korea, contingent upon the card's validity.

 

What is the Purpose of Obtaining an Alien Registration Card in South Korea?

The applicant qualifies for an ARC if their current circumstances meet one of the following criteria:

• Intending to remain in Korea for over 90 days upon entry into the country.

• Not possessing Diplomatic (A-1), Official Business (A-2), or Conventions/Agreements (A-3) visas, nor having family members holding these visas. Most ARC applicants typically consist of foreign workers and students.

 

What are the Steps to Apply for an Alien Registration Card (ARC)?

Step 1: Registration on hikorea.com

To begin, navigate to hikorea.com and click on the "login" icon located at the top of the webpage. Here, applicants can create an account on the platform and schedule their visit. Language settings can be adjusted by selecting the "language" button in the top right corner of the website. It is important to make an appointment within 90 days prior to the intended arrival date. 

Step 2: Online Reservation

Choose the immigration office situated in the vicinity and utilize the "Detailed Search" option to locate the appropriate branch. Under the "Booth" category, select between Chinese and foreign visitors. Clicking on the "Date of visit" link will prompt a pop-up window where the desired time and day of the visit to the immigration office can be selected. Following this, the applicant must download and print the application.

Step 3: Completion of the Application Form

Both English and Chinese versions of the application form are available for accessibility. After selecting one, proceed to fill out the form. Opt for the "Alien Registration" option from the menu at the top of the form. Ensure all necessary documents are prepared beforehand. Alternatively, contact the Contact Center at (800) 1345 to ascertain the required documents before visiting the immigration office.

Step 4: Visit to the Immigration Office

The applicant should proceed to the designated immigration office. An officer will review the application and direct the individual to one of the building's ATMs to pay the processing fee of KRW 30,000. An additional KRW 3,000 is required if the applicant wishes to have the ARC shipped to their address.


Documents Needed for Obtaining a South Korean Alien Registration Card

• Passport

• Application form

• 2 passport photos

• Residency document

Kindly be aware that additional documents may be requested by the officers to further verify nationality and visa status. For further details, please reach out to the Korea Immigration Service.


Guidelines for ARC Enrollment in South Korea

• Arrive promptly for your scheduled appointment

• Pay the application fee at the ATM within the immigration office

• English language options are available at the ATM

• Retain the receipt for your records • Expect to receive your ARC approximately one month after application

• Request mailing of the ARC to your specified address for an extra ₩3,000 fee

• Ensure you have cash on hand as foreign cards are not accepted at the ATM or immigration office.


What if the details change?

If there are any changes to the applicant's name, gender, date of birth, nationality, address, passport details, or, for certain visa holders, organizational information, they are required to inform the immigration office within 14 days. To facilitate this process, the applicant should visit the appropriate immigration office with their ARC, passport, updated application form, and any relevant documentation detailing the required modifications.


What if my ARC is lost or damaged?

If the ARC is lost or damaged, the applicant must inform the immigration office within 14 days. Additionally, if the current ARC photo is over six months old, two recent color passport-style photos with a white background, along with an application form, a processing fee of 30,000, a statement outlining the reason for reissuance, and the old ARC (if still available), are required to obtain a replacement card.


Directory of Immigration Offices in South Korea

Seoul Immigration Office:

Servicing Gwanak-gu, Gwangjin-gu, Gangdong-gu, Dongjak-gu, Songpa-gu, Seongdong-gu, Seocho-gu, Yongsan-gu, Seognam-si, Hanm-si, Gwacheon-si

Location: 151, Mokdongdong-ro, Yangcheon-gu, Seoul, Korea

Operating Hours: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM (weekdays only)

Phone Number: +82-2-2650-6214

 

Seoul Immigration Office Sejongno Branch Office:

Covering Jongno-gu, Jung-gu, Eunpyeong-gu, Dongdaemun-gu, Jungnang-gu, Dobong-gu, Seongbuk-gu, Gangbuk-gu, Nowon-gu

Location: SK Hub Bldg. 2F, 89-4, Gyeongundong, Jongno-gu, Seoul

Operating Hours: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM (weekdays only)

Phone Number: +82-2-731-1799

 

Seoul Southern Immigration Office:

Handling Seodaemun-gu, Mapo-gu, Gangseo-gu, Yangcheon-gu, Yeongdeungpo-gu, Goro-gu, Geumcheon-gu, Gwangmyeong-si

Location: 48 Magokseo-1ro, Gangseo-gu, Seoul

Operating Hours: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM (weekdays only)

Phone Number: +82-2-6280-4813


Conclusion

The Alien Registration Card (ARC) is crucial for long-term stays in South Korea, simplifying essential processes and ensuring legal compliance. For personalized assistance or further inquiries, please reach out to us. Your smooth transition to life in South Korea begins with the right support. Contact us today for expert guidance!

Explore More Insights

Coupang in Korea: Intellectual Property Rights Policy

Coupang values Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) and acknowledges the efforts of sellers who adhere to both the law and Coupang's guidelines. Continuous violations of IPR may lead to the suspension of accounts and other penalties for sellers. It's crucial for sellers to familiarize themselves with IPR regulations and Coupang's policies to avoid infringing on the intellectual property rights of others. This article offers a broad outline of intellectual property rights (IPR) for sellers on Coupang. Intellectual Property Rights Intellectual property rights refer to the rights granted to the creator or owner of a work for a specified duration and are categorized into four primary types. Below are definitions of each type of IPR along with various forms of infringement. Trademark: A distinctive word, symbol, or logo used by the owner to identify their product from others.Copyright: Original works directly produced by the creator, such as images, videos, drawings, etc.Design: Exclusive rights to the appearance, shape, and color scheme of a product (including its components and typography).Patent: Exclusive rights to utilize or market the invention of the IPR holder who conceived the technical concepts.   Types of Intellectual Property Infringement 1. Trademark Infringement Description Trademark infringement occurs when an individual, not the registered trademark owner with the Korean Intellectual Property Office (KIPRIS), uses a trademark identical or similar to a registered trademark on products that are identical or similar to the designated ones without proper authorization.   Instances of Infringement(1) Selling a product with a specific brand logo when the product is not manufactured by that brand. For instance, if Seller A has registered the trademark 'MAHTO' on KIPRIS, and Seller B sells a product by affixing the same trademark without the owner's consent, it constitutes trademark infringement.(2) Incorporating another brand's trademark in the product's name or description when the product is not manufactured by that particular brand (with some exceptions for compatible products).   Instances Not Constituting Infringement (1) When it can be proven that the product is legitimately obtained from the trademark owner.(2) When authorization to use the trademark has been granted by the rightful trademark owner. Preventive Measures for Trademark Infringement (1) Refrain from using trademarks registered by others on detail pages or SDP (Seller Detail Page) without proper permission.(2) Avoid selling counterfeit products.(3) Include only relevant trademarks in product names, detailed descriptions, etc.   2. Copyright Infringement Description Copyright infringement refers to the unauthorized utilization of copyrighted materials, such as product images and videos, without consent from the original creator.   Instances of Infringement (1) Selling a product with the original creator's work attached without permission. For instance, if Seller B sells a product featuring the copyrighted work of Seller A.(2) Reproducing a picture of a product posted by the original creator on their website without proper permission and using it on one's detailed page. For example, if Seller A uploads an image of their product and Seller B captures this copyrighted image without permission and incorporates it into their detailed page, it constitutes copyright infringement as the image was used without consent from the original copyright holder.(3) Distributing unauthorized copies of media such as books, movies, music, artwork, paintings, etc. For example, if a seller downloads a movie from a Blu-ray disc onto a USB drive and sells it, it constitutes copyright infringement.   An Instance Not Constituting Infringement Obtaining permission from the legitimate copyright owner. If permission to use copyrighted material is acquired from the original copyright owner or through a transfer agreement, it does not constitute copyright infringement. In such cases, if evidential documents are submitted and it is indicated in the appeal form that permission has been obtained, Coupang will review the case and lift the suspension on sales.   Preventive Measures for Copyright Infringement (1) Only upload images created by oneself to the detailed page.(2) If intending to use copyrighted material belonging to someone else, obtain permission from the original copyright owner and retain relevant documentation as evidence.   3. Design Infringement Description Design infringement occurs when a design identical to a registered design right with the Korean Intellectual Property Office (KIPRIS) is used without permission.   An Instance of Infringement When a seller manufactures and sells a product that mimics a design registered by the rightful owner with the Korean Intellectual Property Office without obtaining permission. For instance, if Seller A registers a design for a bag featuring a rectangular shape and lattice stitching, and as the design gains popularity, Seller B produces and sells a bag with a similar design, it constitutes infringement of design rights as the design was used without the owner's permission.   An Instance Not Constituting Infringement Obtaining permission from the legitimate owner of the design right. If permission is obtained from the rightful owner of the design right, it does not constitute design infringement. In such instances, if relevant documents are submitted along with the appeal form, Coupang will review them and lift the suspension on sales.   Preventive Measure for Design Infringement Avoid selling products that imitate the design of other products or products protected by design rights.   4. Patent Infringement Description Patent infringement entails replicating or utilizing a patent registered with the Korean Intellectual Property Office (KIPRIS) without authorization.   An Instance of Infringement When an individual lacking the right to a patented technology registered with the Korean Intellectual Property Office sells a product employing the technology without permission. Selling a product utilizing technology registered with the Korean Intellectual Property Office without consent constitutes a violation of patent rights. For instance, if Seller A invents and registers a patented technology that combines music with LED light in a fan, and Seller B utilizes this technology without authorization to sell a similar product, it constitutes patent infringement.   An Instance Not Constituting Infringement Obtaining permission to use patented technology: If permission to utilize patented technology is acquired from the original patent holder or through a transfer agreement, it does not constitute patent infringement.   Preventive Measure for Patent Infringement Avoid selling imitations of patented products without permission or a license from the patent owner. Conclusion Coupang values Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) and sellers must comply to avoid penalties like account suspension. This article outlines trademark, copyright, design, and patent infringement, stressing the importance of understanding and following IPR regulations to maintain ethical business practices.Contact us now for professional support and guidance in unlocking the vast opportunities of the Korean market and initiating your venture on the Coupang Marketplace.

read more

South Korea's E-commerce Landscape: Growth and Challenges

In the realm of digital commerce, South Korea stands out as a leading force due to its innovative approach and rapid adaptation to consumer needs. The nation's e-commerce market not only showcases technological advancement but also underscores a consumer-centric economy that seamlessly blends tradition with modernity. Delving into this vibrant market reveals the factors driving its growth, the unique behaviors of its consumers, the technological innovations shaping its landscape, and the challenges facing businesses entering this dynamic domain. Market Growth and Size South Korea's e-commerce market, a powerhouse in the digital economy, holds a significant position as the sixth-largest globally, boasting an annual revenue stream of $92 billion. The market is on a trajectory of robust expansion, expected to reach approximately $389.89 billion by 2026, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 19.92%. This remarkable growth is fueled by advanced digital infrastructure, widespread internet access, and strong consumer interest in online shopping. These factors combine to drive the market's upward momentum, making it a hub for digital retail innovation and investment. Consumer Engagement Across Ages South Korea's digital market breaks away from traditional e-commerce demographics, engaging a diverse range of consumers across various age groups. This broad appeal requires businesses to develop strategies that resonate with different audiences, from tech-savvy youths to older segments of society. In South Korea, the integration of e-commerce into daily life extends beyond younger generations, encompassing people of all ages. This cultural shift reflects how digital shopping has become a lifestyle choice embraced by society, reshaping the consumer base for online retailers. Transformation of Payment Systems and Retail Experience South Korea's e-commerce success story hinges on its innovative approach to payment systems. Spearheaded by pioneering non-bank entities such as Kakao and Samsung Electronics, these systems have revolutionized online transactions, driving a surge in mobile payments. Concurrently, a paradigm shift is underway in traditional retail. Brick-and-mortar stores are no longer mere transactional spaces; they have evolved into immersive hubs, offering experiential shopping encounters. The emergence of concept stores and pop-up shops, prioritizing interactive customer engagements, signifies a strategic shift in retail. This fusion of digital payment convenience and experiential retailing is reshaping the retail landscape, establishing new benchmarks for consumer expectations and purchasing behaviors. Obstacles for International Entrants The allure of South Korea's e-commerce market is evident, yet it presents distinct challenges, particularly for foreign firms. A significant obstacle is the intricacies of payment processing, largely due to the dominance of local credit card brands. Additionally, foreign enterprises encounter regulatory and institutional barriers that hinder market entry and operations. Navigating these challenges necessitates a profound comprehension of local market dynamics, regulatory frameworks, and consumer preferences. Success in this market demands not only a robust business model but also the flexibility to adapt to a multifaceted and evolving ecosystem. In Conclusion South Korea's e-commerce sector stands as a symbol of innovation, expansion, and opportunity in the digital era. It embodies remarkable growth, diverse consumer engagement, pioneering payment solutions, and distinct challenges. For businesses aiming to thrive in this dynamic landscape, a nuanced understanding of these varied aspects is indispensable. As South Korea continues to lead in digital retail innovation, its e-commerce market remains ripe with opportunities for both local enterprises and international ventures, provided they navigate its dynamic terrain adeptly. Pearson & Partners - Simplifying Market Entry into Korea. At Pearson & Partners, we specialize in facilitating smooth market entries into Korea, ensuring a seamless transition for your business. Our tailored services encompass visa acquisition and tax accounting, meticulously navigating the intricacies of Korean business regulations. With our expertise, your business operations in Korea are guaranteed to be both compliant and efficient. Contact us to embark on a partnership that offers personalized support, perfectly aligned with your unique business needs and objectives.

read more

Do you want to enter the Korean market Coupang as a seller?

Coupang, a titan in South Korea's e-commerce realm, has revolutionized the way Koreans shop since its inception in 2010. Offering an extensive range of products and unparalleled delivery services, Coupang has cemented its position as a consumer favorite, driving the surge of e-commerce in the nation.   The E-commerce Boom in South Korea: The e-commerce boom in South Korea is nothing short of astounding. With a staggering US$140 billion in sales recorded in 2023 alone, the country has emerged as the 5th largest e-commerce market globally. This growth is propelled by a significant shift in consumer behavior, with online purchases surpassing traditional brick-and-mortar stores for the first time in history, accounting for 50.5% of total sales.   Coupang's Dominance and Strategies: At the heart of this transformation lies Coupang, armed with innovative strategies and an unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction. The recent success of its US IPO, raising a whopping US$4.6 billion, underscores its dedication to competitive pricing, vast product selection, and cutting-edge logistics solutions.   Competitive Advantages of Coupang: Coupang's competitive edge stems from its efficient delivery system, diverse product offerings, enhanced customer experience, technological prowess, strategic partnerships, and market dominance. These factors collectively contribute to its stronghold in the e-commerce industry.1. Efficient Delivery System: Coupang is renowned for its fast and reliable delivery services, often providing same-day or next-day delivery for a wide range of products. This efficient logistics network enhances customer satisfaction and loyalty. 2. Wide Product Selection: The platform offers a diverse array of products, ranging from electronics and clothing to household goods and groceries. This extensive product selection caters to the diverse needs and preferences of consumers, attracting a broad customer base. 3. Enhanced Customer Experience: Coupang prioritizes customer satisfaction by providing a seamless shopping experience through user-friendly interfaces, personalized recommendations, and responsive customer support. These efforts contribute to increased customer retention and positive word-of-mouth. 4. Innovative Technology and Infrastructure: Coupang leverages advanced technology and infrastructure, including data analytics, artificial intelligence, and automation, to optimize its operations and enhance efficiency. This enables the company to stay ahead of competitors and adapt to evolving market trends. 5. Strategic Partnerships and Investments: Coupang has forged strategic partnerships with suppliers, brands, and logistics companies to strengthen its supply chain and expand its product offerings. Additionally, the company has received significant investments from key stakeholders, enabling it to invest in research and development, marketing, and infrastructure.  6. Brand Recognition and Market Dominance: Over the years, Coupang has built a strong brand presence and established itself as a market leader in South Korea's e-commerce landscape. Its widespread recognition and market dominance give it a competitive edge over rivals.   Coupang: A Gateway for Global Sellers: For global brands, Coupang serves as a gateway to the lucrative South Korean market. Chinese sellers, in particular, stand to benefit from Coupang's robust platform and support services, which streamline the process of entering and thriving in the Korean market. Conclusion In summary, Coupang stands as a powerhouse in the South Korean e-commerce landscape, offering a diverse array of products, efficient delivery services, and a seamless shopping experience. With its strong market presence and innovative strategies, Coupang continues to lead the way in reshaping the e-commerce industry in South Korea. For sellers looking to tap into this dynamic market, our company serves as a valuable partner, providing assistance with navigating the process of signing up and incorporating in Korea. With our expertise, we can help streamline the entry process, ensuring a smooth transition and positioning your brand for success in the thriving South Korean e-commerce space. Contact us today to explore how we can assist you in leveraging the opportunities presented by Coupang and the South Korean market.

read more
Explore All Insights

Thank you for your interest in Pearson.

TYPE
Incorporation Visa Taxation & Accounting Recruitment Finding Partners Living in Korea Others