Korean Tax Refund FAQ for Foreigners (2025 Edition)

📌 Korean Tax Refund FAQ for Foreigners (2025 Edition)

If you’re living and working in Korea, you might be entitled to a tax refund. Here are the most common questions foreigners ask — and the answers you need.

1. 💡 Am I eligible for a tax refund in Korea?

Yes. If you paid income tax (withholding, prepayments) and your final tax calculation is lower than the total paid, you are entitled to a refund.

2. 📆 When do I receive the refund?

• Filed in May → refund usually paid by late June or early July
• Filed in June (verified income) → refund in July/August

3. 🏦 Do I need to register my bank account?

Yes. Without account registration, refund cannot be transferred. Use HomeTax to register under your name only.

4. 🚫 Can I use a friend’s or spouse’s account?

No. Refunds will be blocked if the account is not under your ARC name.

5. 🔎 How can I check my refund status?

1. Visit www.hometax.go.kr
2. Log in
3. Go to “조회/발급 → 국세환급금 찾기”

💻 HomeTax Refund Inquiry

6. 📭 What if my refund is delayed?

• Check if your refund account is registered
• Call NTS 126 → Press 1 → Press 2
• Check for prior tax debt or mismatched info

7. 🕓 Do refunds expire?

Yes. You must claim your refund within 5 years from notification. After that, it is forfeited to the government.

8. 📱 Can I check my refund on mobile?

Yes. Download the 손택스 (Sontax) app → Log in → Go to "환급금 조회 (Refund Check)"

9. 📄 Do I need to file taxes every year?

If you earn freelance, business, rental, or multiple job income, yes. Otherwise, your company will usually file via year-end settlement (연말정산).

10. 🧾 Can I get help in English?

Yes! Call NTS 126 → Press 7 → Press 1 (English support available weekdays 9AM–6PM)

📞 Call NTS English Support (126)

📍 Final Tip

Don’t assume your tax refund will arrive automatically. Check it, register your account, and call if it’s delayed. For many foreigners in Korea, refunds are often missed — don’t let yours expire!