Question
How can I send money home from Korea legally?
As of · sources retrieved from official Korean authorities
You can remit up to USD 100,000 per year without extra paperwork (larger amounts need additional documents), and you may exchange up to USD 10,000 in a single purchase of foreign currency if you have no prior foreign‑currency sales record; keep the bank slip as proof. Full details below.
The rule this rests on
Article 47 (2) shall apply to foreigners who have committed offenses outside the Republic of Korea: Provided , That this shall not apply to cases where such offenses do not constitute criminality according to the law of the place of the offenses, or the prosecution or the execution of sentences is exempted. | Article 52 (Confiscation and Punitive Additional Collection) | Money, valuables, and other interests which have been exploited by any person who has committed offenses referred to in Articl
Article 27 shall not apply to a specific foreign corporation falling under any of the following cases: <Amended on Dec. 21, 2021; Dec. 31, 2022> | 1. | Where the income actually earned by a specific foreign corporation as of the end of each business year does not exceed the amount prescribed by Presidential Decree; | | 2. | Where a specific foreign corporation owns a permanent establishment, such as an office, a store, or a factory, that is required for business activities in a country or regi
Remittance limit – Up to USD 100,000 annually can be sent abroad by foreigners without needing extra documentation; amounts above require additional papers such as bank statements or source‑of‑funds proof.
One‑time foreign‑currency purchase limit – If you have no record of previously selling foreign currency, you may buy up to USD 10,000 for travel expenses (or for overseas remittance) by presenting your passport.
Required documents – Bring your passport, alien registration (or residence) card, and proof of transaction purpose (e.g., employment contract, receipt) when you go to the bank.
How to send –
- Visit a bank branch (e.g., KEB Hana Bank 1599‑1111, Woori Bank 1588‑5000).
- Fill out the telegraphic transfer form with recipient’s name, address, bank, account number, and amount.
- Submit the required ID and purpose documents; keep the issued slip as evidence.
Tips – Use internet banking for better exchange rates. If sending over USD 100,000 in a year, be ready to provide additional documentation such as source‑of‑funds proof.
Hotlines for help – 132 Legal Aid, 1350 Labor/Employment (for work‑related remittance questions), and bank‑specific helplines (KEB Hana 1599‑1111, Woori 1588‑5000).
Sources fetched 2026-09-19 · Korean laws change — verify with the issuing authority before acting.