Types of Leave
- Annual Leave: Employees are entitled to 11 days of paid annual leave after 1 year of full-time employment. Additional days are added for long service. Employees who work less than one year or have irregular attendance may receive prorated leave. Employers must encourage leave usage by providing planning support.
- Sick Leave: There is no statutory paid sick leave. Many employers offer paid sick leave through internal policy. Employees unable to work due to occupational injury or illness may be entitled to compensation under industrial accident insurance.
- Maternity Leave: 90 days of maternity leave are granted, with 60 days paid by employment insurance. For multiple births, the total is 120 days. Employers are legally prohibited from terminating employees during maternity leave.
- Paternity Leave: 10 days of paid paternity leave are available, paid via employment insurance. Must be used within 90 days of childbirth.
- Parental Leave: Up to 1 year of unpaid parental leave is allowed per parent. Employment insurance may pay partial income during this time. Employees must have at least 1 year of service and a child under age 8.
Unused Leave
Annual leave is valid for one year. Employers must encourage its use or face penalties. Leave unused without the employee’s refusal can be carried forward or encashed, especially upon resignation.
Consequences of Mismanagement
Employers who fail to grant annual leave may be fined up to KRW 5 million. Failure to comply with maternity protections may lead to higher fines and labor claims. Companies should maintain transparent leave records.
Public Holidays
South Korea has 15 public holidays, including Chuseok, Seollal (Lunar New Year), and National Foundation Day. Paid leave is granted on all official holidays. If work is performed, overtime rules apply.
How AYP Manages Leave Compliance
AYP ensures leave management in Korea complies with employment insurance rules, industrial accident policies, and public holiday requirements. We track eligibility and usage to ensure employers meet all obligations.
Contact Us
Looking to expand in Korea? Contact AYP to ensure compliant leave and payroll processing with our EOR platform.
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