Author Archives: koreantaxexpert

Criteria for Companies Subject to External Audit in Korea

The image above shows the screen you will see when you access the Korean corporate disclosure website at https://englishdart.fss.or.kr/dsba001/main.do.     External Audit Criteria Based on the Enforcement Decree of the Act on External Audit of Stock Companies 1. Asset Threshold: Companies with total assets of 50 billion KRW or more at the end of […]

How to Establish an LLC in Korea for Foreign Investors: Required Documents

Establishing a Limited Liability Company (LLC) in Korea is a common choice for foreign investors due to its less stringent disclosure obligations and restricted share trading. Below is a concise guide outlining the necessary documents and the responsible parties for each step in the process when foreign investors are injecting capital. Initial Requirements Provide Office […]

Korea’s 4 Social Insurance Rates for 2024: What You Need to Know

  The image is sourced from the National Health Insurance Service (NHIS) of Korea. For more detailed information, you can visit their official website.       In Korea, both employees and employers contribute to several social insurance programs designed to provide financial security and support for workers. For 2024, these contributions are distributed across […]

2026 Korea Income Tax Rates for Foreign Workers

Understanding Korean income tax can be challenging for foreign employees and overseas HR teams. Korea applies progressive income tax rates to most employees, while eligible foreign employees may elect a special 19% flat tax rate. Another important feature of the Korean system is the Year-End Tax Settlement, under which the employer recalculates and finalizes an […]

Introducing Hyun Jee (Faith) Kim: Partner Attorney for Foreign Clients at STAR LAW

  We are thrilled to introduce Hyun Jee (Faith) Kim, a distinguished partner attorney at STAR LAW, specializing in services for foreign clients. With a wealth of experience and a robust educational background, Faith is a key asset to our firm, offering comprehensive legal services that cater to the unique needs of foreign businesses operating […]

Trust and Expertise: The Breakthrough Why Choose Us

Why Choose Us: Client Perspectives Today, we take a moment to consider why our clients consistently choose our services. Our commitment to excellence and a deep understanding of the intricacies of Korean tax law ensure that we deliver top-notch service to every client. Whether you are a small startup or a large corporation, we tailor […]

Understanding Zero-Rate VAT in Korea

In Korea, the standard VAT rate is 10%. Similar to other countries, Korea exempts certain transactions from VAT. Specifically, when a Korean resident company provides services to a foreign entity, VAT can be exempted under the following conditions. It is crucial for foreign corporations engaged in frequent international transactions to understand these criteria, as it […]

Introduction to STAR GROUP: The Legal and Tax Experts in Korea

As of May 1, 2024, we are thrilled to announce the formation of STAR GROUP through our collaboration with STAR LAW FIRM. Our core mission is to provide comprehensive assistance to foreign clients navigating legal and tax matters in Korea, drawing on our extensive and diverse expertise. Over the years, we have observed numerous crises […]

Importing E-Certificates in Korea (공인인증서 가져오기)

In Korea, every business must possess an e-certificate (공인인증서). This electronic identification is essential for interactions with governmental websites, banks, and other entities for company registration verifications. Typically, the bank provides the e-certificate when a company opens a bank account. Below, we’ll explain how to download (you first need to “import” the e-certificate into your […]

Understanding Corporate Seals in Korea

  In Korea, the use of electronic signatures is not yet widespread. Instead, it is common practice to rely on a corporate seal registered (법인인감) with the court for various transactions, including the drafting of important contracts and visits to financial institutions. When utilizing a corporate seal, you will be requested to bring the most […]

Easy Steps for Company Registration in Korea

  Today, we’re breaking down the process of setting up a company in Korea, tailored specifically for foreigners or foreign-invested entities. With over 15 years of experience, we’ve crafted this guide to be straightforward and accessible, ensuring it’s easy to follow and helpful for you.   1. Choose Your Company Type: Select a Limited Liability […]