Open the account you actually need.
Banking, remittance, tax and pension records become easier when you know the purpose of each account and keep a clear trail of money moving in and out.
- Call the chosen branch for its exact document list.
- Compare the amount the recipient receives, not just the transfer fee.
- Keep payslips, contribution notices and transfer records.
Bring proof of purpose
Document requirements vary by branch and product. A new account may have transaction limits until sufficient proof is supplied.
Prepare
- Passport and residence card when issued.
- Employment contract, certificate of employment or other objective proof of purpose.
- Korean phone number, address and tax-residency information when requested.
Ask before leaving
- Confirm app access, transfer limits, debit card, transport function and overseas use.
- Ask which limits can be reviewed later and what evidence is needed.
- Never share one-time passwords or security certificates.
Treat urgent calls about frozen funds, prosecutors or moving money into a 'safe' account as potential fraud. Use independently confirmed official contact channels.
Compare the total transfer
The cheapest advertised fee can hide an exchange-rate margin or receiving-bank charge.
Like-for-like comparison
- Amount the recipient actually receives, exchange rate and stated fee.
- Sending limits, processing time, receiving deductions and cancellation route.
- Regulation, identity requirements, supported currencies and customer support.
Build an audit trail
- Check the recipient name, bank address, account number and SWIFT details.
- Keep confirmations, exchange records and the source of large incoming funds.
- Seek qualified advice for significant cross-border tax or reporting questions.
Secrecy, urgency, remote-control software and cryptocurrency conversion are warning signs. Do not choose a service solely for a referral bonus.
Ask the institution responsible
The public-service routes in the edition cover different questions; one office does not control every financial record.
National Tax Service
- Tax guidance and income records.
- Ask how your circumstances affect tax filing rather than relying on a general online estimate.
National Pension Service
- Coverage and contribution records.
- Nationality-specific benefit questions require confirmation with NPS.
Adapted from the digital edition revised 3 October 2026. Individual PDF pages retain their own source-review dates. Not independently verified — confirm official requirements before acting.