KR

South Korea tax residency rules

Threshold: 183 days ยท Day Count ยท Calendar year (Jan 1 โ€“ Dec 31)

South Korea taxes residents on worldwide income. Residency triggers at having a domicile in Korea (defined as the center of life), OR after 183 cumulative days of residence in any 24-month window. Special expat regimes apply for inbound foreign engineers and researchers.

  • 183 cumulative days over 24 months triggers residency โ€” slower-burn than calendar-year tests.
  • Foreign engineer/researcher concession: flat 19% tax for up to 10 years (with conditions).

Rules tracked by Tax Days

  • 183-Day Rule

    Type
    Day Count
    Threshold
    183 days
    Period
    Calendar year (Jan 1 โ€“ Dec 31)

    Tax residency triggers if you're physically present for more than the threshold number of days in a calendar year.

    South Korea considers you a tax resident if you have a domicile or have resided for 183+ days.

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