If you need to use Korean documents abroad-whether for study, work, immigration, or business-getting an apostille is essential. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you understand and navigate the apostille process in Korea.
What Is an Apostille?
An apostille certifies the authenticity of a public document so it can be recognized in countries that are members of the Hague Apostille Convention. This process eliminates the need for further legalization by embassies, making international document use much simpler13.
Who Issues Apostilles in Korea?
In Korea, only central government authorities can issue apostilles – not local city offices. The main authorities are:
- Ministry of Foreign Affairs: For most administrative documents.
- Ministry of Justice: For court-related, notarial, and certain official certificates.
Step-by-Step: How to Get an Apostille in Korea
1. Obtain the Original Document
- For documents like diplomas, birth certificates, marriage certificates, or business licenses, request the official version from the issuing authority.
- If you need a certified copy (e.g., of a diploma), have it made and sealed by the university registrar or relevant office.
2. Notarize and Translate (If Needed)
- If your document is in Korean and the destination country requires English, have it translated by a certified translator and notarized by a notary public in Korea5.
- Notarization typically costs around 53,000 KRW per document. Bring your passport and cash for the notary fee and required stamps.
3. Visit the Apostille Counter
- Bring your original (or notarized) document to the appropriate apostille counter:
- Ministry of Foreign Affairs for most government-issued documents.
- Ministry of Justice for court, notarial, or legal documents.
- Both counters are located in central Seoul. For example, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ Passport Division is at the Korean Reinsurance Building, Jongro-Gu, Seoul.
4. Submit Your Application
- Fill out the application form at the apostille counter.
- Provide your passport for identification.
- Pay the stamp fee (typically 1,000 KRW per document).
5. Processing Time
- The apostille is usually processed within three business days of application. In some cases, it may be extended by up to seven days if further verification is needed.
- If you apply early in the day, same-day service may be possible.
6. Collect or Arrange Delivery
- Pick up your apostilled document in person, or arrange for international delivery through a service like DHL.
Special Notes
- Electronic Application: Some documents may be eligible for online apostille application via the electronic civil petition window, depending on the type of document and issuing authority2.
- Overseas Applicants: If you are not in Korea, consider using a professional apostille service to handle document procurement, notarization, and apostille on your behalf.
Frequently Apostilled Documents in Korea
- Academic diplomas and transcripts
- Birth, marriage, and family relation certificates
- Criminal record checks
- Business registration and corporate documents
- Notarized translations
Why Use a Professional Service?
Navigating Korean bureaucracy, translation, and notarization can be complex-especially from overseas. Professional apostille services in Korea can:
- Obtain documents on your behalf
- Handle notarization and translation
- Submit and collect apostilled documents
- Arrange secure international shipping
Need help getting your Korean documents apostilled?
Contact a trusted apostille service provider to simplify the process and ensure your documents are ready for international use
