The Seoul Metropolitan Government has officially announced that the city’s 2025 living wage will rise to KRW 11,779 per hour, a 3% increase from the 2024 rate. The new wage will take effect on January 1, 2025.

This update places Seoul’s living wage KRW 1,749 higher than South Korea’s national minimum wage, which is set at KRW 10,030 per hour in 2025 — up 1.7% from 2024.

Higher Earnings for Public Sector Workers

The revised wage equates to a monthly income of approximately KRW 2.46 million based on a standard 40-hour workweek. It will apply to around 14,000 employees, including:

• Workers directly employed by the Seoul city government
• Staff in affiliated public institutions
• Employees of contractors fully funded by the city
• Participants in public job initiatives

Aimed at Supporting Cost of Living in Seoul

Seoul’s living wage is calculated independently from the national minimum, reflecting the city’s higher cost of living and the government’s goal to ensure a fairer income for essential workers. The rate is reviewed annually by the SMG Living Wage Committee, which takes into account inflation, economic conditions, and budgetary factors.

Key Differences: Living Wage vs. Minimum Wage

This increase highlights Seoul’s continued efforts to promote wage fairness, boost worker welfare, and narrow income gaps. For the full announcement, visit Seoul Metropolitan Government News.