South Korea Announces 2026 Minimum Wage Increase

South Korea has officially confirmed its minimum wage for 2026, bringing a modest increase for workers across the country. The update was announced by the Ministry of Employment and Labor, which sets and regulates national labor policies.

Starting January 1, 2026, the national minimum wage will be 10,320 Korean won per hour, representing an increase of 290 won compared to the 2025 rate. This change reflects a 2.9% year-on-year rise.

What This Means for Monthly Salaries

Based on South Korea’s standard working hours — 40 hours per week or approximately 209 hours per month — the updated minimum wage translates to a monthly salary of 2,156,880 won for full-time workers.

The policy applies equally across all industries, meaning every employer in South Korea must follow the same minimum wage requirement regardless of company size or sector.

Why the Minimum Wage Matters

Minimum wage adjustments play an important role in supporting workers’ livelihoods while balancing economic conditions for businesses. Even a modest increase can impact:

Entry-level workers and part-time employees
Small and medium-sized businesses managing payroll costs
Overall wage standards across industries

Employers operating in South Korea should ensure their payroll systems and employment contracts comply with the updated wage requirement starting in 2026.

For official details, refer to the announcement from the Ministry of Employment and Labor.

Korea's 2026 Minimum Wage — Stay Compliant

With the minimum wage rising to 10,320 KRW/hour in 2026, employers need to update payroll. Remoly offers EOR and payroll services in South Korea to keep you compliant with changing labor regulations.

Contact Remoly →

Reference:
https://www.moel.go.kr/english/

About Remoly

Remoly is a global Employer of Record (EOR) service provider dedicated to helping businesses hire employees compliantly around the world. Our services cover payroll management, tax compliance, contract management, and more — enabling companies to enter new markets quickly without setting up a local entity. Whether you are a startup or a multinational corporation, Remoly offers tailored global employment solutions.

Learn more: remoly.net | remoly.cn

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Please consult a qualified attorney or compliance advisor for your specific situation. Remoly assumes no liability for any loss resulting from the use of this information.

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