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South Korea Debt Collection Guide

Filing fees, claim limits, demand letter requirements, court process, service rules, and enforcement options for collecting money in South Korea. Verify local court rules before filing.

Verified
Source checked: 2026-04-29
Official source
Court
District Court - Small Claims
Filing Fee
KRW 2,000-KRW 50,000 (~$1.50-$37 USD)
Claim Limit
KRW 30,000,000 (approx $22,000 USD)
Timeline
2-6 weeks

Filing Instructions

  1. 1File a complaint at the District Court (can be done online)
  2. 2Pay filing fee (revenue stamps or online payment)
  3. 3Court serves the complaint on the defendant
  4. 4Single hearing date is set - judgment usually same day
  5. 5Alternative: use the payment order procedure for faster uncontested claims

Required Forms

  • - Complaint Form
  • - Evidence documents

Service Rules

Court serves by special delivery mail. Substituted service available.

Legal Basis

Small Claims Trial Act

Enforcement Options

  • - Compulsory execution
  • - Wage garnishment
  • - Bank account seizure
  • - Property seizure and auction

Online Filing Portal

https://ecfs.scourt.go.kr

Important Notes

Korean small claims are extremely fast - often resolved in a single hearing. Online filing is well-developed. Payment order procedure doesn't require a hearing if debtor doesn't object.

Start with a demand letter

Document the claim before escalating to a court or tribunal.

Start Your Case