2026 Korea Net Pay Calculator
Applying the latest 2026 tax tables and 4 major insurance rates
to calculate your actual monthly take-home income.
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Korea Salary & Tax Guide for Expats
Understanding Net Pay in Korea
Your net pay (or take-home pay) is what remains after mandatory deductions from your gross salary. In Korea, these deductions include the 4 major social insurances and income tax. Many expats are surprised to find their actual paycheck is 15-25% less than their contract salary.
2026 Social Insurance Rates
- • National Pension: 4.75% (capped at ₩300,000/month)
- • Health Insurance: 3.595%
- • Long-term Care: 13.14% of health premium
- • Employment Insurance: 0.9%
Frequently Asked Questions
Q Can I get my pension contributions back when I leave Korea?
Yes! If your country doesn't have a pension agreement with Korea (like the US, Japan, or China), you can claim a lump-sum refund when you permanently leave. Apply through the NPS within 5 years of departure.
Q Is the 19% flat tax always better for foreigners?
Not always. If your annual income is below ₩40-50 million, the progressive tax system with deductions may result in lower taxes. Use our calculator to compare both options for your situation.
Q Do E-2 visa holders pay the same taxes as Koreans?
Yes, E-2 (English teacher) visa holders pay the same social insurances and income taxes as Korean employees. The main difference is the option to use the 19% flat tax rate and potential pension exemptions based on nationality.
Q What is included in "4 major insurances"?
The 4 major insurances (사대보험) are: National Pension, National Health Insurance, Employment Insurance, and Industrial Accident Insurance. Employees pay ~9% of their salary, with employers matching a similar amount.
Need Deeper Guides?
Explore the 2026 Korea Life & Finance Roadmap on KR Insider . From visa updates to tax-saving strategies, we have you covered.
FAQ
Quick answers to common questions.
What is the 19% flat tax rate for foreigners in Korea?
Foreign residents can opt for a 19% flat tax rate on their gross salary, which is often beneficial for high earners. This system simplifies tax calculations by applying a single rate instead of progressive brackets, and it is available for up to 20 years of residency.
What are the 4 major insurances in Korea?
The 4 major insurances are National Pension (4.75%), Health Insurance (3.595%), Long-term Care (13.14% of health), and Employment Insurance (0.9%). These rates represent the employee's share as of 2026, with employers contributing an equal or higher amount depending on the insurance type.
Can foreigners get their National Pension back when leaving Korea?
Yes, citizens from countries with reciprocity agreements (like the US, China, and Canada) can claim a lump-sum refund upon departure. You must apply through the National Pension Service (NPS) before leaving or within 5 years of your departure from Korea.
How much is the minimum wage in Korea for 2026?
The 2026 minimum wage is ₩10,030 per hour, which equates to approximately ₩2,096,270 per month for a 209-hour workweek. This includes the mandatory weekly holiday pay (Ju-hyu-su-dang) required for full-time employees.