Studying in South Korea is exciting, but managing expenses can be tough. A part-time job can help you cover living costs while gaining work experience. But before you start, you need to know the rules, salary expectations, and best job options available for international students.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about part-time jobs in South Korea for international students, including salary details, visa rules, and job-hunting tips.
Table of contents
- Can International Students Work Part-Time in South Korea?
- Best Part-Time Jobs in South Korea for International Students
- Part-Time Job Salary in South Korea for International Students
- Part-Time Jobs in South Korea for Indian Students
- How to Find Part-Time Jobs in Korea for Students?
- Work Permit & Visa Rules for Part-Time Jobs in South Korea
- Tips to Get a Part-Time Job in South Korea
- FAQs
Can International Students Work Part-Time in South Korea?
Yes! International students in South Korea can work part-time, but they must follow certain rules. The type of student visa you have determines when and how much you can work.
Who Can Work?
There are certain requirements which decide the working population for international students. They are as follows:
- D-2 Visa Holders (Degree Students) – If you are studying for a Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD, you can work part-time.
- D-4 Visa Holders (Language Students) – You can only start working after completing 6 months of study.
How Many Hours Can You Work?
The number of hours depends on your education level. Here are the mentioned educational levels and working hours for the international students:
| Education Level | Weekday Limit | Weekend Limit |
| Associate/Bachelor’s students | 20 hours per week | Unlimited |
| Master’s/PhD students | 30 hours per week | Unlimited |
| Language course students | 10 hours per week | Unlimited |
Before starting any job, you must apply for a work permit from the immigration office. Your employer may also need to submit documents proving that your work is legal under visa rules.
Important: You cannot work at more than two workplaces at the same time.
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- MBBS in South Korea for Indian Students [2025]
Best Part-Time Jobs in South Korea for International Students
Many international students in South Korea take up part-time jobs to manage their living expenses and gain work experience. However, finding a suitable job that follows visa rules can be challenging.
The best part-time jobs for students are flexible, pay well, and do not interfere with studies. From working in cafés to tutoring English, there are many options available. Let’s explore the best part-time jobs in South Korea for international students.
| Job Type | Average Pay (KRW/hour) | Skills Required |
| Convenience store clerk | 9,860 (minimum wage) | Basic Korean |
| Restaurant staff | 10,000–12,000 | Basic Korean |
| Café/barista | 9,860–12,000 | Customer service skills |
| Delivery driver | 12,000–15,000 | Scooter license (sometimes) |
| English tutor | 20,000–50,000 | Native-level English |
| Freelance translation | 15,000–30,000 | Bilingual skills |
Tip: Jobs that require Korean language skills usually pay better!
Part-Time Job Salary in South Korea for International Students
Many international students in South Korea take up part-time jobs to manage their living expenses. The salary you earn depends on the type of job, location, and your Korean language skills. On average, part-time jobs pay KRW 9,860 per hour (the minimum wage in 2024). Your salary will depend on:
- Job type – English tutors earn more than restaurant workers.
- Location – Jobs in Seoul and Busan usually pay more.
- Korean language skills – Better fluency = better job opportunities.
Here are the Expected Monthly Salary Based on Working Hours in South Korea:
| Hours Worked per Week | Monthly Salary (KRW) | Monthly Salary (USD) |
| 10 hours (D-4 visa) | 395,000 | ~$300 |
| 20 hours (D-2 visa) | 790,000 | ~$600 |
| 30 hours (Master’s students) | 1,185,000 | ~$900 |
| High-paying jobs (Tutoring, IT) | 1,500,000+ | ~$1,100+ |
Part-Time Jobs in South Korea for Indian Students
If you are an Indian student in South Korea, there are several part-time job opportunities available. Here are some of the best options for part-time jobs in South Korea for Indian students:
- Indian Restaurants – Many Indian restaurants in cities like Seoul and Busan prefer hiring Indian students for kitchen help, serving, or managing orders.
- English Tutoring – If you have strong English skills, you can teach English to Korean students. Private tutoring pays well, sometimes KRW 25,000–50,000 per hour.
- Delivery Jobs – Food delivery apps like Coupang Eats and Baemin allow students to earn by delivering food. You need a bike or a scooter for this job.
- Convenience Stores & Cafés – Working in GS25, CU, or cafés is a common part-time job, but knowing some Korean is necessary.
- Office & Research Assistant – Some universities or companies offer part-time office or research jobs, especially for master’s and PhD students.
Tips for Indian Students Looking for Jobs in Korea
Finding a part-time job in South Korea can be challenging for Indian students, but with the right approach, you can land a good opportunity. Learning basic Korean, networking with seniors, and checking job portals can help. Here are some useful tips to make your job search easier.
- Learn Basic Korean – Many jobs require at least conversational Korean. Learning basic phrases can help you get better opportunities.
- Network with Seniors – Indian students already in Korea can guide you on where to find jobs and share their experiences.
- Check Indian Communities – Facebook groups like “Indians in Korea” and “Jobs for Foreigners in Korea” often have job postings.
- Apply at Local Restaurants & Stores – Walk into Indian restaurants or small stores and ask if they are hiring. Many places hire students without advertising online.
- Follow University Job Boards – Many universities have bulletin boards or online portals where they post part-time job openings for students.
How to Find Part-Time Jobs in Korea for Students?
Finding a part-time job in South Korea is easier when you know where to look. With the right approach, you can find a well-paying part-time job to support your student life in South Korea. Here are five detailed ways to get started:
- University Job Boards – Most Korean universities have career centres or student support offices that list part-time job openings. These jobs are often on-campus or nearby, making them convenient for students. Check your university’s website or visit the student office for opportunities.
- Popular Job Websites – Online job portals like Albamon and JobKorea post thousands of part-time job listings daily. If you’re looking for English-speaking jobs, Craigslist Korea is another good option. You can filter jobs based on location, salary, and work hours.
- Cafés, Restaurants & Convenience Stores – Many businesses in Korea hire students on the spot if they need extra staff. Walk into local cafés, restaurants, or convenience stores, ask if they’re hiring, and submit your resume. Basic Korean skills will increase your chances of getting hired.
- Networking & Referrals – Your classmates, seniors, or other international students can be great sources of job leads. Many employers prefer hiring students through recommendations. Joining Facebook groups like “Expats in Korea” or “Indians in Korea” can also help you find job postings shared by fellow students.
- Recruitment Agencies & Apps – Some agencies help international students find part-time jobs. Apps like SARAMIN and Worknet can also connect you with employers looking for student workers.
Also Read:
Work Permit & Visa Rules for Part-Time Jobs in South Korea
Before starting a part-time job in South Korea, international students must get a work permit. Without it, working is illegal and can lead to fines or deportation. The process is simple but requires proper documents. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you apply for a work permit.
- Visit the Immigration Office: Find the nearest immigration office and book an appointment if needed.
- Prepare the Required Documents
- Passport & Alien Registration Card (ARC) – Proof of your identity and legal stay.
- University Approval Letter – A signed document from your university allowing you to work.
- Job Contract from Employer – Details of your working hours, salary, and job role.
- Submit the Application & Pay Fees: Submit all documents and pay the processing fee (around KRW 130,000).
- Wait for Approval: Processing takes 1–2 weeks. Once approved, you can legally start working.
Important: If you work without a permit, you may face fines, visa cancellation, or deportation. Always follow the rules to avoid trouble!
Tips to Get a Part-Time Job in South Korea
Finding a part-time job in South Korea can be competitive, especially for international students. Employers often prefer candidates with basic Korean skills and professional etiquette. To increase your chances, you need to prepare well. Here are five essential tips to help you secure a good part-time job in Korea:
- Improve Your Korean Skills – Many employers prefer hiring students who can speak at least basic Korean. Learning common phrases related to customer service or workplace interactions will boost your confidence and improve your job prospects. Free apps like Duolingo, Naver Dictionary, and Papago can help you practice daily.
- Prepare a Korean-Style Resume – Resumes in Korea are usually one page long and include a passport-size photo. Highlight your skills, previous work experience, and availability. Keep it formal and clear, and if possible, translate it into Korean to impress employers.
- Apply early – The best part-time jobs fill up quickly, especially before a new semester starts. Start looking for jobs at least a month in advance. Websites like Albamon and JobKorea post new openings daily, so check regularly and apply as soon as you find a suitable job.
- Be Professional – First impressions matter! Dress neatly, be polite, and greet in Korean during interviews. Employers in Korea value punctuality and respect, so showing good manners can increase your chances of getting hired.
- Be Open to Different Jobs – Some jobs may require basic Korean skills, while others might not. If you’re struggling to find a job in cafés or restaurants, consider English tutoring, freelance work, or working at international brands. Being flexible can help you secure a job faster.
Part-time jobs in South Korea can help you manage expenses while gaining work experience. From convenience stores to English tutoring, there are plenty of options based on your skills and schedule. Just remember the visa rules, apply for a work permit, and use the right job search strategies. With some effort, you’ll find a great job to support your student life in South Korea.
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FAQs
Yes, international students in South Korea can work part-time. However, they must have a D-2 (student) visa and obtain permission from their university and the immigration office.
Students can work 20 hours per week during semesters and full-time during vacations. However, graduate students may have more flexibility.
The minimum wage in South Korea is around 9,860 KRW per hour (as of 2023). Some jobs, like English tutoring, pay more.
Basic Korean is helpful, especially for customer service jobs. However, English tutoring and some office jobs don’t require Korean skills.
Yes. You need to apply for a work permit from the immigration office after getting approval from your university.
You usually need:
– Alien Registration Card (ARC)
– Student visa (D-2)
– Employment contract
– University approval
Yes, but the total working hours must not exceed the allowed limit (20 hours per week during semesters).
Yes. Students cannot work in bars, nightclubs, gambling businesses, or adult entertainment sectors.
Choose flexible jobs with shifts that match your schedule. Prioritize studies and avoid overworking.
Yes, but they still need work authorization. Online jobs like tutoring or freelancing may be an option.
Part-time jobs help, but they may not cover all expenses. Students should also plan for tuition and accommodation costs.
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