How to Become a Citizen of South Korea: Korean Simplified Naturalization Law

You may become a citizen of Korea either through the Simplified Nationality process or the General Naturalization Process. In most cases, the Simplified Naturalization path is an easier and quicker path to obtaining a Korean passport. The following explanation details the basics of the Simplified Naturalization Process in Korea. We shall detail the Korean General Naturalization process in a follow-up post.

The basic requirements for obtaining Korean Nationality include:

1. Being over the age of 18; and
2. Having, in most cases, no criminal record in Korea or abroad;
3. Having financial resources to support yourself and your family; and
4. Proving, usually, via a test basic Korean language ability and basic knowledge of Korean customs, history, and culture.

Simplified Korean Naturalization Through Marriage

Simplified Naturalization through Marriage can be applied for by an expat and his or her Korean spouse. To successfully apply the applicant should have:

1. Been married to a Korean for at least two years and lived in Korea for at least two years with your Korean spouse; or
2. Been married to a Korean national for at least three years and resided in Korea for at least one year as a married couple.

It is possible to obtain nationality if you have not been married for two years or lived in Korea for less than one year. Exceptions do exist. Please contact us for more details. The specific details of the particular matter dictate if you fall under exceptions to these general rules.

Simplified Korean Naturalization Through Korean Lineage and Korean Residence

If you have Korean ancestry you may be eligible for the Simplified Naturalization through Korean Lineage and Korean Residence. To successfully apply the applicant should:

1. Have resided in Korea for three years; and

2. Fall into one of the following categories:

a. Have parents that were nationals of Korea; or
b. Was born in Korea; or
c. Was adopted by a Korean national.

For more information on Korean naturalizations, please schedule a free consultation with an attorney at: Schedule a Free Korean Legal Consultation.