So, you’ve found love in Korea, and now you’re thinking about getting married. Congratulations! But before you start planning your dream wedding, there are some important things to know about the legal process, visa options, cultural expectations, and life after marriage.
Korea has specific marriage laws that apply to foreigners, and navigating the paperwork can be overwhelming. But don’t worry—this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about international marriage in Korea so you can focus on enjoying your big day.
1. Can Foreigners Get Married in Korea?
Yes! But to make your marriage legally recognized, you’ll need to go through the proper registration process.
✅ Basic Requirements
✔ Both partners must be at least 18 years old (some countries require 21)
✔ Both must be legally single (if divorced or widowed, you need proof)
✔ At least one spouse must have legal residency in Korea (a visa is required)
✔ The marriage must comply with both Korean law and the foreign spouse’s home country regulations
2. How to Legally Register Your Marriage in Korea
Even if you have a beautiful wedding ceremony, your marriage is not legally binding until you register it at the Gu Office (구청, district office).
✅ Step-by-Step Marriage Registration Process
1️⃣ Obtain a Certificate of No Impediment to Marriage
• This document proves you’re legally free to marry.
• You can get it from your country’s embassy in Korea or your home country’s government office.
2️⃣ Translate & notarize your documents
• If your documents are not in Korean, they must be officially translated and notarized.
3️⃣ Submit the Marriage Registration Form (혼인신고서) at the Gu Office
• Both spouses must sign, and a witness signature is usually required.
4️⃣ Receive your official Korean Marriage Certificate (혼인관계증명서)
• Processing usually takes 3–7 days, but it may take longer in some cases.
📌 Pro Tip: Some countries don’t automatically recognize foreign marriages, so check if you also need to register your marriage back home!
3. What Visa Do You Need After Marriage?
If you’re planning to live in Korea after marriage, you’ll need the right spouse visa.
✅ F-6 Spouse Visa – Residency for Foreigners Married to Koreans
📌 Who Can Apply?
✔ Foreign spouses who are legally married to a Korean citizen
✔ Couples who can prove a genuine relationship
✔ The Korean spouse must show financial stability
📌 Documents You Need:
✔ Korean Marriage Certificate (혼인관계증명서)
✔ Proof of cohabitation (rental contract, utility bills, etc.)
✔ Korean spouse’s financial records (income tax documents, employment proof)
✔ Relationship proof (photos, messages, travel history together)
📌 Processing Time: 1–3 months
📌 Where to Apply? The Korean Immigration Office (출입국관리소)
🔹 Pro Tip: The F-6 visa allows you to work legally in Korea. After a few years, you can apply for permanent residency (F-5) or even Korean citizenship.
4. Cultural Expectations & Family Traditions
Even though marriage is a personal decision, Korean families are often deeply involved in the process. Understanding family traditions can help prevent misunderstandings.
✅ Meeting the Parents – The Sangyeonrye (상견례) Tradition
• Many Korean families expect a formal meeting between both families before marriage.
• This is not just a casual dinner—it’s a serious discussion about the future of the couple.
✅ Financial Expectations in Korean Marriages
Traditionally, there was a saying:
💰 “The groom’s family buys the house, the bride’s family furnishes it.”
• While this is changing, financial discussions are important in many Korean families.
• Be open and honest about financial responsibilities, savings, and future plans.
✅ Korean Wedding Customs
• Some couples choose a traditional Korean wedding (한복, Hanbok & Pyebaek ceremony), while others prefer Western-style weddings.
• Korean weddings are often short and efficient (usually 30–60 minutes, followed by a buffet).
📌 Pro Tip: Don’t be surprised if guests give cash gifts instead of physical presents. It’s a normal part of Korean wedding culture!
5. What Happens After Marriage? Your Rights & Benefits
✅ Legal Benefits of Marriage in Korea
✔ Eligibility for National Health Insurance (NHI)
✔ Work rights & employment opportunities with an F-6 visa
✔ Inheritance rights & financial benefits
✔ Pathway to permanent residency or citizenship
📌 Can You Get Korean Citizenship After Marriage?
Yes! If you’ve been married for at least 2 years and lived in Korea, you can apply for Korean naturalization (귀화, gwihwa).
📌 Where to Apply? Immigration Office (출입국관리소)
6. What If the Marriage Ends? Divorce Laws in Korea
While no one gets married expecting to divorce, it’s important to understand your rights in case of separation.
✅ Types of Divorce in Korea
✔ Mutual Agreement Divorce (협의이혼, Hyeobui Ihon) – Both partners agree to divorce and settle matters privately.
✔ Contested Divorce (재판이혼, Jaepan Ihon) – If one partner refuses, the case goes to court.
📌 What Happens to Your Visa If You Divorce?
• If you have an F-6 spouse visa, you may need to switch to another visa or leave Korea.
• If you have children or special circumstances (e.g., domestic violence cases), you may be able to keep your visa.
🔹 Pro Tip: If you need legal help, contact Seoul Global Center or a foreigner support organization.
Final Thoughts – Is International Marriage in Korea Complicated?
International marriage in Korea requires legal paperwork, cultural understanding, and visa applications, but with proper preparation, it can be a smooth and fulfilling process.
✅ Quick Checklist for Getting Married in Korea
✔ Get a Certificate of No Impediment from your embassy
✔ Register the marriage at the Gu Office in Korea
✔ Apply for an F-6 Spouse Visa (if living in Korea)
✔ Understand Korean family traditions & financial expectations
✔ Plan your wedding style – traditional, Western, or mixed
✔ Know your rights in case of divorce or visa issues
Marriage is a beautiful journey, and being well-prepared helps make it a happy and successful one. If you’re marrying in Korea, I hope this guide makes your process easier and stress-free!