Pension Lump-Sum Refund (on Departure)
The pension premiums you paid are your money, not a tax — foreigners eligible by social-security agreement (or other conditions) can receive a ‘lump-sum refund’ of what they paid when they permanently leave Korea. It often includes the employer’s share and interest, not just your portion. It’s generally paid once departure is confirmed, and you can claim it in several ways (before departure, on the day at Incheon Airport, or after leaving). The contact is the National Pension Service (☎1355), not the NTS.
🏦 Get Your Pension Back (Before You Leave)What to prepare
- Passport and ARC
- A bank account in your name (incl. for overseas transfer)
- Proof of upcoming departure (flight ticket, etc.) or proof you have left
How to proceed
- 1Check whether your nationality/status is eligible (it varies by country under social-security agreements, etc.)
- 2Confirm the claim method and required documents with the National Pension Service (☎1355)
- 3Claim the lump-sum — with proof of upcoming departure (a ticket, etc.) you may be able to apply before leaving, or you can claim from abroad after departure
- 4Receive it in a bank account in your own name (domestic or overseas)
- 5Note: if you depart via Incheon Airport within a month and conditions are met (e.g. your employer files your resignation), ask NPS whether the airport pay-out service is available
Tips
- ⚠️ The lump-sum is pension, not tax — contact the National Pension Service ☎1355, not the NTS.
- Eligible countries/conditions depend on social-security agreements — confirm with NPS before leaving whether your nationality qualifies (we don’t list countries here).
- ⚠️ There is a time limit after your right arises; if it lapses you may not be able to claim — don’t delay, and confirm the deadline/conditions with NPS.
- It can be rushed right before departure — prepare the resignation filing, documents, and account in advance.
- The amount depends on your coverage period and contributions, so it varies by person — confirm the exact amount with NPS (we don’t state figures here).
- If you’re leaving Korea, settle tax refunds and year-end settlement at the same time (see the ‘Claiming Tax Refunds’ guide).
Key contacts
- National Pension Service customer center ☎1355 (no area code)
- National Pension Service www.nps.or.kr (foreigner guides available)
Related guides
This is general information and has no legal force. Taxes change every year and depend on your situation — always verify with official sources (NTS ☎126, Hometax, a tax accountant).
Last updated: 2026-06-09