Hiring Steps in Korea

Step 1: Define Job Role and Employment Type

Before you begin hiring, determine the following:

• Employment Type: Full-time, Contract, Freelancer, or EOR hire
• Work Model: On-site, hybrid, or remote
• Pay Range: Benchmark salary using Korean portals like JobKorea and Saramin
• Language Requirements: Korean-only, bilingual, or English-speaking candidates

Step 2: Post the Job in the Right Channels

Korea's job market is highly digitalized, and platform choice varies by profession:

Step 3: Resume Screening & Shortlisting

Most Korean candidates submit resumes (이력서) and self-introduction letters (자기소개서). Unlike Western CVs, Korean applications often emphasize academic background and employment stability.

Typical Screening Criteria:

• Education and relevant experience
• Company fit and career motivation
• Employment gap explanation
• English or foreign language proficiency (if required)

Step 4: Interview Process

Interviews are usually conducted in two stages:

Remote interviews via Zoom, Google Meet, or KakaoTalk are now widely accepted. Hire From Korea can coordinate bilingual interview sessions, provide simultaneous interpretation, and manage scheduling.

Step 5: Offer Letter & Negotiation

Once a candidate is selected, provide a written offer letter including:

• Job title and responsibilities
• Salary and bonus structure
• Employment type (full-time, contract, freelancer)
• Working hours, location, and benefits
• Start date and probation period (usually 3 months)

Negotiation is expected, especially for experienced candidates. They often focus on total compensation (base + performance + welfare) rather than only base salary.

Step 6: Employment Contract & Registration

In Korea, a written employment contract is mandatory for all workers. It must clearly specify working conditions, pay schedule, and insurance coverage.

Step 7: Onboarding & Compliance

After signing, onboarding typically includes:

• Employee orientation (work policy, benefits, payroll info)
• Company system access setup (email, Slack, HR tools)
• 4 major insurance registration (if not freelancer)
• First month payroll preparation and tax registration

Step 8: Post-Hiring Support & Performance Review

Korean companies often evaluate new hires after a 3-month probation period. Performance reviews may include self-assessment, manager evaluation, and feedback meetings.

For foreign companies, Hire From Korea can provide:

• Bilingual HR documentation
• Performance tracking templates
• Exit or renewal process management

Korea's hiring process is formal but fast when managed properly. Most hires can be completed within 2–4 weeks from posting to onboarding.

A structured, culturally aware process ensures better retention and fewer legal risks. Hire From Korea helps you hire confidently — backed by local expertise and global standards.