If you are a foreigner living in Korea and receive a phone call, message, or notice from the Korean police, it can be stressful and confusing—especially due to language barriers and unfamiliar legal procedures.
(However, first make sure it is not a voice phishing scam. Ask for the officer’s identification and phone number. If they ask for money or your bank account information, it is a scam)
Here are three critical steps every foreign national should take immediately after being contacted by the police in Korea.
1. Confirm the Officer’s Identity and the Purpose of Contact
Being contacted by the police does not automatically mean you must appear immediately or give a statement.
Before responding, make sure to confirm:
- The police officer’s name and police station
- The purpose of the contact (witness or suspect)
- Whether there is a case number
- Whether the request is made by phone, message, or an official summons
⚠️ Common mistake by foreigners
Many are told it is “just a simple confirmation,” but later discover they were treated as a suspect.
👉 Do not provide detailed explanations or statements until the purpose is clearly confirmed.
2. Consider the Risk of an Exit Ban Immediately
For foreign nationals, police contact often means that an exit ban from Korea may already be under review—or has already been requested.
Situations where exit bans are common:
- Criminal investigations
- Sexual offense, violence, fraud, or assault allegations
- Expiring visa or short remaining stay period
- Previous failure to respond to police summons
📌 Important to know
Foreigners are often not notified when an exit ban is imposed.
Many only find out at the airport.
👉 If you are contacted by the police, checking the possibility of an exit ban or consulting a lawyer early is crucial.
3. Consult an English-Speaking Korean Lawyer Before Any Police Interview
Consulting a lawyer before a police interview is your legal right—and for foreigners, it is often essential.
Why early legal consultation matters:
- Decide whether and how to give a statement
- Adjust the timing and method of police attendance
- Prevent misunderstandings caused by language or cultural differences
- Respond strategically to possible exit bans
📌 Key point
Hiring a lawyer early does not make the situation worse.
For foreign nationals, it often prevents unnecessary escalation.
👉 Speaking with an English-speaking Korean attorney before meeting the police can significantly reduce legal risks.
Summary for Foreign Nationals in Korea
If a foreigner is contacted by the police in Korea:
(1) Confirm the purpose of contact,
(2) Consider exit ban risks, and
(3) Consult an English-speaking Korean lawyer first.
About the Author
Written by Ethan Tae-moon Uhm Attorney at Law, Law Firm REON English-speaking Korean lawyer for foreign nationals Seoul, South Korea
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