Table of Contents
ToggleHere are the South Korea statutory updates for 2026.
Effective March 2026
Yellow Envelope Act Employment Law Changes
South Korea will introduce the Yellow Envelope Act reforms, broadening collective bargaining definitions and employer obligations beginning in March 2026.
Key Points:
- Expands statutory definition of “employer” in the context of collective bargaining.
- Impacts contractor classification and union engagement requirements.
- Employers should review contractor/worker classifications and union policies.
Source: Nikkei Asia
Effective January 2026
Minimum Wage Increase
The Ministry of Employment and Labour in South Korea has confirmed the statutory minimum wage for 2026.
Key Points:
- Minimum wage increases to KRW 10,320 per hour.
- Employers must update wage tables, review overtime premiums, and audit employees near the minimum wage floor.