Korea Unemployment Benefit Calculator 2026
Free Korea unemployment benefit calculator (2026). Enter age, insured period, and daily wage to instantly get benefit days, daily amount, and total estimated payout. Auto-applies 2026 ceiling (₩68,100) and floor (₩66,048) with monthly chart.
This calculator is for reference only and may differ from actual amounts due to law changes or individual circumstances. Please consult a licensed professional (tax accountant, labor attorney, etc.) for accurate calculations.
Enter Your Information
Age 50+ and persons with disabilities receive longer benefit periods.
Total cumulative insured period. Minimum 6 months required within the last 18 months.
Monthly salary ÷ 30 days. E.g. ₩2,400,000 / 30 = ₩80,000
Benefit Days Matrix (2026)
| Insurance Period | Under 50 | 50+ / Disability |
|---|---|---|
| < 1 year | 120d | 120d |
| 1–3 years | 150d | 180d |
| 3–5 years | 180d | 210d |
| 5–10 years | 210d | 240d |
| 10+ years | 240d | 270d |
2026 basis · Upper limit: ₩68,100/day · Lower limit: ₩66,048/day (8hr standard)
How is unemployment benefit calculated in Korea?
Korea's unemployment benefit (구직급여) is calculated as 60% of your average daily wage × the number of eligible benefit days. The daily wage is typically your total pay over the last 3 months before separation divided by the number of calendar days. In 2026, the daily ceiling is ₩68,100 and the floor is ₩66,048 (based on 8-hour workday minimum wage).
Who is eligible?
To qualify for unemployment benefits in Korea, you must: (1) have accumulated at least 180 insured days in the 18 months before separation, (2) have left involuntarily (layoff, contract expiry, etc.), and (3) be actively seeking work. Voluntary resignation for personal reasons generally disqualifies you unless hardship conditions apply.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. How is Korea unemployment benefit calculated?
Daily benefit = average daily wage × 60%, capped at ₩68,100 and floored at ₩66,048 (2026). Total benefit = daily amount × eligible benefit days (120–270 days depending on age and insured period).
Q. What are the eligibility requirements?
You must have at least 180 insured days in the 18 months before separation, have left involuntarily (layoff, contract expiry, company closure), and be actively seeking work.
Q. How are benefit days determined?
Benefit days depend on your age at separation and cumulative insured period. Workers under 50 receive 120–240 days; those 50+ or with disabilities receive 120–270 days.
Q. What are the 2026 daily benefit limits?
The 2026 daily ceiling is ₩68,100 and the floor is ₩66,048 (based on 8-hour workday minimum wage). Your calculated rate is automatically capped or floored.
Q. Can voluntary resignation qualify for benefits?
Generally no, but exceptions exist for wage theft, workplace harassment, unreasonable working conditions, or commutes exceeding 3 hours round-trip. Contact your local Employment Center.
Q. How do I apply for unemployment benefits in Korea?
Apply online at ei.go.kr or visit your local Employment Center (고용센터) within 12 months of separation. You must attend an initial consultation and confirm job-seeking activities every 4 weeks.
How to Use
Enter your age at the time of separation. Workers aged 50+ qualify for longer benefit periods.
Enter total months covered by employment insurance. At least 6 months (180 days) in the last 18 months is required.
Divide your monthly salary by 30. E.g. ₩2,400,000 ÷ 30 = ₩80,000.
View your benefit days, daily amount, total payout, and monthly distribution chart instantly.
Expert Knowledge: Korea Unemployment Benefit Calculator 2026
Korea's unemployment benefit (구직급여) is governed by the Employment Insurance Act (고용보험법) Articles 45–55. The Ministry of Employment and Labor adjusts the daily benefit ceiling and floor annually in line with minimum wage increases. In 2026, the ceiling (₩68,100) and floor (₩66,048) are very close, meaning most low-to-middle income workers receive near-floor benefits. Benefit recipients must actively demonstrate job-seeking activities every 4 weeks; failure to do so results in benefit suspension. Since 2025, penalties for fraudulent claims were strengthened to 5× repayment of received benefits.
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