Glossary

Korean Tax Glossary in Simple English

Use this glossary before reading Hometax, income tax, visa document, and refund guides. Terms are simplified for orientation and should be verified with official sources for decisions.

Hometax

The National Tax Service online tax portal used for filing, payment, certificates, and refund checks.

Sontax

The mobile tax app from the National Tax Service. Some Hometax tasks may also be available in the app.

Global Income Tax

A Korean income tax filing category that may apply when a person has income requiring annual filing, often reviewed in May.

Year-End Tax Settlement

An employer-led annual tax adjustment process for many employees in Korea.

Withholding Tax

Tax withheld before income is paid, such as salary withholding or the common 3.3% freelance withholding arrangement.

3.3% Tax

A common withholding pattern for freelance or business-type service income. It does not automatically mean a refund is guaranteed.

Local Income Tax

A local tax connected to income tax. Payment or refund details may appear separately from national tax items.

Certificate of Income

A document that can show reported income and is often requested for visa, banking, housing, or employment purposes.

Tax Payment Certificate

A certificate showing tax payment status. Some offices may request it together with income documents.

Tax Residency

A tax concept that may depend on stay period, living base, income source, and treaty rules.

Tax Treaty

An agreement between countries that may affect how certain income is taxed. Treaty application depends on facts and documentation.

Flat Tax Rate

A special tax option that may be available to some foreign workers depending on eligibility and timing. It is not always the best choice.

ARC

Alien Registration Card, now commonly described as a foreigner registration card. It is often needed for identity verification.

National Tax Service

Korea's national tax authority. Always check official NTS or Hometax information for current rules and procedures.