Can undocumented foreigners apply for workers' compensation? – Preparation methods based on Mr. I's case
Hello. I am Kim Seong-in, an Administrative Attorney. Recently, Mr. I, a foreign worker from Central Asia, visited our "Ace Administrative Office". Mr. I is a foreign worker who was injured while working in Korea but has been unable to apply for workers' compensation due to his illegal status, and has been living alone for nearly two years. We would like to share his heartfelt story, including his situation of not being able to receive hospital treatment and his earnest desire to apply for workers' compensation. 1. Even with illegal residency status, WCB(Workers' Compensation Claim) claims are ‘possible’ Even foreign nationals with illegal residency status are eligible for protection under South Korea's "Industrial Accident Compensation Insurance Act". The WCB claim itself is available to anyone, regardless of immigration status. However, if medical treatment was not sought and only self-treatment was performed, the application process may be chal...