⚖️ Legal & Migration

A phone line that solves the "which office do I even call" problem — 13 languages, one number, real human counselling. About the Danuri Multicultural Helpline: Run as part of Korea's government support for multicultural families and foreign residents, the Danuri helpline offers counselling in 13 languages — covering everything from settlement questions to family and legal issues that don't fit neatly into a single government department. Key Features: 13-Language Support: Counsellors are available across a wide range of languages, not just Korean and English. Broad Topic Coverage: Handles settlement advice, family matters, and general guidance for navigating life in Korea. Phone-Based Access: No need to visit an office in person for initial guidance — a phone call gets you started. Connects to Further Services: Where your issue needs a formal government process, counsellors direct you to the right agency. How to Get Started: Call the Danuri helpline and select your preferred language from the available options. Explain your situation — the counsellor will guide you or refer you to the right resource. For issues requiring formal paperwork, note down which agency (e.g. HiKorea) you're referred to. Follow up with that agency directly for the formal application or process. Important Notice: Danuri provides guidance and referral, not the formal visa or status paperwork itself — for that, you'll typically be directed to HiKorea or another specific agency.

Korea's official immigration portal — where the actual paperwork for extensions, registration and status changes gets filed. About HiKorea: HiKorea is the Ministry of Justice's official online platform for immigration-related civil affairs — visa extensions, foreigner registration, and status changes are processed here, consolidating what used to require multiple in-person visits. Key Features: Online Visa Extensions: Many extension applications can be started or fully completed through the portal. Alien Registration: Handles the foreigner registration required for anyone staying long-term in Korea. Status Change Applications: Processes changes between visa categories where eligible. Appointment Booking: Schedule in-person visits to immigration offices through the same system, avoiding walk-in queues. How to Get Started: Create an account at hikorea.go.kr, available in multiple languages. Identify the specific service you need — extension, registration or status change. Complete the online portion of the application and gather required documents. Book an appointment for any steps requiring an in-person visit, such as biometrics. Important Notice: Processing times vary and some services still require an in-person visit despite the online system — start well before your current visa or registration expires, not at the last moment.