Our client, initially holding a student visa, sought employment with a Korean company to transition to an E-7 visa, which would allow him to establish a professional career in Korea. However, the employer failed to cooperate with the visa process and unlawfully withheld both his salary and severance pay, threatening that he will report our client for working without a work permit.

Under Korean labor laws, employers are legally obligated to pay employees their wages as agreed under the employment contract and to provide severance pay within 14 days of termination. Failure to do so may result in criminal liability and can be reported to the authorities for further investigation.

With Rockcliffe Law's assistance, the client recovered his unpaid salary and severance without the need for lengthy court proceedings. As we consistently advise our clients, negotiation is often the fastest and most effective method to resolve disputes.