Establishing a foreign-invested company (FDI company) in Korea is generally efficient and predictable when the required documents are properly prepared. Below is a practical overview of the typical timeline and major cost components to help foreign investors plan ahead.
⏱ Typical Timeline
In most cases, the entire incorporation process can be completed within 2 to 4 weeks. The exact timing may vary depending on document readiness, bank processing time, and the investor’s circumstances.
Step-by-step timeline
1. Foreign Investment Notification (1–2 business days)
The foreign investor files a foreign investment notification through a designated foreign exchange bank or KOTRA. Once accepted, the investment can proceed.
2. Remittance of Investment Funds (1–3 business days)
The investor remits the investment amount (minimum USD 100,000 in principle) into a temporary corporate account in Korea.
3. Company Incorporation Registration (3–5 business days)
After the funds arrive, the company is incorporated through court registration. At this stage, the corporation legally comes into existence.
4. Business Registration (1–2 business days)
The newly incorporated company applies for business registration with the tax office and receives its Business Registration Certificate.
5. Registration of Foreign-Invested Company (2–3 business days)
Finally, the company completes the foreign-invested company registration to obtain official FDI status.
Estimated total duration: Approximately 2–4 weeks
Note: The process can be completed remotely via a power of attorney in most cases.
Estimated Cost Structure
The total cost varies depending on capital amount, office arrangements, and professional service fees. Below is a general breakdown.
1. Government Taxes and Fees
These are statutory costs that must be paid to the government.
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Registration tax (capital-based)
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Local education tax
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Court registration fee
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Revenue stamp costs
Typical range:
Approximately KRW 400,000 – 1,000,000+ (varies by capital)
2. Professional Service Fees
Most foreign investors engage a judicial scrivener, attorney, or incorporation service provider.
Typical range:
Approximately KRW 1,000,000 – 3,000,000
Costs vary depending on:
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Whether document notarization is required
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Number of directors/shareholders
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Need for English documentation support
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Visa (D-8) assistance
3. Office and Operational Setup
A registered office address is generally required.
Possible costs
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Office lease deposit and rent
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Virtual/shared office fees (if permitted)
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Corporate seal and basic setup
Typical starting range:
👉 From KRW 300,000+ per month (shared office basis)
4. Bank Account and Compliance Costs
Banks in Korea conduct strict KYC/AML reviews.
Possible additional costs:
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Document notarization/apostille
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Certified translations
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Bank compliance preparation support
Minimum Investment Requirement
To qualify as a foreign-invested company under Korean law:
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Minimum investment: USD 100,000 (in principle)
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Foreign ownership: At least 10% of voting shares
Certain regulated industries may have additional restrictions.
Practical Tips for Foreign Investors
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Prepare notarized and apostilled corporate documents in advance.
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Confirm whether your business sector has foreign investment restrictions.
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Plan the D-8 investor visa separately from incorporation timing.
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Allow extra time for Korean bank account opening due to enhanced compliance reviews.
Conclusion
Korea offers a relatively fast and transparent incorporation process for foreign investors. With proper preparation, a foreign-invested company can typically be established within 2–4 weeks at a reasonable cost.
If you structure the process carefully—especially regarding documentation, banking, and visa planning—you can significantly reduce delays and ensure a smooth market entry into Korea.