Employee shares for 2026: National Pension 4.75% (monthly base ₩410,000–₩6,590,000), Health 3.595%, Long-term Care = Health × 13.14%, Employment 0.9%.
Income tax is the year-end settlement amount (earned income deduction, ₩1.5M per dependent, progressive rates 6–45%, tax credits) divided by 12. Your employer withholds monthly using the simplified withholding table, so payslips can differ slightly.
Foreign workers: National Pension may not apply depending on your country (reciprocity) or visa. Some may choose a flat 19% income tax rate (Restriction of Special Taxation Act Art. 18-2) — not reflected here.
E-9/H-2 workers and employees from countries with social security agreements should check with their employer or the NPS.
FAQ
How much tax do I pay on a ₩40 million salary in Korea?
With a ₩200,000 monthly meal allowance and no dependents, the monthly take-home pay is about ₩2.92 million in 2026.
Do foreigners pay National Pension in Korea?
Generally yes, but nationals of some countries are exempt under reciprocity or social security agreements, and certain visa types are excluded.
Worked example
Example: a ₩40 million salary with a ₩200,000 monthly meal allowance gives about ₩2,924,363 a month after social insurance (₩304,450) and income taxes (₩104,520).
Common mistakes
Actual withholding uses the National Tax Service table, so it may differ by a few thousand won.
Changing dependants or children changes income tax.