International Service of Process in South Korea

International service of process requires significant knowledge of service method options, translation requirements, and local rules and laws. In South Korea, international service of process can be completed through the formal method of the Hague Service Convention. 

Process Service in South Korea Under the Hague Service Convention

International service of process in the Republic of Korea (South Korea) can be completed through the Hague Service Convention, which South Korea acceded to on January 13, 2000.

Timelines can vary for process of service via the Central Authority in South Korea and are typically between three and six months, although it can be faster. During this time, the Central Authority does not provide updates as to the status of the service. Once the service has been attempted, you will receive a certification of whether or not it could be effectuated.

If, for any reason, your request is not complete, either by missing forms or documents or outside of local laws, it will be sent back to you, making it especially important to work with an experienced process server. 

Translation of Documents

Document translation, while not required, is highly recommended in South Korea. If the Central Authority in Korea cannot understand the documents, they will likely be refused. Notably, even if the request is executed, service becomes voluntary, and defendants have the right to refuse process documents that do not have a certified translation. 

DGR can help arrange for cost-effective Korean translation services that will hold up under international rules of service.

Process Service Notes: South Korea

An important part of international service of process in South Korea is ensuring the address is correct. If the address is incorrect, they are unlikely to do any research on it or contact you for instructions. They will simply return the documents, requiring you to start over from the beginning and resubmit them. You should make sure the defendant can be found at the address you give and that the address is formatted correctly.

Informal Service of Process in South Korea

South Korea objects to all forms of alternate service under Article 10 of the Hague Service Convention, including service via mail. It will only uphold rulings or judgments completed through the formal method. 

Serving Legal Documents in South Korea

Whether you are serving an individual or entity, it is extremely important to have the documents for submission completed accurately. 

DGR’s international experience enables us to effectuate service efficiently and reliably for our clients. Our decades of experience mean complete and accurate requests for service, helping to keep your case moving forward. 

The staff of DGR Legal aren’t lawyers, nor is our organization a law firm. The information provided on this website doesn’t and isn’t intended to constitute legal advice. Rather, all information, content, and materials available on this site are for general informational purposes only. Information on this website may not constitute the most up-to-date legal or other information.