How much does it cost to set up a liaison office?

The liaison office registration itself incurs minimal costs like registration fees. However, office rent, document translation/notarization, and consulting fees are additional.

Can a liaison office conduct business operations?

No, liaison offices can only conduct non-commercial activities like market research. To conduct business, you must convert to a branch or subsidiary.

Do liaison office staff need visas?

Foreign employees dispatched to Korea need D-7 visas. Korean employees can also be hired, in which case there are no visa issues.

Liaison Office Setup | First Step to Enter Korean Market | VISION

Service Introduction

A liaison office is an establishment for foreign companies to conduct non-commercial activities such as market research, information gathering, and advertising before entering the Korean market. While business operations are not permitted, it is widely used as a preparatory step for market entry.

Target Companies

Foreign companies considering entry into the Korean market

Companies seeking local partners in Korea

Companies requiring market research and feasibility studies

Companies needing customer support operations in Korea

Required Documents

HQ corporate registry (notarized, apostilled)
HQ business registration certificate
HQ representative ID copy
Korean office chief appointment letter
Korean office chief ID and resume
Office lease agreement
Business activity plan

Process Steps

Document Preparation

HQ document notarization, apostille, and translation

Office Acquisition

Sign office lease agreement in Korea

Registration

Report liaison office to local tax office

Business Number

Obtain unique number (non-profit entity)

Visa Application

Apply for D-7 visa (if needed)

Key Considerations

1Liaison offices cannot conduct business operations; revenue generation may cause legal issues.
2Employee hiring requires social insurance registration and employment contracts.
3Converting to branch or subsidiary requires separate procedures.
4Foreign exchange reporting may be required when receiving operational funds from HQ.