| Nationality |
Russia |
| Case Overview |
A Russian national woman entered Korea on an E-6 (Entertainment) visa but was caught working at an entertainment venue and faced an immigration criminal investigation. |
| Special Circumstances |
Married to a Korean national. |
| Case Handler |
Lead Attorney Yongjun Kim |
| Outcome |
Case concluded with the imposition of a penalty fine. |
1. Client Situation and Facts
The client, a Russian national, entered Korea on an E-6 (Entertainment) visa. She was caught working at an entertainment venue and faced an impending immigration criminal investigation. Typically, such cases result in a deportation order, necessitating the individual's return to their home country. The client, having registered her marriage to a Korean national, wished to continue residing in Korea and sought Ma-Jung’s legal assistance during the immigration review process.
2. Case Issues and Resolution Process
1) Presentation of Mitigating Factors
Ma-Jung submitted a detailed attorney’s opinion during the immigration review process, aiming to avoid deportation and achieve a warning disposition. The opinion emphasized:
- The client initially entered Korea unaware that working at the entertainment venue was illegal, believing it to be a lawful occupation.
- Upon realizing the illegality, she ceased working immediately.
- The client had already married her Korean partner and had obtained a Korean language study visa.
- Her strong intention to continue residing in Korea with her spouse.
2) Supporting Evidence and Legal Strategy
Ma-Jung presented evidence of the client’s marriage and her subsequent compliance with Korean immigration laws. We highlighted her prompt cessation of the illegal activity upon learning of its illegality and her genuine efforts to integrate into Korean society.
3. Case Outcome and Client Benefit
The investigation concluded with the client receiving
an administrative penalty instead of deportation. This outcome allowed her to remain in Korea with her spouse, continuing their life together.
4. Significance of the Judgment (Explanation of the Disposition)
When foreign nationals face immigration criminal investigations, there is a significant risk of deportation, which could end their ability to stay in Korea. Effective and detailed legal representation is crucial during the immigration review process to mitigate these risks.
Ma-Jung, with extensive experience in similar cases, provided strategic legal support, helping the client avoid deportation and achieve a manageable penalty. If facing an investigation for violating immigration laws, seeking advice from specialized foreign national lawyers is essential to explore possible solutions and strategies.
