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법률칼럼Legal Insight외국인2026. 05. 19

[Immigration Lawyer] I have a problem of deportation in Korea, which law firm should I visit to resolve the issue?

 

I have a problem of deportation in Korea... I need help immediately.

  When foreign nationals living in Korea receive a notice related to their residency status, many tend to assume that all procedures have already been completed.   In particular, the term “deportation of undocumented residents” can feel overwhelming, leading some to believe that there is no longer any way to respond.   However, the actual process is not that simple. Even after the notice is issued, various materials and circumstances are still reviewed, and the direction of the outcome can change during this stage.   Although it may appear as if everything has already been finalized, internally the decision-making process may still be ongoing. Therefore, the key is to accurately understand your current situation and systematically identify which factors may influence the decision.   It is important to recognize that deportation of undocumented residents is not merely a final notification, but part of an ongoing process through which the outcome is determined.    

Contents

 
1. How do the criteria for deportation of undocumented foreign nationals operate?
 
2. Why do living conditions and residency circumstances affect the outcome?
 
3. The result can change depending on how you respond after receiving the notice.
 
4. In deportation cases involving undocumented foreign nationals, simple procedural guidance is not sufficient.
   

1. How do the criteria for deportation of undocumented foreign nationals operate?

  Deportation of undocumented foreign nationals does not automatically lead to forced removal.   In practice, the decision is based not only on whether the period of stay was exceeded, but also on factors such as:
  • The circumstances of the violation
  • The duration of the overstay
  • Whether there was intent
  • Past records
  Even if the period of overstay is the same, the outcome can differ depending on whether it was a simple mistake or a repeated violation. These factors are considered together in determining the final decision.   Therefore, rather than concluding the outcome based solely on the fact that the stay period was exceeded, it is important to organize and present the overall situation comprehensively.   Through this process, the direction of the outcome is determined—whether it leads to deportation, forced removal, or a more lenient administrative measure.    

2. Why do living conditions and residency circumstances affect the outcome?

  In decisions regarding the deportation of undocumented foreign nationals, authorities may consider not only the violation itself but also the individual’s living foundation in Korea.   The following factors may be taken into account during the decision-making process:
  • Family relationships
  • Employment
  • Long-term residence history
  While these factors may not directly overturn the outcome on their own, they are not ignored either. In practice, there can be a noticeable difference in results between cases where the necessity of staying in Korea is clearly and specifically presented and those where it is not.   Therefore, rather than simply listing your circumstances, it is important to logically explain why your continued stay in Korea is necessary. This process can play a meaningful role in deportation-related proceedings.    

3. The result can change depending on how you respond after receiving the notice.

  Many people do not take any action after receiving a deportation notice for undocumented stay, but this stage can actually be the most critical.   At this point, the following are carried out:
  • Submission of written opinions
  • Organization of facts
  • Explanation of the necessity to remain in Korea
These steps can directly influence the outcome.   In particular, the consistency of statements and the structure of supporting materials are very important. If you respond without preparation, your explanations may be inconsistent or lack credibility, which can increase the likelihood of a forced removal decision.   On the other hand, when materials are systematically organized and explanations are consistent, there are cases where the outcome is adjusted in a more favorable direction rather than leading to deportation.    

4. In deportation cases involving undocumented foreign nationals, simple procedural guidance is not sufficient.

  At Law Firm Majung, we approach cases based on practical experience from the Immigration Office, designing response strategies that reflect actual administrative decision-making structures.   We analyze both criminal matters and immigration actions together to reduce residency risks. In addition, based on extensive experience in cases where clients facing deportation were able to maintain their residency, we develop tailored strategies for each situation. We also provide multilingual support in English and Chinese to ensure accurate communication without language barriers.   In situations where it is necessary to go beyond simply understanding information and instead determine a response strategy that can influence the outcome, it is important to choose a firm capable of this structured approach.   If you are currently facing such concerns, we recommend working with a legal representative to find the appropriate solution.     Multilingual consultation available in English and Chinese.   Professional interpreters assist from the first consultation to the conclusion of the case.   Offices in Seoul, Daejeon, Busan, Daegu, and Gwangju   Don’t face the legal system alone. Let Majung fight for you!
       

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