One of the most common questions from prospective migrant workers before applying to South Korea's EPS program is about salary: how much can they actually earn, and how much do they really take home after various deductions? This article summarizes the general picture prospective workers need to understand before departing.
South Korea's 2026 Minimum Wage Range
South Korea sets a national minimum wage that applies to all workers, including foreign migrant workers under the EPS scheme, and the amount is adjusted annually by the Korean government. Because the exact figure can change each year and is also affected by the won-to-rupiah exchange rate, prospective workers are advised to check the latest official figure closer to departure, rather than relying on outdated figures from previous years.
Factors That Affect Take-Home Pay
The gross salary an EPS worker receives is generally reduced by several components before becoming take-home pay, including: income tax under South Korean regulations, national health insurance contributions, social insurance contributions (including a mandatory savings scheme that can only be withdrawn after the contract ends), and other deductions per the employment agreement, such as accommodation or meals if provided by the employer. Overtime hours and bonuses can also add to income beyond the base salary, depending on the work sector and the placement company's policy.
Deductions and Benefits Worth Knowing
Beyond mandatory deductions, EPS workers are generally also subject to contributions for a return savings program (which functions as an incentive to return home per the contract) as well as workplace accident insurance premiums. On the other hand, many employers in the manufacturing and agriculture sectors provide accommodation and partial meal costs, which also affects how much of the salary can actually be saved or sent home.
How to Prepare Through LPK Hanggugo
Beyond language and document preparation, understanding a realistic picture of salary and living costs in South Korea helps prospective migrant workers set the right financial expectations before departing. LPK Hanggugo Indonesia equips program participants with up-to-date information on working conditions, including income simulations based on the target work sector, as part of thorough preparation before placement.
Conclusion
Understanding the salary structure and deductions that apply in South Korea helps prospective migrant workers avoid unrealistic expectations. Because the exact figures can change each year, consulting with an official training institute that follows the latest policy developments is the safest step before deciding to depart.
Korean & Japanese Language Training Division, PT Legalku Multi Digital, Semarang.