Korean Job Discussion Forums

[romano812]

What is the actual purpose of a release letter? When is one required and when is it not necessary?

[climber159]

If you are leaving a job prior to the end of your contract and you wish to have your visa transfered to a new employer, then you need to obtain a letter of release from your current employer.

[romano812]

suppose you leave your contract early with a termination letter and want to apply for a new visa from outside the country?

[climber159]

Your best bet is to call immigration.

I'm not certain about this, but I think that if you and your employer go to the immigration office and cancel your visa you will be issued an exit order to leave Korea. I've heard/read that this exit order will be for 14 days from the day your visa was canceled; I've also heard it's 30 days. Best to check with immigration. After you leave Korea you can start the new visa process over again. Remember, you'll need a new criminal record check, health check, transcripts, and so on. As for setting up a new job...start applying now.

Is there some reason your current boss won't issue a letter of release? It would certainly make your life easier. Maybe you can work out some sort of a deal with him/her.