Navigating VAT in South Korea

This guide provides an overview of VAT in South Korea, including applicable rates, registration requirements, compliance obligations, and filing deadlines. It is designed for businesses engaging in transactions within South Korea.

Last Updated: November 2025

South Korea uses VAT heavily to fund social welfare programs.

South Korea at a glance.

Standard rate

10% VAT

Digital services VAT

Yes, at 10%

Mandate e-invoicing

Yes

Currency

South Korean Won (KRW)

Zero-rated items

Zero-rated VAT applies to exports, selected services provided to non-residents, international transport, and supplies directly linked to exports or international transportation.

VAT format

10 digits

Fiscal representation

No, Non-resident digital service providers can register directly via the simplified NTS system without appointing a local fiscal representative.

Reclaiming VAT in South Korea.

Foreign businesses incurring expenses in South Korea? You might be eligible for a VAT refund.

Who can reclaim?
Claimable expenses:
Entertainment
0%
Accommodation
10%
Food, drink & restaurant services
10%
Hiring means of transport
0%
Fuel
0%
Public Transport
0%
Taxis
0%
Admission to fairs & exhibitions
10%
Training courses & seminars
10%
Goods
10%
Inter-company charges
10%
Office expenses
10%
Marketing costs
10%
Professional fees & AP invoices
10%
e-invoicing in South Korea.
Summary of the mandate in this country

B2G mandate in place

Yes

B2B mandate in place

Yes

B2C mandate in place

Yes

Obligation status: B2B e-Invoicing

Historic

B2B e-Invoicing model

Direct/Unregulated Reporting Model

Name of exchange infrastructure

NTS e-Tax Invoice System

Format(s) used

Electronic Tax Invoice (standardized XML reported to NTS within 1 day)

FAQs

An entity would generally be able to apply for a refund of VAT in South Korea if it is not established in South Korea, it is not registered for VAT in South Korea and does not make taxable supplies that would be subject to VAT in South Korea. The entity would also need to be established in a country that allows reciprocal treatment regarding VAT refunds to South Korean entities.

An application for a refund of VAT in South Korea would need to be submitted in hard copy to the South Korea VAT Authority and should include all the required documents.

An application for a refund of VAT in South Korea should exceed KRW 300,000.00. Only a single (annual) claim can be submitted.

Nearby countries.

Explore indirect tax information in these countries:

Japan
Taiwan
Thailand

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