Disaster Relief Fund for Foreigners in Korea

There is an estimated 2.5 million foreigners in South Korea. They have also been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. Some were furloughed, laid off, or received pay cuts.

While the national government has started distributing disaster relief fund to Koreans, most foreigners have been shut out. Only those who are married to Koreans (F-6 visa) and permanent residents (F-5 visa) may apply for the national relief fund.

A handful of city governments have announced help for foreigners. These are Ansan in Gyeonggido, Bucheon in Gyeonggido and Busan.

Foreigners living in Ansan City may apply for the disaster relief and receive 70,000 won per person.

The application period is from April 20 to July 31, 2020. They may choose to apply online or visit their village office. To apply online – https://daon.ansan.go.kr/disaster/apply/info.do?local_info=1

There are some who are petitioning for the government to extend help to foreigners as well. If you want to help their cause, sign on the petition on the President’s page – https://www1.president.go.kr/petitions/588882

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