Complete Guide to 종합소득세 for Freelancers in Korea (2026)
Comprehensive income tax (종합소득세) is the Korean tax system for individuals with multiple income sources beyond regular employment. If you're a freelancer, self-employed, or have significant other income, you'll need to file in May.
Key Finding
Freelancers earning over ₩20M/year must file 종합소득세 in May. Standard deduction (₩1.5M) vs itemized deduction depends on your actual expenses.
Who Must File May Comprehensive Income Tax?
You must file 종합소득세 if you have combined annual income exceeding ₩20M from sources other than salary (근로소득). This includes freelancers (개인사업자), rental income, dividends, interest, and other miscellaneous income. The filing deadline is May 31 each year.
Standard Deduction vs Itemized — Which Saves More?
The standard deduction (표준공제) is ₩1.5M for single earners. Itemized deductions (항목별공제) include actual business expenses, pension contributions, insurance premiums, and donations. If your actual expenses exceed ₩1.5M, itemized deductions will reduce your tax further. Use our calculator to compare both approaches.
How IRP/ISA Credits Reduce Your 종합소득세
Individual Retirement Pension (IRP) contributions provide a 16.5% tax credit (or 13.2% for lower incomes) on your comprehensive income tax. For example, ₩3M in IRP contributions could save you up to ₩495,000 in taxes. This is one of the most effective ways to reduce your tax liability while building retirement savings.
Related Tax Tools
Solve more of your Korea challenges with our precision-built calculators and guides.
Net Salary Calculator
Calculate take-home pay after all 2026 statutory deductions.
Income Tax Optimizer
Compare 19% Flat Rate vs Standard Scaling to minimize tax.
Foreign Income Tax Method
Determine the optimal tax filing strategy for expats.
4대보험 Calculator
Calculate NPS, Health, Employment & Industrial Accident costs.
Read the Full Guide
Complement this tool with our in-depth analysis and expert strategies.
How to File Comprehensive Income Tax in Korea (2026 Guide)
The complete 2026 expat guide to filing Korea's Comprehensive Income Tax (종합소득세) in May. Learn about the 19% flat rate, Hometax, and deadlines.
How to File Taxes as a Freelancer in Korea (2026 Guide)
The ultimate 2026 English guide to filing Comprehensive Income Tax in South Korea. Learn how to navigate Hometax, claim refunds, and handle the 3.3% withholding.