Registering a business in South Korea has become easier and hassle-free. The need to visit tax offices in person has been eliminated. Thanks to new digital services provided by the National Tax Service (NTS) and the HomeTax mobile application, potential entrepreneurs can register their business from anywhere, at any time.
Improvements in the Business Registration Process
In December 2023, HomeTax significantly revised their business registration service for individual entrepreneurs. A subsequent survey conducted between May and June 2024 revealed an 87-point satisfaction score out of 100 from respondents who used the service. Accordingly, the simplified features were also applied to the mobile version in September 2024.
Simplified Input Process
Previously, input fields for business characteristics were scattered across multiple screens, complicating application forms. To counter this, the NTS has streamlined the input process by collecting eight business characteristics at the beginning of the application in a questionnaire format. Based on the responses, the NTS eliminates unnecessary input fields, simplifying the application content.
Improved Industry Search Convenience
One of the areas that applicants found most challenging was choosing the industry for their business, accounting for 42% of the challenges faced during the registration process. To make the process smoother, the NTS has simplified the industry registration screen’s structure and introduced a keyword search feature. Applicants will now begin with nine simplified business types and drill down into three levels to find their specific industry.
Personalized Guidance on Attachment Documents
While submitting an application, entrepreneurs are often confused about what documents should be supplemented. Instead of merely listing all documents that could be included, the system now provides personalized guidance about the documents required for a particular application.
How to Complete Business Registration?
To register a business, prospective business owners can log in to HomeTax, enter the business registration process and complete it using the following steps:
- Go to the HomeTax website (https://www.hometax.go.kr/) on a PC or mobile device browser, or download the HomeTax app from the Play Store or App Store.
- Click on ‘Business Registration’ to begin the process.
- Log in using one of several options available, such as a joint certificate, financial certificate, fingerprint certification, or easy certification.
Once an application has been deposited via HomeTax, it’s sent to the local civil affairs office within 10 minutes. The registration process can be completed in less than two days, but may extend if site verification or additional documents are needed. Once completed, applicants will receive a text notification.
The NTS encourages aspiring business owners to utilize their enhanced services that promise a seamless experience right at the fingertips. Registering a business has never been this convenient – all it takes now is just a few clicks!
Disclaimer : This content is a translation of material originally published in Korean by the National Tax Service of the Republic of Korea. While efforts have been made to ensure accuracy, this translation is provided for informational purposes only and does not carry legal weight. In the event of any discrepancy, the original Korean version shall prevail. Users should consult the official Korean documents for precise interpretation. This translation does not constitute legal advice. The translators and publishers shall not be held liable for any loss arising from reliance on this translation.