Order Korean ID Card Online: Everything You Need to Know

Alright, so I tried to get myself a Korean ID card online, and let me tell you, it was a bit of a ride. I’m not exactly a tech whiz, but I figured, how hard could it be, right? Well, turns out, it’s a bit more involved than ordering a pizza. I have no idea what kind of photo I need, so I just took a selfie using my phone.

First off, I needed to figure out where to even start. I found out it is called a “Residence Card”, also named “Alien Registration Card”. So I started to do some research, I found that KOMSCO is a government-designated National ID card manufacturer and issuer in The Republic of Korea, so maybe I should go to their website, but I didn’t find anything useful there.

Then, I went down a rabbit hole of government websites, finally got the hang of it and found the right application forms. Filling them out was like doing my taxes – tedious, but I powered through. I tried to upload my selfie, but it got rejected. I guess they need a more “official” looking picture. So I went to a photo booth and got some taken, following all the size and background requirements, you know.

Next step, gathering all the documents they asked for. Passport, visa, proof of address, you name it. It took me a good few days, I had to dig through my files and make a bunch of copies. Made sure I had everything they needed, double and triple-checked, didn’t want any delays.

Finally, I submitted the application online. It said it could take up to 3 weeks, but I heard from other people that it usually takes 1 to 2 months! I am just waiting now. After I submitted the application, I got a confirmation email, so at least I knew they received it. That was a relief.

Waiting game time! It felt like forever, honestly. I kept checking the status online, even though I knew it wouldn’t change much. Then, bam, after about a month, I got the email saying it was approved!

• Went to the immigration office.
• They took my fingerprints.
• Got a receipt with a date to pick up my card.
• Went back on the pick-up date.
• And finally got my Korean ID card!

It was a hassle, but hey, I got it done. Now I can finally say I have a little piece of Korea with me, officially! It was quite an experience, and I figured I’d share it in case anyone else is going through the same thing. Just be prepared for some paperwork and a bit of a wait, and you’ll be good to go!