Arrested in Korea? Criminal Defense for Foreigners

Former prosecutors and judges provide emergency defense for foreign nationals arrested or detained in Korea.

Quick Answer

If you are arrested in Korea, police may hold you for up to 48 hours before they must either release you or seek a detention warrant from a judge. You have the right to legal counsel, and you should not make statements to police before speaking with a lawyer. Contact a criminal defense attorney immediately — the first 48 hours are the most important.

Key Risks & Immediate Steps

Do not make statements to police without legal counsel present.
Do not sign Korean documents you cannot read or fully understand.
A detention warrant is decided early — legal involvement before the warrant hearing matters greatly.

What Happens After Arrest

You will be taken to a police station for questioning. Police record your statements and may seek a detention warrant within 48 hours. If a warrant is issued, you may be held in a detention center through the investigation and trial. Korean police are also required in most cases to notify your embassy or consulate of your arrest.

Your Rights

You have the right to legal counsel at all stages, including during questioning. You have the right to remain silent on specific questions, to have an interpreter if you do not speak Korean, and to review the written record before signing it. Never sign a document you have not fully read and understood.

Why Early Representation Matters

Our team includes former prosecutors and former police executives who understand how arrests and detention decisions are made. We attend questioning, challenge improper detention warrants, and build the defense from the earliest possible moment.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long can I be detained before trial?

The standard detention period is 10 days, extendable once to 20 days before indictment. After indictment, detention can continue through trial, and your attorney can challenge its necessity at multiple stages.

Can I get bail in Korea?

Bail is available in Korea, though it is less common than in some countries. Your attorney can apply at the warrant hearing or afterward, considering flight risk and the seriousness of the charges.

Will my embassy be told?

Yes, in most cases involving foreign nationals the police must notify your embassy or consulate, and you can request consular access. Your embassy cannot provide legal representation — you need a Korean-licensed attorney.