📱 Can I open a bank account without a physical ID?

To start studying abroad, you definitely need a Korean bank account for paying rent or receiving part-time wages.

There’s exciting news for those who found it bothersome to carry their physical ID every day!

Now, with just your smartphone, you can easily and conveniently open a bank account using a mobile Alien Registration Card. ✨

💳 What is a mobile Alien Registration Card?

For those who worried about losing their plastic card, you can relax now! A mobile ID with the same legal validity as the physical one is now available.

1. Mobile issuance has been available since January 10, 2025.

2. From March 21, 2025, you can also use it as an ID verification method at banks.

3. Not only the Alien Registration Card but also the Residence Card and Domestic Residence Report Card for Overseas Koreans are included.

👉 Put your ID in your smartphone and go out light!

🏦 Which banks can you use it at?

Do you need to open an account right away but don't know which bank to visit? Here is a thorough overview of the initial banks supporting it as of March 21, 2025!

1. Registered foreigners aged 14 or older with a smartphone in their name are eligible.

2. In-branch (face-to-face) is first being offered by Shinhan, Hana, iM Bank, Busan, Jeonbuk, and Jeju banks.

3. Bank apps (non-face-to-face) first started with Shinhan and Jeonbuk banks.

4. For the Woori WON Global app, the age requirement may differ by bank, such as 17 or older.

👉 Be sure to check the support schedule for your main bank in advance!

📲 How do you submit it?

Don’t worry about feeling awkward in front of the bank staff since it’s your first time! Both in-person and non-face-to-face formats are very simple for authentication!