How much?
Korean courts use the child support guideline table, which sets a standard amount based on both parents' combined pretax income and the child's age, then splits it by each parent's share of income. If combined income is ₩6 million a month and the paying parent earns 60%, they owe 60% of the standard amount, adjusted for region, number of children, and special expenses.
When a parent won't pay
Parents can get collection help from Korea's Child Support Agency. Courts can order direct withholding from wages and issue performance orders; ignoring them for three payments can bring up to 30 days of detention. Further sanctions include driver's license suspension, travel bans, and public naming. Since July 2025, the government advances payments and collects from the debtor. In the U.S., each state sets its own guidelines and enforcement agencies. See also payment orders. General information only.
FAQ
- Until what age?
- Usually until the child turns 19, Korea's age of majority.
- Does remarriage end support?
- No; the duty continues, though amounts can be modified.
Sources reviewed: 2026-10-26
References
- 「양육비 이행확보 및 지원에 관한 법률」.
- 서울가정법원. (2021). 『양육비 산정기준표』.
- 「가사소송법」 제63조의2·제64조·제68조.