High Oil Price Relief Fund: What Foreign Residents in Korea Need to Know

As rising oil and living costs continue to impact households, the Korean government has launched the High Oil Price Relief Fund (고유가 피해 지원금), a nationwide cash support program offering between 100,000 and 600,000 KRW to about 70% of residents.

This program primarily targets Korean citizens, but some foreign residents may also be eligible depending on their household composition and visa status. Here’s what you need to know.

How Much Is the Support?

Payments range from 100,000 KRW to 600,000 KRW, depending on income level and region.

Phase 1 (Apr 27–May 8), for vulnerable households:

• Basic livelihood recipients: 550,000 KRW
• Near-poverty and single-parent families: 450,000 KRW
• +50,000 KRW for those living in population-declining areas

Phase 2 (May 18–Jul 3), for the remaining lower 70%:

• Seoul metropolitan area (including Pyeongtaek): 100,000 KRW
• Non-capital regions: 150,000 KRW
• Priority support areas: 200,000 KRW
• Special support zones: 250,000 KRW

Can Foreigners Receive It?

The answer is yes, but only in certain situations.

✅ You can receive the support if:

1. Your household includes at least one Korean national, and you are covered by National Health Insurance (as a subscriber or dependent) or receive medical benefits

OR

2. Your household consists entirely of foreign nationals, but you or a household member holds one of the following visas:

• F-5 (Permanent Resident)
• F-6 (Marriage Migrant)
• F-2-4 (Recognized Refugee)and is covered by National Health Insurance or receives medical benefits

❌You cannot receive the support if:

• Your household consists entirely of foreign nationals

And

• No one holds an F-5, F-6, or F-2-4 visa, or no one is enrolled in National Health Insurance

Based on these criteria, most students and workers (E-2, D-2, D-4 visa holders) and short-term visa holders will not qualify for the support.

How to Apply

Applications are available both online and offline, depending on the distribution method.

• Online (24/7): Card company websites/apps, simple payment apps (Toss, Kakao Bank, Naver Pay), ARS
• Offline: Community centers and partner banks (weekdays 9:00–18:00)

During the first week, applications are staggered based on the last digit of your birth year to prevent system overload.

Where to Use

• The funds must be used by August 31 at small local businesses, including:
• Traditional markets
• Local grocery stores
• Small restaurants and cafés
• Medical clinics and pharmacies

The funds cannot be used at large franchise stores, department stores, or online platforms.

Additional Notes

• Korean nationals returning from abroad between March 30 and July 17 can apply through an objection process.
• If you became a basic livelihood recipient after the eligibility date (March 30), you may still apply through the objection process.
• Phase 1 and Phase 2 are separated to prioritize vulnerable households and allow time to update eligibility systems.

The High Oil Price Relief Fund is a major nationwide support program, but eligibility for foreign residents remains limited. If you think you may qualify, be sure to check your household registration details and apply within the designated period. Even if you are unsure, you can inquire at your local community center (주민센터) for confirmation.