The Social Integration Program (KIIP) is a free education program operated by the Ministry of Justice to help immigrants living in Korea learn Korean and understand Korean society in a structured way. Not only can you build your Korean language skills at no cost, but when you apply for permanent residency (F-5) or naturalization, completing the program is recognized as meeting the Korean language proficiency requirement, and you can be exempted from certain tests and interviews. This makes KIIP a great help for anyone preparing to settle in Korea long-term.

Overview of the Process

  1. 1. Create a Socinet Account

    Register on the Social Integration Information Network (Socinet) using your alien registration number.

  2. 2. Apply for and Take the Pre-Assessment

    Apply for and sit the placement test, which checks your Korean level and determines which stage you will start from.

  3. 3. Register for a Course (Class)

    Register for classes at the stage you have been assigned, choosing an institution and schedule that works for you.

  4. 4. Attend Classes and Complete Assessments

    Attend the classes for your stage, then pass the mid-term and final assessments to advance to the next stage.

  5. 5. Complete the Program and Receive Benefits

    Completing the Stage 5 basic course allows you to apply for permanent residency (F-5), and completing the advanced course entitles you to exemptions from the naturalization written test and interview.

What Are the Benefits of Taking KIIP?

  • Free Korean Language Education: You can receive Korean language and culture classes suited to your level, starting from Stage 0 and progressing step by step.
  • Permanent Residency (F-5) Application: Completing the program is recognized as satisfying the Korean language proficiency requirement. For details on the permanent residency process, see Guide to Changing to Refugee-Recognized Permanent Residency (F-5).
  • Naturalization Application: If you pass the KIIP final assessment, you can be exempted from the naturalization written test and interview that are otherwise required when applying for naturalization.
  • Visa (Residence Status) Changes: KIIP completion can be used as proof of Korean language ability for certain residence status changes. For guidance by visa type, see How to Work Legally by Visa Type.

How Are the Stages Organized?

KIIP is divided into stages covering Korean language and culture, followed by a stage focusing on understanding Korean society.

  • Stage 0: Basic Korean
  • Stage 1: Elementary 1
  • Stage 2: Elementary 2
  • Stage 3: Intermediate 1
  • Stage 4: Intermediate 2
  • Stage 5: Understanding Korean Society (Basic Course and Advanced Course)

Completing the basic course of Stage 5 is primarily linked to permanent residency (F-5) applications, while completing the advanced course is linked to naturalization. Class hours and schedules for each stage are subject to change, so please check Socinet for the latest information before registering.

How to Apply (via Socinet)

  1. Create an Account: Go to the Social Integration Information Network (Socinet) and register using your alien registration number.
  2. Apply for the Pre-Assessment: Apply for and take the pre-assessment, which checks your Korean language level. Your starting stage will be determined based on your score.
  3. Register for a Course (Class): Register for classes at your assigned stage, choosing an institution and schedule that suits you. Spots fill up quickly at many institutions, so be sure not to miss the registration period.
  4. Attend Classes and Complete Assessments: Attend the classes for your stage, then pass the mid-term and final assessments to advance to the next stage or complete the program.

Finding Participating Institutions and Assessment Schedules

KIIP classes are held at designated institutions across the country, including universities, Multicultural Family Support Centers, and immigrant support organizations. Multicultural Family Support Centers are government-funded centers found throughout Korea that offer services and programs for immigrants and multicultural families. The list of institutions and recruitment schedules varies by region and semester, so it is always best to check for the latest information directly.