How to Register a Sole Proprietorship Online in Korea (PC Version)
Starting a business in Korea begins with business registration.
In the past, you had to visit a tax office in person, but now you can register your business entirely online through the National Tax Service (NTS) Hometax website.
This step-by-step guide explains how to apply for a business registration certificate from your computer—no paperwork or in-person visit required.
1. Prepare a Joint Certificate (Digital Certificate)
To apply online, you’ll need a Joint Digital Certificate (formerly known as a Public Certificate).
You can obtain one through your bank’s website by visiting the Certification Center section and selecting “Issue Digital Certificate.”
Save the certificate to your PC or a USB drive for convenience.
It’s valid for one year and can be renewed before expiration. If you plan to participate in government bids or contracts, it’s best to have it ready in advance.
2. Access the Hometax Website and Log In
Visit www.hometax.go.kr.
Click Log In and select your Joint Certificate for authentication.
Once logged in, you’ll reach the main dashboard where you can begin the business registration process.
3. Navigate to the Business Registration Menu
Hover your mouse over the Business Registration tab on the top menu.
A dropdown will appear—click through the options as shown in the guide to reach the application page.
4. Enter Personal and Business Information
Fill in your personal details such as name, phone number, and email.
Next, provide business information including:
- Business name (상호명)
- Start date (개업일자)
- Business address
If your business address differs from your home address, attach a lease contract or free-use agreement file.
You can enter approximate floor space if the exact figure is unknown.
Section 1 – Fields Marked with Asterisk (①): Enter the business name and start date in order. The other fields are optional—you may fill them in or leave them blank. (It’s also acceptable to enter “0” in those fields.) In general, the start date can be the same as the date you are submitting the business registration application. The business area does not need to be exact—you may enter either the precise size or an approximate estimate.
Section 2 – Fields Marked with Asterisk (②): Enter the primary address of your business location. If your business address is the same as your resident registration address, and you selected option ③ in the “Business Type” section above, the address will be filled in automatically.
If your business address is different from your resident registration address, enter the address you will use for your business. In this case, you may be asked to submit supporting documents related to the business location, such as a lease agreement or free-use agreement. Please prepare these documents in advance and attach them at the end of the application process.
5. Register Your Business Type (Industry Code)
On the “Business Type Input/Modify” tab, choose your main business activity using either a keyword search or a business code search.
You can also add secondary activities if needed.
Example:
- Main business: Wholesale trade
- Additional business: Online retail (e-commerce)
Selecting the correct industry code is essential for accurate tax classification and future reporting.
6. Choose the Type of Taxation
You can select between General VAT taxpayer (일반과세자) and Simplified taxpayer (간이과세자).
For most new businesses, general taxation is recommended—especially if you plan to issue tax invoices (세금계산서).
7. Attach Supporting Documents
Upload required documents such as:
- Lease contract (임대차계약서)
- Factory registration certificate (if applicable)
If certain files are not ready, you can still submit the application and provide the documents later upon request by the tax office.
8. Review and Submit the Application
Once all fields are completed, click Save and then Check Submission Documents.
The Submit button will activate.
Click to send your application, then check the submission list on your account dashboard to confirm successful submission.
9. Processing Time
The average processing period is 1–3 business days.
Once approved by the local tax office, your business registration certificate (사업자등록증) will be issued.
You can download and print it directly from Hometax.
✅ Final Notes
Applying for business registration online is simple, fast, and convenient.
Whether you’re opening a physical store or starting an online business, the process is almost identical.
By following these steps carefully, you can receive your official registration without visiting the tax office in person.
Best wishes for your new business venture and success!
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