South Korea CV Format — 이력서 (iryeokseo) Guide 🇰🇷

🇰🇷 South Korea CV format

A structured form plus a self-introduction essay that carries real weight.

Called이력서 (iryeokseo)

PhotoExpected

Length1–2 pages, plus a self-introduction

Personal detailsPhoto and date of birth conventional

Paper sizeA4

DatesYYYY.MM

ReferencesNot usually included

LanguageKorean for local employers; English at multinationals.

Korean applications combine a structured form with a piece of writing that many foreign applicants do not expect.

Two documents

이력서 (iryeokseo) — the CV proper. Often a structured form with personal details, education and employment history.

자기소개서 (jagi sogaeseo) — a self-introduction essay. This is not a cover letter. It typically answers set prompts about your background, motivation, strengths and a difficulty you overcame, and it is weighted heavily, particularly by large employers.

Photo

Conventional, formal, and taken professionally. As in Japan, this convention is under pressure and some employers have moved away from it, particularly international ones.

Language ability

State your TOPIK level if you have one. For roles at Korean companies, Korean ability is usually decisive rather than merely helpful.

Structure and order

Education and employment are commonly listed oldest first, as in Japan. Dates are typically written YYYY.MM.

Applying from abroad

Multinational employers in Seoul frequently accept a standard English CV. Where the posting is in Korean, send Korean documents. Do not send a designed Western résumé to a traditional Korean employer.

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Conventions as generally reported; verify against a current local source. Last updated 29 August 2026.